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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Santa Ana

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30 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar restaurant
1. Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar
4.5
Awesome(1123)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Orange
Booked 10 times today
Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar in historic Old Towne Orange is a true gem for cocktail enthusiasts. Known for its "delicious and spot-on cocktails," this establishment offers a vibrant selection that includes seasonal craft cocktails and hand-selected spirits. Guests rave about their Old Fashioned, calling it "one of the best ever," and the mezcal margarita as a standout. The bar's extensive list of specialty bourbons, scotches, and whiskeys is a testament to its dedication to quality. The lively atmosphere, combined with the "attentive and friendly" service, makes Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic cocktail experience.
A photo of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar- Tustin restaurant
2. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar- Tustin
4.5
Awesome(2675)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Tustin
Booked 21 times today
The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar in Tustin is a steak lover's paradise, renowned for its exquisite steak dishes that are "cooked to perfection" and bursting with flavor. Nestled in a sophisticated setting, this restaurant offers a dining experience that is both upscale and inviting. Diners rave about the rib eye and filet mignon, commending their exceptional taste and perfectly executed preparation. Known for its attentive service and an impressive wine selection from its vast cellar, The Winery ensures a memorable culinary journey. It’s no wonder patrons travel from afar just to savor the authentic steak experience here.
A photo of Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar restaurant
3. Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar
4.6
Exceptional(1699)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Costa Mesa
Booked 3 times today
Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar in Costa Mesa offers a delightful Californian cuisine experience that is both authentic and upscale. With a prestigious AAA Three-Diamond rating, the restaurant stands out for its creative and outstanding cuisine, paired with a lively atmosphere. Diners have described it as a "hidden oasis" and an "absolute gem," highlighting the "wonderful, beautiful food" and "attentive, prompt service." Located conveniently near the Segerstrom Center, it’s perfect for a pre-show dinner or a vibrant night out. The Bacon Wrapped Dates and Salmon are must-tries, ensuring a memorable Californian culinary journey for all guests.
A photo of Warehouse 72 - Irvine restaurant
4. Warehouse 72 - Irvine
4.2
Awesome(90)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Irvine
Booked 22 times today
Warehouse 72 in Irvine masterfully elevates Contemporary American cuisine, offering diners a “delicious and fantastic” experience with every dish. Nestled within the Hyatt Regency Irvine, this new gem captivates guests with its modern yet inviting atmosphere, complemented by an “amazing” service team. Reviews rave about the “creamy” Truffle Angel Hair pasta and the standout Peruvian Jidori chicken, highlighting the restaurant's dedication to flavor and presentation. The innovative use of a massive 3D digital art installation adds a unique touch, making dining here an “immersive experience.” Perfect for those seeking an exceptional taste of Modern American fare in Southern California.
A photo of Bosscat Orange restaurant
5. Bosscat Orange
4.7
Exceptional(606)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Orange
Booked 39 times today
Bosscat Orange in Orange, CA, offers a delightful taste of Contemporary Southern cuisine that is truly exceptional. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and hearty dishes, diners rave about their “absolutely delicious” shrimp and grits that evoke memories of New Orleans and the Carolinas. The restaurant’s inventive approach to Southern classics, like their “pork candy” and “12-hour beef short ribs,” keeps patrons coming back for more. Bosscat’s commitment to quality shines through in their use of seasonal produce and collaborative kitchen environment. With excellent service and a warm, inviting setting, Bosscat Orange promises a memorable dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of Southern hospitality.
A photo of Mesa Restaurant restaurant
6. Mesa Restaurant
4.3
Awesome(511)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Costa Mesa
Booked 4 times today
Mesa Lounge is a unique nightlife experience in the heart of Orange County. For bottle service inquiries please contact Sabrina@mesacostamesa.com or by text at 949.531.2426. Please note that we are a 21 and over venue at all times, valid photo ID is required for entry. All guests in your party must be present to be seated. We offer a 15 minute grace period for reservations before releasing the table to a guest on the wait list. Due to limited capacity and high demand, reservations are limited to a 90 minute seating.
A photo of Bosscat Kitchen & Libations restaurant
7. Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
4.6
Exceptional(758)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Irvine
Booked 57 times today
Nestled in the vibrant city of Irvine, Bosscat Kitchen & Libations is a standout in the realm of Gastro Pub cuisine, offering a delightful fusion of upscale dining with the warmth of casual comfort. Known for its "great food and incredible service," Bosscat boasts an impressive whiskey room, housing a vast selection to satisfy any aficionado. This lively establishment is appreciated for its "terrific ambiance" and unique American comfort food, featuring seasonal flavors and creative cocktails. The praised rustic industrial aesthetic adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot for gatherings, whether for a "fun, boozy brunch" or a memorable evening out.
