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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Santa Ana

Outdoor seating

Made for those who refuse to eat indoors and insist on fresh air regardless of the menu.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
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Updated May 2026
01
Le Hut Dinette image 1
Le Hut Dinette image 2
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Restaurant

Renovated quonset hut offers a 1950s diner style with a modern twist and tiny, funky space. Atmosphere feels vibey yet homey, with outdoor seating preferred due to indoor temperature and loud music. Crowd tends to reserve ahead, drawn by unique ambiance and standout dishes.

Food offers super delicious flavors with quality ingredients. Service matches the food's high standard, creating a satisfying dining experience despite a slightly higher price.

Patio seating offers a nice spot for lunch. Both indoor and outdoor options are available for dining.

People are saying

"The bread and lamb were standouts at this dinner spot."

"The fried chicken sandwich food here is delicious."

"I loved the delicious food I had with the outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

Reservations are definitely needed to dine here, especially during peak hours.

2

Street parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during busy times.

3

The fried chicken sandwich often sells out, so arrive early to get one.

02
Fresh Off the Boat Fish Grill South Coast image 1

Eclectic Mediterranean spot offers outdoor patio seating with warm candlelight and dark red cushions, creating a cozy vibe. Indoor space features a bar with large TV for sports viewing and a lively atmosphere with loud music. Dining resembles fast-casual style with varied seating options including tables, bar, and patio.

Food features a fresh and delicious quality with a mix of Mediterranean flavors including Mexican, Italian, and Greek dishes. Salmon stands out as a particularly good option.

Outdoor seating features a Middle Eastern ambiance with warm lights from carved candles and dark red cushions. The patio is pet friendly and includes propane heaters and an outdoor fireplace for a pleasant atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The outdoor patio seating has a great, pleasant atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a great variety of tacos at discounted prices.

2

Dine-in specials on Taco Tuesday are not available for takeout.

3

Happy hour starts after 3:00 pm with beer specials.

03
Enchanted Coffee Santa Ana image 1

Modern coffee shop with open airy design and natural lighting creates a cozy, laid-back vibe. Spacious seating includes bar and patio areas, supporting quiet work or study with fast WiFi and outlets. Atmosphere feels welcoming and clean, avoiding claustrophobia even when busy.

Food features simple and delicious options with a limited but good menu. Highlights include the avocado bagel and pastries, paired with good drinks and coffee.

Spacious and clean settings include cute cafe tables and a patio with bar seating. Both outdoor and indoor seating options are available.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious, premium coffee here."

"The drinks here are amazing, especially the matcha strawberry latte."

"The cold brew at this Outdoor Seating is amazing and slightly sweet."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available in a busy plaza.

2

Each latte costs $6.25, comparable to a tall at Starbucks.

3

The coffee shop offers a limited drink size, only one regular size.

04
Loosies Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Tiny pizza spot with dark, skater vibes and edgy, hip atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a sunlit patio contrasting the cozy, alternative interior. Known for excellent New York style thin crust pizza that draws a steady crowd.

Food features fresh toppings and delicious flavors that pair well with the atmosphere. The menu focuses on pizza with a cool vibe for eating and hanging out.

A cute little patio catches the sun and faces the 4th streets walkways. Outdoor seating includes two small tables and a standing bar, fitting for late-night visits.

People are saying

"I found the New York style pizza to be awesome."

"The outdoor seating has such a hip, alternative vibe."

"The food here has a cool vibe, like watching TV."

Good to know

1

The parking garage is located across the street from the restaurant.

2

Reservations are recommended as it gets busy and crowded.

3

There isn't much seating available, making it more of a grab-and-go place.

05
SubVegan image 1
Vegan restaurant

Vegan restaurant offers generous sandwiches with fresh, flavorful bread and a variety of options. Calm, tranquil atmosphere includes a serene outdoor courtyard and peaceful video displays. Prices remain reasonable for substantial portions, attracting a steady lunch crowd.

Food here is very fresh and delicious, with a focus on vegan options. Prices stay reasonable while offering generous portions that even kids enjoy.

