• Related: 15 ways to save money at the Orange County Fair

Attendees who visit the fair before 4 p.m. each day will have a variety of fun-sized options to choose from at the various vendors on the fairgrounds. Not only does this allow fairgoers to get more bang for their buck, but it also provides the option for mixing and matching.

• Also See: Here are the wild new foods coming to the OC Fair in 2025

Options include bacon-wrapped pickles from Chicken Charlies, spicy cheese tots from Wahlburgers, or even a strawberry funnel cake from The Lazy Toucan. Some of the vendors are also rotating their $5 deal every few days including Crazy Nachos which will offer asada nachos from July 18-20, esquite from July 23-27, walking nachos from July 30-August 3, chicken nachos from August 6-10 and horchata agua fresca from August 13-17.

Here’s everything you can get at the OC Fair for $5 until 4 p.m., organized by where to find it on the fairgrounds:

Carnival

• Jalapeno Cheese Corn Dog – Big Dogs
• Cup of Streen Corn (small) – Corn Shack
• Dolphin Breeze Soda (9 oz.) – Cowboy Kettle Corn
• Funnel Cake Bites (mini) – Dutchmen’s Funnel Cake
• Flamin’ Hot Pickle Pizza (small) – Enzo’s Pizzeria
• Fried Twinkie – Fried a Fair
• Frito Chili Cheese Boat (small) – ICEE
• Rolled Taquitos (2 small) – La Mexicana from July 18-20
• Chicken Sope – La Mexicana from July 23-27
• Taco TIjuana – La Mexicana from July 30 – August 3
• Quesadilla (small) – La Mexicana from August 6-17
• Chamoy Pickle – Michelaguas
• Mini Donut Tray – Mini Donuts
• Cheese on a Stick (small) – Mustards Midway Cafe
• Pineapple Whip with Fruity Pebbles (mini) – Pineapple Whip Express
• Sour Apple Lemonade (12 oz.) – Squeezers
• Jolly Ranch Slushy (12 oz.) – Sugar Puff Candy
• Popcorn (small) – Sweet Dreams
• Popcorn (small) – Sweeties
• Strawberry Refresher (9 oz.) – Swirl Ice Cream
• Ice Cream Sandwich (2 mini) – Totally Baked Cookie Joint

Centennial Farm

• Kettle Corn, Popcorn or Sno-Cone (snack size) – Candy Land
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Cone (4-5 cookies) – Cathy’s Cookies
• Lemonade (small) – Corny Dogs – Fresh Lemonade
• Ice Cream Cone or Frozen Chocolate Banana – Funnel Cake – Texas Size
• Tiki Bowl (small) – Hawaiian Chicken Bowls
• Giant Western Sausage (½) – Juicys
• Nachos Deluxe (½ order) – NOEL’S Mexican Food
• Chocolate-dipped Licorice (3) – Oasis Fruit Co.
• Turkey Dog (5”) – PINK’S
• Strawberry Dragonfruit or Lemonade Float (8 oz.) – Rowdy’s Root Beer
• Fried Twinkie – StrEat Fair
• Milk Tea (12 oz.) – Sunrise Boba
• Mini Fish Taco – The Hook
• Bayou Smoked Mac-n-Cheese (small) – The Ranch
• Cream Puff Any Flavor – Tom’s Puffs & Pie
• Award-winning Wine (4 oz.) – Wine Courtyard *Limit two per person

Main Mall

• Fried Bacon-wrapped Pickles (2 pieces) – Chicken Charlie’s
• Maui Chicken Slider – Chicken Charlie’s Pineapple Express
• Lemonade (small) – Corn Dogs – Fresh Lemonade
• Asada Nachos – Crazy Nachos from July 18-20
• Esquite (8 oz.) – Crazy Nachos from July 23-27
• Walking Nachos – Crazy Nachos from July 30 – August 3
• Chicken Nachos (small) – Crazy Nachos from August 6-10
• Horchata Agua Fresca (12 oz) – Crazy Nachos from August 13-17
• “Party Cup” Choice of Flavor Dots (3.5 oz) – Dippin’ Dots (Located inside Shopping Costa Mesa Building)Orange Chicken & Fried Rice (9 oz.) – Eddie’s Asian Inspired Cuisine from July 18-20
• Tempura Vegtables (5 pieces) with Steamed Rice – Eddie’s Asian Inspired Cuisine from July 23-27
• Egg Rolls (2) & Fried Rice – Eddie’s Asian Inspired Cuisine from July 30 – August 3
• Fried Rice & Noodles (9 oz.) – Eddie’s Asian Inspired Cuisine from August 6-10
• Orange Chicken & Fried Rice (9 oz.) – Eddie’s Asian Inspired Cuisine from August 13-17
• Pretzel Log either Salted or Cinnamon Sugar – Fair Pretzels
• Banana Dipped in Chocolate (½) – Fresh-Made Ice Cream
• Fresh Lemonade (16 oz.) – Hot Dog on a Stick
• Churro (10”) – Ice Cold Drinks/Churros
• Cinnamon Roll with One Topping – JP’s Old West Cinnamon Rolls (Located inside Shopping Costa Mesa Building)
• Kettle Corn Taste Bag or Cotton Candy – Kettle COrn Junction
• Cold Brü or Matchata with Cold Foam (9 oz.) – MoonGoat Coffee (Located Inside REWIND: A VHS Revival)
• Chicken Nachos (9 oz.) – Pepe’s Mariscos Fresh Mexican Seafood from July 18-20 & August 6-10
• Chicken Quesadilla (10”) – Pepe’s Mariscos Fresh Mexican Seafood from July 23-27
• Fruit Cup (9 oz.) – Pepe’s Mariscos Fresh Mexican Seafood from July 30 – August 3 & August 13-17
• Philly Cheese Steak, BBQ Beef or Roast Beef Slider – Philly Cheese Steak
• Shave Ice (small) – Shave Ice
• Small Hamburger with Dressing & Pickles – Tasti Burgers
• Tater Kegs (2) – Tasti Chips
• Original or Bacon Nutella (½ slice) – Ten Pound Buns
• Big “D” Texas Donut, Frozen Banana or Ice Cream Cone – Texas Donuts – Ice Cream
• Strawberry Funnnel Cake (small) – The LAzy Toucan
• Dill Pickle & Steak Jerky – Timbo’s Jerky (Located inside Shopping Costa Mesa Building)
• Plant-based Meatball Sandwich with Fries – Vegging Out

Fair Square

• Flamin’ Hot Cheetos & CHeese Pickles (small) – Biggy’s
• Hot Dog or Smoothie (8 oz.) – Blended Bliss
• BBQ Pork Sundae (mini) – Chuckwagon BBQ
• Cup of Corn (mini) – Chuckwagon BBQ Corn
• “Party Cup” Choice of Flavor Dots (3.5 oz.) – Dippin’ Dots
• Strawberry Funnel Cake (small) – Funnel Cakes
• Chips, Salsa & Guacamole – La Cantina Walking Taco
• Caramel Peanut Butter Popcorn (16 oz.) – Planet Popcorn from July 18-20
• Caramel Kettle Corn (16 oz.) – Planet Popcorn from July 23-27 & August 13-17
• Unicorn Popcorn (16 oz.) – Planet Popcorn from July 30 – August 3
• Spicy Cheddar Popcorn (16 oz.) – Planet Popcorn from August 6-10
• BBQ Pork Sundae (mini) – Wild Hog BBQ
• Cup of Corn (mini) – Wild Hog Corn

Family Fairway

• Bacon-wrapped Hot Dog (small) – Bacon Nation
• Popcorn (small) – Candy Factory
• Tater Tots with Chili & Cheese (small) – Char Broiled Corn – Giant Baked Potato & Fries / Corn Star
• Fried Avocado (3 pieces) – CHicken Charlie’s
• Maui Chicken Slider – Chicken Charlie’s Pineapple Express
• Soft Serve Cone Any Flavor (mini) – Crutchees’ Cream
• Churros (2) – Dutchmen’s Funnel Cake
• Fresh Frys with Cheese (½ order) – Fresh Frys
• Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza (1 slice) – Cino’s Pizza & Wings
• Banana Dipped in Chocolate (½) – Ice Cream
• Frito Chili Cheese Boat (small) – ICEE
• Tater Twister (small) – Spud Ranch
• Sour Apple Lemonade (12 oz.) – Squeezers
• Jolly Rancher Slushy (12 oz.) – Sugar Puff Candy
• Dole Soft Serve (mini) – Sweet Swirls
• Tater Kegs (2) – Tasti Chips Express
• BBQ Pork Sundae (mini) – Texas Style BBQ

Livestock

• Pulled Pork Slider with Fries or BBQ Fries with a Chicken Strip – Backyard BBQ Village/Big Chicken
• Chicken Nuggets or Aguas Freskas (small) – Backyard BBQ Village/Philly
• Chicken & Steak Street Tacos (1 each) – Baja Bar & Grill
• Lemonade (small) – Corn Dogs – Fresh Lemonade
• Cinnamon Roll with Frosting (½) – Country Fair Cinnamon Rolls
• Churro (10”) – Iced Cold Drinks/Churros/Soft Frozen Lemonade
• Chocolate Soft Serve Cone (small) – Ice Cream
• Kettle Corn Taste Bag,  Cotton Candy or Shaved Ice – Kettle Corn Junction
• Mexican Funnel Cake with Whipped Cream (small) – Mexican Funnel Cake
• Chocolate Chip Cookies (4) – Mom’s Bakeshoppe
• Strawberry Dragonfruit Juice Float (small) – Tasti Whip
• Spicy Cheese Tots (small) – Wahlburgers

Plaza Pacifica

• Garlic Chicken Kabob (small) – Garlicky’s
• Churro (10”) – Ice Cold Drinks/Churros/Soft Frozen Lemonade
• Chicken Taquitos (2) – Papi’s Puffy Tacos

• Related: Love Island’s Iain Stirling reflects on the hit reality TV show that’s taking over the country

The show is filmed and edited in real-time since the start of June, with new episodes dropping every day except Wednesday. Because of this, viewers get to participate in viewer votes throughout the season, which often results in more chaos.

