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Top picks in Santa Ana

Salad spots

You want a salad that is substantial enough to be your main meal rather than just a side dish.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Le Hut Dinette image 1
Le Hut Dinette image 2
Le Hut Dinette image 3
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Restaurant

Renovated quonset hut serves 1950s diner style with a modern twist in a vibey yet homey space. Salads range from creamy Caesar to bright, spicy melon, with a standout spring salad. Outdoor seating is best due to indoor heat and loud music.

Salads here offer a range of flavors from the tangy, salty, creamy Caesar to the bright, slightly spicy melon salad. The spring salad blends flavors in a way that stands out.

People are saying

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

"The American Food patty melt and fries were the best parts."

"The Caesar salad was tangy, salty, creamy, and cheesy."

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
Loosies Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Tiny pizza spot with New York style thin crust serves a spicy Caesar salad with fresh parmesan. Dark, skater vibes inside contrast with a sunlit patio outside. Edgy, hip atmosphere draws a steady crowd.

Caesar salad features a spicy dressing and yummy chunks of parmesan. It stays fresh and solid alongside pizza.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the Caesar salad was the best I ever had."

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.

03
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - Santa Ana, CA image 1

Casual dining with Mediterranean decor creates a warm vibe. Salads shine with Great Greek Salad featuring crisp veggies and tangy feta. Outdoor seating offers a relaxed option for casual gatherings or celebrations.

Salads feature a refreshing medley of crisp vegetables and tangy feta. The Great Greek Salad stands out with outstanding chicken and a well-balanced dressing that pairs well with cottage cheese.

People are saying

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

"I loved the gyro with the fresh ingredients and feta cheese."

"The Greek Salad here is great, especially with the chicken."

Good to know

1

There was plenty of parking space available.

2

The restaurant is very clean, including the restrooms.

3

It was easy to park nearby.

04
Fresh Off the Boat Fish Grill South Coast image 1

Eclectic Mediterranean spot shines with grilled vegetables in salads and homemade dressings. Cozy outdoor patio glows with warm candlelight and dark red cushions. Indoor bar offers large TV for sports and lively music, blending fast-casual dining with varied seating.

Salads come with grilled vegetables and homemade dressings. Options include Greek salad, gyro salad, and sides like pita with garlic sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"I loved the grilled vegetables and salad with my meat."

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.

05
Fat of the Land image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant offers an intimate, romantic vibe with velvet drapes and warm decor. Guests enjoy fresh pear prosciutto frisée salad and well-seasoned summer squash alongside quality Spanish wine. Cozy setting suits sharing tapas and savoring seasonal vegetables.

Salads feature fresh pear prosciutto frisée and a well-seasoned summer squash option. The fennel salad pairs perfectly with Piquillos, and seasonal vegetables appear regularly.

People are saying

"The wine here is served with such a welcoming and helpful attitude."

"It's the perfect romantic setting for a date night."

"The basque cheesecake is moist with a perfect texture."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to guarantee a seat due to limited capacity.

2

Parking is available around the building, but metered parking may be necessary.

3

The menu features changing items, offering new dishes regularly.

06
Dvine Mediterranean Experience image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant shines with crisp salads like cucumber yogurt and red cabbage. Cozy outdoor patio invites casual lunches or lively dinner dates. Great music keeps the vibe laid back and lively for friends and family.

Salads here are crisp, fresh, and tangy, featuring options like Mediterranean, cucumber yogurt, and red cabbage. They pair well with dishes like chicken kabob, hummus, and rice.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food, especially the kebabs and hummus, was fantastic."

"I loved the fresh and flavorful Mediterranean salad."

"The Beef Shawarma here is served by really nice and friendly staff."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample, but it gets busy around lunchtime.

2

The best time to visit is before or after the lunch rush.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of grilled meat and side options.

07
Hummus Way - Santa Ana image 1
Turkish restaurant

Bright space with neon signs and loud pop-remix music sets a lively mood. Fresh salads feature grilled vegetables and creamy hummus for a healthy twist. Turkish lamps add a Mediterranean touch to the trendy, fast-casual decor.

Fresh, vibrant salads come with grilled vegetables and flavorful rice. Options include creamy, flavorful hummus and fresh salad sides that can replace fries for a healthier plate.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is so fresh and delicious, I loved it."

"The hummus here is silky-smooth, garlicky, and served warm."

"The salad here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The prices are around $22 for a wrap, a drink, and fries.

2

The portions of beef and chicken are generous, suitable for a protein-rich diet.

3

Hummus Way offers restaurant-quality cuisine at honest, fair prices.

08
Bangkok Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space creates a cozy vibe with lively music and clean surroundings. Spicy noodle salad delivers bold flavors while papaya salad shines with freshness and chili lime dressing. Walls show photos of dishes, adding to the intimate setting.

Spicy noodle salad offers a homecooked feel with bold flavors. Papaya salad stands out with its freshness and chili lime dressing. Angus beef salad is tender and well-seasoned.