A nice outdoor courtyard offers a pleasant spot to sit. The lovely outdoor eating area provides a comfortable space for dining.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were absolutely delicious."

"I found the food here to be delicious and very fresh."

"The subs here tasted great, especially the vegan options."

Good to know

1

SubVegan accepts online orders even when the store is closed.

2

They sell their bread separately, allowing for customizable sandwiches.

3

Prices are reasonable for the amount of food provided.

06
6100 Bread image 1

Industrial-style bakery occupies a historic military building with bright, clean layout and high ceilings. Outdoor patio seating creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere where people chat and relax despite long lines. Pastries and breads are exceptional and highly praised, drawing a lively crowd especially in late mornings.

Food features good quality and fantastic taste with outstanding drinks. Staff behind the counter contribute to the overall experience.

Patio offers crispy Ube Cruffin and pistachio latte enjoyed in the open air. Outdoor seating creates a light and fluffy vibe with sweet treats and coffee.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be life-changing and amazing."

"The outdoor seating here is perfect for enjoying their buttery, flaky croissants."

"The baked goods here are ridiculously delicious and crafted with intense care."

Good to know

1

6100 Bread is only open four days a week from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

2

Expect a wait of at least 40 minutes on weekend mornings.

3

Parking is street only and can get busy in front of the store.

07
La Torta Loca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-owned Mexican restaurant with a cozy, homey vibe and a cute patio. Crowded dining area fills with people enjoying generous portions of homemade tortillas and authentic dishes like birria and chilaquiles. Atmosphere feels welcoming and familiar, with a casual, unpretentious setup.

Enchiladas and wet burrito stand out with fresh, real flavors. Every dish tastes amazing and feels like home cooking.

A small patio offers outdoor seating with a cute vibe. Tables sit both inside and outside, and staff sometimes bring a fruit drink before ordering.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tortas, was delicious and packed with flavor."

"I found the food here to be so delicious and fresh."

"The food here is delicious, especially the tortas."

Good to know

1

Inside seating is limited, so there may be a wait when the place is busy.

2

The serving portions are very generous.

3

They offer many options from smoothies to breakfast burritos, chilaquiles, birria, and burgers.

08
Tacos Los Cholos - Santa ana image 1

Spacious Mexican restaurant with painted murals reflecting Hispanic culture and an open kitchen where meats cook in view. The atmosphere is loud and lively, matching an asada on a weekend night with chill vibes inside and outside. Outdoor seating includes heated patio tables for comfort.

Authentic Mexican food features quality tacos with flavorful meat. The atmosphere includes painted murals reflecting Hispanic culture, matching the food's heart and flavor.

Patio tables offer comfortable outdoor seating with heaters that keep the temperature pleasant. Street parking is available nearby, making access to the patio area easy.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best I ever had."

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The outdoor seating is great for enjoying the incredible tacos."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during weekends as the restaurant gains popularity.

2

Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak hours.

3

Payment is required at the table before sending orders to the kitchen.

09
Native Son OC image 1
Gastropub

Rooftop venue offers outdoor patio seating with fire pits and views overlooking downtown. Atmosphere shifts from friendly and chill during weekdays to lively with live DJs on weekends. Crowd includes a diverse, dog-friendly mix, creating a casual yet engaging vibe.

Monthly specials include pasta, burgers, and crab cakes. The menu also features cheese plates, BLTs, and burritos with pig sauce. Food consistently tastes good and pairs well with drinks.

A rooftop patio with a fire pit offers a cozy outdoor hangout. The terrace patio includes seating and a few TVs for entertainment.

People are saying

"They had an amazing selection of local and regional beers."

"The rooftop patio has a great view, especially for sunsets."

"The food here was really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with a lively atmosphere.

2

Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays starting at 10 AM.

3

Expect a crowded space on Friday and Saturday nights.