On Sunday, fans voted one last time for their favorite couple, crowning Amaya Espinal and Bryan Arenales the winners of the season. The rest of the final four couples included Olandria Carthen and Nic Vansteenberghe, Huda Mustafa and Chris Seeley, as well as Iris Kendall and Jose “Pepe” Garcia-Gonzalez.

After Espinal and Arenales received their $100k prize, host Ariana Maddix revealed to the islanders it wouldn’t be the last time they see each other, as the cast would be reuniting in New York for the Love Island USA season 7 reunion, set to air on Peacock on August 25.

• Also see: How Love Island USA watch parties are taking over the bar scene

If you’re eager to relive the past 6 weeks or need a bit of a recap ahead of the reunion, here are some of the most memorable moments from Love Island USA season 7.

“I never said I was perfect”

In addition to its standard episodes Sunday-Tuesday and Thursday-Friday, Love Island USA also has an in-house talk show called “Aftersun.” During episode 17, guest host Sophie Munk, who also hosts the Australian Love Island franchise, introduced an unseen moment of Espinal, lovingly referred to by viewers as her self-appointed nickname “Amaya Papaya,” singing to herself alone in the makeup room.

“I never said I was perfect, I never said I didn’t have any flaws. But at least I’m pretty, and at least I’m a little funny, and at least I’m my own best friend,” sings Espinal as she gets ready for the evening. “You f—ing take me as you f—ing take me. This is who the f— I am.”

The clip took off on social media and quickly became a trending TikTok sound. It became so popular that for the final Aftersun episode on Saturday, July 12, the show released an extended version of the clip with more of Espinal’s sing-song affirmations.

@loveislandusa

1 billion likes and Amaya drops a mixtape. #LoveIslandUSA @Amaya #AmayaPapaya

♬ Love Island USA Amayas Song – Love Island USA

Mommy? Mamacita.

This conversation between islanders Huda Mustafa and Nic Vansteenberghe became one of the most referenced moments of the season:

“I have a secret to tell you. All the girls know, Jeremiah knows but you have to promise me you’re not going to say anything to any of the other guys, cause it’s not their business, but… I’m a mommy,” says Mustafa.

“Mommy?” responds Vansteenberghe.

“I’m a mom,” she confirms.

“Mamacita,” he replies as the two share a laugh.

“No, I’m a mommy.”

“Mom of what? A dog?”

“I have a daughter.”

“Like in real life?”

“Yeah.”

“Like a daughter, like a real baby?”

“Yeah. Like a human child.”

@loveislandusa

Huda is mommy to her daughter… Mamacita to Nic. #LoveIslandUSA @hudabubbaaa @Nicolas Vansteenberghe

♬ Love Island USA Im A Mommy – Love Island USA

Nicolandria

Viewers noticed a spark between Carthen and Vansteenberghe from the first episode. While the islanders both remained in different couples for a majority of their time in the villa, they were first brought together in an unexpected plot twist. Both contestants were single and vulnerable during Casa Amor and were told to pack their bags, making the islanders believe they had been dumped from the show. Instead, Carthen and Vansteenberghe were given the ultimatum: couple up or leave the villa.

• Related: Love Island USA fans react to shocking season 7 twist

The first time they explored their connection, the two felt they were better off as friends, but after finding themselves both single again a few days later, they decided to give it a try for real. Additionally, both of their moms were flown in for family day, where they let the two islanders know that Nicolandria Nation was backing their connection.

@carolyn.burt

Love Island USA fans react to shocking twist ending for season 7 episode 20 at Roosterfish in West Hollywood. @reality bar #loveislandusa #loveisland #loveislandseason7

♬ original sound – Carolyn Burt – Journalist

Ariana’s Outfits

While Madix’s cameos are limited throughout the season, each one is memorable not only because of the bombshell information she drops, but because of the killer outfits she wears doing it.

Fan vote leads to a crash out

This season, the viewers were tasked with pairing up new bombshells Jalen Brown, Garcia-Gonzalez, and Kendall with current islanders. Kendall was coupled up with Jeremiah Brown, sending shockwaves through the villa. Jeremiah Brown and Mustafa had been coupled up since the first day, telling others that they were “basically closed off” and were the “mom and dad” of the group.

Viewers, however, felt (and voted) differently, posting that the conversations between the two appeared to be somewhat toxic at times and that the couple’s connection didn’t appear to be all it was made out to be. This resulted in a few days of friction between the pair, with growing concern amongst viewers around Mustafa’s mental health.

Megan Thee Stallion surprises the islanders

The Grammy award-winning rapper, and super fan of the show, made a cameo to host a challenge for the contestants and promote her new swimwear line “Hot Girl Summer.” The appearance also came at the perfect time for viewers, providing a fun change of pace from the dramatic episodes that had played out the days before.

Cast’s past leads to their removal from the villa

While this season has been nothing short of dramatic onscreen, there’s also been controversy after resurfaced clips and social media posts began to circulate outside of the villa.

After the season 7 cast was revealed online, viewers began digging into the contestants’ pasts. A clip of day one contestant Yulissa Escobar using a racial slur in a podcast was found, and Escobar was promptly removed from the show in episode 2.

Additionally, Cierra Ortega, who was brought in as a bombshell during the first episode, was removed in episode 30 after a resurfaced social media post of her using a racial slur was discovered.

The show didn’t address why the contestants had been removed beyond the announcement of them leaving the villa via narrator Iain Stirling. Both Escobar and Ortega took to their social media after returning home to apologize for their actions and take accountability.

Honesty box challenge gets a little too honest

During the standing on business challenge, each islander wrote postcards to one another to get what they needed to say off their chest. Additionally, they had the option to sign their name or leave it anonymous. With the opportunity in front of them to tell one another how they really felt, the challenge took a heavy turn.

Espinoal was told by each of the men that she had been paired up with that she moved too quickly with them, and it was too much, too early on. This was made more emotional as Espinoal had been seen in earlier episodes having conversations with her previous partner, Austin Shepard, and her current partner, Zak Srakaew, asking how they felt their connection was going and if there were areas of improvement they needed from her.

The moment did have a silver lining as Arenales spoke up in defense of Espinoal, informing the guys that her affectionate ways were also a part of their culture, and sparking a romantic connection between Arenales and Espinoal.

Amaya’s got a case of the zoomies

Fans quickly began recognizing that each time Espinal was too excited for words, she would run around in a circle, which viewers and contestants began referring to as “the zoomies.” It happened in challenges, such as when the girls built their bombshell before the guys, as well as when the girls found out they were headed to Casa Amor. Espinal got one final case of the zoomies when, after being crowned the winners, Arenales joined her for a celebratory lap around the villa.

Breakup during the finale

While Mustafa had a loyal fan base throughout the show who voted for her to make it to the finale, not everyone was in support of how she handled herself in her connections, noting a pattern of negative behavior.

While some viewers agreed she made for captivating reality TV and had shown growth throughout the summer, the bubbling friction between her and Seeley also led to discourse online, as many felt it didn’t make sense for the pair to stay on the show over other couples, such as Chelley Bissainthe and Ace Greene.

During the finale episode, each of the final couples shared a romantic date in Fiji. While it’s typically a moment for the couple to appreciate their journey, for Mustafa and Seeley, it was a time to decide what their future had in store. Seeley put the decision on Mustafa as to whether or not they should continue to work on their relationship outside of the villa.

Knowing the foundation wasn’t there, and that they’d be long distance, Mustafa decided that they’d be better off as friends. The moment was made more dramatic as their date had taken place in the middle of a pond. Seeley had carried Mustafa in, but decided not to carry her back out, leaving her to take off her shoes, grab a class of champagne and walk out alone down the water-covered path.

The Love Island USA Season 7 Reunion airs on Peacock on August 25. Love Island Games, with Madix taking over as the host, will return for season two on September 16.

Blackpink was formed nearly a decade ago in 2016, with their debut album releasing a few years later in 2020. Since then, they’ve become a global phenomenon, collaborating with artists such as Dua Lipa and Selena Gomez. The K-pop stars have also had success in their solo careers, with Rosé working with Bruno Mars on the track “Apt.” and Lisa starring on the latest season of “The White Lotus.” Lisa and Jennie were also on the 2025 Coachella lineup as solo artists, after the girl group headlined Coachella in 2023.

