Located in the heart of Santa Ana's historic district, Lola Gaspar brings small bite dining to the revitalized inner core of this otherwise sleepy O.C. city. Most of the items on the menu are reminiscent of Spanish tapas, however the ingredients are a mix of Spain, Mexico and ultimately California. The Crispy Chile Relleno made with a duck confit in a tomatillo-habanero salsa is extraordinary as well as the Salmon Crudo with homemade Ponzu; chef Luis Perez should be proud of both dishes. Additionally, the cocktail menu is just as innovative and enticing, another reason why to visit this restaurant in the historic artists' village of Santa Ana.
Chapter One: The Modern Local is part of a larger revitalization of cities around the L.A. basin, where the emphasis is on energizing downtown businesses in core areas. In Santa Ana, this particular restaurant mixes innovation, ideals, community and history. Celebrating all things local, the farm-to-table, seasonal menu adheres to sustainability which makes the simple, yet flavorful ingredients stand on their own. The craft libations, from beer to cocktails are excellent, and if you arrive late, the kitchen stays open until midnight.
The Quill
Newly remodeled dive bar in Santa Ana. Close to the 55, 5, and 22 frwys. Flatscreen TVs, clean restrooms and popcorn machine. Under new ownership.
New Dive Bar in a local strip mall. Pool table, juke box, stiff drinks, cute girls.
Wursthaus welcomes you to enjoy an authentic Euro-dining experience with a menu that is wonderfully uncomplicated - devoted to incredible hand-made sausages, and 20 draught beers of German and Belgian decent are served ice-cold. A European setup means that beers are served as fast as they're ordered, food comes hot right out of the kitchen, service is always top-notch, all in a relaxed atmosphere with an amazing community table. Located at the most Eastern end of Downtown Santa Ana's "East End," where art, culture, and history mix to form something new. Wursthaus. Created by friends, for friends.