10
Perla Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers live mariachi music that creates a lively atmosphere with occasional loud moments. Outdoor seating provides a bohemian vibe with Spanish music in the background. The space feels well-designed with good table spacing and a unique locale.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious, with flavors that often exceed expectations. The atmosphere complements the meal, making dining enjoyable and relaxed.

Outdoor seating includes a patio area with a great atmosphere. Music often plays outside, including Spanish tunes and event-specific celebrations like a Cinco de Mayo party.

People are saying

"The live Mariachi music really made the Mexican food experience amazing."

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

"The outdoor seating has a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounts on drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Mariachi bands perform on weekends, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Parking is available at a garage right behind the restaurant.

11
Cafe Cito image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with a calavera-themed decor and a cozy upstairs lounge for studying or hanging out. Atmosphere feels super chill with fire playlists that vary from indie bands to game soundtracks. Busy spot known for great quality coffee and a welcoming vibe.

Food here stands out for being consistently delicious and really good. Beverages complement the meals well, making the overall dining experience satisfying.

Outdoor seating includes a limited area that complements the inside seating options. The space feels pleasant and inviting for sitting outside.

People are saying

"The cafe's coffee and latte options are delicious and plentiful."

"The food here is delicious, especially the croissants and muffins."

"The coffee drinks at the Outdoor Seating were delicious."

Good to know

1

There is public parking adjacent to the store.

2

Cafe Cito offers great vegan options.

3

On the first Saturday of each month, they extend their hours until 9 PM.

12
Little Pan Santa Ana image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Semi-open kitchen reveals handmade pan-fried buns with 24k gold black truffle option. Modern, casual space combines trendy Chinese decor with indoor and outdoor seating including dog-friendly tables. Atmosphere feels cozy and lively, with a clean and bright environment.

Food here is fresh and flavorful with a focus on authentic Chinese dishes. The meals are light and tasty, appealing to both adults and kids.

Outdoor seating includes a few tables outside where dogs can join. Both inside and outside areas stay neat and clean, making it easy to dine with pets.

People are saying

"The pan-fried buns here are amazing with crispy bottoms."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and high quality."

"The outdoor seating is a great treat for a good price."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a lot, but it can get tight during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers a special combo available Monday to Friday.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

13
Mission Control Bar Arcade image 1

Bar combines classic pinball and arcade cabinets with a retro-themed decor that evokes vintage gaming. Atmosphere stays fun and lively without feeling crowded, featuring a small dance floor and balcony space. Cocktails and beer complement the gaming experience, with a focus on cleverly crafted, gaming-themed drinks.

Downstairs hosts a food court with multiple small businesses offering amazing food. Mission Control Bar Arcade features a variety of food options including spiced burgers and Bhangra smash, with discounts during Wednesday night events.

A patio area and an outdoor balcony with flame heaters create a comfortable setting. The outdoor space often hosts birthday celebrations, with half reserved for events.

People are saying

"This arcade bar is super cool with fun pinball and retro games."

"I thought the food here was delicious."

"I enjoyed the nice outdoor seating area."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 7 pm with fun prizes.

2

Happy hour runs before 7 pm with great drink specials.

3

Bring cash for tokens as some machines may not accept cards.

14
Tacos Madre Kitchen & Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant with intricate artwork and lush plants creates a vibrant setting. Live DJ and saxophone performances bring a lively, sometimes nightclub-level energy. Spacious layout includes an outdoor patio and a well-appointed bar, attracting a crowd that enjoys music and socializing.

Food features delicious fish tacos, rich mole, and hearty molcajete dishes. Prices match the quality, and service complements the great food.

Patio offers ample seating with a heater available for chilly weather. Outdoor space feels enjoyable and comfortable.

People are saying

"I ate all the enchiladas before I could post a picture."

"I thought the food here was amazing and great."

"The outdoor seating has great vibes and unique flavors."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos and margaritas.

2

Live DJ plays during Taco Tuesday on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

Expect a $5 charge for extra toppings like lettuce and sour cream.

