2 College Programs Win $15,000 Grants From Restaurant Writers

As a part of its ongoing goal of improving the standard of quality of the restaurant industry, the Southern California Restaurant Writers recently presented $15,000 grants to both the Culinary Arts and Food Service program at Orange Coast College and the Culinary Arts program at Glendale Community College. The schools will use the funds for equipment and kitchen remodeling, as well as scholarships. The Restaurant Writers, a nonprofit professional organization, also presents annual awards of excellence to restaurants and individuals within the industry. Winners for 1991 will be announced at a banquet on March 8 at the Queen Mary.

Cafe Lido in Newport Beach recently introduced its Lido Dining Club. For a prepaid fee of $25, members receive 24 free dinner entrees when a second dinner of equal or greater value is purchased. Membership cards may be used twice a month for a maximum value of $20 each visit. The offer is valid Sunday through Thursday. Cafe Lido is open from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily, serving dinner from 6 p.m. to midnight, with live entertainment nightly. 501 30th St. (714) 673-5056.

After six months in business, Mike and Tony Leach have closed Lagoon in Dana Point “for reorganizing and repairs,” according to a recorded telephone message.

Todd Clore is the new executive chef at Claes in the Hotel Laguna. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in New York, Clore moved to Los Angeles, where he worked with Ray Yamaguchi at 385 North and was sous chef at L’Orangerie. In Newport Beach, he helped open Five Feet Too and served as chef de cuisine at Pascal in Newport Beach.

Pascal in Newport Beach now opens for dinner at 5:30 p.m. to accommodate theatergoers. Reservations: (714) 752-0107. 1000 Bristol St.