Orange County Serves Up Exceptional Culinary Adventures and Stunning Coastal Views
Orange County is a sprawling metropolitan area and part of the much larger Southern California urban jungle.
With its 50 cities and unincorporated communities, this region is teeming with attractions, theme parks, restaurants, and unique dining experiences. This article delves into the exceptional culinary finds and unique dining spots across the OC.
For The Views
Orange Hill Restaurant
The food at Orange Hill may be ordinary, but the view is extraordinary. After a steep drive up the hill and valet parking, you are greeted with a stunning panorama of Orange County.
The view is particularly mesmerizing at night, with city lights twinkling as you enjoy drinks and dinner. You might also catch the Disneyland fireworks if you time your meal right.
Traveler Tip: Make reservations in advance and request outdoor seating for the best views, especially on the balcony with fire pits.
User Review (TripAdvisor): "The views of the valley and the nighttime city lights are sensational. Sitting by the patio fire pits makes the premium price tag entirely worth it." - David K.
The menu offers modern American cuisine, featuring various appetizers, steak, and seafood. Though prices are high, the best deal is their 3-Course Prix Fixe Menu, which includes a starter, dessert, and choice of three main entrees.
On our last visit, we enjoyed perfectly cooked Lamb Chops, Filet Mignon, and New York Steak. The toffee pudding dessert was also outstanding. However, the service was somewhat slow, and items were occasionally brought at the wrong time.
6410 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869
Las Brisas
Perched atop a cliff overlooking Laguna Beach, this Mexican-American restaurant 
offers Mexican fusion dishes, an ocean breeze, and an incredible view. Although it can get crowded, the stunning scenery is well worth it.
Interesting Fact: The best way to enjoy Las Brisas is by indulging in their weekend brunch, featuring an upscale multi-course coastal menu that has drawn locals for decades.
Their tacos, prime rib, and lamb chops are excellent choices for dinner. During our last visit, we had the Oysters and Salmon Tostadas to start, followed by an Asparagus Omelet and Baked Eggs. We ended the meal with Sorbet and Flan, all of which were delicious and perfectly paced.
After dining, take a stroll along the cliff in Heisler Park or head down to Main Beach. Heisler Park offers several blocks of spectacular ocean and beach views. Read more here.
361 Cliff Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 2651
Splashes
This hidden gem is located inside the Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach. The restaurant sits right on the sand, offering indoor and patio seating with excellent ocean views and the sound of surf breaking on the beach.
The food is delightful, especially for breakfast. On our last visit, we enjoyed strawberry and cream pancakes and wild mushroom Benedicts.
Traveler Tip: The resort is perfect for a few days' stay during the warmer months, providing a great base to explore Laguna Beach and Orange County.
If you're not in the mood for pancakes or benedicts, they also offer a variety of pastries, omelets, bagels with salmon, fruits, and even steak and eggs.
1555 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Raya at The Ritz-Carlton
Located at The Ritz-Carlton, Dana Point, Raya offers a combination of great views and inventive, delicious dishes. Each dish is a unique creation, both in flavor and presentation.
After an educational Dolphin Watch cruise from Dana Harbor, we stopped by Raya for drinks and shared two dishes: Thai Curry Buddha Bowl and Achiote Salmon. The Buddha Bowl was particularly memorable, featuring quinoa, black beans, broccolini, avocado, corn, sweet potato, a soft egg, and curry.
After lunch, we enjoyed a walk along Salt Creek Beach, which is easily accessible from the Ritz.
1 Ritz Carlton Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629
Ola Mexican Kitchen
Ola is located on the second floor of Pacific City Mall in Huntington Beach. It offers a commanding view of Pacific Coast Highway, the HB Pier, and the ocean.
The food and service are outstanding. We particularly enjoyed the Lobster and Shrimp Enchiladas, Fish Tacos, and Ribeye Fajitas.
Interesting Fact: The complimentary chips and salsa are a great way to start your meal, but their Tres Leches cake is the perfect way to end it.
21040 Pacific Coast Hwy F200, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
The Beachcomber Cafe
The Beachcomber Cafe on the sand at Crystal Cove State Beach offers a dining experience unlike any other. Surrounded by cottages from the 1920s, the historic ambiance is just as appealing as the ocean view.
