Anaheim / Orange County Area Guide
While we have tried to make specific comments in the brief reviews,
ratings, from K – KKKKK, are overall ratings, most heavily influenced
by the food, but include other factors such as ambiance, décor and
service. Cost estimates are based on one dinner with cocktail… $
inexpensive, under $20; $$ moderate, $21 to $30; $$$ expensive, $31
to $40; and $$$$ very expensive, $41 to $50: and $$$$$ over $50.
Keep in mind that in Anaheim and Orange County, as everywhere,
restaurants and clubs can open and close, change hours, dark nights,
credit card policies, and even move with very short notice. Many
restaurants are closed Sundays and Mondays, or even Tuesday. So do
call each place that you plan to try and, of course, feel free to mention
Chuck Klein Productions.
21 Oceanfront – 2100 W. Oceanfront, at Newport Pier (Newport Beach) 949-673-2100 $$$$ KKK - We still can’t figure out how they seduced
us into paying eighty bucks for tuna, but the Alley West Baja Pink Abalone was delicious, and they’ve been getting away with it for 30 years.
Other seafood treats won’t run you nearly as much and we drank in the ocean view from the Sunset Room.
Anaheim White House (was Thee White House) – 887 S. Anaheim Blvd., at Vermont Ave. (Anaheim) 714-772-1381 $$$ KKKKK - Ignore the
tacky menu descriptions (Gucci Chicken Papillotte, Versace Whitefish, Coco Chanel Pacific Ahi and Prada Rack of Lamb)-- this otherwise
elegant landmark wins high praise for its Northern Italian fare, breath-taking presentations and award-winning wine list. And we’re talking
praise from the likes of Madonna, who chose the House to cater a private event in L.A. Reservations recommended. Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner 7
days.
Anita’s – 600 S. Harbor Blvd., betw. Commonwealth & Orangethorpe Aves. (Fullerton) 714-525-0977 $ KKKK - We love lunch on Anita’s
sunny patio, as much for the food as for their warm hospitality. Our favorite New Mexico traditions: spicy Carne Adobada (24-hour marinated
pork) and sweet sopapillas (light and fluffy as a fresh Krispy Kreme donut). Wine and beer only, but they invented a tasty margarita made with
wine instead of tequila. Breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days.
Antonello – 1611 Sunflower Ave., at Plaza Dr. (Santa Ana) 714-751-7153 $$$$ KKKK - The power set calls it “cucina nostalgica”, we call it
delicious. Gracious owner Antonio Cagnolo suggests his mother’s mini veal ravioli with Bolognese sauce and, his favorite, Filetto al Piatto
(marinated medallions of filet mignon cooked in clay with lemon, oregano and virgin olive oil). Reservations recommended. Lunch Mon-Fri,
Dinner Mon-Sat.
Aubergine – 508 29th Street, at Newport Blvd. (Newport Beach) 949-723-4150 $$$$$ KKKK - Nationally recognized for their outstanding
French tasting menus, husband-and-wife team Tim & Liza Goodell know their stuff. Choose a 5- or 9-course meal and you’ll savor winners like
an artichoke and fava bean tart, slow-braised pork belly, and white anchovy salad. Unbelievably good desserts will blow you away.
Reservations recommended. Dinner Tues-Sun.
Azteca Mexican Restaurant & The Crooners Lounge – 12911 Main St. (Garden Grove) 714-638-3790 $ K – Ya gotta love a bar and
restaurant that are attached to the Heartbreak Hotel! The “King” lives on in look-a-like owner/bartender JJ and his kitschy shrine (over 600 pieces
of “E” memorabilia). Fridays are Classic Car Night. Azteca’s drinks have been likened to Mickey Finns with a Memphis drawl. Oh yeah, they
serve food, too… zippy Mexican fare with a garlic taco that will stick to your ribs, your breath and your clothes.
Bangkok Four – South Coast Plaza, 3333 S. Bear St., at Sunflower Ave. (Costa Mesa) 714-540-7661 $$ KK - Who would have thought there
was Thai food this good hidden in the South Coast Plaza mall?? Our friends who live nearby rave about the delicious Pep Op chicken. Lunch &
Dinner 7 days.
