Skip to Content

2023 Best New Restaurants in Orange County

The Orange County food scene is one of the best things about Orange County. We’ve got so many fantastic restaurants, bars, and breweries and it feels like there is always something new to try out. Here are the best new restaurants, bars and breweries plus a huge list of restaurants opening soon in Orange County.

Check out our list of MICHELIN Restaurant Locations too!

Have fun exploring the OC’s new restaurants this month. Be sure to tag us on Instagram (@enjoyorangecounty). We can’t wait to hear about your adventures.

Best New Restaurants

October 2023

Kahani

Ritz Carlton Resort – One Ritz Carlton Dr., Dana Point, CA 92629

Executive Chef Sanjay Rawat is embarking on the launch of his inaugural restaurant in Orange County, taking over the former EnoSteak location. Named “Kahani,” meaning “story” in Hindu, the establishment embraces an Indian-inspired concept encompassing a fresh menu, ambiance, and atmosphere. The menu will include dishes like lobster risotto infused with tandoori spices, a Kashmiri curry featuring beef short rib accompanied by roasted root vegetables, pickled onions, and crispy garlic, and a creamy corn and cardamom bisque garnished with turmeric and cilantro crema. For dessert, savor delights such as cardamom cheesecake adorned with laddu crumbs and kala jamun, along with traditional sweets like gulab jamun, kulfi, and rasmalai.

More October Openings

September 2023

SET Steak & Sushi

Pendry Hotel | 690 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660

SET aims to create an entirely unique dining experience for their guests to enjoy that highlights sustainably sourced local ingredients. As the name implies, guests can expect delicious seafood dishes, high-level sushi, and classic steakhouse offerings. SET’s interior design is an ode to the glamorous world of sailing and superyachts. 

Calo Kitchen + Tequila – Opens Monday, September 25

South Coast Plaza – 3333 Bristol Street, Suite 1876, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Calo Kitchen + Tequila is an elegant Mexican restaurant inspired by three generations of family cooking. The menu features traditional Mexican classics based on recipes passed down from the Clemente family, all prepared with fresh, local, high quality ingredients, and Calo uses organic options whenever possible. Guests can choose from specialties such as shrimp & crab enchiladas, Pollo Serrano, Chilean Seabass, Tampiquena de Carne Asada, and Famous Carnitas. Our table especially enjoyed the Beef Queso Tacos and the Prime Ribeye. They also have a fantastic selection of tequila and delicious craft cocktails.

Calo is privately owned and family operated by Clemente and his wife Karen, who are also owners of Carmelita’s Kitchen in Rancho Santa Margarita. Calo is the family’s latest restaurant concept and owned in partnership with John Parlet of John’s Incredible Pizza. There are two additional Calo locations in Laguna Niguel and El Segundo.

Stagecoach Country Roadhouse – Opens Friday, Sept 15

Town & Country Shopping Center – 763 S Main St 200A, Orange, CA 92868

Stagecoach Country Roadhouse, led by James Beard recognized chef Roberto Madrid, presents a menu featuring country BBQ, hand cut steaks, and artisanal cocktails, all crafted from scratch. Offering a delectable array of gourmet sauces, classic sides like truffle fries and country baked beans, as well as fresh salads and soups, Stagecoach embodies the essence of the old West through its stylish yet rustic indoor and outdoor seating arrangements.

With one location already in Sedona, AZ, the concepts originates from the Wild Thyme Restaurant Group, based in Newport Beach, who also owns a portfolio of restaurants including Shorebird, Molé Comida, and Kaiseki Sushi, among others.

More September Openings

August 2023

Broad Street Oyster Company

Huntington Beach Pier, former Ruby’s location – 1 Main Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Broad Street Oyster Company has debuted at the Huntington Beach pier’s edge. Boasting panoramic views of the Pacific and Surf City’s coast, the seafood spot offers a raw bar with oysters, shrimp cocktail, caviar, and seafood towers. Lobster rolls, fish sandwiches, burgers, chowders, and more complete the menu.

Cabana Restaurant & Beach Club

222 Ocean Ave Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Cabana Restaurant & Beach Club is a stylish restaurant located in the heart of Laguna Beach, where Mexican beach cuisine is reimagined with a contemporary flair. Flavors from diverse cultures are blended by a team of chefs.

