RESTAURANT ROUNDUP:

While Southern California isn’t known for its various changing seasons, chef Rich Mead is hoping to give local residents a taste of seasons at Sage on the Coast.

Mead’s restaurant in Newport Coast is not only a reflection of the beauty found in Newport Beach but also a seasonal changeling, incorporating the part of the year into the menu as well as the restaurant’s appearance.

The patio has a retractable awning, a fireplace and herb garden. The menu is “ever-changing.” Mead collects his ingredients from local farmers to build his menu, but uses world influences to create dishes. Current offers are Maple Leaf Farms roasted duck breast and grilled skirt steak.

Sage on the Coast is at 7862 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach. To make reservations, call (949) 715-7243.

Japanese eatery aims for cultural energy

Benihana in Newport Beach has undergone a makeover in an effort to introduce “The Next Benihana” that is based more in the roots of the Japanese culture and architecture.

Benihana is known for its teppanyaki-style dining that has become popular in recent years. Chefs at the restaurant, and others of this style, cook meals for guests who sit around the grilling station. The chefs perform while cooking, turning the food into clever jokes or fiery shows.

The redesign incorporates darkened ceilings and floors, theatrical lighting, organic textures and graphics. The new design is said to bring the original roots of the company in chikara, Japanese for power and energy.

The menu will stay the same, including classic steak, chicken and shrimp dishes and the eatery’s sushi menu.

The Benihana restaurant is at 4250 Birch St., Newport Beach, and can be reached at (949) 955-0822.

— Daniel Tedford