Bayside – 900 Bayside Dr., at PCH (Newport Beach) 949-721-1222 $$$$ KKK – Creative and contemporary American cuisine complimented
by a wine collection that’s artfully stored in a massive glass and steel display case. The menu runs the gamut, including straightforward dishes
like sautéed filet of striped bass as well as more adventurous dishes like venison served with nectarine-potato gnocchi. Crowd is way cool and
beach beautiful. Reservations recommended. Lunch Mon-Fri, dinner 7 days, Champagne brunch on Sundays.
Benihana – 2100 E. Ball Rd. (Anaheim) 714-774-4940 $$$ K - Half the fun at this Japanese steakhouse is watching the chef dice, slice, dazzle
and sizzle at your table. The other half is ordering fizzy umbrella drinks. We agree that the theatrics are a little hokey, but Benihana was voted
Top Japanese in Orange County Magazine’s 2001 “Best of OC” issue. Lunch & Dinner 7 days.
Bistango – 19100 Von Karman Ave., betw. Campus & Dupont Drs. (Irvine) 949-752-5222 $$$ KKK - Bistango’s combination of restaurant,
jazz club, and art gallery remains trendy after 14 years. In addition to a strong Continental menu, they offer an ever-changing selection of wood-
oven pizzas with delicious, unusual toppings like a combination of smoked salmon, lemony fennel, red onion and crème fraiche. The 4-course
prix fixe is a great deal,as are the wine tastings they conduct on Wednesday afternoons. Reservations recommended. Lunch Mon-Fri, dinner &
bar menu 7 days.
Bistro 201 – 3333 PCH, at Newport Blvd. (Newport Beach) 949-631-1551 $$$ KK - While everyone
agrees that Bistro 201’s sunset views, action-packed bar, and chocolate soufflés are the best around, we’ve
heard mixed reviews on the food. Grilled shrimp over warm spinach and the Bistro’s Vegetarian Harvest
score big; the baked lobster tail and rack of lamb weren’t as well received. Going by Bistro 201’s long-
standing popularity, we think it’s worth a shot and want to try the seafood sampler appetizer (for 2) that
includes prawns over risotto, a salmon sushi roll, ahi tartare with papaya relish and lobster cakes over
mashed potatoes. Dinner Mon-Sat.
Black Sheep Bistro – 303 El Camino Real, at 3rd St. (Tustin) 714-544-6060 $$$ KKK –We love the
hearty Rustic Mediterranean cuisine created by chef-owners Rick and Diana Boufford. Try the “4
Seasons” … a choice of lamb, shrimp, chicken, duck or fish served with 4 delicious sauces. If paella’s your
thing, call ahead to pre-order as it takes an hour to prepare. The Bouffords also run a small gourmet shop next door. Dinner Tues-Sat.
Catal Restaurant & UVA Bar – 1580 Disneyland Dr. (Anaheim) 714-774-4442 $$$ KKK – At this oasis in bustling Downtown Disney,
Catal’s delicious Mediterranean fare and UVA’s tapas and wines by the glass win praise from Anaheim foodies. No big surprise since Catal and
UVA are part of the outstanding Patina chain. Big hits include the seared sea scallops over saffron risotto and baby artichokes, the compressed
salad of Manchego cheese, arugula, red apples, dates, walnuts and a pistachio vinaigrette, Paella à la Valencia, grilled Moroccan spiced lamb and
mustard-herb roasted salmon. Lunch and dinner, 7 days.
The Cellar – 305 N. Harbor Blvd., at Wilshire Ave. (Fullerton) 714-525-5682 $$$$ KKK – The romantic Cellar’s award-winning 1400 wine
selections takes second place only to their fantastic classic French cuisine. From duck liver and truffle terrines to lobster bisque to Veal Oscar to
the incomparable dessert soufflés, this is undoubtedly the best fine dining in Fullerton. While the subterranean setting puts some people off, we
cross our fingers and hope to get “sent to the basement.” Reservations recommended. Dinner Tues-Sat.