A photo of Seasons 52 - Costa Mesa restaurant
8. Seasons 52 - Costa Mesa
4.8
Exceptional(9217)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Costa Mesa
Booked 112 times today
Seasons 52 in Costa Mesa is a shining beacon for seafood enthusiasts, offering an exquisite range of dishes that are both fresh and flavorful. The seasonal menu, a hallmark of its culinary offerings, ensures that every seafood dish is prepared using the freshest ingredients, providing a "delicious" and "consistently good" experience according to patrons. The "Crab cake, Ponzu broth-poached Butterfish, and grilled Sea Scallops" are particularly beloved, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. Guests frequently praise the "excellent" food and "attentive" service, making Seasons 52 a must-visit destination for those seeking top-notch seafood cuisine.
A photo of Valencia's at the Viv restaurant
9. Valencia's at the Viv
4.1
Excellent(46)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Anaheim
Step into Valencia's Restaurant, where California classics await to delight your palate. Nestled on the ground floor of The Viv Hotel, our culinary haven invites you to savor your favorite dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere. From iconic flavors to timeless recipes, we're here to elevate your dining experience. Join us and indulge in the essence of California cuisine at Valencia's.
A photo of FiRE+iCE Interactive Grill & Bar - Anaheim restaurant
10. FiRE+iCE Interactive Grill & Bar - Anaheim
4.2
Awesome(899)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Anaheim
Booked 18 times today
FiRE+iCE Interactive Grill & Bar in Anaheim offers a unique twist on Contemporary American cuisine, allowing diners to become their own chefs with an array of fresh ingredients, sauces, and toppings. This interactive all-you-can-eat experience not only stands out for its creativity but also for the quality and freshness of its offerings. Guests rave about the vibrant atmosphere and the exceptional service, with one review highlighting a "wonderful birthday for my son" that featured a special chef show. With its lively ambiance and the fun of crafting personalized dishes, FiRE+iCE is a must-visit for an unforgettable dining experience.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Diner
    Orange County •3 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Dinner and drinks were fantastic! I got the “Slim Thicc” to drink which was a gin drink with aperol, peach, and elderflower! It was so yummy. For my dinner I got the duck confit and it hit the spot! The flavors were well balanced and the duck was cooked to perfection. My friend got the burger and it was also fantastic, great flavor profile and the pickled red onions complimented the burger well. Overall the ambiance was great, the place was lively, and had great music! Service was prompt and enjoyable.
    More info
    Haven Craft Kitchen + BarPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Orange
    •
    4.5
  • OpenTable Diner
    Phoenix / Arizona •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The aquatics of your restaurant are not very good and was the only reason for not being able to provide an overall 5 star review.
    More info
    Silver Trumpet Restaurant & BarPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Costa Mesa
    •
    4.6
  • StevenVIP
    Las Vegas •27 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    A new local favorite of ours now when we're looking for classy, quiet, not too busy, and a fun ambiance. I'd like to see more red blends on the drink menu (aside from Prisoner) that can be ordered by the glass. Try the steak filets, they were delicious, as were the frozen smore's.
    More info
    Warehouse 72 - IrvinePrice: Expensive• American• Irvine
    •
    4.2
  • CharlesVIP
    Orange County •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We went early, just before 6, on an OpenTable reservation, so the quiet was expected. The service by Austin was prompt, polite, and perfect: attentive but not overbearing. The wine came within minutes, the food as well. BTW, try the BoyzRed. I need a case! And the short ribs are a must. Overall, one could not ask for more.
    More info
    The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar- TustinPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Tustin
    •
    4.5
  • OpenTable Diner
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Had a blast food was amazing and drinks was fire bottle service was lit but she forgot to bring my picture out the first time other than that it was lit
    More info
    Mesa RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Costa Mesa
    •
    4.3

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Santa Ana

Discover the vibrant dining scene of North Orange County, Santa Ana, where Contemporary American cuisine takes center stage. This thriving culinary hotspot is renowned for its innovative approaches to American classics, offering diners a delightful blend of traditional flavors and modern twists. Restaurants in this area are celebrated for their commitment to sustainability, utilizing local and seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that are both delicious and responsible. Patrons can expect a diverse menu selection, ranging from expertly cooked steaks to creatively composed vegetarian dishes, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate. The dining experience is enhanced by attentive service and stylish, welcoming interiors that reflect the contemporary theme. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to explore Santa Ana's gastronomic offerings, the region's Contemporary American restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey.

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