ALL DAY DATE: Costa Mesa, CA

Art appreciation was the theme for our extraordinary date in Costa Mesa. We were elated to enjoy culinary art, visual art, and performing arts. First, we ventured to the beautiful Orange County Museum of Art and we were grateful to see a dance troupe, Backhausdance, performing throughout the venue. After that, we delighted in a stroll through Noguchi Gardens, known as an outdoor sculpture oasis near the Orange County Performing Arts Center. Next, we certainly appreciated the culinary art displayed at Din Tai Fung, an amazing Taiwanese restaurant located in South Coast Plaza.  We loved their most beloved dish called, Xiao Long Bao, which means, little dumpling in a basket. Finally, we were thrilled to see a spectacular Broadway musical, She Loves Me, at South Coast Repertory. This all day date blessed our hearts with a deeper appreciation for the arts and one another.

Where we enjoyed art:

Orange County Museum of Art

https://www.ocmaexpand.org/

Admission is free and parking is a breeze.  The current exhibit is very impressive and inspiring.

Noguchi Gardens

There was plenty of photographic art taking place in this lovely outdoor space.

Discover Isamu Noguchi’s California Scenario

Din Tai Fung

https://dintaifungusa.com/

If you don’t have a reservation, be prepared to wait at least one hour to be seated. We walked to Seasons 52 and had a cocktail and then browsed shops in the mall while waiting. 

South Coast Repertory

https://www.scr.org/

Live theatre is always a treat and we were thoroughly impressed with the performance we saw. We can’t wait to return to this marvelous venue.

Melanie’s Favorite Parts of the All Day Date:

“I loved the surprise beautiful weather that day! It was also a sweet surprise to see Backhausdance performing at the Orange County Museum of Art. Best of all, I smiled throughout the entire enchanting performance of She Loves Me at South Coast Repertory with my Love beside me.”

Kevin’s Favorite Parts of the All Day Date:

“I enjoyed taking fun video footage and trying new filming techniques at Noguchi Gardens. It was also fun to try all the delicious food at Din Tai Fung with my lovely wife.”

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