The time: 5:00 PM
The watch: Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Power Reserve
While I was out in California a couple of weeks ago visiting friends, I got a chance to have dinner at INI Ristorante in Orange County. I’ve never seen a restaurant that offers Japanese inspired Italian cuisine so this was definitely a first, and I’m so glad that I went.
For this adventure, I chose to wear my Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Power Reserve Watch. Elegant, stylish and complex, just like this restaurant. Sporting the legendary El Primero automatic chronograph movement on full display through an open-heart window between the 9 and 11 o’clock positions, this watch doesn’t whisper performance, it shouts it. A bold black dial, with a razor-sharp 30 minute chronograph register at the 3 o’clock position, and a power reserve arc slicing across the bottom half, add refinement and depth that demand a double take.
Wrapped in a 42mm stainless steel case and fitted with a matching bracelet, it balances durable strength with refined elegance. This is the kind of watch that doesn’t just sit on the wrist, it announces its presence. For the collector who lives fast and demands more than just precision, the Chronomaster Power Reserve is your unapologetic, high-octane companion. The epitome of Swiss design and engineering.
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Now, onto the restaurant.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by a nice young lady that took us to our table. The ambiance of the restaurant is posh but not pretentious and has a vibrant interior adorned with light blond wood, earthy tones combined with elegant granite tabletops, a modern concrete bar and minimal aesthetics, which makes it the perfect spot for a business meeting, casual dining or date night.
And the food? That’s on a whole another level.
Here we go…
Let’s start with the appetizers.
First, we had the Beef Carpaccio, which consists of delicate slices of melt-in-your-mouth raw Wagyu beef, kissed with earthy truffle aioli and a bright, tangy onion ponzu that awakens every bite, topped with a fresh and crisp arugula apple salad adding peppery and crunchy notes finalized with parmesan that brings a nutty, salty finish to this dish.
Next, we feasted on the Lobster Arancini…yes, Lobster Arancini. Once I saw it on the menu, I couldn’t resist. They are golden, crisp risotto spheres hiding tender pieces of sweet lobster at their core, with each bite being rich, creamy, and impossibly indulgent. They sit on top of a pool of vibrant marinara sauce, slowly-simmered with a touch of acidity to cut through the richness. A snowfall of parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chives finish the dish, creating a balance of comfort and elegance. One bite, and you’ll wonder why all arancini don’t come with lobster. Seriously.
For the last appetizer, we had the Truffle Cheese Bread. First, look at the photo above and let me describe it to you. Warm, crusty French loaf is baked to golden perfection, oozing with melty and stretchy mozzarella, slathered in whipped truffle honey ricotta that’s both luxuriously creamy and subtly sweet. The truffle brings in that earthy depth, the honey a kiss of decadence, and together they melt into every bite like a dream. Topped with finely shaved Parmesan, this dish is cheesy, crispy, gooey, and is just the right kind of sinful, comfort food elevated to pure extravagance.
Next, let’s talk about the entrées.
First, the Cavatelli ala Norcina. It starts with fresh house-made cavatelli, perfectly made al dente, nestled into a luscious, earthy and creamy truffle butter sauce that clings to every curve. Crumbled sausage, rich, savory, and seasoned to perfection, infuses the dish with depth, while grated parmesan melts into the sauce, adding that perfect nutty and complex finish. It’s decadent, and deeply satisfying, like a warm hug with a touch of luxury in every bite.
Next was the Veal Bolognese. I’ve had “traditional” bolognese before, but never with veal, so I had to order it. It definitely did not disappoint. A perfect dish composed of silky ribbons of house-made pappardelle pasta that cradle a slow-simmered veal ragù, rich with depth and layered with soul. The veal is tender, delicate and flavorful, cooked low and slow until it melts into the sauce like magic. Finished with a shaved parmesan cheese, this is comfort with sophistication, elevated and unforgettable.
Finally, we ordered the Uni (sea urchin) Pasta. This is another dish I’ve never seen before or thought to combine. I’ve tried Uni before at a couple of sushi restaurants, and I can say I’m not a fan, and thus was hesitant to try this entrée, but, I’m glad I did. Silky and al dente strands of pasta are coated in a velvety smooth uni cream sauce—briny, buttery, and touched by the flavor of the ocean. A pop of tobiko (fish roe) adds color, texture and mild, slightly salty flavor, while fresh chives and delicate flakes of ao nori bring brightness and umami. It’s rich, refined, and incredible. A must have.
If you ever find yourself in Orange County California, do yourself a favor and visit INI Ristorante. You’ll be glad you did.