LAGUNA BEACH. A favorite with Laguna Beach's fashionable set thanks to its contemporary atmosphere and some of Orange County's best eye candy, this trendy dance club and sushi joint makes a larger-than-life impression. Sleek Asian decor, evocative lighting, and pulsating dance beats set the stage for an evening of high-octane sophistication. Featured main dishes include panko-crusted halibut with sautéed spinach, calamari tempura with tendashi dipping sauce, and butter fish miso yaki with a vegetable tempura roll.

IRVINE. One of the area's more popular Japanese restaurants, Taiko earns high marks for terrific food, quick and friendly service, and reasonable prices. Perhaps the restaurant's best perk, though, is that you can sidle up to the sushi bar and have rolls made to suit your taste. House specialties include sesame chicken, a tempura and sashimi combination plate, and roast salmon cheeks.