Chanteclair – 18912 MacArthur Blvd., at Campus Dr. (Irvine) 949-752-8001 $$$$ KK - With the best Chateaubriand in town, we’re talking
old-school French at Chanteclair. Impeccable service, romantic ambiance and the traditional menu remain constant here. We’re suckers for the
Bananas Foster. Reservations recommended. Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner Mon-Sat.
Citrus City Grille - 122 N. Glassell St., at Chapman Ave. (Orange) 714-639-9600 $$ KKK - It’s the “better than Mom’s” meatloaf and garlic
mashed potatoes that keep fans coming back to this hot spot in the heart of Old Towne Orange. The rest of the eclectic Californian menu
includes winners like gourmet pizzas, seafood and pasta combinations and fresh salads. Sipping one of their fabulous martinis under giant
reproductions of vintage orange crates spells Southern California to us. Lunch and dinner, Tues-Sat.
The Clubhouse – 3333 Bristol St., at Sunflower Ave. (Costa Mesa) 714-708-2582 $$$ KK - What was it Groucho said about joining clubs??
Here’s the exception. A luxe clubby atmosphere without pretension allows guests to enjoy The Clubhouse’s signature portabella mushroom
carpaccio, Caesar salad, vodka pasta and bourbon-glazed pork chops in style. The gargantuan vanilla fudge sundae is a perfect, low-key finale.
There’s a smokers’ haven on the downstairs patio and live jazz on Wednesday and Friday nights. Reservations recommended. Lunch and
dinner, 7 days.
Crab Cooker – 17260 E. 17th St., at Yorba St. (Tustin) 714-573-1077 $ KK - The Crab Cooker attracts droves of locals and visitors with their
humble paper-plate-and-plastic-fork kind of seafood meal. And the super-fresh shellfish has kept them coming back for over 50 years. Crab
claws and clam chowder are our favorites. Lunch and dinner daily. Newport Beach location: 2200 Newport Blvd., 949-673-0100.
Cuban Pete’s Caribbean Grill – 1050 W. Ball Rd. (Anaheim) 714-490-2020 $$ KKK - A pork-lover’s dream come true. They also serve tasty
beef, chicken and seafood, but pork is the heart of Cuban cooking. You’ve got 3 options: seasoned fried pork chunks, pork in Cuban garlic
sauce and a straight grilled pork chop. Add warm Caribbean hospitality and great live music Friday and Saturday, and you’ve got a winner.
Dinner Tues-Sun.
Fatburger – 3 locations: 2318 N. Tustin St., at The Mall of Orange (Orange) 714-974-0395; 215 W. Birch St. (Brea) 714-255-9997; and 7984
La Palma, at Stanton (Buena Park) 714-828-8515 $ KKK - Hurray! Addicts have fueled the Fatburger expansion through Orange County and
you’re almost guaranteed to be staying within 10 minutes of a franchise. This is Chuck’s all-time favorite junk food. If a burger with the
“works” isn’t quite enough for your appetite, top it with chili or a fried egg and order a side of crispy o-rings. Open 10AM till 10 PM. We’ll see
you there.
Five Crowns – 3801 E. PCH, at Poppy St. (Corona del Mar) 949-760-0331 $$$ KK - Those of you who’ve been reading our guides for a while
know that the CKP crew loves their prime rib. We ignore the over-the-top Olde English costumes and décor and head to Five Crowns when we
need a fix. We’re talking about thick, juicy slabs of the stuff. Uh oh.. here comes that craving. Wine aficionados, ask your serving wench for
the special “Captain’s” wine list. Jackets suggested, reservations recommended. Dinner 7 days, brunch on Sundays.
Five Feet – 328 Glenneyre St., betw. Forest Ave. & Mermaid St. (Laguna Beach) 949-497-4955 $$$$ KKK - This pioneering contemporary
Chinese is always packed, and has been for over a decade. The signature whole catfish is superb, and Chef/Owner Michael Kang doesn’t stop
there. The menu changes every night and cleverly-named and deftly created specials might include “Sze Chuan Sizzling Hot Sisters”, “The
Birds”, or “Wild Vision”. Sure, it’s cramped and noisy, but that’s what we endure for the good stuff! Reservations recommended. Dinner 7
days.
