SPRING 2007 Costa D'Oro Magazine

Blue Danube, Old city plaza, 111 West Avenida Palizada, San Clemente, Phone (949) 218-5186

The historical Spanish colonial plaza in which the Blue Danube is located dates back to early San Clemente when Ole Hansen was building his Spanish Village by the Sea. Originally it was the site of the jail and fire station. After that followed a series of restaurants. Then, in 2002, Chris Toufanpour and his wife Parvin arrived in San Clemente from Austria via New Jersey. The couple rescued the by now somewhat dilapidated 8500 square foot site. After two years of amazing renovation the Blue Danube opened. Decor was rustic with touches of elegance. But the Toufanpour's kept renovating. Two more fireplaces were added along with the beautiful wedding chapel and a new banquet room. Two jail cells were converted into unique private dining rooms, a large patio gained two bars and was enclosed in custom wrought iron. The journey has been like watching a butterfly emerge. Now the Blue Danube has become quite elegant with a few rustic touches like the exposed beam ceiling. And still the metamorphosis continues unabated. Eight custom stained panels have been delivered. They are in the style of Viennese artist Gustov Klimt whose work is featured on the menu and the wall. They are being installed along the main entrance facing the plaza.

There are many additional interesting touches besides banquet friendly size and unique decor. Executive Chef Ali possesses thirty years of experience in Orange County at such places as the original Newport 17 and Chez Carrie. The newest staff addition is Neil Wallace with twenty-one years experience as the food & beverage manager of the Queen Marry. Chris was a concert pianist in Austria so the sound system is outstanding and the musical entertainment from jazz to classical is always well chosen, of high quality and at the appropriate volume. There is live entertainment almost every night. George, the Italian hunk, plays guitar and croons love songs on Friday and the concert guitarist Ricardo from Chile dazzles on Saturday. Then there is the Las Vegas Review and Dinner Mystery Theater. All this and prices are amazingly low!

The continental menu includes Austrian schnitzels, Hungarian Goulash, French Chicken or veal Cordon Bleu, Duck a la Orange, Chicken Marsala, Peppersteak and Filet Mignon. These long time favorites are being expanded to include more seafood and other entrees.

The Blue Danube Cafe next door to the main facility is newly opened for lunch inside or on the patio. Prices are also amazingly reasonable, starting at $5.90. Half a dozen lunch salads range from Chicken Breast $7.90 to Grilled Salmon $10.90. Soup & Salad combinations range from $7 to $8. Two of my favorite pasta dishes are the Blue Danube anytime are Spinach Ravioli with sundried tomato sauce and Spaghetti Bolonaise $8.90 lunch, $11.90 dinner. Miscellaneous European entrees include German Bratwurst $7.90 with fries & sauerkraut, roasted pork loin as Schweinsbraten and Chicken Marsala.

Dessert crepes offer a variety of fillings and toppings involving fresh fruit, hot chocolate, almonds, brandy and fresh whipped cream. Austrian Iced Coffee involves hot espresso and rich ice cream topped with whipped cream. For extra kick, add a splash of your favorite liquor.

The wine list contains some interesting European selections and is reasonably priced with many available by the glass at $5-$7. Outstanding German beers, some on draft. Martinis $7. Full bar. Outside patio.

Mystery & Murder Dinner theater (prix fixe menu approximately $59) on alternating Saturday nights is a blast for a full evening of entertainment. The constantly changing plot features local professional actors.

The Las Vegas Show & Dance Review is scheduled to open May 12th with three shows nightly on Saturdays starting at 10:00. Call for reservation details.

Twice weekly dance classes followed by an evening of "clubbing" commence in April. Open mike night is weekly. Call for expanding live entertainment schedules. Dancing.

Easter features regular menu & specials. Mother's Day 5 course prix fixe menu. Exit 5 freeway at Palizada towards the Ocean. Just below Camino Real.