Summer Dining at Bourbon Steak Orange County with Chef Steve Benjamin

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Spa. Photo by Jill Weinlein The Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club welcomed Michelin star Chef Steve Benjamin as the new Culinary Directory at Bourbon Steak Orange County last year, bringing a fresh culinary perspective to the resort’s signature dining venues. As summer dining season begins, Bourbon Steak has expanded its service to six nights a week, offering guests an opportunity to experience the menu’s latest seasonal creations alongside beloved signature dishes from chef Michael Mina. Chef Benjamin’s influence extends beyond the restaurant expanding the culinary evolution throughout the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Spa. Bourbon Steak OC at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach. Photo by Jill Weinlein Extensive Menu Set against the backdrop of Monarch Beach at sunset, Bourbon Steak Orange County is a premier dining destination. The restaurant’s menu goes well beyond prime cuts with an impressive selection of seafood and vegetable-forward sides. Starters include a colorful sashimi platter featuring Faroe Island salmon, big eye tuna and Hokkaido scallops. Other seafood dishes include scallops and fresh corn grits with pickled Fresno chiles, roasted corn and crispy shallots. Each dish offers a balance of richness and bright layered flavors. Photo by Jill Weinlein Vegetarians Sides Popular side dishes include pillowy morel agnolotti pasta infused with ethereal corn pudding and enhanced with decadent black truffle and Saba. Salads include fresh heirloom tomatoes resting on top of creamy house-made whipped ricotta with a sprinkling of pickled shallots and Banyuls vinegar reduction. A favorite is the soy-mirin glazed mushrooms with a pinch of sesame seeds. These dishes prove that at Bourbon Steak OC, the menu extends far beyond the grill. Photo by Jill Weinlein Tableside Experiences Tableside service enhances the dining experience when food and beverage preparation is done directly in front of diners. This style allows for greater interaction between diners and servers, enhancing the overall experience. Some of the signature favorites on the menu are prepared at the table, including a Porterhouse prime bone-in 28 oz steak. A cart is wheeled to the table and a server expertly cuts the meat in front of diners for an entertaining presentation. Another cart rolls to one’s table when the signature Maine Lobster Pot Pie is ordered. This dish has the flakey crust top filleted off for guests to enjoy with the warm brandied lobster pieces in a light cream sauce with market vegetables and black truffle. Another entertaining tableside entree is the Mary’s whole chicken. A server slices this chicken while diners watch and learn about the cooking process. It’s served with the restaurant’s signature Black Truffle Mac & Cheese and Haricot Verts. Other proteins, steaks and chops include a 20 oz dry-aged Cowboy Ribeye and meaty lamb chops served with chickpea panisse. This is a traditional dish from Provence, France that is typically crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. A little basil and sweet drop peppers add a pop of color and flavor. Master of the House Lyle Johnson. Photo by Jill Weinlein Old School Meets New School Cocktails Maitre d’ Lyle Johnson is beloved at Bourbon Steak OC. This personable Master of the House enlightens diners with his Old School-New School classic 20th-century cocktails presentation. His modern-day interpretation through the restaurant’s beverage program is presented as a playful juxtaposition of old-school cocktails and new-school counterparts to make the perfect sip. Bourbon Steak at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club captures the essence of Southern California, pairing refined dining with an elegant and inviting atmosphere. Attentive, genuinely warm service complements a menu rooted in exceptional ingredients. The restaurant’s striking coastal setting creates a seamless connection to the Pacific and relaxing culinary experience for all. Photo by Jill Weinlein Looking for a weekend getaway with family and friends, wedding venue, reunion spot or romantic trip, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club curates a truly unforgettable experience. Special Offers From ocean view and beachside dining, to a round of golf, soothing spa moments or poolside relaxation, this resort offers specials throughout the year. Their Suite Sale offers a $300 resort credit, and the Spa Escape offers a $300 credit at the spa. Guests staying for three nights, can receive the third night free.