The Golden Truffle – 1767 Newport Blvd., at 17th St. (Costa Mesa) 949-645-9858 $$$ KKKK - This one’s for the foodies. Talented
chef/owner Alan Greeley wows guests nightly with his experimental French and Caribbean flavor combinations. We savored the French twist in
a macaroni and cheese laced with black truffles and went wild for Caribbean ground alligator cakes. Call ahead to make sure Greeley is on the
stoves that night, and be sure to get good directions… it’s a little hard to find. Reservations recommended. Wine and beer only. Lunch and
dinner Tues-Sat.
Gustaf Anders – 3851 S. Bear St., at Sunflower Ave. (Santa Ana) 714-668-1737 $$$$ KKKKK - We
guarantee a stellar continental dining experience at Gustaf Anders. Chef Anders starts with Scandinavian
basics like gravlax and herring and then moves into sublime territory with a wild rice pancake topped with
golden caviar, smoked salmon and crème fraiche. Their knockout holiday smorgasbords (and iced
Aquavit!) will blow you away. The back room is called the Back Pocket and offers a less expensive, less
fancy, but just as fantastic menu. Try the baked gravlax sandwich dressed with Parmesan and dill. Lunch
Tues-Sat, dinner Tues-Sun.
Habana – 2930 Bristol St., betw. Baker & Randolph Sts. (Costa Mesa) 714-556-0176 $$ KKK - Babalu!
Habana is hot, hot, hot! Great Cuban food, potent cocktails and a lot of singles make for a good time. The
lechon asado (roast pork) is as tender as a Cuban mama’s heart. Save room for the decadent Café
Cubana… chocolate mousse topped with chocolate whipped cream and a rum sauce. If you hit Habana on a
Wednesday night, Flamenco dancers heat the place up even more. Lunch and dinner 7 days.
The Hobbit – 2932 E. Chapman Ave., at Malena St. (Orange) 714-997-1972 $$$$$ KKK - Don’t try to make the movies if you’re planning on
dining at The Hobbit. The 7-course prix fixe dinner begins at 7:30 and rarely ends before 11. You’ll start the evening with the house champagne
and hot and cold hors d’oeuvres in the wine cellar and then be seated upstairs for six more courses with a break for intermission. Seriously. Their
continental fare and impeccable service are legendary. Reservations and jackets required. Dinner Tues-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 7pm.
In-N- Out Burger – 594 W. 19th St., ( Costa Mesa ) $ KK - This fast food burger chain rivals Fatburger as far as California Junkfoodies are
concerned. Here the burger meat is freshly chopped and grilled to order, the fries are freshly cut, and the shakes are thick and creamy. For
additional locations, call their toll free number….800-786-1000.
JW’s Steak House – Anaheim Marriott, 700 W. Convention Way (Anaheim) 714-750-8000 $$$$ KK - A good bet for a private dinner in a
well-appointed, romantic room. Seafood options and tasty sides complement a selection of steaks and chops. We like the potato chips with
Gorgonzola dip. Dinner Mon-Sat.
Kitayama – 101 Bay View Pl., at Jamboree Rd. (Newport Beach) 949-725-0777 $$$ KKK – If there’s one thing we’ve learned about finding
great sushi, it’s to follow the Japanese businessmen to dinner. They led us to Kitayama for the amazing sushi and we also had fun with the cook-
it-yourself Beef Shabu-Shabu. Reservations recommended. Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner 7 days.
La Brasserie – 202 S. Main St., betw. Chapman & La Veta Aves. (Orange) 714-978-6161 $$$ KKK - No surprises here. Simply delicious
classical French food. Standbys like Escargots, Duckling a L’Orange, and Sweetbreads are served in a low-key setting. Lunch Mon-Fri, dinner
Mon-Sat.