More August Openings

July 2023

Palmilla Cocina y Tequila

3110 Newport Blvd. Newport Beach, CA 92663

Palmilla Cocina y Tequila, which has another location in Hermosa Beach, is located in a newly renovated space in Newport Beach was previously occupied by Rudy’s Pub & Grill. The retractable roof is a highlight at this 4,000- square foot restaurant and the décor is inspired by the Sea of Cortez rock formations — light wooden beams, brown leather directors chairs, woven jute ceilings, and a sleek, bronze arch-shaped bar that showcases the restaurant’s extensive mezcal and tequila bottle selection.

Newport Beach Whaler

2800 W Coast Hwy Newport Beach, CA 92663

Newport Beach Whaler is a new addition to PCH where you can enjoy beachside brunch and mimosas, watch all the big games, or sip on cocktails while enjoying the Southern California Sunset. The menu presents a fusion of classic bar fare along with an array of seafood delicacies, including oysters, clam chowder, fish and chips, and spicy tuna on crispy rice.

Disney California Adventure Park San Fransokyo

Updates are coming to San Fransokyo Square in mid-July. Visit Lucky Fortune Cookery for new sampling options, and the Port of San Fransokyo Cervecería will officially open. In the weeks to follow, Hiro’s Aunt Cass will serve up Japanese-inspired dishes and soups served in freshly-baked Boudin sourdough bread bowls at Aunt Cass Café, her second bakery café. Don’t miss the vibrant mural of Aunt Cass’ lucky pet cat, Mochi, adorning the café’s exterior. Across from the café, an old fishing net tannery is being transformed into Rita’s Turbine Blenders, serving up delicious margaritas and icy beverages. Owned and named after the turbine repair technician, Rita’s Turbine Blenders adds a touch of charm with its floating wind turbine, resembling a giant koi fish, atop the structure.

More July Openings

Closure: Taps Restaurant and Brewery

All Taps Restaurant and Brewery locations were closed on July 7, including Brea, Tustin, and Yorba Linda reportedly due to financial issues.

Closure: Taco Maria

Taco María, one of Orange County’s only Michelin-star restaurants, permanently closed on Saturday, July 29 after 10 years at its Costa Mesa location. Chef Carlos Salgado plans to relocate the award-winning modern Mexican tasting menu restaurant to a larger space.

June 2023

Villains Brewing Company

555 S. Anaheim Blvd Anaheim, CA 92805

Villains Brewery not only boasts an extensive selection of craft beers but also offers seltzers and, of course, their own unique concoctions. As you explore the brewery, you’ll notice charming nods to your beloved villains, with each tap handle representing a different iconic character. The spacious venue provides a multitude of cozy corners and hidden spots, including comfortable couches on the upper level where you can take in the entire ambiance. Adding to its distinctive charm, the brewery’s various levels are ingeniously constructed using shipping containers.

For a quick and convenient meal, their fast casual food hall serves up delicious and satisfying dishes, perfect for those on the go. If you prefer a more relaxed and immersive dining experience, their sit-down full-service restaurant awaits, catering to your every need. For a truly unique culinary adventure, don’t miss the Villains Lair—an outdoor patio that hosts 3-4 rotating restaurants, providing a diverse and exciting array of dining options.

Truly Pizza

24402 Del Prado, Dana Point, CA 92629

Brooklyn natives John Arena and acclaimed pizzaiolo Chris Decker have launched Truly Pizza, a haven for authentic, hearth-baked pizzas featuring minimalist toppings and perfectly blistered crusts reminiscent of East Coast-style pies. With an inviting garden for dining and a rooftop space for savoring wine, the restaurant creates a romantic piazza atmosphere that evokes a sense of belonging. The exhibition kitchen proudly showcases Truly Pizza’s passion and commitment to the art of hand-crafted pizza.