If you’re used to having a little more wiggle room for concerts because of opening acts, that’s not the case with the Deadline tour. Fans who arrived ahead of the 8 p.m. start watched some of the K-pop groups’ music videos before Blackpink took the stage a little behind schedule at 8:20 p.m.

The crowd became a sea of pink light sticks, known as “paenbong,” a popular K-pop concert accessory. Each band has its own design, with Blackpink’s resembling a toy hammer with a pink heart on either side. As the girls took the stage to perform the first song of the night, “Kill This Love,” the audience began waving their light sticks to the beat in unison.

The Deadline tour was split into five acts, with the visuals reminiscent of a road trip across the country, traveling to Los Angeles, Las Vegas and other pit stops along the way.

The first act featured Jisoo, Lisa, Jennie and Rosé performing some of the group’s more mainstream hits such as “Pink Venom” and “How You Like That.” There was attention to detail in each song, from the visuals to the dancers and even the camera choreography that incorporated the audience as the backdrop at times. While the famed ring screen above the crowd at SoFi Stadium wasn’t turned on for the show, the mainstage jumbotrons were utilized and could split into two and four panels so each section could be a close-up of each girl.

While other boy bands and girl groups with hectic schedules might not allow time for solo projects, Blackpink embraces it with parts of their set designated for their individual hits. Act two focused on Jisoo and Lisa, while Act four was all eyes on Jennie and Rosé. Each of the hitmakers’ sections also reflected their personal styles, such as Lisa leaning into a “Matrix” style glitch-like visual effect. The crowd proved to be just as enthusiastic to watch each of the girls shine on their own, singing along to “Your Love” by Jisoo, “Rockstar” by Lisa and “like Jennie” by Jennie.

Rosé’s set proved to be a more laid-back contrast from the others. Jisoo, Lisa, and Jennie each had a high-production visual introduction before their set, whereas Rosé chose to give the audience a behind-the-scenes backstage tour that started off with a TikTok dance and ended with her taking the underground trolley to the front of the stage while snacking on fries.

Rosé’s first song “3am” was also one of the few more stripped down moments with just her and her guitarist on stage. She ended her set with “APT.” where she brought a lucky fan on stage to dance with her in front of the packed SoFi Stadium crowd.

The final act of the night kicked off with Blackpink performing their latest song “Jump” for the first time in the US. The song was released on July 11, just a few days after the Deadline tour kicked off in South Korea, and is their first new song as a group in 3 years. It felt as though there was an earthquake at SoFi Stadium as the crowd got on their feet and jumped with the girls during the track.

Ahead of the encore, the spotlight went on the fans as they partook in a dance challenge to see who could nail the girl group’s iconic choreography. Blackpink returned to the stage in Deadline Tour merch to perform a reprise of “Jump” before performing “Really” and concluding the nearly 2-hour and 30-minute show with the fitting title “See U Later.”

Blackpink returns in Los Angeles for a second night of their Deadline World Tour at SoFi Stadium on Sunday, July 13, before continuing the tour in Chicago, Toronto, New York, Paris, Milan, Barcelona, London, Kaohsiung, Bangkok, Jakarta, Bulacan, Singapore, Tokyo, and Hong Kong.

Stirling has been the narrator of the reality TV dating competition for more than a decade, and even he couldn’t believe how many people are gathering at local bars across the United States for “Love Island” watch parties. “I genuinely thought people were photoshopping them and sending them to me,” Stirling shared during a recent video call from his home studio in London.

@carolyn.burt

Love Island USA fans react to shocking twist ending for season 7 episode 20 at Roosterfish in West Hollywood. @reality bar #loveislandusa #loveisland #loveislandseason7

♬ original sound – Carolyn Burt – Journalist

• RELATED: How Love Island USA watch parties are taking over the bar scene

“Love Island” has been popular in the UK for quite some time, with many fans in agreement that season 5 was when it really hit is stride with contestants who are now household names such as Molly-Mae Hague, Tommy Fury and Maura Higgins, the last of which now hosts Love Island After Sun in the US.

For Stirling, it’s interesting to witness the rise in popularity of “Love Island” USA over the past year, and how it parallels the achievement of the UK version. He’s been narrating the series since the show first aired on ITV2 in 2015, and joined the US version of the show in 2022 when it made the move from CBS to NBC’s streaming service Peacock. The success of the franchise has catapulted him to iconic UK theatres, such as the Apollo Theatre in London, and now he’s bringing his stand-up to the States.

Stirling will bring “Iain Stirling Live” to the Hollywood Improv in Los Angeles on October 22. The 7:30 p.m. performance has already sold out, so a second 9:30 p.m. show has been added.

In an interview edited for length and clarity, Stirling chats about “Love Island,” the early stages of his stand-up career in Edinburgh, and other career highlights that have come, in part, thanks to his wildly popular narration of the TV show.

Q. You’ve been the narrator of “Love Island” for 10 years. What’s been the biggest change you’ve noticed with the series?

The biggest change is how well the Islanders prime and prep themselves. In earlier series, it was more like a “Survivor” vibe. Everyone just got a bit disheveled, but now obviously they’re very primed.

Q. Are there any major differences you’ve noticed between narrating the UK version of the show compared to the US version?

You know what the biggest one is? I don’t know if it’s just a “Love Island” thing or if it’s an American thing, but in the UK, we joke about people’s jobs all the time. In the UK, it’ll be like “my name’s this and I do this for a living.” Whereas in America, it’s like “my name’s this and I’m from here.” Like what state or area in America you are is a bigger blueprint for what you’re like as a person.

We’ve got loads of jokes [on “Love Island” UK] about jobs. In the UK, we’re very straight when we say what we do for a living. I feel like in America, they have all this fancy language to make their jobs seem a bit fancier than what they actually are.

In the UK, we’ve got like dog walkers and farmers and stuff like that, whereas apart from “pool boy Austin,” there wasn’t really anyone who had a job that we could joke about.

Q. What is the recording process like for both “Love Island” USA and UK?

It’s a lot more fluid in the American one. But, fundamentally, it’s the exact same process. The UK one, I write with Mark Busk-Cowley, who actually came up with the format of “Love Island” way back in the day.

In America, there are three of us: Me, Steve Bugeja, and an amazing New York comic, Caroline Hanes. It feels more writer-roomy. We all chuck ideas around like a Saturday Night Live writer’s room. Whereas me and Mark have been working together for so long, it’s like joke, next one, joke, next one.

Q. I don’t know if you’ve seen, but “Love Island” USA watch parties have taken over across the country. 

I genuinely thought people were photoshopping them and sending them to me. And then I’m lucky because Caroline’s from New York and she’s of the right age and demographic that her friends watch it.

And I’m online a little bit, but I’m also like a dad with two jobs, so I’m not really an online person. I’ve only now realized that it’s not a joke. I genuinely thought someone was watching the Super Bowl and they’d green screen that, but it’s legit.

Q. I’ve been writing about “Love Island” USA, and my editors were like, “Can we send you to a watch party and have you cover it?” 

Did you go?

Q. I did. It was crazy. I went to one in West Hollywood. I got there two hours early, and 10 minutes later, all the seats were taken. Thirty minutes later, everyone is packed like sardines and it’s standing room only. I think it was the best episode I could have seen live because it was one with the plot twist at the end that Nic and Olandria were safe. 

That’s honestly so cool. I can’t remember the year, but when “Love Island” UK really took off, and obviously it’s still massive here, but when it was the same [height of popularity as what is in the US now], it was when the World Cup was on, and England had a really deep run in the World Cup. So, there were loads of images of all the sports bars’ screens, all showing England in the World Cup semi-finals, but then there was another section of the bar that was “Love Island.” And obviously, for a sports bar to not show the national team in the semi-finals of a World Cup and show something else is nuts.

Q. This season of Love Island USA has been a roller coaster for a lot of things, but there have also been quite a few iconic moments aside from the drama. What’s been the most memorable moment for you in the US this season?

There’s obviously Nic and Huda’s “Mommy, Mamacita?” That’s gone so viral, but even my voice over into it, I did a joke about Nic not knowing what a mother is. I think those little fun moments are incredible.

Also, there’s a really lovely, vindicating moment when everyone clocked how popular Amaya was, and she had about four guys fighting for her. It felt really full circle because to be yourself unapologetically, when you keep getting it thrown back in your face, must be so, so difficult. Especially when she’s not got her phone to have that positive feedback from the American public. I found that really beautiful and empowering for her, and also hilarious that all these guys were shamefully being like, “You know what? I just realized I think you’re great.”

And she got to go, “Piss off.”

Q. People who know you best from hearing your playful, cheeky comments as the narrator of “Love Island,” what can they expect from your stand-up show? 

We do the Edinburgh Fringe Festival every year, where you have to come up with these narrative shows. There’s a story at the heart of the show, and a theme and narrative. The closest thing I can compare it to is a Mike Birbiglia, if anyone’s familiar with his stuff.

I’ve never done stand-up about “Love Island,” but I’m only doing a handful of dates, a couple of New York, and a couple of LA, so I feel like with the way “Love Island” is going, I want to do some stuff on “Love Island.” There’s a really funny comparison: There’s a male contestant in “Love Island” UK who’s got a 4-year-old kid, just like Huda, and I find it really interesting how underplayed the male being on “Love Island” is compared to the mother being on “Love Island,” I think that’s really interesting, and just sort of bad, but also a funny area as a father to talk about.

