Drink of the Week: Lucky Buddha at Capital Seafood

Photo by Meranda Carter

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Just as with Target and Trader Joe's, a brand has made it when it populates multiple locations in the same city. Take, for example, the gang at Capital Seafood. As if the Diamond Jamboree hustle and bustle weren't enough, it took over the former Fish Market space at the Irvine Spectrum.

With customized décor such as a larger-than-life abacus, it seems only fitting the bottled refreshments be just as eye-catching. We're talking about the Zentimental whimsy of a jolly, green-glassed Lucky Buddha. Featured during happy hour (4 to 7 p.m weeknights, with a late-night version from 10 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday), it makes for some quirky conversation starters.

Brewed and bottled at the Thousand Island Lake in China, this enlightened lager is crisp and easy on the palate, possessing a Tsingtao-esque quality. A beginner's beer, more Bud Light than Guinness, Lucky caters to those who are sake-averse. Calming the heat and finishing clean, it's satisfying when paired with Capital's spicy seafood delicacies. Composed of local malt, rice, earthy "Zhayi" hops and water, its mild, nutty blend will make one thirsty for more. And yes, we are entranced by that shapely frame.

Blessing Capital as its preferred restaurant, Lucky Buddha made its Orange County full-service dining debut over the recent grand-opening weekend. Once you've imbibed that first bottle, be sure to rub it for luck. Why else would he be holding up that gold ingot? Buddha's waiting for that belly rub!

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