"It's surreal how busy we've been," McDonald said, adding their location in the Camp is a bit of a Catch-22: They're tucked away in the back, but "once people discover the location, it's a really relaxing, peaceful place to be."
The tasting menu, which features small plates with wine pairings to complement each course, is a favorite with diners. McDonald said the menu will change every few months, and they'll feature an all-beer tasting menu in October. The cost is $60 per person with the wine pairing and $40 per person without.
Beginning Aug. 13, the café will offer wine tastings for $20 per person from 4 to 8 p.m. every Monday night. For those who don't want the fixed tasting menu, an extended wine-by-the-glass list will be offered along with a limited food menu.
Old Vine Café is located in the Camp at 2937 Bristol St., Suite A-102, Costa Mesa. Call (714) 545-1411 or go to www.oldvinecafe.com.
'Fall for Pinots' during wine tasting at Zov's
It's a "Summer of Wines" at Zov's Café Bakery and Bar, 21123 Newport Coast Drive. The café is featuring a series of wine tastings on the last Monday of the month through September, with selections from Chateau St. Jean being poured Aug. 27. As September brings cooler temperatures, Zov's encourages customers to "Fall for Pinots" at its tasting Sept. 24. The cost is $20 per person and includes appetizers. For reservations, call (949) 760-9687.
Summer treats combine with wine tastes
Sage on the Coast, 7862 E. Coast Highway, Newport Beach, features wine tasting the second Saturday of the month from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Wine expert Ian Hill will be on hand with a variety of new wines to sample, along with "sumptuous summer treats" from the kitchen. Cost is $30; guests need to arrive no later than 3 p.m. Call (949) 715-7243.
— Sue Thoensen
