Today, The Playground looks much different than founder Jason Quinn envisioned it. The beer-only, no-reservations, bar-service burger Santa Ana eatery he once dreamt of was never to be—but The Playground is better. That is, if you're up for venturing outside mealtime norms. 

The adventure begins with completely handing over your dining choices to The Playground's chefs, who are so devoted to their craft that they refuse special requests. Only their unique culinary vision and fresh, inventive ingredients drive the menu. But you likely won't regret relinquishing control when dishes begin to arrive.

Pan-roasted wild mushrooms to start, maple-glazed pork chop as an entree, and Black Mission fig toffee sticky pudding for dessert are three of your best options, according to customers. Complement dinner with a craft beer, maybe one that's brewed specifically for The Playground, or a glass of wine. Or seize an opportunity to get better acquainted with the libations and cuisine at special winemaker dinners and chef demonstrations held in 2.0, a 17-seat "culinary theater" next door.

The Playground
220 East 4th Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
(714) 560-4444
http://playgrounddtsa.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-playground-santa-ana-2

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/Danielle Scott

You’re in the prime of your life, and it’s more important than ever to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. If you want to manage your weight and start to feel active and energized, these simple tips from the USDA can help.

• Make sure at least half of your grains are whole grains. When you go to the grocery store, look for breads, pastas, and rice are labeled “whole grain” or “whole wheat."
• Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. The easiest way to ensure that you’re getting a good mixture is by buying them in a variety of different colors.
• Eat seafood at least twice a week to get its beneficial protein and other nutrients.
• Eat the proper calories for your lifestyle. Senior women need anywhere from 1,600 to 2,200 calories per day, while senior men need between 2,000 and 2,800 calories, depending on how active you are.
• If foods start to taste different or irritate your stomach, talk to your doctor. Some medications diminish your sense of taste, but changing your dosage or your medication can usually help.

For more eating tips for seniors, visit the USDA website here.

Public Domain/Public Domain

Not every small city has its own dedicated art studio, but Tustin is lucky enough to be home to Brushstrokes on W Main Street. Hobbyists and professionals alike can sign up for two-hour classes where an instructor goes over how to create a pre-selected painting stroke by stroke. More than enough allowance is made for creativity, however, and visitors are encouraged to add their own touches to their original works. The atmosphere is as casual and flexible as the instruction, with fun music playing and students encouraged to talk to the staff and each other. There are summer camps and classes for children as well as more general open sessions with the pre-selected painting available online so that those interested can choose one they like. The art supplies are student grade and the employees are on hand always to swap out brushes or paints. Bring your own snacks and beverages and be ready to get a little messy and have some fun.

Brushstrokes
138 W Main St
Tustin, CA 92780
(714) 544-1994
http://www.yelp.com/biz/brushstrokes-tustin