Q. You studied law at the University of Edinburgh. What led to the career pivot to comedy?

I’m from Edinburgh and I went to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and the reason I went to Edinburgh University is that they’ve got a group called the Edinburgh Improverts. It didn’t quite work out there; improv wasn’t my thing, so I started doing stand-up, and once I did stand-up, I fell in love.

Q. Since your 2022 special “Failing Upwards,” you and your wife have welcomed your first child together. Has fatherhood had a role in your comedy style?

I like to keep my private life as private as I can. I’ve made an unwritten rule that I talk about being a father, but I don’t talk about my daughter. I feel like that’s her story to tell when she’s old enough to tell it.

The main change on stand-up is two things, and they sound like they counteract each other, but they totally don’t. One, I’ve got a much bigger appreciation for people who spend money and take time to come and see my show.

Now that I’m a parent, I’m the one that’s got to book child care and find parking and do all that when I go to an event. So I really appreciate people that come to see me. And second, I think I’m a better stand-up because I’m a lot more relaxed. Before marriage and children, my whole self-worth was how good my stand-up was and how well it was received.

Q. My final question: What’s been your biggest career highlight? 

Probably putting on these American [tour] dates and them selling so well. It feels like such a massive achievement to do a voice-over in a reality television program. When you’re doing voice over for two minutes in an hour-long show, and for anyone to leave that show going “that voice over was good,” feels like such a massive achievement.

When I first started doing it 10 years ago, I wasn’t hired to write. My friend Mark [Busk-Cowley] was going to write it, but I went in the room every day and wrote it with him because, like, I’m in Spain. What else am I going to do? And then between us, we came up with this really fun way of doing it that no one else had done.

And then when I did these big theaters in the UK, the Hammersmith, Apollo in London, and all these mad theaters, because I do voice over on a reality television program, it’s sort of wild.

Back in Fiji, where Love Island USA is filmed, it’s the second night of Casa Amor, a part in the series where couples are split up as the girls leave the villa to meet a new group of guys and the guys stick around to meet a new group of girls.

However, this season, both the islanders and viewers were met with an unexpected twist: there would be one less new guy and girl, meaning the original islanders had 24 hours to make a connection or be at risk of packing their bags and leaving the villa.

• Related: How Love Island USA watch parties are taking over the bar scene

Murmurs of “I fear it’s going to be Amaya,” “She needs to lock in,” and “This is crazy” are among the commentary that can be heard throughout the bar as fans await the results from the night’s episode. It’s a packed house thanks to Reality Bar, a promotion group that organizes reality TV watch parties at local bars throughout Los Angeles.

Typically, during this part of the season of Love Island USA, it’s the islanders who choose whether or not they want to bring a new contestant to the villa, but this year, the power belongs to the Casa contestants.

@carolyn.burt

Cheers for Amaya Papaya after JD brings her breakfast in Casa Amor. @reality bar #loveislandusa #loveisland #loveislandseason7 #amayapapaya

♬ original sound – Carolyn Burt – Journalist

There are boos and cheers from viewers interspersed throughout the episode as moments between the islanders unfold on screen. The crowd erupts in excitement as fan favorite Amaya Espinal—lovingly referred to by the nickname she gave herself, “Amaya Papaya”—receives breakfast from one of the boys despite not being in a couple and at risk of being sent home.

The recoupling between the villa and Casa Amor takes up two-thirds of the hour and twenty-minute episode. “This is terrible,” says a viewer as Espinal awaits her fate. The emotions become heavy for the girls on screen as Zak Srakaew stands up to couple up with Espinal, leaving Olandria Carthen now in a vulnerable position. The islanders receive a text that Carthen, an early fan favorite, has 30 minutes to pack her bags. As tears begin to flow, the girls rush to envelop her in a group hug.

@carolyn.burt

Replying to @r@y Love Island USA fans react to Amaya and Zak coupling up during episode 20 #loveisland #loveislandusa #loveislandseason7 #amayapapaya @reality bar

♬ original sound – Carolyn Burt – Journalist

Over in the villa, the night plays out like a game of musical chairs. TJ Palma is originally single, but Vanna Einerson soon couples up with him. This leaves Ace Greene single before Coco Watson stands up to couple with him. Viewers began to take note that there appears to be a plan in motion as the next guy, Taylor Williams stands up. Nic Vansteenberghe looks to the girl he’s been coupled up with, Clarke Carraway, and jokes, “Don’t leave me, baby,” before she decides to get up to recouple with Williams.

• Also see: Fontana local Chris Seeley arrives in Casa Amor on Love Island USA

This leaves Vansteenberghe as they say on the show, “single and vulnerable.” All eyes, both in the villa and at Roosterfish, appear to be on contestant Jaden Duggar, who is coupled up with fellow islander Austin Shepard. Vansteenberghe was seen earlier in the episode aiming to make a connection with Duggar. It’s as if the guys of the villa have been playing chess in an attempt to stay in Fiji, knowing if their partner leaves them they’ll need a new girl to save them.

But ultimately things come to a halt as Duggar remains seated next to Shepard. The text comes in, Vansteenberghe has 30 minutes to pack his bags and leave the villa.

At Roosterfish, someone shouts, “Girl, stop crying, you don’t feel bad,” as bystanders chuckle. Elsewhere in the bar, fans are shocked that this could really be the end of Vansteenberghe and Carthen’s journey on the show. But then whispers begin to take place as some think back to the text the islanders received—it only mentioned packing their bags, it said nothing about being dumped from the show.

The screen fades to black, but the end credits don’t play as usual. Instead, dramatic music takes over the speakers as the TV cuts to a bird’s-eye view of the villa. The crowd at Roosterfish is shocked, gasps can be heard from across the room. A black G-Wagon is seen driving in the dead of night, with its license plate reading “LOVE.” Vansteenberghe is still walking out of the villa, suitcase in hand.

The car stops, the passenger door swings open, and the West Hollywood bar is bursting with cheers so loud that the noise alerts on nearby Apple Watches go off. It’s Carthen.

“Quick! Hurry up! Get in!” she shouts to Vansteenberghe as she motions for him to join her in the getaway car.

“What the f—” he responds.

“Nic, come on, hurry,” Carthen says back, smiling. With a wide grin on his face, Vansteenberghe rushes toward her and hops in the vehicle.

“What are you doing here?” he asks as the screen fades to black and the credits roll.

@carolyn.burt

Love Island USA fans react to shocking twist ending for season 7 episode 20 at Roosterfish in West Hollywood. @reality bar #loveislandusa #loveisland #loveislandseason7

♬ original sound – Carolyn Burt – Journalist

In a shocking twist, Carthen and Vansteenberghe haven’t been dumped, and those who attended the Reality Bar event can’t believe the moment they just experienced together. There are hugs and high-fives, conversations, and debates on whether Nicolandria (the ship name viewers gave to a Carthen and Vansteenberghe coupling since early episodes) is actually happening.

• Also see: Love Island USA fans create petition to bring back contestant after shocking elimination

Since episode 20 aired on June 24, more drama has unfolded on-screen and off. Contestant Cierra Ortega left the series 10 episodes later after receiving backlash online following the resurfacing of a screenshot of her using offensive language on social media. Ortega had been coupled up with Vansteenberghe since the first week of the season, and the two had just decided to be closed off a few days prior.

Narrator Iain Stirling announced Ortega’s departure from the show 15 minutes into episode 30, stating that she had left the villa due to a “personal situation.” Vansteenberghe remained on Love Island USA, now single again. During the recoupling ceremony at the fire pit that night, Carthen decided she wanted to give their connection another chance and decided to couple up with him.

While Love Island USA is wrapping up its season on Sunday, July 13, Reality Bar is just getting started with hosting reality TV watch parties throughout Los Angeles for the summer. The group has already shared some upcoming dates for other shows, such as Bachelor in Paradise, Big Brother, and Drag Race All-Stars, where fans can gather together at local bars to watch.

And for Love Island USA fans, as one chapter closes another begins. Following the Season 7 finale, the premiere of Love Island USA’s spin-off, Love Island: Beyond the Villa, will air. This series brings back Season 6 fan favorites as they regroup in Los Angeles, navigating their relationships and new fame a year after the series catapulted them to fame.

Nope, Love Island USA is on, and everyone’s here to watch.

• Related: Cal State Fullerton alums couple up on Love Island USA Season 7

Reality TV may have been considered a guilty pleasure for many, but the Love Island USA watch parties popping off around Southern California prove that’s a notion of the past. Even tennis star Coco Gauff is in on the fun, sharing a video of her and other attendees’ reactions to a recent recoupling ceremony. “This is my Super Bowl,” says Gauff. “I feel like my team just won!” Fans in the comments pointed out that she had also just won the French Open.

@cocogauff

ya’ll tried, I feel alive, nicolandria in ! #nicolandria #loveislandusa

♬ original sound – Coco Gauff

While karaoke and trivia nights are ubiquitous on the bar scene, Maddy Biebel wanted the same communal approach to reality TV taking over local pub screens. Enter Reality Bar.

In 2021, while watching The Bachelorette with some friends, she thought to herself, “Why can’t I do this at a restaurant?” So on a night out at the Founders Ale House in Los Angeles, she convinced the staff to let her put on the hit reality show. The guys who were seated next to them also watched the show and asked if they could join.