Royal Hawaiian

331 N Coast Hwy. Laguna Beach, CA 92651

The Royal Hawaiian, a historic Tiki-themed bar, has reopened under new ownership after its closure in 2022 and a redesign. The revamped space pays homage to Tiki culture and the bar’s original owners, who established it in 1947. Throughout the restaurant, you’ll find original lamps, mugs, dioramas, and other artifacts, including the bar’s first liquor license and a deed dating back to the late ’40s. A focal point is the 22-seat bar, adorned with over 20 illuminated shelves showcasing an impressive collection of rum bottles, mugs, and glassware. The cocktail menu offers a selection of eight Royal Hawaiian original cocktails, including the iconic Mai Tai, available in a keepsake glass. Additionally, the menu features nine contemporary modern cocktails, showcasing a variety of spirits beyond rum and gin, such as a unique twist on the classic Paloma mixed with tequila, grapefruit cordial, lime, Aperol, and celery bitters.

New MICHELIN Guide Restaurants

In June, the MICHELIN Guide added these three Orange County locations to their list of MICHELIN Guide Restaurants.

More June Openings

May 2023

Rare Society

226 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, CA 92672

Trust Restaurant Group, which opened its first steakhouse in San Diego in 2019, has now added its first Orange County location, Rare Society in San Clemente. The 5,500 square foot, two-story restaurant features indoor and outdoor dining with patio seating available on the first and second floors. Inspired by Las Vegas Steakhouses the restaurant has a modern dining aesthetic, featuring a signature style of wood-fired, Santa Maria style-grilling for meats, alongside sustainably-sourced seafoods, and a progressive cocktail program.

Shake Shack

512 Spectrum Center Dr Suite 512, Irvine, CA 92618 (Irvine Spectrum)

New York’s Shake Shack, a popular fast-casual restaurant chain known for its mouthwatering burgers, hand-spun milkshakes made from real ice cream, and crinkle-cut fries, has now made its way to Orange County. The first OC location can be found at the Irvine Spectrum, right next to the Regal Edwards Theater. Exclusive to this location will be the OC Dreamsicle Shake, a vanilla custard and orange soda shake.

Pacific Catch

3040 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92782 (Tustin Market Place)

If you’re a Bay Area native or transplant that spent some time in Northern California you might know this place well. The Chestnut St location in San Francisco was one of my regular stops. Now Orange County has its first location with a new store in Tustin at the Market Place. This modern-casual restaurant features sustainable Pacific Rim caught fish combined with a mix of bold flavors. Menu staples include soups and salads, poke and ceviche, surf and turf platters, burgers, and sushi rolls, tacos, “bombs” and bowls.

Marila’s Mexican by Puesto

Bella Terra Center – 7821 Edinger Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

Puesto’s Huntington Beach restaurant is now Marila’s Mexican by Puesto, named after their owners grandmother. However, the new name isn’t the only change. The 7,600-square-foot space features new décor including includes a glass-blown agave-shaped chandelier, a wrought iron rotating bar, and a glass-enclosed open kitchen. Lastly, the biggest change is the menu, with many new items including their signature new dish, fajitas fundido.

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream

18210 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda, CA 92886

The latest Handel’s Ice Cream is opening up near the intersection of Yorba Linda Blvd and the Imperial High. Handel’s started opened their first location Youngstown, Ohio in 1945. Today, Handel’s serves homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt, ice cream pops, malts, floats, ices and fat-free options as well as banana splits, sundaes, smoothies and other treats.

Twisted by Wetzel’s

1331 Imperial Hwy., La Habra, CA 90631

Twisted by Wetzel’s is Wetzel’s Pretzels first stand-alone brick and mortar location and features menu items made from their signature pretzel dough. Menu items includes savory and sweet options like pretzel dough pizza, hot dogs and ice cream cones plus drizzle and inventive toppings over pretzel bites and full sized pretzels. House-made drinks such as lemonade, floats and more are available to wash it all down.

More May Openings

April 2023

Cabo Wabo Beach Club

Waterfront Hotel – 21100 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo Beach Club at the Waterfront Hotels serves up coastal Mexican cuisine, handcrafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere. You can dine and drink cocktails at the restaurant’s flaming guitar fire pit at the outdoor palapa bar while enjoying panoramic views of the sun setting. The club is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even late night bites and libations.

Ike’s Love & Sandwiches

15062 Goldenwest St., Westminster, CA 92683

Exploding onto the crowded San Francisco food scene in 2007 as a small sandwich shop under the name “Ike’s Place” (founded by Ike Shehadeh), Ike’s Love & Sandwiches features sandwiches for all: meat lovers, vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free. Every location comes with exclusive sandwich offerings that are eclectically named as a tribute to local celebrities and icons.

