Anaheim House of Blues
1530 Disneyland Dr., Anaheim, (714) 520-2334
The House of Blues serves up a menu already brimming with nighttime entertainment everyone from Social Distortion to They Might Be Giants but they're just as ready to keep your appetite rockin' and rollin'. It's seafood, salad, sandwiches, steak and more, all with a distinctively and appropriately Southern twist. Such dishes as catfish nuggets and skillet-baked rosemary cornbread open up for such headliners as the Creole seafood jambalaya with shrimp, chicken and andouille sausage. The only thing spicier than your food'll be the bands onstage. Services: full bar. Reservations for parties of 10 or more Mon.-Thurs. Valet parking. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Azteca Restaurant/Crooners Lounge
12911 Historical Main St., Garden Grove, (714) 638-3790 Crooner's bills itself as Southern California's only “Elvis Lounge,” a full bar featuring music and memorabilia from the Rat Pack and the King himself. Weekends feature rockabilly to the nines, Friday nights feature Main Street's Classic Car Show outside, and Saturday nights feature Elvis' movies on the TV. You can also re-create Elvis' Fun in Acapulco vibe with some great Mexican food at Azteca restaurant, which offers a menu filled with the owner's original recipes. Try the garlic tacos and garlic salad to set the party off, or ask about the daily special. Services: takeout available. Full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; lounge open till 1 a.m. or later. BD's Mongolian Barbecue
13122 Jamboree Rd., Irvine, (714) 665-0810 Remember Genghis Khan? Well, he was from Mongolia way back in the day, and that raucous marauding spirit lives on in barbecue form in otherwise-placid Irvine. After introductions with the 9-foot-tall restaurant mascot Mongo Man have been made, bang the convenient gong and pillage your way through a hearty dish of Mongolian stir-fry but with five different meats, six types of seafood, 18 vegetables and 20 sauces, you better pillage like you mean it. You pick the ingredients, and they grill it in front of you! It's fun, it's loud, it's high-energy what more could you or your rampaging horde ask for? Services: takeout available. Full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 4-8 p.m. Bicycle Casino Steakhouse
7301 Eastern Ave., Bell Gardens, (562) 806-4646 Hidden within the Bicycle Casino like “Rules for Draw and Stud Poker” within a deck of cards is the Casino Steakhouse, a sure thing for the lucky and luckless alike: this elegant steakhouses is like something you'd find on an ocean liner (but less likely to sink), and the hot, glorious beef that arrives on steaming plates is like something you'd find in any number of exclusive eateries. And then there are the flambs stand back! You might lose everything at the card tables, but you can't lose at one of these tables. So deal yourself in. Services: full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Bourbon Street Bar and Grill
14131 Redhill Dr., Tustin, (714) 665-2709 It might be just over the side of the 5 freeway, but the Bourbon Street Bar and Grill is as close as you're gonna get to N'awlins round here, mes amis. Stop in any night but Sunday for trs bon live entertainment and tres, tres bon oyster bar, steaks, seafood or for les Americains good ol' hamburgers. Bon appetit! Services: catering available. Full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Buddha's Favorite
634 Lido Park Dr., Newport Beach, (949) 723-4203 Besides his better-known spiritual qualities, Buddha had great taste in food so take his word for it and visit this Japanese restaurant in Newport, featuring tataki salad and delectable kamameshi (flavored rice and vegetables cooked right at your table!). And the atmosphere is just as divine: with lilting tropical music wafting gently over your romantic patio table, you'll achieve that inner peace that's been so damn elusive lately. Or, at least, enjoy a nice piece of tofu steak. Services: takeout available. Sake served. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11:30 a.m.-2:30 a.m., 5:30-10 p.m. Sat.-Sun., noon-2:30 p.m., 5:30-10 p.m. Cask 'n' Cleaver
186 N. Atchison St., Orange, (714) 532-2660 Years ago, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe delivered weary passengers to this historic depot just off the Orange plaza today, the crew at Cask 'n' Cleaver deliver top-notch steak dinners to your table. Besides seafood and chicken, be sure to sample the top sirloin doused in bleu cheese or the prime-rib dip sandwich on garlic cheese toast. The food is as unique as the atmosphere, and when you finally pull out of the station, you'll be just as full as any AT&SF freight ever was but a lot happier. Services: Full bar. Reservations accepted. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. & 5-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. & 5-10 p.m.; Sun., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.& 4-9 p.m. Cha Cha Cha
