Out of thousands of restaurants, shops, and hot spots throughout Orange County, the OC Register compiles votes from readers each year to select the "Best of Orange County". The first, second, and third place winners in each category are recognized, along with OC Register critic choices for favorites in select categories. We are proud to feature the following Lake Forest businesses on the list:

• BEST AUTO REPAIR #1:
Elite Automotive

• BEST JEWELER/JEWELRY STORE #1:
The Jewelry Box of Lake Forest

• BEST NEW HOME COMMUNITY #1:
Baker Ranch

• BEST GARDEN CENTER/NURSERY -#2:
Green Thumb Nursery

• BEST GASTROPUB #3:
Bru Grill and Market

• BEST COMIC BOOK STORE #3:
Comic Quest

• BEST PET SUPPLIES #3:
Pet Country