Best of OC in LF

Every year the readers of The OC Register vote for their favorite places/services in the County. This year, the 23rd annual, several Lake Forest businesses appear. Here’s a list of our honored along with some personal observations -

BEST KITCHEN/BATH REMODELING

#1 – Dennis Metzler, 1 Fairfield, Foothill Ranch

This business was started in 1997 and it’s getting excellent reviews.

BEST JEWELER/JEWELRY STORE

#1 – The Jewelry Box of Lake Forest, 21771 Lake Forest Drive

Not only excellent prices, but they do great work if you need a repair. Even better, they are involved in helping nonprofit groups and give generously of their time. Last year they were #1 and they kept their high rating this year.

BEST PET SUPPLIES

#1 – Pet Country, 22485 El Toro Rd

If you are having problems with your pet’s health and worried about their nutrition, this is a good place to shop. Last year they were #3, this year they rose to #1.

BEST AUTO REPAIR

#2 - Elite Automotive, 26801 Vista Terrace

I have been using these guys for years. Their prices are very reasonable and they do a good job quickly. Last year they came in #1, this year it’s #2.

BEST NEW HOME COMMUNITY

#2 – Baker Ranch, 101 Mariposa

They were #1 last year but this year they slipped to #2, surpassed by Esencia in Mission Viejo

BEST GARDEN CENTER/NURSERY

#2 – Grfeen Thumb International 23782 Bridger Rd

This is the favorite nursery for my wife, who is a Master Gardener (no pun intended). Their prices may be a little higher than Home Depot, but their people are very knowledgeable. Last year they were also #2.

BEST GASTROPUB

#2 – Bru Grill and Market, 23730 El Toro Rd

Here’s a nice change of pace location with good service and good prices. Last year they were #3 and they moved up one notch this year.

You have a choice of what business to use. When selecting a business, consider one of these. Not only are that among “the best of OC” they are located right here in Lake Forest and most of them are owned by your friends and neighbors who live here.

“Put Lake Forest First” when you spend your dollars.

In addition to these honored businesses, several multiple location businesses were also honored, and they have a store here in Lake Forest. Next time we’ll cover those stores.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Jim Gardner is on the City Council for Lake Forest. You can check him out on LinkedIn and/or Facebook and you can share your thoughts about the City at Lake Forest Town Square on Facebook. His comments are not meant to reflect official City Policy.

Dr. Gardner has office hours every Tuesday from 4 pm to 6 pm at the City Hall. In addition, he holds a town hall meeting every quarter. The next meeting will be in November at 2 pm at the Foothill Ranch Public Library.