762 Pacific Ave., Long Beach, (562) 436-3900 There's more to the Caribbean than hurricanes and reggae; there's food that's as lively as the one and as tasty as the other (but you figure out which), and Cha Cha Cha has it by the tap-tap-full. Try some classic Jamaican Jerk Chicken, salmon with papaya and mango salsa or the tempting plantain fritters (a plantain is what a banana wants to be when it grows up, if you didn't know). And then polish everything off with a mango-rum cheesecake, and you will-as a wise man once said-be jammin'. Services: delivery, takeout and catering available. Full bar. Reservations suggested. Valet parking. All major credit cards accepted. Chimayo at the Beach
315 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, (714) 374-7273 Nestled comfortably beneath the scenic Huntington Pier, Chimayo's offers a sun-spangled view that sets all the tourists oohing and aahing, as well as food that lets the visitors know they've really arrived at the beach. Ahi rolls, voodoo shrimp, seabass tacos-it's that proudly homegrown culinary melange that's as distinctive as the California coastline itself. And you can enjoy it in an appropriate setting: a pleasant outdoor patio just yards from the surf. Services: delivery and takeout available. Full bar. Reservations suggested. Valet parking. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. China Beach Canteen
2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, (949) 492-6228 At the China Beach Canteen, they know what you want. Forget frills like valet parking and hoity-toity affectations like advance reservations, and saunter on in for a no-nonsense good time. They've got two full dance floors, two full bars, free pool (on weekdays) and a flotilla of drink and dinner specials. And Tuesday and Thursday nights, treat yourself to live '70s and '80s rock. What can we say? San Clemente knows how to party. Services: full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Coach House
33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, (949) 496-8930 One of the premier concert venues in Southern California, the Coach House is a casual, intimate setting for enjoying world-famous artists from all musical genres. Such famous acts as Berlin, Chris Izaak, Leon Russel and Cracker make regular appearances here. At your table, you'll dine on American cuisine, choosing from an entre, appetizer and dessert special offered each night. The regular menu features swordfish, New York steak and burgers. Their crispy mozzarella sticks, nachos and jalapeo poppers go great with cold brews and good music. Services: full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Di Piazza
3800 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, (562) 494-2071 Established in 1952, this award-winning Italian restaurant received Best Pizza honors in the Entertainment Book for five straight years. Offering a huge menu selection, including American dishes, you'll want to try the enticing chicken picata, fettuccine Alfredo, lasagna, shrimp and pastas. The chicken-parmigiana melt sandwich or the calimari steak will create lasting memories in your stomach. The building has a mid-'50s design with high walls and Palo Verde brick-not found much anymore. Plus, the lava fireplace keeps your dining experience heartwarming. Services: takeout available. MasterCard and Visa accepted. Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 8-1 a.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Din Din at the Bamboo Terrace
1773 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, (949) 645-5550 Din Din was added on to the family-owned restaurant's name, Bamboo Terrace, to signify the transfer of operations to the family's third generation. They are committed to serving great-tasting Chinese food using only high-quality ingredients, such as 100 percent white-meat chicken and USDA-choice flank steak, all sans tenderizers and MSG. The dining area resembles a bamboo terrace, and the walls are adorned with Asian art and early 20th-century black-and-white photographs depicting Chinese immigrants. The Asian beer-house-style bar offers a vast selection of tropical drinks and specialty martinis. Weekends feature live, all-original local bands. Services: takeout, delivery and catering available. Full bar. Parking available. American Express, MasterCard, Visa and Diner's Club accepted. Hours: lunch: Tues.-Fri., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; dinner: Tues.-Thurs. & Sun., 5-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 5-11 p.m. Galaxy Concert Theatre
3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana, (714) 957-6605 One of the hippest concert venues in Orange County, the Galaxy Concert Theatre is a casual theater-style setting for enjoying world-famous artists from all genres of music. Such famous acts as Sugar Ray, Soul Brains, Lee Rocker, the Fenians and Jerry Lee Lewis make appearances here. At your table, you'll dine on American cuisine, choosing from an entre, appetizer and dessert special offered each night. The regular menu features swordfish, New York steak and burgers. Their crispy mozzarella sticks, nachos or jalapeo poppers go great with a cold brew and good music. Services: full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Geckos