Skål Pizza

Lido Marina Village – 3400 Via Oporto Suite 104, Newport Beach, CA 92663

Skål Pizza (Skål is the Swedish word for cheers) features a healthy selection of salads, wood fired vegetables, veggie focused pizza and delicious desserts. All dishes are vegetarian and/or vegan but there is an option to add protein to the pasta or pizza. In addition to the food, the waterfront location at Lido Marina Village features a small bar and tables both inside and outside overlooking the bay. Skål is from the mind of Helene Henderson, the founder of Malibu Farm.

More April Openings

March 2023

Eureka!

26541 Aliso Creek Road, Suite F, Aliso Viejo, California 92656

Eureka! offers creative craft beverages plus a collection of the best local craft beers, small-batch whiskeys, and classic cocktails combined with all-American classic food with a modern twist. The 4,900-square foot space includes a lounge area, center bar, and patio plus weekly events like half-off wine on Tuesdays, Steal the Glass on Wednesdays, and Bloody Marys and Mimosas on the weekends.

Fresh Off The Boat Fish Grill (FOB)

South Coast – 1501 W MacArthur Blvd Unit A Santa Ana, CA 92704

IYKYK, South Coast FOB is the third location and for frequent patrons of the Tustin and Placentia it’s a welcome addition to the South Coast area. Serving fresh seafood and a fusion mix of Mediterranean and Mexican dishes, FOB is a hidden gem. The menu features appetizers ranging from ahi poke to dolmas, grilled fish platters, tacos, salads, pita wraps, poke bowls, and lamb gyros.

Taco Mesita

Old Town Tustin – 765 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92780

Taco Mesita is a gourmet fast food shop offering woodfired cuisine on homemade corn and flour tortillas with snacks, dessert, and beer and margaritas. The location includes a drive-through, a landscaped patio, and indoor dining area.

Café Bianni’

5120 E La Palma Ave, Ste 101, Anaheim, CA 92807

Café Bianni’ brings Oaxacan culture, experiences and authenticity to Anaheim where visitors can enjoy coffee and breakfast and lunch dishes.

More March Openings

February 2023

Calico Fish House

16600 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92649

Slapfish founder Andrew Gruel’s new waterfront location features a huge patio, indoor seating, a raw bar, and a menu that changes daily. The restaurant focuses on sustainably sourced food including poultry, grass-fed organic meat, raised cruelty-free from free range farms throughout California, and organic vegetables sourced from Melissa’s Produce.

Bodego Laguna | Cocina & Cantina (formerly Laguna Fish Company)

400 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (corner of PCH and Laguna Ave)

This “Mexicoast restaurant and bar features an expansive array of fresh seafood dishes, from ceviche to seafood platters to a full cocktail, wine, and beer menu. Breakfast is also served with some seafood offerings. The seafood is all sourced from Canada, Virginia, Maine and elsewhere, to ensure the best and freshest quality.

ROL Hand Bar

16173 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley, CA 92708

ROL just added a second location in Fountain Valley and features crispy nori hand rolls with melt-in-your-mouth fish plus appetizers, beer, and sake. Bar seating only plus take-out is available.

The Earl of Sandwich Tavern

Downtown Disney – 1565 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802

This location offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with al fresco seating on the patio and a full indoor cocktail bar.

More February Openings

January 2023

JOEY Newport Beach

Fashion Island – 453 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660

The 9,367-square foot space features a dining area, lounge, and outdoor bar and patio with a retractable roof and large outdoor fire pit. The menu features small bites, salads, sushi, sandwiches, steaks and desserts. Plus a wide selection of cocktails, wine and beer.

More January Openings

Restaurants Opening Soon

These restaurants are coming soon!

Restaurant owners: Let us know if you’re opening a location in Orange County or if you would like to feature a recipe on our site.

Related Articles

Best Themed RestaurantsBest Rooftop Bars & Restaurants
MICHELIN Restaurant LocationsRestaurants With A View in Orange County
Top Celebrity Chef Restaurants in Orange CountyRestaurants Guy Fieri has Visited on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives

Monique McArthur is a mother of two, writer, and creator of delicious recipes. In her spare time she enjoys exploring all that Orange County has to offer, traveling, shopping, running with her dogs and spending time with family.