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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Santa Ana

American food

American food that honors the classic staples without turning them into a gimmicky caricature of themselves.

Based on 555 Opinions
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01
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Bright colors, neon signs, and hip-hop music create a fast-paced, energetic vibe with a street-food atmosphere. Spacious interior features unique ceiling decor and vibrant wall art that adds a fun, welcoming feel. The place fills quickly but moves efficiently, attracting those who enjoy bold, spicy chicken dishes.

Food features hot, flavorful chicken with great taste and friendly service that stands out in fast food.

Nashville hot chicken stands out with a spicy kick and crispy texture. Sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw add creamy and tangy balance.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and tasty."

"I thought the fried chicken here was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The food comes out quickly, making it great for a fast meal.

2

They don't accept cash; only cards and mobile payments are allowed.

3

The spice levels range from mild to 'cluckin' hot,' catering to all tastes.

02
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Small restaurant with colorful murals and a lively atmosphere filled with fun music and a self-serve sauce bar. Indoor space includes a bar area with multiple TVs and offers a variety of local beers and wines. The place draws a crowd quickly, creating a bustling vibe especially on weekends.

Food arrives quickly even when busy, with amazing sauces and innovative beer cheese. Service stays polite and the food quality remains consistently excellent.

Smashburgers stand out with bold flavors like the Spicy Smash burger. The menu includes spicy fried chicken sandwiches and loaded fries, plus affordable $6 katsu-style fried chicken tenders from the kidโ€™s menu.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burgers here were the best I'd ever had."

"I thought the smash burger was the highlight of the American Food here."

Good to know

1

Hammer Burger has a happy hour with 20% off food from 2-5 PM.

2

Expect long wait times on weekends; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Parking is available in a nearby paid city lot.

03
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Small, basic dining area creates a local feel with a friendly atmosphere. Burgers and fries are freshly made on the spot and offer reasonable prices. The place has a charming, unassuming vibe typical of family-owned burger joints.

Juicy, perfectly seasoned patties stand out alongside the Level-Up Bacon Avocado Burger. Food presentation is beautiful and the overall menu offers consistently good food with genuine service.

Double bacon cheeseburger stands out with well-cooked bacon and rich flavor. Bacon avocado cheeseburger and chili cheese fries offer tasty, affordable options. Hamburgers overall are flavorful and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the juicy, perfectly seasoned burgers."

"The American Food here, especially the burgers, is juicy and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The triple cheeseburger costs only 10 dollars, making it very affordable.

2

The restaurant takes over-the-phone orders, making take-out easy.

3

The ranch dressing is automatically included with the sides at no extra charge.

04
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Small, clean space with an open-concept design and eclectic decor blends East and West styles. Atmosphere feels laid-back and trendy with old school R&B music setting a relaxed vibe. Staff contribute to an off-beat cool energy, making it a spot where people gather to enjoy unique food presentations.

Cuisine features fresh, creative dishes prepared by a 5-star Michelin Chef. Food consistently comes out made to perfection and offers a gourmet experience.

Fried chicken stands out with its crunchy breading and tender, juicy inside. Large portions like the brisket burrito and dishes such as steak and eggs offer full flavors and satisfying meals.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the French toast and fried chicken, is delicious."

"I found the food here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

There is a small parking lot behind the building.

2

Seating is limited, and you might have to wait before being seated.

3

Dinner is only available on weekends.

05
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Hamburger restaurant with a classic diner feel and modernized look offers a quiet atmosphere and family-friendly environment. Burgers and sides like onion rings and fries are fresh and flavorful, served quickly with consistent taste. Self-serve soda machine and drive-through add convenience to the experience.

Food comes out delicious and warm with orders made very well by the cook. Several dishes are very tasty and often shared with friends.

Hamburgers stand out with options like bacon cheeseburgers and avocado bacon cheeseburgers served with fries. Chili cheese fries complement the menu, while the patty melt offers a more basic choice.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and tasty."

"You can't go wrong with the delicious American Food burgers and fries."

Good to know

1

There is an indoor mall in the back with ample parking available.

2

The restaurant features a drive-through for quick service.

3

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

06
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Outdoor seating in a sunny strip mall sets a mellow vibe with friendly staff. Large, meaty sandwiches and fresh rye bread define the menu, attracting those who appreciate classic deli flavors. Interior space shows signs of wear but does not overshadow the overall experience.

Food here delivers quality and large portions with every meal. Dishes taste like they are made from home and never fall into the mediocre range.