7887 Center Dr., Huntington Beach, (714) 892-2227 Dance the night away at one of Orange County's most renowned night clubs! Geckos features dancing, pool and music performed by popular local bands and DJs. And to make the deal even sweeter, Geckos offers a “Baja Beach Happy Hour” on Thursdays, from 5-10 p.m., with 50-cent tacos and $2.50 gold margaritas, along with a wide range of nibbly food and other specials to get your night off to a fantastic start. Hours: Thurs., 5 p.m.-2 a.m.; Fri., 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat.-Sun., 6 p.m.-2 a.m. Goat Hill Tavern
1830 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, (949) 548-8428. They're wild and crazy guys over at the Goat Hill-and with a mind- and liver-boggling 141 beers on tap, you might be a little wild, too. For 32 years now, Henry and Harry have been selling their drinks so cheaply, they've-they report cheerfully-been going broke. Heck, even the designated driver drinks soda free, so the Goat Hill guys have gotta be in it for the love. And if you also harbor an abiding love for sports (from foosball to football), smoking on a covered and heated patio, and, of course, 141 different beers on tap, then we know two guys you should definitely meet. Services: full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Habana Restaurant and Bar
in the Lab anti-mall, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, (714) 556-0176 Habana is the sort of place where you expect to see Ernest Hemingway drunk and slurring about something portentous a table or two over: a dark, candle-lit, mysterious Cuba-before-the-revolution sort of rendezvous, where you'd go to smother your troubles with a plate of ropa vieja, paella al Habana or in-house smoked halibut and a bracer of fine cigars. And if you're not too preoccupied with literature or the glorious struggle of the people, you'll get a big kick out of the evening entertainment: salsa shows Friday night, flamenco Saturday and steel drums on Sunday. Services: takeout and catering available. Full bar. Reservations suggested. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. & 5-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.& 5-11 p.m. Hard Rock Cafe
451 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, (949) 640-8844 If you're stranded at Fashion Island after a three-hour shopping spree, just sit back in a plush booth or at the big rectangular bar. Besides great piped-in tunes and fantastic music paraphernalia (shoes worn by Elton John, Prince's purple suit, a red-leather outfit worn by Gwen Stefani, and more), you'll find a wide range of menu items, including burger platters, salads and “really big” sandwiches. And don't miss such Hard Rock specialties as the delicious chicken pasta with red-pepper cream sauce, Texas T-bone steak, and the grilled marinated chicken breast. Services: takeout available. Full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11:30-11 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11:30-12:30 a.m. Hogue Barmichaels
3950 Campus Dr., Newport Beach, (949) 262-6270 Hogue Barmichael's hasn't changed their prices in eight years, so you can still get a mouth-watering, half-pound hamburger fried over an open-fire grill for only 5 bucks-and that's with a side of steak fries! This restaurant prides itself on serving a fusion of traditional, American grill favorites with Asian cuisine, made all the better by a friendly staff and lunchtime happy hour specials. As if the food wasn't good enough, this is still the best place to hear all your '80s favorites in an intimate setting. A Flock of Seagulls, Dave Wakeling, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Missing Persons—all of the new wave greats call this place home when they're in OC, and with burgers this good, it's completely understandable why that is. Services: delivery, catering and takeout available. Full bar. Reservations suggested for big concerts. Ample parking. Visa, MasterCard and American Express accepted. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 11-2 a.m. Hooters Newport
2406 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, (949) 723-5800 So maybe some people don't go to Hooters for the food. Maybe there's some barely tangible hidden attraction that keeps the customers staggering in-perhaps a friendly and attentive wait staff? But whatever the je ne sais quoi that makes Hooters special, they're famous for their hot wings (breaded or naked). And they're also famous for their seafood: clams, shrimp, and oyster roast, in particular. And they're famous for something else, but we can't remember exactly what it was. Services: takeout and catering available. Beer and wine. Valet parking. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Huntington Beach Beer Co.