Around this time, Biebel started working in digital marketing. One of the clients was looking for a way to attract people to their rooftop spot in West Hollywood on weekdays. She pitched the concept of watching the season 5 premiere of Love Island USA. “I was like, ‘Tom, I have an idea we should try. You need some weekday programming. Let’s see what happens.’”

While Biebel has grown the concept to extend to other shows like Survivor, Big Brother and the Challenge, this summer the event took on a new life thanks to the power of social media. Videos of fans attending Reality Bar watch parties for Love Island USA began going viral, all while Biebel was on a trip to Rome, which she cut short to return home to keep up with the demand of the growing business.

Love Island Tuesdays at The Palm & The Pine in Hollywood quickly expanded into nightly airings of the show across West Hollywood, Santa Monica, The Valley and more. For the season 7 finale of Love Island USA and the premiere of Love Island: Beyond the Villa, Reality Bar already has nine locations and counting throughout Los Angeles where fans can gather to watch the show. Recently dumped islanders have even made an appearance, with Charlie Georgiou and Austin Shepard surprising fans at a watch party in Hollywood.

In the two years since launching Reality Bar, Biebel has noticed how the watch parties offer a space for people to make new friends over a shared interest, something that can be challenging for young adults in a big city like Los Angeles. “We have a really incredible community that comes out and they’ve formed friend groups coming to the watch parties,” said Biebel. “I think that these kinds of spaces are so important, and I’m so happy to be trying to create them.”

@carolyn.burt

Replying to @r@y Love Island USA fans react to Amaya and Zak coupling up during episode 20 #loveisland #loveislandusa #loveislandseason7 #amayapapaya @reality bar

♬ original sound – Carolyn Burt – Journalist

But the watch parties aren’t just benefiting the fans of the shows; they’re also helping local businesses. Many bars and restaurants in Los Angeles are still recovering from the pandemic and are seeking ways to attract more customers on weekdays. Reality Bar helps bring in a room full of people to stop by and grab a drink, on a night they might otherwise stay home.

Attending a Reality Bar watch party is like going to a sports bar to watch the game—you cheer on your team, boo when it doesn’t go your way and discuss the crazy plays you just witnessed with nearby patrons.

• Also see: He got his first passport to go on Love Island USA, now viewers want to make him a travel influencer

The show is unique among other reality TV shows, as it airs in real-time with new episodes released every day except Wednesdays. On top of that, viewers have a say in which couples stay on the show and which islanders are at risk of being dumped from the island through periodic viewer votes on the Love Island USA app.

The original UK version of the show began airing in 2015 and was actually a spinoff from a 2005-2006 version of the series, with celebrities competing for the $100k grand prize. The Love Island USA spin-off premiered on CBS in 2019. It later moved to the NBC streaming service Peacock for its fourth season in 2022.

While its more recognizable phrases, such as “a hot new bombshell has entered the villa” and “I’ve got a text!”, have been pop culture slang for some time, it wasn’t until last season that the US version of the show reached global success.

First, Ariana Madix, of Vanderpump Rules fame and an avid fan of the franchise, was named the new host of the show, bringing in her fan base as new viewers. Next, many moments from the show went viral on social media, and the online discussion made it a can’t-miss live television viewing experience.

As the show returned in June for its seventh season, so did those fans, eager to relive the fun from the previous summer. That’s where Reality Bar comes in, with its pop-up viewing parties throughout Los Angeles.

Love Island USA season finale airs on Sunday, July 13, with the premiere of the season 6 spin off Love Island: Beyond the Villa premiering the same day. Reality Bar has announced they will be hosting nine watch parties for the finale at Los Angeles bars throughout the Valley, Hollywood, Koreatown and more.

While Love Island USA might be coming to an end for the season, Reality Bar is just getting started with hosting reality tv watch parties for the summer. The group has already shared some upcoming dates for other shows such as Bachelor in Paradise, Big Brother and Drag Race All-Stars where fans can gather together at local bars to watch. Additional information can be found on @RealityBar on Instagram and TikTok.

Our reporters are back at it again with a round-up of our favorite eats from June. This month’s guide includes ice cream recommendations for when you’re in need of a sweet treat, sandwich spots for dining in or grabbing to go to, Indian food packed with spices, Japanese staples like ramen and sushi, and other nearby bites if you’re looking to try something new.

• Also see: The best things we ate at Southern California restaurants in May

Here’s a look from reporters at nearby eateries to try around Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire.

Related: See the best things we ate in Southern California in 2024.

Tri-tip fries – SeaSalt Honky Tonk, Huntington Beach

While covering Alicia Cox’s SeaSalt Honky Tonk, the “queen of concessions” latest seaside venture on Bolsa Chica State Beach, I simply had to investigate her new partnership with Heritage Barbecue. Daniel and Brenda Castillo’s acclaimed San Juan Capistrano barbecue joint is running a summer-long pop-up at SeaSalt Honky Tonk, featuring a condensed menu. Among their offerings are fries topped with smoked tri-tip, shredded cheddar, pickled jalapenos and onions. The tri-tip was generously portioned and cooked to tender perfection, smoked on-site, of course. However, the true standout, much to my delight, was the exceedingly crisp and well-seasoned fries. Though I’m far from a beach enthusiast, with the sun god and his punishing rays being my lifelong nemesis, this quintessentially Orange County collaboration between Cox and Castillo might just compel me to brave the sands and sun-kissed throngs with SPF 50 and an oversized hat, all for another taste.

— Brock Keeling, Restaurant Reporter

• RELATED: OC’s ‘queen of concessions’ brings two new beachfront restaurants to Huntington Beach

Eggplant Parm – Ggiata, Studio City

This bread is some of the best sandwich bread I’ve had in my life, and that’s coming from a Bay Area girl who makes dutch crunch her whole personality when she hears you went to Ike’s. If I can grab your attention for one thing about this sandwich, let it be how good the bread was. Ggiata is a name that might ring a bell if you’ve spent recent downtime scrolling on TikTok. The sandwich shop has gained social media fame thanks to a few viral videos, which made me curious to stop by. I ended up going with the eggplant parm, which was one out of a handful of vegetarian options. After opening the to-go box, all I could say was “wow, this smells so good.” And the first bite lived up to every expectation. My parents raised me on eggplant parmesan. They’re big fans of the one from Buca di Beppo, but that’s a whole other story. The flavors, combined with the texture, made it clear that this is where I’ll take them the next time they’re in town. The cheese, sauce and eggplant all felt perfectly portioned, not only to taste, but so you’re not left with parts of the sandwich awkwardly falling out with each bite.

— Carolyn Burt, Audience Engagement Producer

Achari Chicken Tikki – Daddy Ji, Claremont

Daddy Ji, nestled on the west side of Indian Hill in the Claremont Village, is a local favorite. Whether you were planning to grab some Indian street food or not, walking down the block, the spices wafting from the small eatery pull you in, and that’s how my girls and I find ourselves there time after time. Across multiple trips, we haven’t ordered a thing off the menu that we didn’t rave about, but the Achari Chicken Tikki has become a staple dish no matter how much we mix it up from visit to visit. Served on a sizzling hot plate alongside bell peppers and onions, the boneless dark chicken dish is marinated in a blend of spices and light sauce that coats your taste buds like butter. Enjoy alongside some basmati rice or garlic naan, and don’t sleep on the mango lassi to drink.

— Emily St. Martin, Digital Features Editor

Tonkatsu Ramen, USA Roll and Spider Roll – Jikan Japanese Restaurant, Ontario

As the weather takes a warmer turn, there was one thing I was craving…Ramen. A bit wild, I know, but stay with me as I also wanted sushi. Jikan’s Japanese Restaurant in Ontario had everything I was looking for. I shared a bowl of the very large and delicious tonkatsu ramen, which was enough in itself. I also ordered two rolls: the Spider Roll and the USA Roll, both of which were fresh and had large portions. An unexpected star of my meal, though, was the garlic edamame. It was loaded with fresh garlic, and honestly, I couldn’t get enough. For both price and quality, this is a solid choice for Japanese.

— Mercedes Cannon-Tran, Local Reporter

“Anthony’s Special” – McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, San Juan Capistrano

During a visit to San Juan Capistrano’s River Street Marketplace, I stopped at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, hoping to conclude my trip with a frozen fruit-and-cream combination, my second-favorite flavor profile. Anthony, the store’s manager, had different plans for me, subtly guiding me towards an inspired choice: his namesake creation. His clever construction featured two flavors. The first scoop was the double peanut butter chip, a peanut butter-infused ice cream with creamy peanut butter veins and slightly melty bittersweet chocolate shards. This sat atop a scoop of sea salt cream and cookies, a vanilla ice cream spiked with said sea salt and McConnell’s own Guittard chocolate chunk cookies. Anthony’s Special, as he christened it, proved to be the managerial interference I didn’t know I needed. Chocolate and peanut butter, especially with a pop of salt, remains my god-tier flavor combination. Thank you, Anthony.