People are saying

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

"The Pad Thai service is friendly and personal."

"The papaya salad's chili and lime dressing tastes like Bangkok."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has about 10 tables, making it cozy but potentially crowded.

3

Expect to pay around $100 for a family of four without appetizers or desserts.

09
Papa K's Mediterranean Kitchen image 1

Small spot with authentic Egyptian décor offers a cozy vibe and friendly service. Salads feature fresh greens and cucumber with tasty dressings, paired with generous rice and sides like tahini. Energy comes from music, big screens, and occasional dancing after dinner.

Salads come with a mixture of greens, onion, cucumber, and a delicious dressing. They appear alongside generous portions of rice and fresh sides like tahini and baba ghanouj.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is delicious and generously portioned."

"I had the best grilled fish in California; it was so flavorful."

"The fresh salad here is served with huge, flavorful fish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for special menu items after 7 pm.

2

The restaurant is closed during lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portion sizes that provide good value for the price.

10
Kebab Kurry Express image 1
Afghan restaurant

Cozy Afghan spot offers traditional decor and a quiet environment for relaxed dining. Fresh, crisp salad pairs well with seasoned meats and fluffy bread. Family-run vibe adds warmth and authentic cultural touch.

Fresh salad accompanies many dishes, often served alongside seasoned meats and fluffy bread. It appears as a consistent, crisp side that complements the main plates well.

People are saying

"I found the Afghan food here to be really delicious and authentic."

"The Mediterranean food here is amazing, especially the tender and flavorful kebabs."

"I loved the fresh salad with hummus and olives."

Good to know

1

A single to-go order feeds two to three people.

2

Prices are generally higher compared to other Afghan restaurants in the area.

3

Expect to pay around $147 for a meal for four.

11
Taibat Noodle House 泰巴特清真面馆 image 1

Noodle shop features a clean, cozy interior with Islamic calligraphy for unique decor. Salads like black fungus and cucumber are fresh and sometimes free. QR code ordering adds modern convenience in a family friendly atmosphere.

Appetizers include black fungus salad, cucumber salad, and seaweed salad. The salads are fresh and sometimes come free with the meal.

People are saying

"I found the Halal food here to be super flavorful and delicious."

"The lamb soup broth is rich, flavorful, and incredibly comforting."

"The cucumber and seaweed salad here is yummy."

Good to know

1

All meals are halal and prepared with care for halal practices.

2

The kitchen is clean and well-maintained.

3

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

12
Bari Pasta & Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy space buzzes with lively energy and unique skull-shaped pizza dough. Salads like tossed Caesar shine with standout dressing, pairing well with pizzas. Fun touches like Christmas-themed gingerbread bread add charm for families and couples.

Salads come with tossed Caesar and Greek options featuring a standout dressing. They pair well with pizzas and sandwiches, offering a fresh, tasty side.

People are saying

"You have to try their unique Italian food, the pizza skulls are worth the trip."

"Their pizza calzones are shaped like creative skulls."

"The Caesar salad and stuffed pizza skulls did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

It's best to order ahead, especially during peak times or holidays.

2

Expect long wait times during busy hours, especially at night.

3

There is plenty of parking available in the lot.

13
The Sandwich Society image 1

Small shop buzzes with fun music and a full crowd. Sandwiches shine with expertly crafted ingredients and come with fresh potato salad or macaroni salad. Prices are higher but match the high-quality taste and care.

Fresh potato salad and macaroni salad appear daily, paired with each sandwich. Both salads offer a tasty, homemade feel.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be delicious and well-made."

"The Bahn Mi food here is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures."

"I had to save the rest of the tuna-cado sandwich for later."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in the parking lot.

2

You can order with a kiosk and customize any sandwich.

3

Inside dining is available.

14
DönerG Turkish & Mediterranean Grill - Santa Ana image 1

Turkish restaurant offers a cozy dining area with indoor and outdoor seating. Salads shine with fresh ingredients and bright flavors like lemon and sumac. Atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting, perfect for quick lunches or meals with friends.

Salads feature fresh ingredients and bright flavors like lemon, olive oil, and sumac. Customizable bowls include various salads, toppings, and unique sauces alongside vegetables and proteins.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

"This lunch spot's wraps are delicious and filling."

"The salads here are so fresh and well presented."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers free baklava with meals.

2

Kids can customize their own sandwiches.

3

The seating area is very clean and well-maintained.

15
Antonello Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers intimate ambiance with tableside pasta preparation and burrata caprese salad. Rustic yet elegant space features old time rock & roll music and private dining rooms for cozy meals.

Salads include a caprese with burrata instead of mozzarella and come as part of well-seasoned meals. Options range from simple salads to those paired with dishes like short rib and risotto.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta here is made daily and melts in your mouth."

"The service here is outstandingly friendly and attentive."

"The atmosphere here is so elegant and romantic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like Saturday.

2

The restaurant has private dining rooms available for larger groups.

