SURFING SOAPBOX: Welcome back, Javier’s

Although I didn’t make it to Javier’s grand opening night in which invited guests enjoyed free food and drinks all night, I did make it the second night when it seemed all of Orange County was there, including former NFL player turned ESPN analyst Keyshawn Johnson, who sat nearby.

The new Javier’s in Crystal Cove certainly doesn’t disappoint.

Upon arriving it looked more like a Hollywood grand opening for a major motion picture, and I suppose in some ways the new Javier’s is just that “” major. Some two months after it closed its doors in Laguna Beach its popularity seems to be soaring “” and given all the women there, it could have been mistaken for an E-Harmony commercial set.

With outside fire pits to enjoy, inside seating, two bars and larger restrooms (the smaller restrooms at the previous Laguna Beach location proved to be an ongoing hassle, and ultimately began the process of their move) the new establishment is amazing.

The design and detail that has gone into the new Javier’s is an architect’s masterpiece. What appeared to be the whole staff who greeted patrons at the Laguna Beach establishment once again greeted everybody, and it was nice to see them again.

I’m not sure which dish is my favorite. There are so many great dishes to choose from. I suppose it’s a toss-up between shrimp enchiladas or the pork. I usually go with the pork when I’m starving and the enchiladas when I’m not as starving. Either way if you haven’t had the chance to try the new Javier’s, you have to.

Simply said “” it’s amazing.

Did I mention that?

JAMES PRIBRAM is a Laguna Beach native, professional surfer and founder of the Aloha School of Surfing. He can be reached at Jamo@Alohaschool ofsurfing.com