Walking into Tempo Urban Kitchen in Brea, California, I knew that I was in for a fun evening! I was invited to attend a media tasting earlier this week to this wonderful Orange County eatery. There was a cool breeze in the air and a light rain setting the stage for a terrific meal.

The ambiance of this contemporary dining spot is chic, urban and very inviting. I personally was excited to see this new bar and eatery from owner, Jorge Cueva, and taste the Latin American offerings that I had heard so much about.

Tonight we were going to get a chance to taste Chef Chris Tzorin’s lovely creations. Chris has been on several Food Network shows (one of my favorite channels), and is such an awesome, inspiring and talented chef.

Located across the street from Brea Mall, Tempo Urban Kitchen has urban sustainable style decor with colorful contemporary artwork on the walls. As I entered the restaurant, I could feel the casual,  and fun vibe instantly. I headed to the bar area to check it out.

Offering a selection of global flavors in their entrees and tapas, I saw that Tempo Urban Kitchen carries a very nice selection of tequilas and spirits and offered fabulous margaritas on their menu.  Their signature cocktails are made with house-made bitters, and infusions, and they offer a generous selection of craft beer and wine.

I started with a Mango Serrano Margarita which was divine! Made with Gardez Mango Serrano-infused tequila and served in a glass with a Tajin chili rim. Talk about a nice way to take you mind off of things, this cocktail was enjoyed by everyone at my table.

For starters, we tried the Grilled Octopus, perfectly grilled with citrus and herbs, and served with a creamy Serrano sauce. We enjoyed this appetizer these off of wood planks swirled with a Chipotle Aioli and greens.

Next we had the Slow Roasted Pork Belly served with a soy lime glaze nestled on a tortilla puree and topped with cabbage kimchi. Described as a deconstructed Korean taco by Chef Tzorin, this slow roasted pork is cooked in a traditional cahachina, is wonderfully tender and flavorful!

Next we had the  Slow Cooked Short Rib served with vegan caviar (aka mustard seeds), and presented beautifully with juice-pickled carrots, New York style ham and a lovely beet sauce. This was so tender and flavorful and was my favorite dish of the evening!

Little did we know that there would be an impressive event around the dessert that was to come. Chef Tzorin and Chef Salvador Carrillo presented us with table-side ice cream cones! Made in minutes at your table, these lovely ginger-flavored cones were so tasty!

I highly recommend you save room for this when you go. It was a wonderful end to a fabulous meal!

Special thanks to Executive Chef Salvador Carrillo, Chef Charlie Perez, Chef Chris Tzorin, owner Jorge Cueva and Gigasavvy Social Club, for an unforgettable and tasty evening.

Tempo Urban Kitchen features family dining. They offer a Kid’s menu and host special events and special tasting menus and wine dinners throughout the year. I will be back soon and maybe I will see you there? Check out Tempo Urban Kitchen on Facebook for more information.

Tempo Urban Kitchen

1060 Imperial Hwy,

Brea, CA 92821

(714) 529-2900