When you think of Anaheim, you might think of Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm, or even the California Dental Association Spring Meeting.
Me, I think of kids. Your kids and my kids are fine, but why do all those other kids have to be there? And you know what that means for us fans of fine food. It means we have to have a car to get us to a location that doesn't feature fried foods, place settings with crayons and a clown walking around doing weird things with balloons.
Now that you have your car, let's look at some nice options.
The Four Seasons Hotel in Newport Beach offers Pavillion. Is it French or Californian? It makes no difference in this comfortable yet elegant space. The service equals the quality of the food, so prepare to spend the time to be pampered (949-760-4920). Ask your server for the daily specials, then good luck making your selection.
There is a Ruth Chris Steak House in Irvine (949-252-8848) and a Mortons in Costa Mesa (714-444-4834) and while both are chains, it is difficult to find steak that is as consistently outstanding. Sometimes they have fish.
I suppose you could call Roy's a chain (949-640-7697) since Roy Yamaguchi has restaurants in every big city. But each looks different, and you will enjoy the local specialty, prepared in a Hawaiian fusion style. This is a must for fresh seafood and unique preparation.
Among my personal favorites are 21 Oceanfront (949-673-2100). A great location overlooking the Pacific Ocean, quality service, handsomely appointed and yes, the food is very good. Daily specials compliment the regular offerings for a fine, dining experience. It's hip, it's stable, and it's a Southern California crowd.
Without the water but with plenty of COOL is Bistango (949-752-5222). It seems hidden among one of the tall tower complex sites in Irvine, but this seems like the spot for Southern California suit types, who want to un-wind amidst ever changing art, an understated combo, an extensive wine list, and oh yes, fine food. There is something here for everyone, and wait till you see what they do to a thin slice of Idaho Potato.
Take a little scenic drive ( it's California, everything is a little drive ) to a spot called Orange Hill Restaurant (714-997-2910). You will be able to find better food then this, although they tend to offer game, and hearty food, not "cuisine". Its unique virtue is the view below. From sunset, to the introduction of the lights spreading into the vista, it is a unique view of an area that is otherwise viewless.
And let's not forget two perennials, Mr. Stox (714-634-2994) and The Anaheim White House (714-772-1381). If you don't see your sales rep on the exhibit floor, try these two spots, as either is popular for company group dinners.
Mr. Stox is a tradition, with steak and seafood in straight-forward, solid presentation and style. It could be in any big city and fit in comfortably. The staff is knowledgeable and the kitchen is very capable.
The same could be said for the White House, although the emphasis is on Italian Cuisine ( that means more then just spaghetti ). White table cloths; tuxedoed servers. This is not the pasta palace, but an adventure in fine dining with all the variety that Italy can offer.
And if you have kids, there is an abundance of specific and targeted spots for you and them. They surround the hotels in the area. Kids don't want food, they want fries. Give them what they want so they don't spill their catsup on us older cranky dinners.
Written by:
Bill Oestreich
E-mail: [email protected]