On our last visit, we shared a "Tonga lei for 2", a massive rum cocktail, along with Tiny Ahi Tacos and Artichoke dip for starters.
For our main course, we enjoyed the Maine Lobster Club, Ahi Tacos, and a Tuna melt. I particularly loved the Lobster Club. We finished with Beignets and Bread Pudding for dessert.
Traveler Tip: Parking is available at the State Park lot across the street. You can take a scenic hike down to the beach or ride the shuttle for a small fee per person.
15 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA 92657
C'est La Vie
This classic French spot, located right on Main Beach in Laguna, has long been a place to enjoy coffee and pastries while listening to the waves.
Operations Note: Please verify current seasonal hours or concept transitions for this oceanfront location before visiting, as seaside real estate frequently undergoes updates.
They serve breakfast and brunch, with a variety of crepes and omelets on the menu. Whether you are here for a quick snack or a full meal, the ambiance and coastal air are highlights.
Interesting Fact: C'est La Vie functions as both a restaurant and a bakery, showcasing classic croissants, colorful macarons, and traditional pastries.
373 S Coast Hwy #2111, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Bluegold
Located in the Pacific City Mall, Huntington Beach, Bluegold offers New American cuisine with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The menu varies depending on availability, ensuring fresh, high-quality dishes.
During our last visit, we enjoyed a breakfast of scrambled eggs and an omelet, both fluffy and delicious. The dishes came with a side salad, but you can opt for potatoes if you prefer. If you are an early riser, note that they open for breakfast at 9 am.
21016 Pacific Coast Hwy d200, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Sapphire - Laguna Beach
Although not directly on the sand, Sapphire offers a stunning ocean view from its large porch seating area across the Pacific Coast Highway. This spot is ideal for a leisurely lunch or dinner, with a great brunch menu available on weekends.
Traveler Tip: Sapphire offers guest access to WiFi, making it a comfortable spot to catch up on remote work or share travel photos while enjoying the view.
1200 S Coast Hwy #105B, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
The Boardwalk at Hilton
Part of the Waterfront Beach Resort, The Boardwalk offers a diverse menu inspired by the coastal flavors of Southern California.
We chose to sit outdoors by the pool, enjoying the ocean views and the beautiful California weather. We ordered Short Ribs Rigatoni and Vegetable Curry, both of which were tasty and filling.
For drinks, we tried the Huntington Margarita, Passion Fruit Manhattan, and Bacardi Silver. While the drinks were decent, the Apple Pie Ala Mode for dessert was a highlight.
21100 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA
The Experience
Fire+Ice – Gardenwalk
Closure Alert: The Fire+Ice location at Anaheim Gardenwalk has permanently closed its doors. Travelers looking for customizable, interactive cooking experiences in the Anaheim area can check out the local hot pot or interactive Korean barbecue establishments nearby.
This Mongolian fusion-style, all-you-can-eat buffet previously allowed guests to fill a bowl with their favorite ingredients and watch as they were cooked on a massive grill. Diners chose the sauce and spices to create their own unique custom dish.
400 Disney Way, Anaheim, CA 92802
Rock & Brews Buena Park
Step into a backstage party where rock history meets incredible food. Co-founded by KISS legends Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, Rock & Brews delivers a high-energy dining experience surrounded by iconic concert posters and a legendary soundtrack. On game days, the atmosphere hits a fever pitch as fans cheer on their teams across massive screens.
We kicked off our setlist with a spread of crowd-pleasing starters: savory glazed Asian Wings, crispy Southwest Eggrolls, and a mountain of loaded Nachos. From the Happy Hour menu, the Carnitas Taquitos offered the perfect crunch, while the Garlic Fries were seasoned to perfection.
To wash it all down, we sipped on the tropical Detroit Rock Tiki Tai and a pair of light, minty Kokomo Mojitos. We ended the night on a high note with their signature Bread Pudding, a warm, rich comfort dish that was big enough for the whole family to share. Whether you are a die-hard roadie or just looking for a fun family dinner, this spot hits all the right notes.
School Food
Closure Alert: School Food inside The Source OC in Buena Park is permanently closed. Fans of modern Korean street food can find similar innovative culinary concepts throughout the multi-level mall complex.
The name "School Food" was inspired by popular Korean school lunches, but the flavors were far from standard cafeteria fare. The menu featured creative dishes like Spicy Ramen, Soup Topokki, Spam Rolls, Kimchi Fried Rice, and the unique Mari Special Roll.
