What's Happening?
Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar has announced the opening of a new restaurant, Hazeltine’s, set to debut in late summer 2027. The restaurant will be managed by Damian Orozco, known for his popular Tea House on Los Rios in San Juan Capistrano.
Hazeltine’s will offer brunch, lunch, dinner, a full-service bar, and a monthly afternoon tea experience. The restaurant is named after Moses Hazeltine Sherman, the namesake of the library and gardens. The new establishment will occupy a reconstructed building facing Pacific Coast Highway, replacing the old restaurant that was located within the gardens. The library is temporarily closed during construction, but the gardens remain open. Special tea experiences are scheduled throughout the summer, offering a preview of the restaurant's offerings.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of Hazeltine’s at Sherman Library & Gardens is significant as it aims to enhance the visitor experience by offering diverse dining options and unique tea experiences. This development reflects a broader trend in cultural institutions seeking to expand their appeal and engagement with the community through culinary offerings. By partnering with Damian Orozco, the library and gardens leverage his expertise in hospitality and community involvement, potentially attracting more visitors and increasing local tourism. The focus on purveyor-to-table cuisine highlights a commitment to quality and sustainability, aligning with current consumer preferences for locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.
What's Next?
As Hazeltine’s prepares for its opening, Sherman Library & Gardens will host several afternoon tea events to introduce guests to the new dining experience. These events will serve as a preview and help build anticipation for the restaurant's official launch. The reconstructed building will feature a two-story structure with a view of the refurbished tea garden, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the venue. The library's temporary closure suggests ongoing construction efforts, with the expectation that the new restaurant will contribute to a revitalized visitor experience once completed. The collaboration between Sherman Library & Gardens and Damian Orozco is poised to create memorable experiences for guests, fostering community engagement and cultural enrichment.