La Vie en Rose – 240 S. State College Blvd., betw. #57 Fwy. & Imperial Hwy. (Brea) 714-529-8333 $$$ KKKK - Get off the freeway and
you’ll find that “Life is Rosy” and cozy at this bit of French countryside in Brea. The Normandy farmhouse reproduction should give you a clue
as to what to expect… first-rate country French food like a baked mushroom soup topped with pastry shell, pork tenderloin in Port wine sauce
with St. Agur cheese, and rack of lamb with Madeira-thyme au jus. Save room for homemade pastries. Reservations recommended. Lunch
Mon-Fri, dinner Mon-Sat.
Mayur Cuisine of India – 2931 E. PCH, betw. Heliotrope & Iris Aves. (Corona del Mar) 949-675-6622 $$$ KKK – Mayur’s delicate, authentic
Indian cuisine is some of the best we’ve had. From the spicy condiments to fluffy breads to sizzling tandoori, you can’t go wrong. Lunch Mon-
Fri, Dinner 7 days, Buffet brunch on Sunday.
McCormick & Schmick’s – 2000 Main St., at MacArthur Blvd.(Irvine) 949-756-0505 $$$ KKK – This place gives chain restaurants a good
name, serving up super-fresh seafood and a happening bar scene. A great place to enjoy Pacific Northwest specialties like oysters, Prince
Edward Island mussels and salmon grilled on a cedar plank. Lunch Mon-Fri, dinner 7 days.
Memphis Soul Café – 2920 Bristol St., at Randolph Ave. (Costa Mesa) 714-432-7685 $$ KKKK – If you think Southern California doesn’t
have soul, Memphis will change your tune. For L.A. Magazine to pick their pork chop as one of top 50 dishes in Southern California says a
mouthful! You can’t go wrong with their spicy gumbo, BBQ chicken sandwich or fried catfish. The owners converted a 50’s dive bar into a hip
and happening down-home destination. Live jazz on Thursdays. Breakfast & Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner 7days. Weekend brunch.
Morton’s of Chicago – 1641 W. Sunflower Ave., betw. Bear & Bristol Sts. (Santa Ana) 714-444-4834 $$$$$ KKKK - We think Morton’s has
the best steak in Orange County. You know the drill… your waiter will roll on over with that cart of USDA prime aged beef, whole Maine
lobsters and yummy sides and then you’ll order more than you can handle. What you might not already know is how good their hot fudge sundae
can taste if you manage to save room. Reservations recommended, jacket suggested. Dinner Mon-Sun.
Mr. Stox – 1105 E. Katella Ave., betw. Lewis St. & State College Rd. (Anaheim) 714-634-2994 $$$$ KKKKK - Forget your low-carb regimen
for one night at Mr. Stox. Their celebrated breads are worth every gram. Combined with outstanding food and a Wine Spectator “Grand Award
of Excellence,” it’s no wonder that Mr. Stox consistently tops everyone’s Orange County list, including CKP’s. By the way, they’ve got the best
Maryland crab cake we’ve had on the West coast. Reservations recommended. Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner 7 days.
Mulberry Street Ristorante – 114 W. Wilshire Ave., at Harbor Blvd. (Fullerton) 714-525-1056 $$ KKK – Take a trip to Little Italy. Hearty
dishes like crispy fried calamari, chicken parmigiana, spicy cioppino and garlicky fettuccini carbonara make Mulberry Street a Fodor’s pick.
Attracts a surprisingly hip crowd. Homemade pastas and desserts seal the deal. Lunch Mon-Sat, Dinner 7 days.
Napa Rose – Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, 1600 S. Disneyland Dr. (Anaheim) 714-635-2300 $$$$ KKKK - This ain’t the “Disney dining”
we remember. A creative menu that they call “California Wine Country Cuisine” includes winners like The Sizzling Beach Rock (a platter of
garlic-seared shrimp, soy glazed spare ribs and lemon grass chicken cooked on a hot beach stone) and
crispy frog legs. Chef Andrew Sutton’s 4-course prix fixe meal is a good deal at $56 (or $83 with wine).
Or, design your own tasting session with their 40 choices of wines by the glass. Ok, it is Disney, they’ve
got a BIG kids’ menu. Dinner 7 days.
Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria – 1550 Disneyland Dr. (Anaheim) 714-776-6200 $$$ KKK - We
recommend savoring the gloriously thin-crusted Neapolitan pizzas upstairs in the restaurant as opposed to
downstairs… the pizzeria’s Downtown Disney locale attracts a LOT of families on break from the park.
The Southern Italian menu, at this outpost from Patina, includes wonderful antipasti, seafood dishes an
hearty pastas. Lunch and dinner, 7 days.
Nello Cucina (was Trattoria Spiga) – South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., at Sunflower Ave. (Costa Mesa)
714-540-3365 $$$ KKK - This little sis recently changed her name to capitalize on big brother Antonello’s power-house reputation. The casual
mall setting does nothing to detract from the outstanding Italian food. If the daily specials don’t win your heart, try the Rotelle di Pasta… baked
sheets of pasta rolled with prosciutto, mozzarella and béchamel, served with a vodka cream sauce. Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner 7 days (Closes at 7pm
on Sunday).
Pascal – 1000 N. Bristol St., at Jamboree Rd. (Newport Beach) 949-752-0107 $$$$ KKKK - Chef/owner Pascal Olhats’s light Provencal cuisine
wins Zagat’s top food honors, year after year. Did you catch his “Diet a la French” show on “Oprah”? We love his lamb and greens salad and
the escargot. Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner Tues-Sun. A closer alternative, Café Pascal in Costa Mesa offers a more casual menu of yummy
sandwiches and sweets. South Coast Plaza Mall (between Macys and Nordstrom), 3333 Bristol St., 714-751-4911.
Oysters – 2515 PCH, at MacArthur Blvd. (Corona del Mar) 949-675-7411 $$$ KKKK - When the appetizers include sushi, calamari, lamb
chops, dumplings and oysters, why bother with entrees? A hip scene, expert bartender James, live jazz and this delectable finger food selection
kept us at the bar all night. Vintners Walt and Mona Babcock own this Cal-Asian hotspot and keep winning awards for their creative wine list.
Dinner 7 days, late night menu.
Pavilion – Four Seasons Hotel, 690 Newport Ctr. Dr., at Santa Cruz Dr. (Newport Beach) 949-760-4920 $$$$ KKK - For lucky hotel guests and
locals alike, Pavilion’s elegance befits the Four Season’s reputation. A wonderful Californian menu, standout service and romantic décor
combine for a serene dinner. Outstanding dishes include a lobster tartlet; spinach, mushroom and sweet potato salad; and ginger and pepper
crusted salmon. Reservations recommended. Dinner 7 days.
Pinot Provence – Westin South Coast Plaza, 686 Anton Rd., at Bristol St. (Costa Mesa) 714-444-5900 $$$$ KKKK - Next to the Performing
Arts Center and in the middle of a corporate park, Pinot Provence serves a diverse clientele with a shared goal of enjoying Chef Florent
Marneau’s smooth Southern French cuisine. The menu changes often, but there are always wonderful olives to start and hearty grilled fish
choices. Breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days.
Prego - 18420 Von Karman Ave., at Michelson Dr. (Irvine) 949-553-1333 $$$ KKK - Much like its Beverly Hills parent, Prego offers delicious
Tuscan cuisine at reasonable prices. Fresh bread and a salad of sliced pears, baby greens, walnuts and gorgonzola won us over before we even
got to the pastas and grilled meats. Yum. Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner 7 days.
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen – 1590 S. Disneyland Dr. (Anaheim) 714-776-5200 $$$ KKK - This Downtown Disney outpost of the Brennan
family empire boasts three facets of New Orleans-style good living. Downstairs, the Creole Café offers speedy Big Easy specialties like beignets
and po-boys while Flambeaux features hot jazz every night. Upstairs, the Carnival Club brings the Brennans’ famed Commander’s Palace to
mind with traditional NOLA favorites like shrimp remoulade, turtle soup, gumbo and etouffee. Lunch and dinner, 7 days.
