Newly Opened: The Peel Craftbar & Kitchen at Hotel Fera, a DoubleTree by Hilton, in Orange

The Peel Craftbar & Kitchen has recently opened in Orange at Hotel Fera, a DoubleTree by Hilton. It differentiates itself from typical hotel restaurants by embracing a modern approach, serving progressive, coastal California dishes and beverages made entirely from scratch. Executive Chef Luis Martinez curates a seasonally focused menu featuring a diverse range of approachable dishes with bold flavors.

Chef Martinez’s Mexican roots are evident in his culinary creations, as he skillfully combines the flavors of Mexico with the abundant produce of Southern California. The Peel Fish Tacos, featuring a Sour Orange Adobo, and the Horchata Ice Cream, available on the dessert menu, exemplify his fusion of influences. The restaurant takes pride in its homemade sauces and dressings, which enhance the robust flavors of many dishes.

The dinner menu promotes a sense of communal dining, with an array of global flavors showcasing vibrant colors and textures, complemented by local touches. To start the meal, guests can enjoy Shareable Bites such as three varieties of flatbreads, California Hummus, and a Mediterranean Charcuterie Board, offering a gratifying combination of flavors and textures. The selection of Leaves & Greens and Power Bowls highlights farm-fresh produce and seasonal ingredients, embodying The Peel’s culinary philosophy. For heartier options, patrons can savor The Butcher Boy Burger, a quintessential Californian creation, the Mary’s Fried Chicken Sandwich with a zesty cajun aioli and citrus coleslaw, the Cuban Slow-Roasted Pork BBQ Sandwich featuring a unique citrus-spicy BBQ sauce, or The Parisian Steak Sandwich with dijon mustard and chimichurri.

At the heart of the restaurant lies the bar, which serves as a focal point and reflects The Peel’s commitment to excellence. The bar program aligns with the kitchen’s philosophy, utilizing the freshest, seasonal ingredients to craft exceptionally flavorful cocktails. Patrons seated at the bar and nearby tables have the privilege of witnessing the “bar chefs” employ innovative techniques and a diverse range of spirits to create captivating craft cocktails.

The signature cocktails at The Peel bring a contemporary twist to traditional mixed drinks, emphasizing immediate flavors and the use of pure ingredients. The bar takes pride in its house-made syrups, fresh juices, and a variety of fruits, vegetables, peppers, and herbs. Presently, their libations showcase the season’s most vibrant citrus and berries.

Among the standout summer cocktails, one can find the French Butterfly, a refreshing concoction blending Empress 1908 Gin, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, fresh lemon, cava raspberry-citrus foam, and dehydrated berries. Another notable option is the Agave Summer, which combines Espolòn Blanco Tequila, Ancho Reyes Verde Chile Poblano Liqueur, passion fruit, and fresh lime.

The bar’s culinary approach to crafting libations is evident in drinks like the Hat Trick, where duck fat-washed Knob Creek Bourbon sets the foundation for flavors of amaro, demerara, and bourbon barrel-aged bitters. The Apertivo & Chill features Aviation American Gin, Dolin Blanc Vermouth, and coconut-washed Aperol. Apart from the impressive cocktail program, The Peel offers an extensive selection of wines by the glass and bottle. The wine list showcases both boutique wineries, allowing guests to explore new and unique options, as well as recognized names for a well-rounded selection. Craft beers are also available, with an emphasis on local and regional breweries, highlighted through their draft selections.

The food and cocktail menus at The Peel undergo seasonal changes to ensure ingredients are at their peak flavor. This provides guests with the opportunity to experience the essence of each season as they savor a quick bite after work or enjoy a leisurely family dinner.

Situated within Hotel Fera, previously recognized as The DoubleTree of Anaheim-Orange County, at 100 The City Drive in Orange, The Peel presents a contemporary Californian culinary experience alongside a well-stocked bar featuring craft cocktails. The restaurant operates during the following hours: Sunday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to midnight.

Photo by John Dole