What's Happening?
Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar has announced the opening of a new restaurant, Hazeltine's, set to launch in late summer 2027. The restaurant will be managed by Damian Orozco, known for his Tea House on Los Rios. 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 library's namesake. It will be located in a newly reconstructed building facing Pacific Coast Highway, replacing the old restaurant that was situated within the gardens. The new establishment aims to provide a purveyor-to-table cuisine focusing on seasonal ingredients. The library, founded in 1966, is a historical research institution with a botanical garden, and the new restaurant is expected to enhance the overall visitor experience.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of Hazeltine's at Sherman Library & Gardens is significant as it represents a strategic enhancement of the visitor experience at a prominent cultural and historical site in Orange County. By partnering with Damian Orozco, the library aims to attract more visitors and provide a unique dining experience that complements its cultural offerings. This development is likely to boost local tourism and contribute to the economic vitality of the area. Additionally, the focus on purveyor-to-table cuisine aligns with current trends in the restaurant industry, emphasizing sustainability and local sourcing. The new restaurant could also serve as a model for other cultural institutions looking to integrate dining experiences into their offerings.
What's Next?
Ahead of its official opening, Hazeltine's will offer a series of afternoon tea experiences in the garden, providing a preview of the restaurant's offerings. These events are scheduled for various dates throughout the summer and fall of 2026. The library and gardens will continue to operate during the construction of the new restaurant space, ensuring that visitors can still enjoy the botanical gardens. Once open, Hazeltine's is expected to become a key attraction at Sherman Library & Gardens, potentially leading to increased visitor numbers and further collaborations between the restaurant and the cultural institution.