Restaurant Abe – 2900 Newport Blvd., at 29th St. (Newport Beach) 949-675-1739 $$$$ KKKK - Chef/owner Takashi Abe offers the freshest
of the fresh in his shrine to sushi. If you’re afraid of the raw deal, fans rave about their soft shell crab appetizer and seafood tempura. Beer, wine
and sake only. Reservations recommended. Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner Mon-Sat.
The Ritz - Newport Fashion Island, 880 Newport Ctr. Dr., at Santa Barbara Ave. (Newport Beach) 949-720-1800 $$$$ KKKK - This Ritz has
the same sophistication and style you would find if there were a connection to the Ritz-Carlton empire, but there’s no connection. Critics and
diners agree that this is some of the best Continental food and service in Orange Country. Especially good…their heavenly bouillabaisse and the
steak tartare. There’s a fun and active bar scene as well. Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner Mon-Sat.
The Ritz-Carlton Dining Room – Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, 1 Ritz-Carlton Dr. (Dana Point) 949-240-5008 $$$$$ KKKKK - We promise a
first-class dining experience. The thoughtfully designed and meticulously prepared seasonal degustation menus are works of art (and are priced
accordingly: with wine, $145/person; with big-time wine, $245/person). A summer menu included an ahi tuna starter; tomato, feta and fig salad;
roasted lobster and mussels; Duck Magret and a pistachio cream confection. Our favorite amuse bouche was a foie gras éclair in pomegranate
juice reduction. Divine. This gem merits the drive and cost. Reservations recommended. Lunch & Dinner 7 days.
Riviera at the Fireside - 13950 Springdale Ave., at #405 Fwy. (Westminster) 714-897-0477 $$$ KK - Maybe a little stodgy, but the formal
service and elegant cuisine are unique in this part of the county. Continental favorites like veal Oscar, salmon in béarnaise sauce and coq au vin
dominate the distinguished menu. Dinner Mon-Sat.
Rockin’ Taco Cantina – 111 N. Harbor Ave. (Fullerton) 714-525-8226 $ K - Check out “Dueling Piano Night” on Tues, Thurs, Fri or Sat., and
‘80’s Night happens every Wednesday. With two baby grands, audience participation, 151 kinds of tequila and endless, yummy tacos, we
guarantee a raucous good time.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House - 2961 Michelson Dr., at Jamboree Rd. (Irvine) 949-252-8848 $$$$ KKK - Cholesterol city! And we love it. Ruth’s
has the tenderest USDA prime beef around. They claim the enormous portions (12 to 22 ounces) retain more juices in cooking, but we think the
additional butter has something to do with it. If you like your meat & potatoes in a more relaxed setting,
choose Ruth’s Chris over Morton’s. No jackets required here. Dinner 7 days.
Scott’s Seafood – 3300 Bristol St., at Anton Blvd. (Costa Mesa) 714-979-2400 $$$ KKK - Inventive,
super-fresh seafood dishes and a couple of great steaks. Sounds like a good combination to us. Scott’s is
known for their Cioppino, which combines lobster, stone crab, fish, clams and mussels in a fragrant tomato
sauce. They’re also known for being a little pricier than local competitors (Scott’s started in SF), but fans
claim the extra buck is worth it. Popular starters include the flash-fried calamari and the mushrooms
stuffed with crab. Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner 7 days.
Side Street Café - 1799 Newport Blvd., at 18th St. (Costa Mesa) 949-650-1986 $ KKK - The place for a
casual breakfast. French toast made from sweet Hawaiian bread and stuffed with cream cheese and berries,
roasted corn cakes and all kinds of eggs and potatoes. Do we have your attention yet? They’ve even got a refined S.O.S. for nostalgic veterans
(ask your favorite vet to translate!). A great way to start the day. 7 days.
Sonic Drive-In – 1632 N. Lemon (Anaheim) 714-992-4500 $ KK - Our NYC-based CKP staff still gets a kick out of eating in the car. Smiling
carhops deliver made-to-order burgers, fries, malts and more to your door for a completely retro experience. Lunch and dinner, 7 days. Open 10
AM till 10 PM.
