The Vine, vinecitynews

1 month ago | vinecitynews.com | Emily Ball

When the world shut down in 2020, Irvine resident Jamie Gwen was ready for a change of pace. The certified sommelier, nationally syndicated radio host, and cookbook author turned her attention to her newly born son. “It was a wild ride, but also the best blessing,” said Gwen during a recent phone interview. “For two years, like many, I stayed in with a newborn and worked on television, cooking from my kitchen.”Although much of the world reopened, the Newport Beach Food and Wine Festival did not.

1 month ago | vinecitynews.com | Emily Ball

Every spring, wild mustard plants blanket Irvine’s open spaces with vibrant yellow blossoms. While their beauty is undeniable, these plants pose a significant threat to Irvine’s ecology. This is the time of year when thick blossoms wither into dry tinder on our hillsides. That makes it the perfect time to reflect on mustard's lasting impact on Irvine's future.

2 months ago | vinecitynews.com | Amber Wang

Hearts were pumping—not just from excitement, but from the adrenaline of racing through Irvine’s neighborhoods for the Dream Run. This vibrant event debuted in April 2023 as part of the Irvine Tech Week festivities and quickly became a standout highlight. Organizer John Shen shared his thoughts on the event’s debut and what lies ahead for the Dream Run in Irvine. “The run was successful last year,” said Shen. “We had a large showing of people from all ages and backgrounds.

2 months ago | vinecitynews.com | Emily Ball

Habana in Irvine Spectrum has crafted a brunch experience that offers decadence and delight for all. From the warm greeting out front, where sparkling rosé, watermelon juice, and cotton candy are offered to diners and passersby alike, I knew I was in for a treat. My husband and I arrived at the restaurant’s opening at 10 am, where I had been generously offered a comped meal for two for the purpose of this article. We easily found parking, not a typical scenario at the notoriously packed Spectrum.

Mar 25, 2025 | vinecitynews.com | Emily Ball

Irvine Mayor Larry Agran delivered his State of the City address with a vision of making Irvine the safest, smartest, greenest, healthiest, and kindest city in America. The speech highlighted major initiatives aimed at public safety, sustainability, and community well-being while reinforcing the promises he made during his mayoral campaign. In a Zoom interview a few days after the address, he discussed the many plans outlined during his speech.