201 Main St., Huntington Beach, (714) 960-5343; www.hbbeerco.com Huntington Beach Beer Co. (HBBC) is fast becoming a downtown landmark. As the name implies, HBBC is known for its fresh, hand-crafted ales, which are brewed with local flair, evident from names such as Huntington Beach Blond, Pier Pale Ale and Main Street Wheat. The constantly expanding menu features everything from appetizers (like breaded calimari and grilled quesadillas) to main dishes (like grilled mahi mahi, jambalaya and brick oven-baked pizzas). Because everything's made fresh to order, you really can't go wrong for lunch or dinner. One outstanding dish is the Chinese chicken salad, which doesn't skimp on the good stuff, including grilled chicken and a homemade dressing with pizzazz. Since the beer company is located one floor up from the hustle and bustle of Main Street, its two heated patios are perfectly situated for kicking back and swilling tasty brews. Services: takeout available. Beer, wine and cider only. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-1 a.m. (light menu available until midnight). Jonny James Steakhouse and Lounge
301 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, (949) 492-5666 Jonny James lays on the atmosphere like it grills up its steaks: thick, juicy and very tasty. Besides such dishes as blackened ahi with wasabi cream, grilled pork chops with bourbon apple sauce and chicken cordon bleu-and lots of steaks, of course-Jonny James boasts a prime location in historic San Clemente, complete with patio and fireplace. And for those who demand yet finer things from life, there's a big screen TV and a pool table tucked away in there somewhere. Services: takeout available. Full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Dining room: Sun.-Thurs., 5-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 5-10 p.m.; Lounge: Sun.-Thurs., 4 p.m.-midnight; Fri.-Sat., 4 p.m.-1 a.m. Khoury's
110 Marina Dr., Long Beach, (562) 598-6800 Commanding a picturesque waterfront location in scenic Long Beach, Khoury's has a little something for everyone. Breakfasts run the gamut from good, old-fashioned bacon and scrambled eggs to such exotics as a puff pastry stuffed with crab and topped with a lobster bisque sauce. Lunch and dinner are just as fabulous, allowing diners to partake of such enticements as a Seafood Buffet featuring all-you-can-eat live Maine lobster, king crab legs and clam cakes, along with a fresh pasta bar, oysters on the half-shell, smoked salmon, prime rib and, for dessert, the extremely popular flaming bananas or cherries jubilee. And as if the excellent food and ocean view weren't enough, Khoury's offers a wide range of entertainment, from swing dancing to Monday-night football on two large-screen TVs. Surely, it's no wonder why Khoury's is becoming one of Long Beach's most popular destinations. Services: takeout and catering available. Reservations two weeks in advance essential on Fri.-Sat. Valet parking Fri.-Sat. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. & 3-9 p.m. Lotus Cafe
1515 W. Chapman Ave., Orange, (714) 385-1233 It's nourishment for the new millennium: “Better choice, better health and better living” goes their motto and their menu, which includes an array of vegetarian dishes that could tempt even the most stalwart red-meat eater. Most of the selections are of the Asian persuasion, including orange-flavored nuggets, kung pao deluxe and the hot wok special. But you'll also be able to indulge in concoctions like the ginger pesto soy delight. And you'll dig in knowing that you're living tomorrow's healthy and tasty diet today. Services: takeout available. All major credit cards accepted. Madeleine Mongolian BBQ
2394 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, (949) 650-1421 Sporting an easy-to-find Costa Mesa location and a friendly, family-style atmosphere, Madeleine Mongolian BBQ offers meat-lovers some of the tastiest Mongolian- and Chinese-style barbecue dishes around, along with excellent chicken and shrimp meals, and even great options for vegetarians. Whatever you do, though, try the marvelous, exotic Pho noodle soup you won't regret it! Hours: daily, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Mahe
1400 Pacific Coast Hwy., Seal Beach, (562) 431-3022 Seal Beach might not boast too many actual seals, but it does harbor Mahe, a tropically themed steak, seafood and sushi joint. Lounging somewhere along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, Mahe is the next best thing to the island getaway us cubicle dwellers all crave-and it's got valet parking, too. Reservations are unnecessary and a full bar is available. Services: takeout available. Full bar. Valet parking. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Sun., 5-10 p.m. Margaritaville