6940 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90621
Pirates Dinner Adventure
Enjoy dinner while watching a thrilling show filled with pirates, gunfights, and aerial adventure. The food is surprisingly good for a themed dinner theater production.
The three-course meal includes soup or salad, a choice of roasted half chicken or savory pork, and Apple Cobbler ala mode for dessert. You can read the full review here.
Medieval Times
Step back in time to witness a medieval tournament while enjoying a hearty feast. The competition includes authentic sword fights, jousting, and impressive horsemanship.
The prehistoric style meal is eaten without utensils and includes tomato bisque soup, rotisserie chicken, sweet potato, corn, herbed bread, and a dessert pastry.
Traveler Tip: General admission may place you in the higher rows, but you can choose to upgrade for a guaranteed seat in the first two rows for a more immersive view of the action.
Read more about Medieval Times here.
Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong (Korean BBQ)
Orange County is home to many premier Korean BBQ restaurants, but Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong consistently stands out. Located in a bustling commercial center in Buena Park, this restaurant offers an authentic, high-energy environment.
Traveler Tip: Order a combo of meats for the table to get the full variety. Dedicated servers will grill the meats to perfection directly at your table.
We opted for the beef combo, which included Thinly Sliced Brisket, Prime Marinated Beef, Prime Boneless Short Rib, Soybean Paste, and Kimchi Stew. The selection of sides, including banchan, kimchi, boiled potatoes, and corn cheese cooked on the rim of the grill, was equally satisfying.
5171 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90621
Nova Kitchen and Bar
Nova Kitchen, located near the Hyatt Regency in the Anaheim resort area, promises to engage all five senses: taste, smell, sight, touch, and sound. The environment is vibrant and upscale.
The decor is elegant, the background music lively, and the customer service excellent. The Asian fusion cuisine is exquisite, and the craft cocktails are beautifully presented.
During our visit, we tried the Rainbow Roll, Spicy Tuna with Mango Salsa, and Shrimp Tempura Roll. All choices were delicious. The Hibiscus Zest, Lights Out Tokyo, and Sunrise Tokyo cocktails complemented the meal perfectly. The Chocolate Ganache Cake with ice cream was divine for dessert, though the price points reflect an upscale experience.
12361 Chapman Ave, Garden Grove, CA 92840
Bold Korean-Italian Fusion at dPlace
dPlace Steak & Pasta has transformed a massive Fullerton footprint into a high tech culinary playground.
The moment you are seated, the sleek, modern aesthetic signals that this is not your typical neighborhood pasta house. You order via a high-definition tablet, and within minutes, a fleet of cat-faced autonomous robots glides across the floor to deliver your meal. These digital servers are a highlight for families, offering an entertaining, touch-free interaction that keeps kids and tech lovers engaged throughout the evening.
The menu is an inventive study in Korean-Italian fusion, blending rich Western cream sauces with the sharp, fermented heat of East Asia. The Myung Ran Cream Pasta is a standout, featuring savory pollack roe that provides a distinct salty pop against a velvety sauce.
For a heartier option, the Rose Tteokbokki with Panne Pasta pairs chewy Korean rice cakes with Italian pasta in a spicy, rich cream sauce. If you prefer protein, the OC Galbi Korean steak is perfectly marinated and served with traditional banchan, bridging the gap between a modern steakhouse and a traditional Seoul eatery. For a sweet finish, do not miss the molten Lava Cake.
For The Food
Tangerine Room – Westin Anaheim Resort
We started our morning at the Tangerine Room, the signature restaurant inside the Westin Anaheim Resort, just a short walk from Disneyland. The space is bright and modern, featuring high ceilings and large windows that allow in ample natural light. The service stood out right away, attentive without being pushy, and the staff seemed genuinely happy to assist us.
The breakfast menu features well-crafted dishes made with seasonal ingredients. There is also a full breakfast buffet with a wide variety of options. We skipped the buffet to order from the à la carte menu. We tried three different items, each worth coming back for.
The 3-egg omelet was cooked to order, filled with our choice of ingredients. We went with bacon, onions, avocado, and sharp cheddar. Next came the coconut pudding, something you do not often find on a hotel breakfast menu. Served chilled in a small dish, it had a creamy texture with a hint of vanilla and a toasted coconut topping. It was light but satisfying, and a perfect pairing with the savory omelet.