— Brock Keeling, Restaurant Reporter

• RELATED: Santa Barbara’s McConnell’s opening first OC scoop shop

Chile Colorado Bowl – Miguel’s Jr., Corona

To mark the 50th anniversary of Miguel’s Jr., I visited the chain’s original restaurant at 1039 1039 W. Sixth St, Corona. I ordered Chile Colorado, an exclusive to that location. There were layers of goodness in the bowl, with sour cream and melted cheese on top of shredded stew meat and chunks of potatoes. Try it with house-made strawberry lemonade. Incidentally, I was in line behind the chain’s founder, Mary Vasquez, who ordered a salad to go. At age 82, she recently picked up her high school equivalency diploma at the nearby high school.

— Fielding Buck, Restaurant Reporter

• ALSO SEE: 82-year-old Miguel’s Jr. cofounder earns her high school diploma as her restaurant chain turns 50

The Greyhound – Stray Dog’s Coffee, Riverside

Stray Dogs Coffee was a delightful recent find. Located conveniently in downtown Riverside, parking wasn’t too bad. It was just what I needed for an afternoon pick-me-up. I ordered the Greyhound and it was delicious. An espresso-based iced drink with Earl Grey honey and topped with a vanilla cold foam made all my coffee dreams come true. I rounded out the drink with an Earl Grey crumb cake, and if you can’t tell by now, I am obsessed with Earl Grey. Did I also mention that they are dog-friendly and help local strays find homes? We love a good coffee with an even greater cause.

— Mercedes Cannon-Tran, Local Reporter

Thrifty Chocolate Malted Krunch Ice Cream – Killer Dana Surf Shop, Dana Point

On the other end of the ice cream spectrum, a visit to Killer Dana Surf Shop led to a stop at their Thrifty Ice Cream counter. The surf and clothing retailer wisely retained the beloved sweet-treat pitstop after moving into the former Rite-Aid location in 2024. I chose Chocolate Malted Krunch, the flavor I grew up with, known for its malted-chocolate ice cream, chocolate flecks, and especially its crisped rice balls. While this mass-produced brand doesn’t have the same cachet as McConnell’s or other small-batch ice creams, it’s rich with memories of yore. As a small child, honing my comedic routine, I’d always pick out the rice balls, clean them with my tongue, and then, with my lips covering my teeth, present them in a dish to weary family members, announcing, “Look, my teeth fell outta my mouth.” Thud. Even though the recurring bit never landed with my blood kin (tough crowd), this ice cream remains a personal favorite. And despite what lauded gastronomes might think of the archaic ice cream brand today, some youthful quirks and tastes are better left unexamined by such sophisticated palates.

— Brock Keeling, Restaurant Reporter

• SEE MORE: An ice cream parlor tucked inside a surf shop? Check out OC’s hidden food spots

The Kate – Something About Her, West Hollywood

Anyone who has watched Vanderpump Rules knows that the bars and restaurants owned and operated by the cast play a huge role in the series. It all kicked off with S.U.R., the restaurant owned by former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Lisa Vanderpump and her husband, Ken Todd, where a group of friends worked as servers, hosts and bartenders while also pursuing their Hollywood dreams. In the 10 years since the series first aired, the cast has made quite a name for themselves as not only Bravolebs and reality TV icons, but also opening up their own local spots. Ariana Madix and Katie Maloney decided to approach things a little differently when it came to opening Something About Her, opting for a chic, feminine sandwich shop rather than a bar. The names of the dishes are all inspired by leading ladies from RomComs (my favorite genre, so already we were off to a good start). The establishment lives up to its tagline of “romanticizing lunch” with its clear attention to detail when it comes to decor and the dining experience. I decided to go with the Kate, a staff favorite that resembles a caprese. The sauces alone live up to the hype, with the pesto aioli being the standout. Each bite was a blend of flavor from the burrata, tomatoes, balsamic glaze and onion marmalade. The ciabatta roll made for some messy pieces at the end, but each one was so tasty that I couldn’t complain. Additional tip: You can forgo the bread on any of their sandwiches and opt for it as a salad instead, which I’m looking forward to trying during my next visit.

— Carolyn Burt, Audience Engagement Producer

Cheesy Garlic Knots – The 4th Horseman in Long Beach

The 4th horseman has long been a favorite little hideaway of mine since my college days in Long Beach. The funky decor, music, and pizza have always kept me coming back for more. I was in the area on Friday the 13th and thought, what better way to end the night? I opted for a slice of pepperoni pizza, but the real star of the show this visit was the cheesy garlic knots. Not only were they piping hot, fresh from the oven, but they were also delectably soft and cheesy. No need to worry about any vampire attacks after these bad boys, as they were loaded with garlic. The portion is also so large that it could be a meal itself!

— Mercedes Cannon-Tran, Local Reporter

See more of our monthly round-ups of the best things we ate in Southern California

The best things we ate at Southern California restaurants in May

The best things we ate at Southern California restaurants in April

The best things we ate at Southern California restaurants in March

The best things we ate at Southern California restaurants in February

The best things we ate at Southern California restaurants in January

The best things we ate at Southern California restaurants in 2024

The best things we ate at Southern California restaurants in November

The best things we ate at Southern California restaurants this October

The best thing we ate at Southern California restaurants in September

The best thing we ate at Southern California restaurants in August

Casa Amor is a shake-up that happens in the show where the original contestants who have been coupled up for the past two weeks are split apart to test their connections. This season, the girls were sent to Casa Amor, while the guys remained at the villa. The 24 contestants met each other through kissing challenges, but then it was up to the new arrivals to decide which islander they wanted to couple up with.

During Monday night’s episode, Seeley was one of two contestants who wanted to pair up with Michelle “Chelley” Bissainthe. Ultimately, the feeling was mutual between Bissainthe and Seeley, and the two were coupled up.

It wasn’t the first time Bissainthe has found herself in a bit of a love triangle this season, with even host Ariana Maddix teasing her about it. Bissainthe has spent the majority of the season coupled up with Austin Shepard. But just because contestants are coupled up, doesn’t mean others can’t get to know them and re-couple with them later on. Which is what happened during episode 14 last week.

Fellow islander Ace Greene had been getting to know Bissainthe the past few weeks in the villa, making breakfast for her, creating yoga dates, and challenging her to ping pong competitions. The two had coupled up just before the girls were sent away to Casa Amor during episode 19.

One of the things that makes Love Island USA unique is that it’s filmed and edited in real time, meaning viewers can vote on who they want to keep on the show or see couple up together. Additionally, fans can participate in polls while the episode airs to see how fellow viewers align on certain topics.

After Monday night’s episode, Bissainthe and Seeley were the second most popular Casa recoupling, just behind new bombshell Andreina Santos and Bryan Arenales.

SEE ALSO: Cal State Fullerton alums couple up on Love Island USA Season 7

Tuesday night’s episode didn’t follow Seeley and Bissainthe’s growing connection because a major chunk of the episode was devoted to the recoupling that occurred. Twenty-four hours after the initial coupling in Casa Amor, the new arrivals had the option to couple up with the single islanders, Amaya Espinal and Thomas “TJ” Palma. Viewers saw Espinal form connections with JD Dodard and Zak Srakaew, with Srakaew standing up to couple with Espinal. This left original islander Olandria Carthen “single and vulnerable.”

For the guys, Savanna “Vanna” Einerson stood up to couple up with Palma. Viewers then saw a domino effect of guy after guy becoming “single and vulnerable” as a new girl stood up to couple up with them. That was until Nic Vansteenberghe was left standing alone at the fire pit.

Through a text message read by fellow islanders, both Carthen and Vansteenberghe were told they had 30 minutes to pack their bags and say their goodbyes. While this typically means the contestants have been sent home, viewers were quick to notice one detail was missing from the usual messaging—at no point were they told they had been “dumped from the villa.”

That theory came to light in the final two minutes of the episode. After a heartfelt goodbye with the rest of the guys, the screen faded to black, and dramatic music began to play as Vansteenberghe walked out of the villa, suitcase in hand. A black car with a license plate that read “LOVE” pulled up.

SEE ALSO: He got his first passport to go on Love Island USA, now viewers want to make him a travel influencer

The passenger door flung open to reveal Carthen in the vehicle. “Quick, hurry up, get in,” Carthen told Vansteenberghe, motioning for him to join her. After an initial state of shock, Vansteenberghe ran to the car as the two drove off together, leaving fans to decipher what the unexpected twist means for the show.

Carthen and Vansteenberghe have been at the villa since the first day of Love Island USA season 7 and have become favorites among viewers for their commentary. Megan Thee Stallion couldn’t hold back her excitement about meeting the two, even quoting Vansteenberghe’s now viral reaction to finding out fellow islander Huda Mustafa has a daughter, “Mommy? Mamacita.”

Viewers will have to wait until Thursday’s episode to find out what the future holds for Carthen and Vansteenberghe. Fans also noted online that the “Loves Me, Loves Me Not” neon sign in the villa typically flickers to “Loves Me Not” when an islander is dumped, but during Tuesday night’s episode, it instead flickered to “Loves Me,” leading many to speculate that their Love Island USA journey is not finished.

New episodes of Love Island USA air Sunday-Tuesday and Thursday-Saturday on Peacock at 6 p.m. PT.

The petition was created after Brown was dumped from the island during the episode on Sunday, June 22 and already has over 30,000 signatures. Brown had been a contestant on the reality TV dating competition since day one, where his time in Fiji got off to a rocky start. Brown was originally coupled up with fellow islander Huda Mustafa.

