Morsels: Chef Alejandra Padilla shines at Five Crowns

Five Crowns in Corona de Mar freshens up with a new executive chef. Alejandra Padilla brings new flavors and a refined take to the neighborhood gem.
In April, when chef Alejandra Padilla took over the kitchen at Five Crowns, the timing was perfect to overhaul the heavy steakhouse menu. Spring produce led to seasonal dishes such as charred octopus elevated with touches of locavore excitement in the form of spring pea tendrils.
Steaks continue to dominate the menu, but Padilla understands many Sou