HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA--(Marketwired - May 5, 2016) - Saint Marc Pub-Café, Bakery & Cheese Affinage -- Pacific City's hottest spot for bold cocktails made by master mixologists and a trendsetting Americana-inspired menu -- continues its culinary climb to the top with a 1^st place prize at the 2016 Taste of Huntington Beach held Sunday, April 24^th at the Huntington Beach Sports Complex. Stealing the spotlight in the appetizer category for its signature Bacon Wrapped Date and Watermelon Feta Skewers, Saint Marc proved that while its restaurant concept may be a relative newcomer to Southern California, its world-class chefs are no strangers to crafting award-winning fare.

"We are thrilled that our first experience at this local event resulted in such high praise," says CEO Thomas (Mac) McFarland Gregory III, whose flagship restaurant opened to rave reviews at the turn of the New Year. "There's no doubt Southern California hosts some of the most skillful and inventive industry giants, not to mention tough critics who know great food -- and great bacon. We feel quite honored and grateful for such recognition at an event so deeply rooted in the community."

Last weekend's annual culinary showdown drew a crowd of more than 2,500 enthusiastic tasters -- locals and visitors alike -- who savored offerings from nearly 100 participating local restaurants, breweries and wineries. Proceeds from the event benefitted the children's department of the Huntington Beach Public Library.

"More and more people are discovering the enigma that is Saint Marc," adds Gregory. "Whether stopping by in the morning for a slice of sizzling hot bacon or our famous Chococro; spending a relaxing evening with us enjoying the ocean breeze and our 32 wines or draught; or joining us for our exciting nightlife happenings -- Saint Marc offers affordable first-class food and drink in a casual and inviting atmosphere."

For more information, visit www.saintmarcusa.com. With media inquiries, please call Leslie Licano at 949-733-8679 ext. 101 or email leslie@beyondfifteen.com. Saint Marc is also on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram.

About Saint Marc USA: Saint Marc Pub-Café, Bakery & Cheese Affinage is the brand's first and flagship establishment, situated along the Huntington Beach coastline within the vibrant new Pacific City. Saint Marc offers nostalgic, Americana cuisine in a family and pet friendly environment. Ambassadors serving as personal culinary consultants offer expert advice on Saint Marc's unique selection of distinctive food and hydration available tableside or self-selected from free-standing stations. iPads of information offering images and on-demand ordering of what guests want when they want it, free-flow bread from the bakery, over 100 cheese selections from boards to fondue, craft beers in a can, 32 wines on draught, with mixology served in Red Solo Cups and dishes served on faux paper plates -- highlight just some of the enticing features and unique characteristics that set Saint Marc on a less-traveled path. To learn more, visit www.saintmarcusa.com.