By Allison Hata
I never get tired of the weather or our gorgeous surroundings,” says Betsy Thagard, a longtime Newport resident. “Many times during the hustle and bustle of my day, I’ll stop and look around and think, ‘Wow, we live in a beautiful spot.’ ”
Thagard, a self-described Army brat, traveled the world as a child before arriving in California, where she fell in love—once with her husband and again with the city. “I was living on Balboa Island when I met my husband, who was born and raised in Newport Beach,” she says. “… I’ve lived here ever since.”
After her two children graduated from Newport Harbor High School, she launched B. Toffee in 2009. Thagard’s product is sold locally and has been featured at major Newport events, including the Newport Beach Film Festival and the Golden Foodies. Though she’s serious about her work, she knows how to have fun—here, she shares her top ways to enjoy a sweet day around town.
Rise and Shine: 3-Thirty-3
“I always love going to 3-Thirty-3 restaurant on the bay front. You can build your own breakfast burrito and create your own bloody mary cocktail.”
A Bite to Eat: R&D Kitchen, Fig & Olive, Sapori
“I love so many restaurants in town—R&D Kitchen and Fig & Olive in Fashion Island are favorites. Sapori on Bayside Drive is another charming neighborhood spot.”
Break a Sweat: Grit Cycle, Orangetheory
“I love spinning at Grit Cycle, doing cross-training at Orangetheory or taking a walk around Balboa Island with our dog.”
Sweet Treat: Dad’s
“One of my all-time favorite places would have to be Dad’s on Balboa Island for a chocolate-dipped frozen banana.”
Family Time: Duffy Boat Ride
“My favorite thing to do with my family is taking a Duffy boat ride around the bay and having cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while enjoying the sights.”