The standout dish was the chilaquiles. They arrived in a warm skillet, with tortilla chips smothered in red chile sauce, topped with two fried eggs and crumbled queso fresco. The sauce had a mild kick, and the chips kept their crunch without getting soggy. It was the most flavorful of the three and felt like a true local favorite.
User Review (Yelp): "The Tangerine Room is an oasis of calm right next to the theme parks. The chilaquiles are phenomenal, and the validated parking saves so much hassle!" - Marcus T.
Many online reviews mention the Tangerine Room as one of the best spots for breakfast near Disneyland, especially for those looking to escape the park crowds. Guests often praise the calm atmosphere and quality ingredients. If you are driving, the Westin offers 2-hour validated valet parking, which is convenient for non-hotel guests who want to enjoy breakfast before heading to the parks. Just remember to bring your parking ticket for validation.
SAVOR Stone Hearth Pizza & Wine
SAVOR, located near the Anaheim Sheraton Convention Center district, quickly became a local favorite for its artisanal pizza and great service.
We started our meal with homemade soup and a charcuterie board featuring regional cheeses and cured meats. While tempting, it is best to save room for the main course: unique, wood-fired pizzas.
Traveler Tip: The pizzas have playful names like Honey Bear, Cherry Bomb, and The Gladiator, and each option features an excellent crust profile.
1855 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA
The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
The Winery Restaurant is an elegant destination to enjoy a meal with a dedicated wine pairing or simply to head out for sophisticated evening drinks. An impressive selection of global wines and mixed drinks is on hand, and the staff is eager to recommend the ideal pairing.
During our visit, we ordered Hawaiian Mahi Mahi, Veggie Ragout, and Garlic-Herb-Roasted Chicken. While waiting, we tried the artisan bread and butter service, which was delicious.
Interesting Fact: The portions are balanced precisely for fine dining. For a sweet finish, the signature Crème Brûlée comes highly recommended by regulars.
2647 Park Ave, Tustin, CA
Dimassi's Mediterranean Buffet
Dimassi's, located just on the border of the OC region in Cerritos, is a popular high quality chain that brought its flavors from Texas to California. The restaurant offers a wide range of authentic Mediterranean dishes, from fresh salads and smooth hummus to gyros and hot kabobs.
The expansive buffet includes several seasoned rice varieties, some prepared with tender lamb and others with beef or roasted vegetables. The selection of meats features classic gyro, kafta, kabob, and slow-cooked lamb shank. Everything is full of traditional spices.
Traveler Tip: Review the active menu on their website to plan your culinary targets before arriving.
12727 Towne Center Dr, Cerritos, CA
Romano's Macaroni Grill
Closure Alert: The Romano's Macaroni Grill location on Towne Center Drive in Cerritos has permanently closed. Fans of classic casual Italian dining can look to nearby regional bistros for classic pasta favorites.
This casual dining spot specialized in classic Italian-American comfort food. The restaurant offered a wide selection of family dishes, including customized pasta plates, brick-oven pizzas, chicken parmesan, and steak.
12727 Towne Center Dr, Cerritos, CA
Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen
Khan Saab offers an award-winning taste of the Indian subcontinent with a modern California twist. The restaurant specializes in 100% Halal dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India, with a strict focus on premium, sustainable ingredients.
During our visit, we tried the Classic Chicken Curry, Lamb Rogan Josh, and Aloo Gobi. The dishes were deeply flavorful and beautifully spiced. We ordered aromatic basmati rice and fresh garlic naan to accompany them. Since this is an authentic, completely Halal establishment, they feature an upscale non-alcoholic bar program. We tried the Mango Mojito and Mango Mimosa mocktails, both of which were refreshing and complex.
Traveler Tip: For dessert, do not miss the innovative Chocolate Samosa paired with premium vanilla ice cream. It is a brilliant sweet spin on a traditional icon.
229 E Commonwealth Ave Unit A, Fullerton, CA
Harley Laguna Beach
Closure Alert: Harley Laguna Beach has permanently closed its doors. Chef Greg Daniels' celebrated seasonal concept on Glenneyre Street paved the way for local sustainable sourcing in the community.