However, as more episodes began to air during the first two weeks of the season, social media discourse took a turn—fans weren’t feeling the pair based on frequent arguments shown between the couple.

Love Island USA is filmed in real-time, creating a unique experience for viewers as they can vote on various elements of the show throughout the season. The first vote of the season, held on June 13, introduced a twist to the series: rather than voting for their favorite islanders, viewers voted which of the new contestants would be paired with the original islanders.

When the viewers’ vote was revealed during the Sunday, June 15 episode, the contestants discovered that fans had seized the opportunity to pair Brown up with new “bombshell” Iris Kendall. This left Mustafa “single and vulnerable,” and during the remainder of the episode, she was at risk of being dumped from the island along with fellow contestants Charlie Georgiou and Taylor Williams. Instead, Georgiou was sent home, which led to a dramatic farewell between him and Cal State Fullerton alum Hannah Fields.

• RELATED: Cal State Fullerton alums couple up on Love Island USA Season 7

Brown and Mustafa ultimately decided it was best to remain separate, and during a later re-coupling, Brown paired up with Kendall again. This once again left Mustafa at risk of being sent home, but instead, her fellow islanders stood behind her, literally, as each walked behind the islander they wanted to save from going home. Instead of Mustafa, it was recent bombshell Jalen Brown who was dumped from the island, after he connected with Olandria Carthen, who decided to recouple with Williams.

• ALSO SEE: He got his first passport to go on Love Island USA, now viewers want to make him a travel influencer

During the Thursday, June 19 episode, the islanders and viewers were in for multiple surprises. For one, American rapper and fan of the show, Megan Thee Stallion, served as a surprise host for a challenge while promoting her new “Hot Girl Summer” swimwear line. The second surprise came at the end of the challenge, where two new bombshells were introduced, Thomas “TJ” Palma and Andreina Santos.

Kendall seemed to instantly hit it off with Palma, and the same was true for Brown and Santos.

The second viewer’s vote aired on Sunday, June 22, where fans voted for their favorite guy and girl islanders to keep on the show. Palma and Santos were excluded from the vote as they had just entered the villa.

Brown and Kendall, on the other hand, were both in the bottom three along with fellow islanders Austin Shepard, Jose “Pepe” Garcia Gonzalez, Fields and Amaya Espinal. Host Ariana Madix shared that one boy and one girl would be dumped from the villa that night, and the decision would be made by their fellow islanders who had been saved by America’s vote.

To the shock of viewers at home, the girls sent home Fields, and the guys sent home Brown. Viewers took to social media to voice their frustration, with some even saying they didn’t want to continue watching the season.

Others argued that Fields and Brown should be brought back on the show as either bombshells or as part of the new group of contestants being introduced as part of Casa Amor, which begins during the Monday, June 23, episode.

“Jeremiah was BETRAYED by his so-called ‘best friends’ on Love Island USA, and he deserves another chance to find love and happiness on the show,” the petition begins. “He brought a unique charisma and warmth that resonated with viewers, and losing him so early felt like an injustice. His journey was prematurely cut short, and many fans were left heartbroken.”

The petition also points out that this wouldn’t be the first time the Love Island franchise has brought back a fan favorite in an unexpected way. During season 5 of Love Island USA, contestant Carsten “Bergie” Bergersen left the villa after volunteering to eliminate himself, but returned the next day and was accompanied by two new bombshells. That same year, the original UK series did something similar when they brought back season 10 contestant Molly Marsh for Casa Amor.

Additionally, viewers have pointed out that there is usually an even number of Casa Amor contestants brought on the show, matching the current islanders. However, this season, they announced one fewer girl and one fewer guy, leading some to speculate online that the producers might have bigger plans.

New episodes of Love Island USA air Sunday-Tuesday and Thursday-Saturday on Peacock at 6 p.m. PT.

The Labubu character is based on “The Monsters” story series created by Kasing Lung, which was inspired by Nordic mythology. While Labubu dolls might be the most well-known of the bunch, there are other characters in the franchise: Zimomo, Tycoco, Spooky, and Pato.

Lung began a license agreement with a China-based toy company, Pop Mart, in 2019, and they began selling the character on key rings in 2023. The plush gained new popularity in April 2024 when Lisa from the K-pop group Blackpink started sharing her Labubu dolls online. More celebrities began collecting them, including Rihanna, who was spotted with the pink Lychee Berry Labubu from the Exciting Macaron series.

Part of the fun of Labubu dolls is that you don’t know what style you’ll get when you purchase one, because they’re sold in blind boxes. This has led many to purchase entire sets online, which come with six boxes, to ensure they obtain the color they want. There are also harder-to-obtain Labubu dolls, referred to as “secrets,” and they aren’t a guarantee when you purchase a set.

• Also see: Part toy, part fashion, the arrival of the viral Labubu was a long time in the making

Earlier this year, Labubu dolls were sold for $21.99 through Pop Mart; however, fans recently noticed a price increase across the toy company’s site, with the popular item now starting at $27.99. Prices at resale shops, both online and in person, typically start at about $20 more than the original price. The larger Labubu vinyl-face dolls are going for upwards of $200-$300.

As Labubu dolls have had a massive impact on social media, through unboxing videos, livestreams, accessorizing tips and guides on how to purchase them on PopNow or TikTok live, they’ve also had an impact locally on Southern California businesses.

Some businesses, such as Labu’tique in Anaheim, were born out of the craze, providing a place where those who have been unable to purchase the toy directly through Pop Mart can find success in obtaining an authentic Labu’tique, as well as accessorizing it. Nick Mendoza, the owner of Labu’tique, shared that the store has become so popular online that people are adding the shop to their travel itinerary when they come to visit Orange County.

After having lines out the door, the shop transitioned to a waitlist system, where potential customers receive a text notification letting them know it’s their turn to visit. While it has helped with crowd control, it has also meant that some diehard fans have gone out of their way to travel to the store, with one driving all day from Las Vegas and another flying in from Florida, just to purchase their desired items.

The shop, run by college students in Orange County, has also grown its own following on social media, in part due to some viral videos. They’ve also worked with Los Angeles tattoo artist Hunter Chao (@crybabyhunter), to provide tattoo services on Labubu dolls for patrons of Labu’tique.

@crybabyhunter

#labubu #popup #tattoos

♬ original sound – crybabyhunter

They’ve also gained the eye of celebrities, with Kathy Hilton inviting Mendoza to her house for her Labubu-themed party, where he provided accessories for guests to dress up their new plush toys.

However, they aren’t the only online Southern California business to become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists. NOI NOA at the Los Cerritos Center has made a name for itself due to the numerous clothing accessories they carry for Labubu dolls. Claw machine businesses have begun to attract new customers as they introduce Labubu options. And, of course, there’s also the growing chain of Pop Mart stores in the area, with the latest location opening in Sherman Oaks just this past month.

But it’s not just about purchasing a Labubu or buying its accessories; the experience has surpassed the pricey dolls. There are now Southern California businesses selling Labubu jelly for your boba, Labubu bao, Labubu cakes, and even Labubu afternoon tea. Could Labubu be the next Hello Kitty?

GUIDE: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LABUBU SHOPS

LABUBU DOLLS:

Pop Mart – Locations in Los Angeles, Orange County and the Inland Empire

Note: Currently, Labubu dolls cannot be purchased directly in stores and must be purchased through the Pop Mart app. Some Robo Shop vending machines that exclusively carry Pop Mart products might have Labubu’s in stock, but they often sell out quickly. Each shop location also has its own Instagram account where they post updates to their story about when hard-to-find products are available for store pickup through the app.

The Labu’Tique Shop – 754 N Lemon St. Anaheim, CA 92805

@ocfeed

@thelabutiqueshop- 754 N. Lemon St. Anaheim CA 92805 Labubus in Anaheim? And a ton of them! The shop hours can vary, you’ll find them on the IG. Guests must reserve their spot in line through their virtual queue wait line system to shop in store. They post on their IG every day when the link will go live, but it fills up very quickly. They told me that 500 spots can be taken in seconds. They’re about $30 for one. Side note, apparently we opened the secret from big energy while in the shop and it’s worth like $400 and super rare, lol. Yes, these are legit PopMart labubus. This is a PopMart recognized reseller, and they go through 75 cases of labubu a day. There are also a ton of the cutest accessories ever. Also this store just got a remodel! Have you gotten a labubu yet? . . #labubus #anaheim #orangecounty #labubu #wheretogo

♬ original sound – Ocfeed

Pickaparty – 12723 Wardman Street Whittier, CA 90602

@pickaparty

UNBOXING A LABUBU MACARON SECRET!!! #fyp #foryoupage #labubumacarons #labubu #labubus #labubuhaveaseat #labubuunboxing #popmart #foryou #SmallBusiness #smallbusinesscheck #unboxing #labubuthemonsters #fypシ #losangeles #parati #explore #viral #shorts #pickaparty

♬ Walking Around – Instrumental Version – Eldar Kedem

Build a Labubu – Rotating Pop Up in Southern California

@briannnaagirlypop

Labubu pop up lolz #labubu #havencity #ranchocucamonga

♬ original sound – POP MART

Awesome Collectables – 13913 Paramount Blvd. Paramount CA 90723

https://www.tiktok.com/@myawesomecollectibles/video/7506980198512987422?_r=1&_t=ZT-8xQjrnzfTyJ