15
Hidden House Coffee image 1

Coffee shop features a coffee roasting machine at the front and a tree-covered patio with large tables for groups. Atmosphere stays calm and cozy with a mix of warm and hospital blue lighting. Space suits both chilling and working, with Wi-Fi available and a peaceful vibe.

In-house pastries and desserts stand out with fresh quality. The menu offers a variety of baked goods like cookies, granola, muffins, and cake breads alongside a great drink selection.

A tree-covered patio offers plenty of shade and seating, including large tables for big groups. The outdoor area has a peaceful atmosphere with chirping birds enhancing the charm.

People are saying

"The coffee here is so smooth and flavorful."

"The pastries here are delicious and incredibly flaky."

"You have to try the pistachio latte; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is free if parked in the HHC lane right by the coffee shop.

2

Expect to pay for parking if the reserved lot is full.

3

They only serve avocado toast from Friday to Sunday.

16
MasalaCraft - Santa Ana image 1
Indian restaurant

Bollywood movie posters and videos create a themed atmosphere with a friendly, homey vibe. Seating includes plentiful outdoor patio space alongside basic indoor arrangements. Free toppings like fried onions and chutney add a unique touch to the dining experience.

Food here is consistently delicious and authentic with excellent flavors. The menu offers great Indian dishes that stand out for their quality and taste.

Plentiful outdoor seating includes a nice patio area. Plenty of seats both inside and outside create a comfortable spot to enjoy a meal.

People are saying

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

"The lunch combo here is a great deal."

"The outdoor seating here is plentiful and enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available on Saturdays from 11 am to 5 pm.

2

The lunch special with garlic naan and an order of samosas costs around $16.

3

Parking is generally easy on Sundays.

17
Gees Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small barbecue spot with outdoor seating shaded by large umbrellas and huge smokers visible outside. Atmosphere feels cool and casual despite occasional loud country music. Popular for early sell-outs, drawing crowds who arrive before noon to get fresh barbecue.

Food offers a wide selection with solid, well-cooked meat at reasonable prices. The taste is consistently fantastic and the setting accommodates families comfortably.

Huge smokers sit outside with large umbrellas shading the seating area. The setup creates a traditional BBQ vibe even on hot days.

People are saying

"The beef ribs here are gigantic and incredibly tender."

"You'll want to get there early; the food sells out quickly."

"You should get there early; they sell out quickly."

Good to know

1

Arrive by 11:30 AM to avoid long lines before opening at 12 PM.

2

Most items sell out within a few hours of opening.

3

Street parking is available, making it convenient for visitors.

18
The Observatory image 1
Live music venue

Multi-level layout with stadium seating offers clear views from every angle. Venue has a cool underground vibe and feels intimate despite its size. Powerful, clear sound system supports live music performances across indoor and outdoor areas.

Food comes out quickly and tastes pretty good here.

Outdoor seating features a super chill patio with a sick smoking area. The space serves as a spot for merchandise sales and mingling, with cocktails allowed throughout.

People are saying

"The tiered levels make it cool with no bad views."

"The patio area is super chill and fun."

"The food here is a perfect 10 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 per car, and finding a spot can be challenging.

2

The venue has a disabled section for accessibility.

3

The sound quality is consistently impressive during performances.

19
In-N-Out Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Outdoor seating defines the space with no indoor dining available, creating a family-oriented and casual atmosphere. Lines move quickly except when only one person takes orders, causing occasional delays. Burgers stand out as fresh, juicy, and flavorful, while fries often arrive cold or underdone.

Food stays fresh and delicious with consistently excellent quality. Offers great value and a tasty experience every time.

Outdoor seating consists of picnic tables and benches with no indoor dining available. Food like burgers and fries arrive quickly, making it easy to eat outside even during a storm.

People are saying

"The food here is consistently great and super delicious."

"I thought the burgers here were the best I had ever had."

"I sat in the outdoor dining area because there was no indoor seating."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating available; only outdoor seating is provided.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours, but they move quickly.

3

The drive-thru line can wrap around the parking lot.