Beef brisket stands out with its moist, flavorful texture and comes with gravy and mashed potatoes. The pastrami brisket and provolone create a delicious Philly Cheesesteak and Reuben sandwich experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be tasty and savory."

"The American Food here, especially the brisket and pastrami, is so tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak lunch hours, especially on weekdays.

2

Prices for sandwiches range from $10 to $25, depending on size.

3

The deli offers large portions, often enough for two meals.

07
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Small bakery with booth seating and a clean, quiet atmosphere. Offers fresh sourdough bread and clam chowder in bread bowls, with an upscale salad mix and thin crust pizza. Ordering is convenient via kiosk or app, which also provides monthly bread rewards.

Food tastes fresh and delicious with a great selection available. Bread is notably fresh, and the overall offering provides good value and solid service.

Clam chowder in sourdough bowls stands out as a signature dish, often praised but sometimes seen as overpriced. Sandwiches like the Great grilled cheese with Bacon and classic turkey sandwich offer solid American flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and fresh."

"I thought the clam chowder in a sourdough bowl was the best."

Good to know

1

The family meal deal includes 2 sandwiches, 2 breadbowl soups, and 2 cookies for $30.

2

Downloading the app gives you a free loaf of bread with a purchase every month.

3

The patio typically closes around 7 PM, so plan accordingly.

08
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Fast food restaurant offers artsy decor and varied seating options, including outdoor tables. Atmosphere ranges from relaxed and clean to loud with high-school students, with amazing music playing. Open late with a drive-thru, it serves crispy chicken tenders and notable dipping sauce.

Food features freshness and consistent quality with chicken fingers as a highlight. Orders come out properly made and maintain a good standard every time.

Coleslaw is cold and very dry, almost like raw cabbage. Texas toast accompanies the meal, and the food overall is decent but less flavorful compared to other fried chicken options.

People are saying

"The chicken here is so good, crispy and juicy."

"The American food here, especially the chicken, is so good and juicy."

Good to know

1

Raising Cane's is open late, making it a good option for night owls.

2

Expect to pay around $20 for a Caniac meal.

3

The outdoor seating area is clean and dog-friendly.

09
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Barbecue restaurant with marina views and live music creates a lively, party atmosphere. Open doors bring in sea breezes and natural light, while multiple rooms offer distinct vibes from casual BBQ to more formal dining. Frequented by those enjoying sports broadcasts, dancing, and waterfront scenery.

Food stands out with outstanding barbecue and phenomenal service. Collard greens and other dishes show great care and quality.

Brisket stands out with its tenderness and rich flavor, served in large portions. Rib tips and collard greens also complement the meal well.

People are saying

"The brisket and tri-tip here are so tender, you won't need a knife."

"I found the food here to be delicious and awesome."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4-6 PM on weekdays with special pricing on select items.

2

Live blues music is featured on Saturday nights starting at 9 PM.

3

Private party rentals are available for large gatherings.

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Hamburger restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a scenic outdoor area providing good shade. Atmosphere feels casual and cozy with a medium-sized space that is clean and inviting. Menu features a huge variety including halal options and some notable secret items.

Food comes out fresh and made to order with consistently excellent quality. Options include good halal choices and the dishes taste really delicious.

Variety of mouthwatering burgers includes classic cheeseburgers, a double cheeseburger, and a spicy cheeseburger. Menu also features charbroiled Gourmet Burger and crispy chicken options like nuggets and spicy chicken.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and fresh."

"The American Food here has the freshest, juiciest burger patties I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has serious cleanliness and hygiene issues.

2

Dining inside is not allowed; only takeout is available.

3

The restaurant is halal, catering to dietary preferences.

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Classic old diner with retro 60s-70s decor and a 24-hour vibe offers a lively and fun atmosphere that suits any occasion. The space feels cozy and welcoming, with friendly staff and good music playing over speakers. Weekend breakfasts bring a family feel, while the downtown location adds an urban edge.

Food here is consistently delicious and offers great value. Friendly staff add to the overall dining experience in a retro 24-hour diner vibe.

Fish and chips come with New England clam chowder, soup, and salad for $13.99. Steaks arrive with sides like creamed corn and a baked potato. Breakfast dishes include steak and eggs with well-done tater tots and over easy eggs, plus huevos rancheros and chilaquiles.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always prepared just how I like it."

"I loved the American food, especially the delicious apple pie."

Good to know

1

NORMS Restaurant is open 24/7, allowing for meals at any time.

2

On Friday nights, enjoy a two-for-one special for $13.99, including dessert.

3

Expect a wait time of under 10 minutes during busy morning brunch hours.

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