25 Essential Santa Ana Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Santa Ana.
Chapter One: the modern local
California
Housed in an ex-book store, this modern tavern serves cocktails, beer & pub grub to a hip crowd.
Black Bear Diner Santa Ana
California
Easygoing chain serving familiar all-day comfort food & desserts in a woodsy setting.
Rubio's Coastal Grill
California
Beach-themed chain known for Baja-style fish tacos & Mexican-inspired seafood entrees.
Tutto Fresco
Santa Ana, California
A variety of classic & updated Italian dishes served in a basic, family-friendly setting.
Chicken Maisón
Santa Ana, California
Casual Mediterranean option for rotisserie chicken, kebabs, salads, falafels & gyros.
Sushi Murasaki
Santa Ana, California
Carefully prepared sushi rolls & grand omakase meals in a simple, modern Japanese restaurant.
Bella Cuba Restaurant
Santa Ana, California
Classic Cuban dishes & pitchers of sangria are offered in a vibrant, modern setting.
Cowgirls Cafe
Santa Ana, California
Classic American diner with a Western theme serving up old-fashioned breakfasts & lunches.
The Sandwich Society
Santa Ana, California
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Loaded Cafe Restaurants Santa Ana First Street
Santa Ana, California
Identifies as Latino-owned. Service options: Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Great coffee.
Benjies NY Deli
Santa Ana, California
NY-style deli known for its famed corned beef & pastrami sandwiches & 1960s-era decor.
Buccaneer Pizza
Santa Ana, California
Pizza joint known for its hefty pies with ample toppings also serves calzones, pasta & wings.
Morton's The Steakhouse
Santa Ana, California
Upscale chain for aged prime beef, seafood & other traditional steakhouse fare in a clubby space.
Taberu Sushi
Santa Ana, California
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Rubio's Coastal Grill
Santa Ana, California
Beach-themed chain known for Baja-style fish tacos & Mexican-inspired seafood entrees.
Pumper Pickle
Santa Ana, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Solo dining. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Taqueria Tapatia
Santa Ana, California
Fast food-style Mexican joint with popular items like tacos & quesadillas, plus a salsa bar.
Little Pan Santa Ana
Santa Ana, California
Shanghai-style buns, congee & other Chinese specialties presented in a spacious, unfussy venue.
Bandito Taqueria • Tacos Estilo Tijuana
Santa Ana, California
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.
Crave Restaurant Downtown Santa Ana
Santa Ana, California
Relaxed pick for health-conscious cafe fare, including veggie & gluten-free options, in bright digs.
Wursthaus
Santa Ana, California
Modern beer hall pairing imported German & Belgian brews with classic & gourmet sausages & fries.
Arepas street eat
Santa Ana, California
Service options: Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Black Angus Steakhouse
Santa Ana, California
Chain offering beef, seafood & surf 'n' turf combos, plus traditional sides, in Western-themed digs.
Suzy's Cafe
Santa Ana, California
Familiar breakfast dishes, plus burgers, salads & hot sandwiches in an old-school restaurant.
El Indio Botanas y Cerveza
Santa Ana, California
Mexican eats & craft brews are the draw at this intimate eatery with a patio.