20
Cafรฉ Cultura image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old theatre setting creates a cozy, welcoming vibe with Day of the Dead decor featuring sugar skulls and loterรญa card accents. Small space includes indoor and covered outdoor seating with a patio for dining. Modern Mexican music enhances the warm, artsy atmosphere reflecting strong Mexican heritage.

Food here stands out for its great quality and delicious flavors. The menu offers consistently amazing dishes that impress even those coming from out of state.

A cute bar area complements the outdoor patio for dining. The space includes a dedicated outside seating area.

People are saying

"The chilaquiles here are amazing Mexican food."

"The food here is delicious, especially the chilaquiles."

"They added a cute bar area and an outdoor patio."

Good to know

1

Cafรฉ Cultura closes at 2 AM, and they start cleaning as early as 12:30 AM.

2

Parking is scarce, so plan ahead for your visit.

3

Cafรฉ Cultura has a separate line at the bar for drink orders.

21
Coffee Muse image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop blends warm artistic vibe with a clean industrial feel and plenty of natural light. Atmosphere suits relaxing, chatting, and studying, though loud metal music can disrupt calm. Offers fresh baked goods and roasts its own coffee beans, with some seating inside and outside near street art.

Great food items come with drinks served in to-go containers, which creates unnecessary waste. The menu offers a solid mix of drinks and food worth trying.

Outdoor seating sits next to a colorful mural, adding visual interest. Some areas have standing tabling while more seating spreads outside, creating a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"I loved their delicious and fresh coffee, especially the cold brew."

"This food is a big, filling toast with creamy avocado."

"You should check out the outdoor seating next to the mural."

Good to know

1

Street parking can be challenging on busy weekends, but there is a nearby parking structure.

2

The cafรฉ roasts its own coffee beans on-site for fresh flavor.

3

Outdoor seating is available next to a mural for a unique experience.

22
Country Cafe image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Small indoor space offers cramped seating but makes best use of space. Outdoor area provides pleasant patio seating despite nearby traffic noise. Inside features loud oldies music creating a diner-like vibe with a simple, quaint atmosphere.

Food tastes amazing and never feels heavy. Quality and service both stay consistently excellent.

Patio space offers a great spot to sit outside. The owner often stays outside and thanks people for joining, creating a welcoming vibe despite the nearby traffic.

People are saying

"You'll find delicious, traditional breakfast options with good-sized portions."

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

"The food at the outdoor seating was good."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait to be seated during peak breakfast hours.

2

Credit card usage incurs extra fees, so bring cash if possible.

3

Breakfast items are generally priced higher than average, with some dishes costing over $15.

23
Club 616 image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar offers live music every night and a spacious outdoor patio with a fire pit and taco vendors. Seating includes booths, bar stools, and lounges inside and outside, creating a relaxed yet chic atmosphere. The place stands out for its unique vibe and well-crafted cocktails.

Mexican food appears most nights with an outdoor area featuring seating and high top tables. A food vendor operates there alongside occasional DJs.

A chic patio sits in the back with a fire pit and a smoking area. Plenty of seating fills the outdoor space.

People are saying

"I thought the cocktails were crafted to perfection."

"The outdoor seating has a taco stand and occasional DJs."

"The food vendor here has a cool, hip vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough to find, so arrive early.

2

Happy hour runs daily with great drink specials.

3

Live jazz performances happen every Wednesday from 8-11pm.

24
Taqueria El Gordito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican eatery offers outdoor seating with a hole in the wall vibe and 90s funk and lowrider jams playing. Atmosphere feels casual and lively, with a focus on authentic tamales and tacos. The space lacks indoor seating but creates a fun, informal dining experience.

Freshness stands out with consistently fresh and very tasty dishes. The food offers great quality at fair prices and delivers a delicious Mexican experience.

Tables set up for eating outside create a fun vibe. The outside look draws attention and invites stopping by.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the pork burrito, to be huge and delicious."

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

"The pork burrito was huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 3am, making it a late-night option.

2

There is no indoor seating available for customers.

3

Expect small taco portions for nearly $3 each.

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