Io: Playgound 2.0 - Santa Ana

I 've been a member at Detention 2.0 for a year now; I purchased my membership after trying Trust, their sister restaurant, next door. Some might complain about paying a membership fee to enjoy a restaurant, and at first, it was bit strange to me as well; however, having since tried it, I wish all my favorite restaurants would adopt a membership model, and I 'll explain why. The monthly membership cost isn 't a membership fee in the traditional sense. You 're not actually paying extra for the membership. You 're essentially pre-purchasing dining credits and committing to spending at least that amount each month. It 's not much different than having a favorite restaurant you frequent at least once a month. By utilizing a membership model, they can provide truly TOP TIER service for their loyal and returning patrons. Rather than appeal to the masses, they 've created a much more bespoke, intimate, and catered experience that makes you want to come back week after week, month after month, to try their latest drink concoctions and menu items.

10 years ago I had one of the best meals of my life at playground. The service, the creativity, the ambiance. I still compare great meals to that dinner. Now marriage, two kids and a mortgage later I was hesitant when my husband told me we were going to detention for my birthday. Could it top it? Was their new model just corporate scaling of playground? Happy to report it could be topped and it's the exact opposite of corporate. Jason and G curated an amazing night. They gave honest recommendations, made choices when we were torn, and ultimately just took away the menus after one round to allow us to enjoy an omakase evening. They stopped by to chat, share and serve in a way that never felt interruptive but instead enhanced our evening and conversation. Needless to say the experience and ambiance is better than ever. The opposite of pretentious which is pretty hard to achieve in Orange County at a members only spot. The food: the Parmesan ricotta bites. Who knew cheese could taste so light delicious?! the vinegarette on the green beans was amazing. lemon salt never made better friends the crudo? Devoured in one bite. So fresh. the fries. Holy moly. Don't skip the chutney sauce. I usually am not a sauce fan but you can't skip this (do not eat a mint from the bathroom during this course though. It will be spicy) The Lamb. Holy moly. Simple, perfectly grilled and I'm not sure what makes this taste different from any other lamb I've had because I don't love lamb but wow. Don't skip the lamb. the orchette pasta somehow didn't overfill me as the last dish. the broccoli was perfect to balance it, this was good but maybe the one dish I might try as something different next time. and to cap the evening, can't forget the sticky toffee pudding. Just as amazing as 10 years ago. Cocktails: don't skip el stupido. Order two. the old fashioned with cold brew is perfectly balanced. if you drink rarely like myself, trust their mocktails. I had one that tasted like it came from my juicer with a bit of sparkling water with the best amount of ginger and I wish I could sip it everyday. Needless to say we became members. We'll be back. This time we won't wait 10 years. Shoutout to Jeremiah for making that easy.

By @asiansumplingsmuggler Detention 2.0, a private social club, presents an extraordinary and unapologetically diverse menu crafted by the culinary virtuoso, Chef Jason Quinn. Embracing an attitude devoid of frills or unnecessary embellishments, Chef Quinn fearlessly delivers exactly what he desires. The result? Some of the most exceptional and delectable food and drinks one could experience! His unmatched hospitality creates an ambiance that makes patrons feel as if they've been warmly welcomed into his own home. And great thing here is you don't have to wait for his invite, well actually sort of you need a membership to get through the reservation line but that's about it!

Wonderful Experience, Amazing Quality, Fun Tasteful Menu I've been to DTTN at least once a month now since I've first went (about 5 months ago). I haven't been disappointed once, whether it's to dine with friends or grab a quick drink prior to heading out. Please keep in mind that you do need a membership to dine here but honestly, it's super worth it! The experience is top knotch and it's a great way to impress your friends. When you first walk in, they recognize your face name and you get welcomed so warmly. There's a lot of different seating areas, the bar cocktail room, sit right in front of the open kitchen and see the chefs at work, or at the dining room. The menu is uniquely created, you can choose an experience from Europe to Asia! Jason will sit down with you and explain all of the new fun items on the menu, this changes seasonally so I won't dig into my favorite items. Just know that all of the flavors have a unique taste that allows you to travel to that country through your mouth. They have an amazing back bar and all of the bartenders are so knowledgeable and will work with you to make your perfect drink. 10 10 would recommend and come back again.

When I found out Detention was closing,I rushed to make an reservation. So glad I got to try before they closed their doors. First impression upon walking in is beautiful ambiance. Decoration is beyond just the right amount of chic. Things tried: triple cooked steak fries: yum! Perfectly crunchy and that aioli had the right amount of kick. Hokkaido milk bread and butter: the perfect start to dinner. Bread was good in its own and even better with the creamy butter. Peruvian bay scallop crudo: the sauces and garlic crisps paired perfectly with the scallop. Another winner dish pei mussels and merguez: yummy in my yummy! That sauce is incredible and perfect to dip bread in. breakfast in Texas y'all: it was an interesting dish. Home made tortilla to wrap the soft boiled egg, salsa and pork belly. Made for a yummy eat. sticky toffee pudding: wow! Delicious. It's sweet, but a nice way to end a meal. All in all such an amazing meal! I wish I would have tried it sooner.