A couple of weeks ago I ventured out to experience Orange County night life.  A friend was playing in a band at Cooks Corner (considered by many to be a biker bar) and invited several of us to come and watch.  I wasn’t sure what to expect being that it had been many, many years since I had been to Cooks.  What should I wear?  Would I be the oldest one there? Wait, the music doesn’t even start until 8:00?  Yes, that was an indicator that I needed to get out more! 

It turned out to be a kick!  The classic rock music brought me back to my youth and happily I certainly wasn’t the oldest person there.   The best part of the night out is that it made me want more!  This got me thinking about other restaurants that offer live music. Concentrating on South OC, here are just a few for your perusal:

• BeachFire in Ladera Ranch: Live music and dancing with no cover charge for their guests every night of the week.  Starts at 9:00 pm.
• BeachFire in San Clemente: Nightly Live Smooth Entertainment with no cover charge for their guests.
• Canyon Fireside in Rancho Santa Margarita: Live music on Thursdays starting at 8:00 and Fridays and Saturdays starting at 9:00 pm.
• Casa Ranchero in Ladera Ranch:  Live music Thursdays through Saturdays 8:00pm to 11:00 pm
• Infusion in Ladera Ranch: Live music Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
• Irons in the Fire: Smooth Live Acoustic Music every Friday Evening starting at 5:30 pm.
• Renaissance in Dana Point:  Live music every night and Sunday brunch
• Romeo Cucina in Laguna Niguel: On Saturdays dance your night away… starts at 9:30 pm. The best Salsa music & dancing.  No cover charge. 21 & over. 1 drink minimum

Here is a great guide to dining in Orange County, but we would love comments as to your favorite restaurant with entertainment in OC!