2332 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, (949) 631-8220; www.margaritavillenb.com Let's get the embarrassing stuff out of the way: at the end of a night at the full bar, you may well be wasting away, and don't worry, they found that shaker of salt a long time ago, thank you. And you'll find a fun, upbeat and friendly restaurant that serves a healthy mix of Mexican and American cuisine and offers great monthly dinner specials-and they've got live entertainment every night. So it might not be paradise-but you can still probably get a pretty damn good cheeseburger. Services: takeout and catering available. Full bar. Valet parking. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: daily, 11:30 a.m.-closing. McCormick and Schmick's
2000 Main St., Irvine, (949) 756-0505 McCormick's is as seafood as you can get without having to rent some smelly old boat: they're “the fresh seafood authority,” they say, and they've got the awards to back up that story nicely. And they've got food that nigh proves it beyond a doubt! Try the Guayaquil Ecuadorian mahi mahi with honey macadamia crust and pineapple salsa. Or the Nanda Fiji Island albacore, grilled rare with wonton crust and wasabi aioli. Heck, if it swims and it's worth putting in your mouth, they've got it prepared to perfection (with 35 varieties of fresh seafood daily). And visit the Pilsner room on your way out for a taste of OC's oldest and largest microbrewery. Services: delivery and takeout available. Full bar and Pilsner room. Reservations suggested. Valet parking. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat., 5-11 p.m.; Sun., 5-10 p.m. Memphis Cafe and Bar
2920 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, (714) 432-7687 They call it “dive chic”: that dim, inviting ambiance that's such a relief to those culture victims unable to stand one more night surrounded by sports-blaring big-screen TVs. Converted from a real live 1950s diner, Memphis has found new life next door to the Lab anti-mall as a hip caf featuring live jazz and an extensive wine list. As their name would suggest, however, they're also quite happy to dish out Southern-tinged cuisine, including trs magnifique down-home gumbo and crab cakes. So dive-so to speak-right in. Services: takeout and catering available. Full bar. Reservations accepted. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Sun., 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. & 5-10 p.m.; Mon.-Wed., 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. & 5-10 p.m.; Thurs., 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. & 5-10:30 p.m.; Fri., 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. & 5 p.m.-1 a.m.; Sat., 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. & 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Mesquite Beach Wood Fired Grill
745 S. Main St., Ste. 170, Orange, (714) 835-3236 The only thing the Mesquite Beach grill doesn't have is the beach-but we can keep our fingers crossed for that tsunami. To make up for it, they've got all the mesquite grill you can handle. It's a surf-style Mexican beach tacquera thriving in the heart of Orange County, serving up the traditional burritos, kebabs and, of course, fish tacos, as well as the unique—beach kebabs, anyone? And everything is grilled to delectability on an authentic, wood-burning mesquite grill. Who needs the beach, anyway? Services: delivery, catering and takeout available. Beer and wine. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: daily, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Mitae Ramen
750 St. Clair, Costa Mesa, (714) 545-3331 Ramen is practically a food group unto itself-just ask any college student-but Mitae turns it into an art form. This cozy, quaint Japanese restaurant makes those versatile little noodles sit up and bark; they're true adepts in the art of ramen transmogrification. The house special? “Everything's special,” they report. And they've got the steaming-hot bowls of noodles to back it up. Services: takeout available. Beer and wine. Hours: daily, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. & 5-9 p.m. Mother India Cuisine
