GREER’S BEST BUYS:

Virgin America just started its first high-tech and low-fare flights from Orange County to San Francisco.

And, for a limited time, one-way fares start at $49.

Virgin America offers award-winning service, in-flight WiFi on every OC flight, and innovative features to improve air travel. Amenities include unique mood lighting, 9-inch video touch screens and qwerty keyboard/remote controls at every seat, and power outlets.

An interactive in-flight entertainment system offers the first touch-screen in-flight food menu, 25 on-demand films, seat-to-seat chat, video games, live TV and more.

The airline is affiliated with Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, which reinvests profits from Virgin-transport related businesses to renewable fuels research and other initiatives that combat climate change.

For information, go to www.virginamerica.com.

 

Gifts as gestures

Costa Mesa-based Diana Martin Gifts specializes in finding the perfect gift for anybody, from people to large corporations. Martin views gift giving as a powerful communications tool.

“You have three seconds to capture someone’s attention. And to convey your message,� Martin says. “A gift sends a message that’s more than a token of appreciation. And it’s best not to come across as lavish or cheap.�

Diana Martin Gifts start at $50. Average gift ranges from $100 to $150 (on up). She’s passionate about artisanal gifts from internationally renowned artists. Martin realizes that, in this economic climate, gifts have become a four-letter word.

But at the same time presents can be important for company morale and to reinforce the value of clients. At Diana Martin Gifts you can shop online or make private appointments to purchase lifestyle gifts for all occasions. Choose from interesting high quality place settings, serving sets, barware and any other home gifts that are artful and aesthetic.

With each gift, Diana Martin offers a one-of-a-kind gift box impeccably gift-wrapped with cards describing the gift. Located at 711 W. 17th St. Studio E-11 in Costa Mesa. For information, go to (949) 631-2727, ext. 202 or visit www.dianamartingifts.com.

 

Dock specials

A classic old Newport-style waterfront restaurant recently opened and it’s getting rave reviews! The Dock (formerly known as Le Quai) in Cannery Village is one of those rare ideal spots that’s all charm and naturally relaxing. And with ideal outdoor (year-round) dining furnished with banquettes, heaters and awnings.

The Dock serves recipes made from scratch with Mediterranean-Continental influences. And as the name would suggest you can “dock� small boats, at its private dock (reserved for diners only). It can accommodate up to six 21-inch Duffy electric boats.

A sample of the menu includes grilled Romaine salad with bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, agridulce vinaigrette, goat cheese crostini; a lamb gyro with roasted tomatoes, pesto, garlic aioli, served on ciabatta; and a one pound Angus burger with caramelized onions, cremini mushrooms, blue or cheddar, home-made fries or mesclun salad.

The Dock Yard Special, served Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m., includes salad, entre, and dessert for just $15. Luncheon specials served Tuesday through Thursday include three courses for just $15.

The Dock is open for lunch at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday though Friday; for dinner at 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturday; for brunch/lunch from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. It is at 2816 LaFayette Ave. in Newport Beach.

For information, call (949) 673-362 or go to www.EatAtTheDock.com.

GREER WYLDER writes Best Buys, which runs Fridays. She’s the founder and president of www.greersoc.com, a free daily e-mail service that provides the latest in Orange County fashion, dining and trends.