5 Must Visit Restaurants in Southern California
It’s no secret that I love to eat. It’s also no secret that I’m on a budget. I love trying new restaurants in Chicago and when I travel, but I diligently read reviews so I don’t experience a disappointing flop. If you’re in the same boat, here are 5 must visit restaurants in Southern California that will by no means leave you disappointed.
Chaak Kitchen - Tustin
We went to Chaak Kitchen a few years ago with Jason and his siblings. It’s a Michelin Star restaurant located in Tustin, and features Yucatan inspired cuisine. It’s tapas style, so we went all out and shared several dishes, including Pulpo al Guajillo (grilled octopus), empanadas, tostadas, and Cochinita Pibil. I had sangria (naturally) and it was delicious! The food was incredible, and the environment was really cool - half open air and a really cool, Mexican-rustic style.
The Mission Inn - Riverside
The Mission Inn is in Riverside, so just inland of Orange County. The hotel itself is incredibly gorgeous, and it’s old-world architecture and design is beautiful. We went in January, and there were strung lights everywhere, and also a light display at the front for Valentine’s Day.
There are several restaurants at The Mission Inn, but we ate at the main one named after the hotel. We sat in the open air courtyard, and timed our reservation right before sunset, so we could see the space, but also leave when it was dark and see the restaurant with the lights all lit up. It was magical.
As far as the food went, it was as good as the scenery! I ordered spinach & artichoke dip, garlic shrimp linguine, tiramisu, and a strawberry fields cocktail. I would go back in a heartbeat!
The Den - Santa Ana
The Den (formerly The Gypsy Den) is a nostalgic place for Jason - he started playing open mics there when he was learning to sing and play the guitar. We’ve since visited a couple times as regular customers. The interior is very artsy and eclectic, yet cohesive and cozy. I love it here.
The food is also great! Last time, I ordered the breakfast croissant sandwich, which included chipotle aioli, melted cheddar cheese, a fried egg, tomato, and bacon. Yum - can’t really go wrong with that (and the chipotle aioli was a great touch).
Nep Cafe - Fountain Valley
During one of our first visits, we went out to Fountain Valley to eat at Nep Cafe. It’s a Vietnamese restaurant, and it was the first time I had egg coffee. I had never even heard of it and was really wary, and a lot of the menu was foreign to me, so we had asked our waiter for suggestions and he said we had to order it. Jason got his hot, and I had mine iced. It was life changing. We both really enjoyed it (particularly iced) and I still think about it to this day.
We also shared the beef belly Banh Mi Chao, which was incredible.
Malibu Farms Cafe - Malibu
Malibu Farms Cafe has it all - delicious, fresh food, tasty drinks, and an ocean view. This restaurant sits at the end of Malibu Pier, and has indoor and outdoor seating. We sat outside and gazed at the ocean view while we ate our food. I had the crab cake sandwich, and it was literally so good. I can still taste it while I write this. My SIL ordered a steak sandwich, and Jason had a breakfast burrito. No complaints from anyone - it was amazing!
I also ordered some sangria and some cake to go. It was all so good and I would definitely come back here! The vibes here are casual since it’s a beach town and on a pier. It was the perfect way to end our day in Malibu after visiting the Getty Villa.
Honorable Mention: Olive Pit Grill - Brea
Every Sunday after we go to church, we go to Olive Pit Grill in Brea. I think it might be a chain? I’m not totally sure, but I cannot get enough of this place! The interior is super spacious and charming, with woven lanterns and couches and tables.
I always order the lamb gyro with a side of basmati rice and tzatziki. I also order the seasonal bourbon smash - the last time, it was with spiced apple.
Until next time - may your weekend be full of creativity and style.