688 Baker St., Ste. 8, Costa Mesa, (714) 668-9661 The all-you-can-eat $5.95 buffet is the stuff dreams are made of, a continent-sized spread of the most delectable traditional Indian dishes: from tandoori to chicken curry, all sorts of vegetables, lamb, seafood—we'd go on, but our appetite is starting to whimper. But at Mother India, with its Taj Majal-style dcor and atmosphere, you don't just visit you make a pilgrimage. And you leave in a state of satisfied bliss. Services: delivery, takeout and catering available. Beer and wine. Reservations suggested. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: buffet:daily, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Sun.-Thurs., 5:30-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 5:30-11 p.m. Mother's Market and Kitchen
Various locations countywide Not to get too Oedipal or anything, but we love our Mother's, if you know what we mean, and if you stop in for a snack, you will. Mother's serves all-natural-not even preservatives or artificial coloring!—American and ethnic cuisine (sides, soups, sandwiches, salads and much more) that'll satisfy the most zealous vegan's dietary restrictions and the pickiest carnivore's jaded taste buds. A meal here is like a nice hug for your appetite, and the staff is as sweet as can be, too. Now be good boys and girls, and get going! Services: takeout and catering available. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: daily, 9 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Mums Restaurant
144 Pine Ave., Long Beach, (562) 437-7700 We're talking upscale and posh ambiance at Mum's, a restaurant that also harbors a martini lounge, billiard room and an attached room called Club Cohiba (open Friday and Saturday nights). The menu features an excellent array of California cuisine, including sushi specials, pastas, salads, steak and seafood. Try the sumptuous blackened halibut with carrot-butter sauce, or the rack of lamb with an herb crust. Feeling carnivorous? Order the filet mignon or the New York strip steak. Don't forget to top off your fine dining experience with a nice stogy or a dry martini. Services: takeout and catering available. Full bar. Reservations essential. Valet parking available. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Thurs. & Sun., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-midnight. Newport Beach Brewing Co.
2920 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, (949) 675-8449. Sure, they serve food, but you came for the beer, right? The monthly beer-tasting seminars? The special homebrew, fermented on the premises? No? Well, the Newport Beach Brewing Company offers plenty of options for those after anything from a fine night on the town to something to take the edge off all that sweet, sweet beer. They've got a whole passel of gourmet pastas, pizzas, salads, sandwiches, steaks and seafood waiting in reserve-after all, downing all that fine assortment of beer can drum up a real appetite. Services: takeout available. Full bar. Reservations recommended for large parties. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: daily, 11:30 a.m.-closing. Original Roadhouse Grill
7391 Carson Blvd., Long Beach, (562) 377-5952 Stomp that road dust off yer boots and belly up to the bar at Long Beach's answer to every rollicking country saloon west of the Mississippi-and what's that crunching underfoot as you mosey over to the jukebox? Why, real peanut shells, of course. Welcome home, pardner. Want a mesquite-grilled 18-ounce T-bone steak, some babyback ribs, or some home-cooked yeast rolls? Sure you do. So sit back and put up your weary feet-the trail ends here. Services: takeout available. Full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery
71 Fortune Dr., Ste 920, Irvine, (949) 453-0777 Rock Bottom is “the place to be,” or so they say-and why not? With hopping late-night dance clubs Wednesday through Saturday and a globe-girdling selection of dishes on the menu, why even worry about moving on up? Besides, it's lonely at the top. At Rock Bottom, you can chow down on Texas fire steak, Mrs. Chow's sizzling shrimp salad or tuna chop, and chase it with homebrewed ale. So give in and hit bottom-everyone's waiting for you! Services: full bar; takeout and catering available; valet parking; reservations suggested; major credit cards accepted. Hours: daily, 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Santa Monica Seafood