Located steps from the sand, Harley was focused on creative, farm-to-table menus with daily updates.
370 Glenneyre St, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Javier's Restaurant
Located in the vibrant Irvine Spectrum Center, Javier's offers high-end Mexican cuisine, an energetic luxury ambiance, and top-notch service.
We started with warm tortilla chips and house salsa, which carries a kick, so we ordered fresh guacamole to balance the heat. For the main courses, we tried the Enchilada and Taco combination alongside the premium trio of an Enchilada, Taco, and Chile Relleno. The portions were quite generous, ensuring plenty of takeaways.
We also sampled their famous Guava and Pineapple Margaritas, with the Guava quickly becoming a favorite. For dessert, the rich Tres Leches cake and sweet Corn Bread Pudding were so delicious that nothing remained.
536 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA
PF Chang’s
PF Chang’s is a reliable Asian fusion staple that offers inventive pan-Asian dishes and a widely popular happy hour program.
During our last visit, we started with their famous Chicken Lettuce Wraps, steamed Shrimp Dumplings, and a spicy kung pao dragon roll. For the main course, we chose classic Mongolian Beef, Crispy Honey Shrimp, and tender Stir-Fried Eggplant. The portions were well-sized and everything was executed perfectly.
For dessert, we indulged in the Banana Spring Rolls, which were sweet, crispy, and paired beautifully with ice cream.
Traveler Tip: After your meal at the Anaheim location, enjoy a pleasant stroll through the nearby stores or head straight into Downtown Disney for late-night entertainment.
321 W Katella Ave Suite 120, Anaheim, CA 92802
Alessa
Alessa is an upscale, romantic Italian restaurant in the heart of Laguna Beach that offers both visual and culinary delights. The service is prompt and sophisticated, and the plates are artfully crafted.
On our last visit, we tried two of their signature ravioli creations: the Zucca, a sweet butternut squash ravioli with creamy ricotta cheese, and the hearty Nonna Titina ravioli packed with fresh cheese and spinach. We paired our meal with the rich house Merlot, which featured distinct notes of plum and cherry, and a refreshing strawberry basil mojito.
234 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA
Ozen Sushi
A small, unassuming neighborhood sushi spot located in a residential corridor, Ozen offers an impressive selection of classic rolls, fresh sushi, premium sashimi, and hand rolls. Despite its modest exterior, it is a premier destination for local sushi enthusiasts.
We usually opt for their structured all-you-can-eat option to sample a wide array of chef creations alongside our standard favorites. We thoroughly enjoyed the signature Ozen Roll, Crunch Roll, Rainbow Roll, and fresh Salmon and Tuna options. For dessert, the ice cream macarons, particularly the green tea and mango varieties, provided a fantastic finish.
Traveler Tip: Ozen also features a curated selection of imported Japanese beers and hot sake. The expansive menu includes multi-item Bento boxes, making it an excellent spot for non-sushi diners as well.
7185 Lincoln Ave, Buena Park, CA 90620
RA Sushi
RA Sushi, located within The District at Tustin Legacy, offers a hip, high-energy environment with both indoor seating and an expansive outdoor patio.
On our last visit, we enjoyed several inventive rolls and fresh sashimi selections. The specialty Viva Las Vegas Roll and the Crunchy Shrimp Tempura Roll were clear standouts. For a sweet finale, the rich coconut crème brûlée and the Cinnamon Tempura Ice Cream were outstanding.
2401 Park Ave, Tustin, CA 92782
Roy's @ Garden Walk
Dining at Roy's is like taking an upscale culinary excursion across the Pacific Rim. This celebrated fusion pioneer offers an array of high-end seafood selections, such as Hibachi Grilled Atlantic Salmon, Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi, and their indulgent Shellfish Sampler.
The tender Braised Short Ribs of Beef and Crispy Katsu Chicken serve as excellent options for land lovers. The global wine list and tropical mixology programs are expertly managed. During our visit, we enjoyed the Mango Mojito and the signature 1988 Martini.
Traveler Tip: Request patio seating at the Garden Walk location. The outdoor area features flaming Hawaiian-style torches, creating a warm, island-inspired ambiance for evening dining.
321 W Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92802
Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse in Buena Park is a reliable favorite for steak lovers, offering precisely timed grilled meats and attentive service. 