Taps Fish House & Brewery - 101 E. Imperial Hwy., at Brea Blvd. (Brea) 714-257-0101 $$$ KK - Chef Rogelia Fernandez’s eclectic training
at Café Tu Tu Tango and Morton’s of Chicago is evident in the creative seafood menu at Taps. An extensive oyster bar, N’Awlins Gumbo and
fish & chips share the limelight with terrific homebrewed beers. Lunch and dinner 7 days.
Troquet - 3333 Bristol St., at Town Center Dr. (Costa Mesa) 714-708-6865 $$$$ KKKKK - Aubergine’s offspring, Troquet immediately
claimed its own spotlight with contemporary French cooking in a casual setting. The Gooddell’s renowned, creative tasting menus stand out at
Troquet as well, but we really love their nightly classic specials like leg of lamb and skatewing. Great wine and cheese selections, too . Lunch &
Dinner, Mon-Sat.
Wolfgang Puck Café – 20 City Blvd. West, at City Dr. (Orange) 714-634-9653 $$ KKK – They registered the “live, love, eat” motto – ‘nuf
said? If you’re new to this Spago-spinoff , try Fettuccini Wolf-fredo, rosemary chicken or the famous wood-fired smoked salmon pizza. In
Costa Mesa: South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., 714-546-9653; in Irvine: 55 Fortune Dr., 949-453-9393.
Yamabuki – Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, 1717 Disneyland Dr. (Anaheim) 714-999-0990 $$$ KKK - Who’d have thought that Mickey knows
sushi? Yamabuki serves the freshest sushi in Anaheim as well as delicious hot Japanese dishes. Lunch and dinner 7 days.
Zov’s Bistro, Bakery & Café – 17440 E. 17th St., at Yorba St. (Tustin) 714-838-8855 $$ KK – If you’re in charge of bringing back food for
the crew, think about getting Zov’s takeout. Their crowd-pleasing platters include light Mediterranean salads, sandwiches, breads and pastas.
Breakfast at Zov’s is also a treat. Zov’s Bistro offers the same great menu with table service. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Mon-Sat.
Hotels Yellow Cab 714-535-2211
Anabella Hotel 714-905-1050 Car Rental
Anaheim Hilton 714-750-4321 Avis 800-831-2847
Anaheim Marriott 714-750-8000 Budget 800-922-2899
Best Western Stovall 714-778-1880 Dollar 800-800-4000
Disneyland Hotel 714-956-6510 Hertz 800-654-3131
Disneyland Paradise Pier 714-956-6510 National 800-227-7368
Embassy Suites 714-739-5600 Convention Services
Hampton Inn & Suites 714-703-8800 Aramark Catering 714-999-8911
Homewood Suites by Hilton 714-740-1800 AVHQ Audio Visual 714-740-4473
Hyatt Regency 714-750-1234 Exhibit Plant and Floral 510-782-9494
Jolly Roger Hotel 714-772-7621 Fastsigns 714-634-8444
Portofino Inn & Suites 714-782-7600 Freeman Company 714-772-9049
Quality Hotel Maingate 714-750-3131 GES Expo Services 714-934-1500
Radisson Hotel Maingate 714-750-2801 Karmel Shuttle Messenger 888-995-7433
Sheraton Anaheim 714-778-1700 Manpower Temp Help 714-970-9100
WestCoast Anaheim Hotel 714-750-1811 Pro Staff Personnel 714-937-3224
Airlines UAV Audio Visual 262-971-0000
Alaska Air 800-426-0333
American Air 800-433-7300 Time / Distance from Convention Ctr.
American Eagle 800-433-7300 Town Miles Minutes
America West 800-235-9292 Costa Mesa 16 23
Continental 800-525-0280 Fullerton 5 15
Delta Airline 800-221-1212 Garden Grove 2 5
Northwest Air 800-225-2525 Irvine 14 22
Southwest Air 800-435-9792 Laguna Beach 23 40
United 800-241-6522 Orange 7 16
USAir 800-428-4322 Santa Ana 9 20
Shuttles and Taxis Tustin 8 16 12/02
AAA Taxi Cab 714-547-8000
Airport Bus 800-772-5299
Super Shuttle 714-517-6600