154 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, (949) 574-8862 Santa Monica Seafood specializes in fresh fish to go in a variety of incarnations, including oysters, scallops, clams, shrimp and muscles. You name it, and they'll put it in a sandwich, grill it up, roll it in a taco or even serve as fish and chips. And if that's not good enough for you, well, dig up a pole and a paperclip and hit the pier yourself, bucko. The rest of us will be letting the professionals handle it. Services: all meals prepared for takeout. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sevilla Restaurant
3252 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, (909) 778-0611 It's wild out there at the farthest reaches of the 91 freeway early commuters used to believe that if they drove too far east, they'd topple off the edge of the world. But now enlightenment has arrived: Cafe Sevilla, tucked cozily in historic downtown Riverside, offers authentic Spanish cuisine in an authentic Spanish environment. Their extensive nay, exhaustive menu lets you in gently with such appetizers as ensalada de espinaca (grilled and marinated chicken breast over spinach, bleu cheese and pecans) and then stuns you with a staggering variety of main courses, with the most enticing and exotic of ingredients: imported manchego, wild mushrooms, salmon mousse or even fried calamari. And of course, there's Club Sevilla at night, variously offering Latin dance (Fridays), Top 40 (Saturdays), '80s (Wednesday) and salsa lessons and music (Thursdays). Services: takeout and catering available. Full bar. Valet parking Thurs.-Sun. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.-12 p.m. (nightclub open until 2 a.m.). Sundance Bar and Grill
111 W. Palizada, San Clemente, (949) 369-5785 Sleepy little San Clemente was never this lively: 22 (count 'em!) TVs, live music with no cover from Thursday through Saturday, late-night pool, and wildly unique specialty pastas and fresh seafood dishes. And there's even fireside dining, if you're feeling more warm and cozy than wild and crazy, so you can nibble prime rib, steak or sandwiches in flickering romantic comfort. And if the TVs are too distracting, you can always stroll around the historic city plaza it's all right there! Services: takeout available. Full bar. MasterCard and Visa accepted. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11:30-a.m.-closing; Sat.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-closing. The Sun Theatre
2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, (714) 712-2700 If you're in if you're really in with the right people, there's no need to mingle with the proles during shows at Anaheim's hip Sun Theatre. Members of the exclusive VP club can chow down in style in the Sundial Lounge, enjoying such traditional (and exclusive) American fare as steaks and seafood. And then they can strut out onto the dance floor for the best in live local and nationally known music. Membership, as they say, has its privileges. Services: catering available. Full bar. Membership in the VIP lounge is essential. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: 6-9 p.m. during events. Sushi Island Japanese Cuisine
2574 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, (949) 631-8382 So you've got wild sushi dreams. Perhaps even forbidden sushi dreams. They laughed at you at other sushi bars, even called you mad but at Sushi Island, they understand. “Custom order anything,” we're told. “The chief chef Sammy can do it!” So settle for ordinary sushi no longer, though really, anything at Sushi Island is far from ordinary. How about the spicy garlic Chilean seabass or the seared tuna with special mushroom sauce? Or even the dcor, a dreamy blend of classic sushi bar and classic Hawaiian hut? It's a brave new world, and at Sushi Island, they've got the brave new fish dishes it needs. Services: beer and wine. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. & 5:30-10 p.m.; Sat., 5:30-10 p.m.; Sun., 5:30-9 p.m. Sushi of Naples
5470 E. 2nd St., Long Beach, (562) 434-1122 Long Beach likes things to be grand: the Queen Mary, the Spruce Goose (yeah, so they hauled it up to Washington) and Sushi of Naples, the largest sushi bar in Southern California you could dice up a sperm whale in there, if you were hungry enough. But if you're not, you'll certainly enjoy the more conventional dishes: fresh, high-quality healthy sushi, just like Howard Hughes might have loved had he ever ventured out of his hermetically sealed penthouse crypt. Hey, his loss. Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-10:45 p.m. Call for sushi bar hours. Studio Cafe