We started our meal with their famous, crispy Bloomin’ Onion and savory Coconut Shrimp, both of which arrived hot and flavorful.
For main courses, we sampled the center-cut sirloin paired with unlimited shrimp, tender baby-back ribs, grilled halibut, and a loaded Philly cheesesteak sandwich. We concluded our casual dinner with the Chocolate Thunder from Down Under, a rich pecan brownie topped with premium vanilla ice cream, warm chocolate sauce, and whipped cream.
7575 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
Fire Lake Grillhouse
Fire Lake Grillhouse is a stylish culinary gem situated inside the Radisson Blu Anaheim, offering a sophisticated, farm-to-table spin on classic Midwestern open-flame cooking.
We visited during a holiday service and enjoyed their custom curated three-course feast. Our meal began with a velvety Squash Soup enhanced with brown butter sage crème fraîche, followed by a succulent Smoked BBQ-spiced Turkey Breast served alongside cranberry hibiscus sauce and crispy yucca stuffing. The Brown Butter Okinawa Sweet Potato Casserole was an absolute standout highlight.
Traveler Tip: Outside of holidays, Fire Lake Grillhouse features an exceptional regular dinner menu showcasing artisanal choices like Fig & Venison Flatbread and thick cut Bone-In Prime Filets.
1601 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805
Tamba 30 (Indian)
Closure Alert: Tamba 30 in downtown Anaheim has permanently closed its doors. Travelers seeking authentic regional Indian cuisine can explore nearby options in the Anaheim Colony District.
This downtown Anaheim spot 
offered a popular lunch buffet alongside traditional, richly spiced North Indian favorites.
30 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805
Brussels Bistro
With Forest Avenue transformed into a charming, pedestrian-only promenade, restaurants now offer expanded outdoor European-style sidewalk seating. We stopped at Brussels Bistro, located right at the vibrant corner of Forest and PCH, and were thoroughly impressed.
The authentic Belgian fare and imported beer selections are excellent. We enjoyed the delicate Trout Almondine and a crisp Beet Salad. The trout was pan-seared beautifully and accompanied by smooth, well-seasoned mashed potatoes.
For drinks, we ordered their specialty cocktail, the Zombie in the Park, which was balanced so well we requested a second round. For dessert, the Crepes Flambée arrived generously coated in sauce, offering an indulgent, sweet conclusion to our dinner.
222 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA
Latte Ristorante
Latte Ristorante is a delightful, family-run Italian establishment nestled within an Anaheim Hills retail center. While the strip mall setting is unassuming, the traditional cuisine is exceptional.
We began our meal with a fresh Mozzarella Caprese and toasted Garlic Bread, followed by hearty helpings of Eggplant Parmigiana, Pollo Parmigiana, and delicate Capellini Gamberi featuring perfectly sautéed shrimp. Every dish arrived piping hot and rich with homemade sauces. For dessert, we enjoyed a unique orange stuffed with vibrant house orange sorbet along with a classic, espresso-soaked tiramisu.
Traveler Tip: Request an indoor table when making reservations. The outdoor pavilion structure can occasionally catch ambient noise from the adjacent parking areas.
751 S Weir Canyon Rd #151, Anaheim, CA
Claim Jumper
Claim Jumper in Buena Park remains a solid, highly popular destination for classic American comfort food, legendary for its massive portions, premium steaks, and house-baked pies.
During our visit, we enjoyed the fall-off-the-bone BBQ Baby Back Ribs, a golden flaky Chicken Pot Pie, and a savory Country Fried Steak smothered in rich gravy. The customer service was exemplary, led by a friendly and highly attentive server. We concluded our feast with an incredibly moist and decadent Berry Butter Cake.
7575 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
Craft by Smoke and Fire
This dynamic, high-energy establishment sits prominently on Anaheim's downtown Center Street Promenade and has earned a massive local following for its premium smoked briskets, Texas-style barbecue, craft cocktails, and live entertainment.
The venue is spacious, offering a seamless transition to a vibrant outdoor dining patio. We sat outside to enjoy the evening air and the pedestrian culture of the promenade.
Our order featured their signature smoked brisket tacos, a massive brisket burrito packed with rich flavors, and a perfectly seared smash burger. The service was fast and exceptionally professional. To finish, we sampled their dense bread pudding, which provided a sweet note to end a heavy, savory meal.
