Biz News: Newport company brings back Wacky Wafers candy

Newport Beach-based Leaf Brands has reintroduced the Wacky Wafers candy.

The silver dollar-sized candies — essentially pressed dextrose — come in banana, green apple, watermelon, orange and strawberry. The company noted they are also in their original sizes, not the smaller versions made before they were discontinued.

The brand was previously owned by the Willy Wonka Candy Co. and Nestle.

Leaf said pre-orders for Wacky Wafers have numbered to more than 500,000 units in four weeks, despite limited marketing.

Leaf Brands is also known for reintroducing Hydrox cookies, which are similar to Oreos, in 2015.

Evans Brewing opens new tap room in Surf City

Irvine-based Evans Brewing Co. has opened a restaurant and tap room in Huntington Beach.

The Public House, located in Bella Terra, is the chain’s second location, following another in downtown Fullerton.

The gastropub restaurant offers lunch, dinner and live music. Food includes pizzas, hamburgers and bratwurst infused with Evans beers.