100 Main St., Balboa, (949) 675-7760 This is live music central for Newport Beach, with somebody almost always plugged in onstage during the week and two shows on Saturdays and Sundays. But behind the music, you'll find a fine selection of characteristically American-beachside cuisine, including a great brunch and a wide selection of drinks. And don't forget about the world-famous “Adios!” Services: catering available. Full bar. Reservations accepted. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Tues.-Fri., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-10 p.m. The Tap House
8082 Adams St., Huntington Beach, (714) 374-0811 The Tap House is pretty sporty all year round, but come the high holy days – Super Bowl Sunday there are no limits. This year, guest Hooters girls will be directing the faithful from big-screen TV to big-screen TV, presiding over quarterly raffles and serving $4.95 grilled tri-tip steak or chicken with all the trimmings. And once the hoopla fades, you'll still be able to come back and enjoy $2 kamikazes and purple hooters as well as a full bar all the way up until this time next year. Services: takeout available. Full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 5 p.m.-closing; Sat.-Sun., 1:30 p.m.-closing. Tiki Bar
1700 Placentia Ave., Costa Mesa, (949) 548-3533 It's a little slice of Polynesia nestled incongruously on the south side of Costa Mesa—step inside, and you'll feel a little bit closer to the South Seas. Besides a full and impressive bar, you'll also be able to take advantage of weekly lunch offers, including ribs, home-cooked baked beans and corn on the cob (on Wednesday) or steak, salad and tomatoes (on Thursday). Or maybe you'll come back for dinner and nosh on some ribs and burgers while bobbing your head to live punk, rock or alternative bands. Either way, you'll venture back into the troubled seas of our modern world well-provisioned for your voyage home. Services: full bar. All major credit cards accepted. Wahoo's Fish Taco
Various locations countywide If you haven't stopped by a Wahoo's yet, well . . . Not that there's something technically wrong with you, but you might want to keep it quiet. The locals love their Wahoo's, and when you tuck into a fish taco or a banzai burrito, you'll understand why. They're an institution, cheerfully serving their health-conscious Baja Mexican fare with a dash of Brasilian zest from seafood to burritos and yummy combinations thereof-from delightfully funky and unpretentious countertops countywide. They may have branches in Denver and Boulder, but Wahoo's is truly Orange County. Stop by on your way to the beach. Services: takeout available. Beer and wine. MasterCard and Visa accepted. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m-10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Vegetarian Dining Club
Various locations, (800) 484-2587, ext. 3222 It's as much what you eat as who you eat it with-and thus the Vegetarian Dining Club, a network for the wise and gentle folk who've realized that slaughtering animals for food is barbaric and unhealthy and who are tired of trying to pry saliva-slick pork chops out of their buddies' mouths. Once a month, friends and friends-to-be meet for a vegetarian dinner and vegetarian speakers, discussing health issues, nutrition, yoga-you know, all the things the carnivores snicker at. For ages 21 to 65. There is a nominal membership fee (unfortunately, unlike many tasty and healthy dishes, money does not grow on trees). Villa Nova
3131 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, (949) 642-7880 This place is classy-real classy. Classy like an award-winning Italian restaurant should be, with homemade pastas, fresh seafood, even gondolas bobbing at the boat docks (did we mention it sits right on the water?). If you've got a guest that nowhere else could impress-the Pope, maybe?-take 'em here. Feed them osso buco, baked veal shank with tomatoes, onions, garlic, oregano and more. Feed them Villa Nova Souffle, a chocolate concoction with fresh raspberries and whipped cream. If it's the Pope, maybe skip the Linguini Diablo-it could touch a nerve. And then they'll love you forever. And if they're still not impressed, crack open a private waterfront dining room (with convenient humidor and wine cellar). Really, you can't lose. Services: takeout and catering available. Full bar. Reservations suggested. Complimentary valet parking and boat docks. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 5 p.m.-midnight; Fri.-Sat., 5 p.m.-1 a.m.
