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A Gastropub (noun): a British term for a public house that specializes in serving high-quality food. Originated in the 1990’s by combining ‘gastronomy’ and ‘pub’. Located in beautiful Old Towne Orange, at first glance Haven Gastropub would appear to be like any other pub: loud and fun atmosphere, with large screen televisions outfitting the joint, and booths and bistro tables scattered comfortable throughout the room. But take a closer look: Haven isn’t your average pub serving average pub food. Sure their menu offers braised short ribs, hamburgers and fries, but each of their dishes goes above and beyond ordinary. Cordon Bleu-trained chef, Greg Daniels strives to create a truly unique twist on your average pub faire.
Although I was already quite full, Dave gave me a taste of his pulled pork sandwich with BBQ sauce, warm apple cabbage, slaw and port salut cheese. His order came with a side of fries, which were perfectly seasoned and served with homemade ketchup! I’ll admit it was a bit difficult to continue the work day after such a satiating lunch, but somehow we made it through, ending the day with a sales trip to Disneyland. It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it! |
I
was lucky enough to have lunch here with my Orange County sales
rep, Dave McPhillips, and even more luckily I had a craving for
a big, juicy burger. So I ordered the Havenburger, a house
specialty that was recommended to me by the chef, as well as owners
Wil Dee and Jeff Hall. Upon serving my burger was not only beautifully
presented, it was also one of the best hamburgers I’ve ever
eaten! The Havenburger is served with pickled red onions, roasted
red bell peppers, wild arugula and St. Agur cheese, and as a side
I opted for the harvest pear salad-with pecorino cheese, rum soaked
golden raisins, mesclun and a pear vinaigrette. I devoured every
last morsel, which unfortunately left me too full for dessert,
but believe me I will be back for more!