The family fun atmosphere at Disneyland contrasts with the Craftsman-style décor of this restaurant at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. The stained-glass accents, rich dark woods and geometrically-patterned fabrics frame a cuisine that uses fresh ingredients grown in the state. Signature dishes include Walnut-Crusted Colorado Rack of Lamb and Grilled Californian White Sea Bass. The undecided can splurge on the four-course Prix Fixe meal, with a flight of four wines available at an extra cost.
Napa Rose Restaurant
1600 S. Disneyland Drive
Anaheim, CA. 92802
714-300-7170
disneyland.disney.go.com
A fixture in old town Placentia since 1974, El Farolito encourages a casual gregariousness with crowded tables and south-of-the-border décor that dates back decades. Nearly half of the employees are members of the family that owns El Farolito, and they ensure that service is quick and the food is filling, authentically Mexican and moderately priced. Specialties include Steak Picado, a steak sautéed in ranchera sauce, and Mojarra Frita, a deep-fried tilapia. For money-saving meals, try the combo plates, which pair tacos, flautas and enchiladas with rice and beans.
El Farolito
201 S. Bradford Avenue
Placentia, CA. 92870
714-993-7880
elfarolitomex.com
Though K'ya is just a stone's throw away from the sands of Laguna Beach, the restaurant lacks any beach ambiance. Instead, the hipsters who flock here bask in the cool ambiance, framed by red and cream-colored walls, dark chocolate furniture and arched French doors. Most of the appetizer-sized menu costs less than an evening movie ticket. Check out the Wild Broiled Scallops with sautéed spinach, fingerling potato, lime and sea salt; the Grilled Portabello and Lobster with caramelized onions and basil sauce; or the Grilled Filet Mignon with spinach, organic polenta and blue cheese. If you can't decide, go for one of the themed wine dinners, which matches three glasses of wine with three dishes.
K'ya Laguna Beach
1287 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA. 92651
949-376-9718
kyarestaurant.com
This establishment, which is perched on the hills above the city of Orange, boasts romantic views that stretch to the Pacific on clear days. However, the Wild West décor and mining artifacts keep the ambiance light enough for families with kids. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that every table can enjoy at least part of the 360-degree views. Walk-ins are usually accommodated but reserve in advance for a place during sunset. Dishes consist of mining-themed standards such as Miner's Angus Prime Rib, the New York Grub Steak and the Miner's Tail, which is a three-quarter-pound Australian lobster tail.
Orange County Mining Company
10000 Crawford Canyon Road
Orange, CA. 92703
714-997-7411
orangecountyminingco.com