ACCESSORIES:

NOI NOA – 331 Los Cerritos Center, Cerritos, CA 90703

@ggbstephhh

#labubuaccesory #foryou #fyp

♬ The Days – NOTION Remix – CHRYSTAL & NOTION

CLAW MACHINES:

Oki Doki Cranes – 8267 Garden Grove Blvd. Garden Grove, CA 92841

@ickest

This should be illegal but I won at @OKI DOKI CRANES! #labubu #popmart #pokemon #blindbox #labubuthemonsters #creatorsearchinsights #gardengrove #okidokicranes #labubuhaveaseat

♬ original sound – iCKEST

Claw Claw Arcadia – 204 1st Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007

@jt2.hobbies

$20 Challenge at @ClawClaw Arcadia — Arcadia’s Newest Arcade! Claw Claw Arcadia 204 S 1st Ave Arcadia, CA 91007 In this series, I review affordable claw machine arcades (mainly in Southern CA). During my first visits, I usually spend $20-30 as a base. I provide honest reviews, especially keeping in mind how parents, families or the average claw machine enthusiast might enjoy a fun and affordable activity.. and not walk away disappointed! Pros: Plushies are piled high in the claw machines Grand opening and token specials Average claw machine payout (~5 plays) Cons: Limited trade up options Unable to save points – must redeem for points on the same day Overall, Claw Claw provides a pretty good experience. It’s nice that the plushies are piled high, although I did expect to win more plushies with ~25 tries. 4 plushies for $20 is still about average compared to other claw arcades. Unfortunately, you’re unable to save up points and they did not have anything for trade up under 5 plushies. They also have Labubus for sale (~$50), in the claw machine (8 tokens / $4-5) and for trade up for 20 plushies. They had Exciting Macaron and Coca Cola Labubus last week, and Big Into Energy will be available this week! Follow them on IG/TikTok for deals and promos and receive a few extra tokens. They currently over 5 tokens to the first 20 customers per day and offer prizes for social media posts. Please LIKE and FOLLOW for more claw machine content! #clawmachine #clawmachinearcade #clawmachinewins #popmart #labubu #labubuclawmachine #SupportLocal #arcadia #sgv #losangeles #thingstodoinla #familyfun #datenight #pasadena #626 #thingstodoinsocal #fyp #fypシ

♬ original sound – 80s throwback hits

FOOD:

Bean & Butter Bake Shop – 3745 E Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91107

Labubu Bento Cake Class

@abueno5

I’m basically an expert now . Thank you @Bean&Butter Bakeshop I can’t wait to book my next class . #bento #bentocake #labubu #popmart #cakedecorating #cakeclass #frosting #cake #cakes #fyp #popmartus

♬ ♡ ᶫᵒᵛᵉᵧₒᵤ ♡ – SoBerBoi

Baskin-Robbins – 1217 N Central Ave, Glendale, CA 91202

Labubu Ice Cream Cakes and Ice Cream Cones

@foodwithbros

Labubu ice cream & cakes at Baskin Robbins! Available at the Glendale location #labubu #labubus #labubuthemonsters #popmart #icecream #cakes #baskinrobbins #desserts #obsessed #fyp

♬ original sound – POP MART

Hippo Loco – 16519 Magnolia St. Westminster, CA 92683

Labubu Jelly for Boba drinks

@ariannalakes

FREE LABUBU TOPPING this weekend at @hippoloco.us this place is so cute with labubu jelly topping! They are located 16519 Magnolia St Westminster, CA 92683 United States #fyp#labubuthemonsters#labubuhaveaseat#labubuunboxing#labubu#boba#drinks#bobatea#milktea#cute#pink#trending

♬ original sound – The Two Lips

Sip & Sugar – 5557 E Santa Ana Canyon Rd. #101, Anaheim Hills, CA 92807

Labubu Afternoon Tea

@aglassofsherry

guess how many labubus were in attendance at our labubu afternoon tea partea@sip & Sugar co. in anaheim hills, ca #ocfoodie #eatwithme #orangecounty #ocfood #orangecountyfood #afternoontea #labubu #labubuthemonsters #popmart #zimomo #anaheim #hiddengems #whatieatinaday #whatiatetoday

♬ original sound – highschool simulator

Ara’s Shawarma – 12510 Vanowen St. North Hollywood, CA 91605

Labubu cakes

@sanfernandovalley.eats

You gotta try these Labubu Cakes. Follow @SanFernandovalleyEats for more . @arasshawarma 
 12510 Vanowen St, North Hollywood
 (818) 452-9355 #SanfernandoValleyEats #Sweets #LAFoodie #Dessert #FoodinLosAngeles #NorthHollywood #LabubuCakes

♬ Coleen – The Heavy

Quinn’s Bakery – 10141 Westminster Ave, Garden Grove, CA 92843

Labubu Jelly for Boba drinks

@glossygems

Pink Labubu Boba run. Tried this brown sugar milk tea with a jelly Labubu inside from Quinn’s Bakers in Westminster — cuteness overload and sooo good! #Labubu #OCFoodie #LAeats #BobaLovers #QuinnsBakers #OCBoba #OrangeCountyEats #KawaiiBoba #LabubuHunt #BobaTok #LABoba

♬ original sound – Glossy Gems

Moonbridge Doughnut Studio – 6344 E. Spring St. Long Beach, CA 90815

Labubu Donuts

@yungfoodbeast

They’re everywhere!! We’ve seen labubu boba drinks, ice cream, bao buns and now donuts! Grab these from Moonbridge Dougnuts in Long Beach, CA. #labubu

♬ Feeling Good – SUPER-Hi

Pink & Boujee – 1908 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90033

Labubu Brunch

Note: Pink & Boujee rotates its brunch themes, so check first to see what they are currently offering.

@leftylexie

Labubu brunch @Pink & Boujee LA @POP MART US #labubu #popmart #labubuthemonsters #labubuhaveaseat #labubucafe #labububrunch #brunch #cafe #la #losangeles #california #pink #tacos #taqueria #pinktacos #fyp #fypシ #pinkandboujeela

♬ Sunshine & Rain… – Kali Uchis

La Michoacana Heladeria Tradicional – 1168 E. Anaheim St. Long Beach, CA 90813

Labubu Cakes

@firstdateguide

@lamichoacanaht – Labubu Ice Cream Cakes in Long Beach! Send this to someone obsessed with labubu’s RIGHT NOW!! HAHA this is going to make their day! You can choose any ice cream flavor to put inside of your labubu cake SHOP NAME: La Michoacana Heladeria Tradicional MON-SUN 10am-9pm 562-247-1108 1168 E. Anaheim St. Long Beach CA 90813 Alright, now who needs to buy one? Tag them and say let’s go! #labubu #cake #longbeach #icecream #foodvideo

♬ 快乐爵士 Happy Jazz – APmuse

Bun World – 1071 N Tustin Ave #107, Anaheim, CA 92807

Labubu Bao

@liftingiscake

Best buns and dumplings I have tried from @77521kiki 1071 N Tustin Ave 107, Anaheim, CA #joycemarcellus #foodreview #baobuns #buns #labubu #labubuthemonsters

♬ LABUBU THE MONSTERS – Coke Duck

Cookieteria by Lovely – 316 S Glendora Ave. West Covina, CA 91790

Labubu Concha

@liftingiscake

I’m obsessed with @Cookieteria By Lovely they have a full line up characters and they are delish!! 316 S Glendora Ave, West Covina, CA #joycemarcellus #foodreview #conchas #labubu #labubuconchas #pokemon #hellokitty #concha Do you love labubu?

♬ LABUBU THE MONSTERS – Coke Duck

Yulis Brewed Energy – La Puente/West Covina

Labubu Coffee and Dubai Chocolate

@liftingiscake

On today’s coffee adventure we are at @YulisBrewedEnergy and let me tell she is good!!! And with the Dubai labubu you need to order. Go to her page on how to order and scheduling. La Puente, CA #joycemarcellus #coffee #coffeeoftheday #liftingiscake

♬ original sound – JOYCE the HUNGRY

Ems Cafe – Bell, Los Angeles 90201

Labubu Cake Pops

@emscafe___

Labubu cake pops #labubu #labubuthemonsters #labubucoffee

♬ original sound – POP MART

P.S. I Crepe You – 6095 Magnolia Ave. E, Riverside, CA 92506

Labubu Crepes.

@psicrepeyou

Our Labubu friends are SO excited to meet you all! They’ve been hanging out at P.S. I Crepe You and are already in love with our crepes, our drinks, and especially our vibes Come say hi and snap some pics with them on Saturday 6/28 from 2PM–4PM! PLUS we’re debuting our Labubu Crepe, available starting Friday 6/27 at both our Magnolia and Galleria locations! Trust us, you don’t want to miss this. Come early, bring a friend, and make some sweet memories with Labubu #PSICrepeYou #LabubuLovesCrepes #PSICrepeYou #LabubuTakeover #LabubuLoversUnite #riversideeats #psicrepeyou #crepes #coffee #dessert #crepe #smallbusiness #riverside #crepelove #icecream

♬ A Summer Place – Hollywood Strings Orchestra