I’m headed to Frieda’s Inc.’s new outdoor boutique produce mart this morning because — quite frankly — I can’t wait to sip from a pre-peeled coconut.

Earlier this week, I wrote about the produce supplier’s plans to launch its first open-air market outside its Los Alamitos warehouse. The weekly outdoor market opens this morning. To read my full story, which includes a list of the exotic fruits and veggies expected to be on display, CLICK HERE.

Stay tuned for my full report from the market later this weekend.

Food for thought

Kobe beef burgers at Ruby’s: I took two days off this week to spend time with my daughter, who “graduated” from second grade this week. I asked her where she wanted to go, and she said: “The beach.”

So, we headed to Ruby’s Diner at the Balboa Pier. I hadn’t been to Ruby’s in awhile, and I was dying to break my less than week-old diet to chow on some Kobe burgers. I ordered the sliders, which came with caramelized onions, cheddar cheese and Ruby’s special sauce. We also had chili-fries.

The burger fit snuggly between two square King’s Hawaiian buns. The beef was juicy and tasty. But, for me, the bun really made the meal. It was soft and delicate on the outside, but slightly toasted on the inside. The whole ensemble ($11.98) did not disappoint.

Promelis No. 2 opens in Newport: While driving along Balboa Blvd., I spotted a second Promelis Market that recently opened in Newport Beach. The original one is on Westcliff Avenue, near my fave cafe, Kean Coffee.

For the uninitiated, Promelis is an upscale liquor and deli that caters to Newport Beach residents with deep pockets. I say that, because I spent nearly $4 on a half-pound of cold penne pasta and $2.29 for a small bag of Rusty’s Island Chips.

I expect Promelis to be a popular pitstop for summer tourists and locals looking for tasty beach-side picnic eats. If you can get over the prices, Promelis has some great finds and pre-made packaged meals. In fact, the quality of its convenience foods are amazing.

Address: 508 West Balboa Blvd.
Speaking of finds, the Rusty’s chips (at right) were fantastic. If you like a super crunchy potato chip that doesn’t taste greasy, this chip is for you. And, according to the packaging, Rusty’s Maui-style chips are hand-cut and made right here in Orange County. To learn more, watch this CBS video report.

And, finally, 49′er flap jacks here I come. The Original Pancake House opened its 4th Orange County location last week. Address: 3322 E. Chapman Ave. in Orange. I hear lines are long — even at 6 a.m. opening time!

More food musings for the week:

• Jack in the Box pulls tomatoes after food scare spreads in U.S.
• Cefiore beats Pinkberry with 6th O.C. froyo shop
• Finally! El Pollo Loco creates torta-inspired chicken sandwich

Posted in: Burger Joints • Grocery convenience • Pinkberry • Restaurant openings/closures • Takeout foods • Ruby's Diner |

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