195 W Center Street Promenade, Anaheim, CA 92805
Hanagi at the Majestic
Hanagi is an exceptional premium escape for sushi lovers hidden away inside the castle-themed Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel near the gates of Disneyland. The restaurant showcases creative nigiri, artful rolls, and traditional hot Japanese dishes.
We visited primarily for the raw selections but were impressed by the depth of the entire menu. We ordered the spectacular Chef’s Omakase Nigiri presenting 12 pieces of pristine, high-grade fish alongside a flavorful Double Shrimp Tempura Roll. The waitstaff was incredibly polite, ensuring green tea and water glasses remained filled continuously.
900 S Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802
Hoshi Sushi and Lounge
Located in the Amerige Heights Town Center in Fullerton, Hoshi Sushi and Lounge serves up an extensive catalog of fresh rolls and contemporary Japanese kitchen entrees at competitive price points.
During our most recent group visit, we ordered the flavorful Crazy Roll, Double Crunch Roll, elegant Rose Roll, and a vibrant Salmon with Mango Roll. The ingredients were impeccably fresh, and the generous portions easily satisfied our large party.
Traveler Tip: Keep an eye out for their frequent dining promotions and complimentary dessert items, which make this lounge one of the absolute best values for sushi in north Orange County.
1889-2291 W Malvern Ave, Fullerton, CA 92833
Rasta Taco
Stepping off the crowded shoreline reveals a hidden culinary sanctuary where island rhythms meet authentic street food. Rasta Taco delivers an unexpected flavor profile that redefines the typical beachside dining experience.
Tucked carefully away from the chaotic traffic of busy Coast Highway and Forest Ave, this micro-eatery trades coastal pretense for genuine warmth. The entire establishment operates out of a historic building with an order window situated seamlessly at the rear.
Guests dine exclusively on a cozy, sun-drenched outdoor patio. Large umbrellas shade the wooden tables, creating an intimate courtyard atmosphere that happily welcomes families and family dogs alike.
The innovative menu seamlessly blends Caribbean spices with traditional Mexican formats. Regular patrons consistently praise the Caribbean Carne Asada Taco, which features seared steak seasoned with robust island spices. Another legendary option is the Jamaican Jerk Chicken Rasta Burrito, packed with tropical seasoned poultry and flavor-infused basmati rice. Every dish arrives alongside crisp tortilla chips and vibrant, house-made salsas.
We also tried their Nachos which were piled high with ingredients. While the portions were generous, we felt the nachos could have used a bit more cheese sauce to balance the chips. We highly recommend this hidden courtyard if you are looking to escape the pricy restaurants closer to the water.
170 Beach St, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar in Orange, CA
A group of us decided to try a new spot in Orange, California. Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar is a fantastic place to eat. The restaurant is in an open-air mall, with plenty of other shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
The service at Lazy Dog was excellent. Our server was friendly and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed. They took our orders and brought out our food quickly, but we never felt rushed. It is a busy place, but they handle the crowds well.
The food was delicious. Everything is prepared to order, which makes a big difference. As first-time visitors, the manager offered us free Chef's Chips and a discount card for a future visit. The chips are homemade and topped with blue cheese, creamy bacon, and green onions. I would go back just for those chips.
The menu has a wide variety of choices, from pot roast to gourmet sandwiches and salads. We tried the Half-Pound Cheeseburger, Bison Burger, Pretzel-Crusted Pork Schnitzel, Battered Fish + Chips, and loved them.
We also enjoyed trying some of the craft beers on tap from their extensive list. My favorite was the mango-flavored blonde beer. They have a large selection of local and craft beers alongside creative cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. For dessert, we tried their popular Apple Huckleberry Pie. It was delicious and more than enough for a couple.
Lazy Dog has a cozy, rustic mountain lodge feel. An outdoor patio equipped with advanced heaters is ideal for cooler evenings.
Another fun fact is that the restaurant is very dog-friendly, as the name suggests. There is a dedicated dog menu featuring grilled chicken and brown rice, and you can bring your leashed pet directly to the patio. This is a great detail for travelers with pets. The open mall where the restaurant is located is called Stadium Promenade, featuring a variety of dining options and a major Cinemark movie theater complex.
1631 West Katella Avenue, Orange CA