Sapphire, Laguna Beach

Opened in 2007, the Sapphire Laguna is the gourmet restaurant of worldly acclaimed chef Azmin Ghahreman. Priding itself the use of nutritious local ingredients, the Sapphire proffers globally-inspired fare. Guests can enjoy an ocean view from the outdoor patio paired with the distinguished international flavors of every dish.

Chef Azmin, having wandered from Fiji to Switzerland and everywhere in between, has culminated all the finest tastes from his travels in the menu items offered at his Laguna Beach restaurant. An expert in global spices and cooking techniques, he has served prestigious individuals from Presidnet George W. Bush and President Bill Clinton to past prime ministers of Singapore, Thailand, and Pakistan. From Asian Fusion to New American, the flavors he creates at the Sapphire are anything but bland.

A popular destination for brunch, the Sapphire has scrumptious items like the Vanilla Buttermilk Pancakes, complete with blackberries, toasted hazelnuts, praline-whipped cream, Vermont maple syrup, and vanilla gelato a la mode. For drinks, the Lychee Mojito is a refreshing splash of sweet and tart, mixed with fresh lychee puree, lime, mint and rum. Off the dinner menu we recommend trying the Pan-Seared Beef Tenderloin & Lobster Ravioli with creamed spinach, wild mushroom ragout, and chervil butter.

Located on the property of The Old Pottery Place, the quaint olive-green restaurant also has an adjacent store called “The Pantry.” Choose from over 100 varieties of artesian cheese from across the globe or purchase a ready-made item to turn into a gourmet meal at home. Kid menus are also available, making this an excellent spot to introduce young palates to creative and delicious dishes!