2012 Orange County Restaurant Week Kicks Off Today With Launch Party

A launch party today for the 2012 Orange County Restaurant Week will feature signature samples of dishes from 17 Orange County Restaurant Week participants, including RA Sushi Bar, Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen and Avati Cafe.

The event takes place at Newport Beach Lexus, 3901 MacArthur Boulevard, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Wine from more than 15 wineries, a bread and cheese table stocked by Sadie Rose Bakery and Cabot Cheese and cupcakes for dessert baked by Blackmarket Bakery and Frosting will also be included.

The event benefits Share Our Strength, a charity that feeds hungry children in Orange County and around the world.

The 2012 Orange County Restaurant Week, which will include prix fixe reduced-cost lunch and dinner menus in about 100 Orange County restaurants, begins Sunday and continues through March 3.

During today's launch party, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy signature samples from the following Orange County Restaurant Week participants:

Avanti Café
Canyon Restaurant
Cucina Enoteca
House of Big Fish
House of Blues – Anaheim
Katsuya
K'ya Bistro
Pizzelle’s Bistro
Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen
RA Sushi Bar Restaurant
Royal Hawaiian
Scott's Restaurant
Slaters 50/50
Starfish
Sundried Tomato
The Hot Lunch Lady
The Melting Pot

Tickets to the event are $35 and must be purchased in advance at http://www.eventbee.com/event?eid=892974384. Guests must be 21 years or older to attend. Complimentary valet parking will be available (Dove St. and Quail St. entrance).

All participating restaurants can be found online at www.ocrestaurantweek.com.