3

Expect to pay a $35 corkage fee if you bring your own wine.

16
Rafael's Pizza (Rafael Kitchen + Pizza) image 1

Small pizza spot offers fresh homemade sauce and specialty half-and-half pizzas with generous portions. Salads feature lots of veggies and toppings like Antipasto, though ranch dressing is generic. Cool vibe includes a cute coffee bar for a satisfying visit.

Salads come with lots of veggies and toppings, like the Antipasto salad in the special. The Rafaels Salad is a common side, though the ranch dressing served is a generic brand.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was pretty good."

"The pasta here is so flavorful, it explodes in your mouth."

"The Antipasto salad was delicious and packed with veggies."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, and you may need to walk five minutes from a structure.

2

Online orders receive a text confirmation when ready for pickup.

3

Prices for personal pizzas start at $15, with large pizzas nearly $40.

17
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken image 1

Southern-style fried chicken delivers bold flavor and spicy heat in a simple setting. Potato salad and fresh cabbage salad offer hearty sides that balance the meal. Blues music adds a cool atmosphere, while Louisiana hot sauce on tables boosts authentic taste.

Sides include potato salad, baked beans, and slaw, all prepared well. The cabbage salad offers a fresh option alongside these hearty choices.

People are saying

"This fried chicken is juicy, spicy, and perfectly crispy."

"The coleslaw is chopped cabbage in a creamy dressing."

"The potato salad here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Gus's offers a special menu from Monday to Thursday between 2 and 5 PM.

2

Parking was easy at Gus's.

3

Food takes a little time since the chicken is fried to order.

18
Mediterranean Guys image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot serves succulent kebabs and fresh gyro meat in a clean environment. Salads, including a spicy bean salad, come with rice but can be pricey. Meals are nutrient-dense and light, perfect for healthy dining.

Salads come with your choice of rice and include options like chicken salad and coleslaw sides. The spicy bean salad stands out for flavor, but overall salads tend to be pricey compared to sides.

People are saying

"The spicy hummus here is so cravable and delicious."

"I found the healthy foods here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"I canceled my order for a salad instead; it was good and healthy."

Good to know

1

Catering services are available for events with a minimum of 25 people.

2

Food is prepared once a week, so freshness may vary.

3

Prices are higher than average for Mediterranean cuisine in the area.

19
Chick-fil-A image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot offers Southwest Chicken salad and kale options with tasty flavors. Seating is clean and spacious with flowers on tables. Drive-thru is quick despite chaotic parking and loud music creates a lively vibe.

Salads feature Southwest Chicken and kale options with tasty flavors. Some side salads may miss almonds and utensils occasionally.

People are saying

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

"The drive-thru here is so fast, I was out in a second."

"I tried their Southwest Chicken Salad, and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult during lunch hours due to high traffic.

2

The drive-thru line is often long, but moves quickly with two lanes.

3

Expect a busy parking lot during dinner hours, especially with nearby restaurants.

20
El Pollo Loco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers fresh salads and tasty chicken tostadas in a clean, comfortable space. Meals are quick, affordable, and healthy, with light dressings enhancing flavor. Some orders may miss toppings, but overall it suits those seeking a fast, wholesome bite.

Chicken tostada salads stand out with fresh ingredients and a healthy option feel. Some salads come with light dressing, and orders may occasionally miss key toppings like chicken or cheese.

People are saying

"I thought the food was fresh and delicious."

"I found the Mexican food, especially the chicken tostadas, to be delicious."

"I found the salads here to be delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is located at the back of the restaurant.

2

Check your meal before leaving to ensure accuracy.

3

The total cost is usually under 12 dollars.

21
Santa Buffet & Grill image 1
Buffet restaurant

Buffet features a Mongolian grill with fresh meat and vegetables cooked on the spot. Salad bar offers fresh vegetables and seafood like shrimp and fish. Casual, family-friendly vibe with snow crab legs and sushi adding tasty variety.

A great salad bar offers lots of fresh vegetables and fruit. Salads come with seafood like fish and shrimp, making for a wholesome, well-rounded meal alongside rice and meat or fish.

People are saying

"The buffet has a wide variety of options, especially for dessert and sushi."

"The seafood here is deliciously prepared with many varieties."

"I loved the fresh vegetables and fruit in their salad bar."

Good to know

1

The buffet costs $26.99 per person, offering a variety of options.

2

Expect a line outside during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The seafood selection includes Snow Crab Legs available from Friday to Sunday.

22
Panini Kabob Grill - Santa Ana image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Spacious dining room and outside patio create a relaxing atmosphere that livens up when busy. Mediterranean dishes shine with tender kebabs and fresh ingredients. Salads like the Mediterranean salmon and Caesar with chicken kabob offer bold, fresh flavors. Parking can be tricky due to shared spaces.

Salads come with dressing mixed in or served on the side upon request. The Mediterranean salmon salad and Caesar salad with chicken kabob stand out for flavor and freshness.

People are saying

"The salmon kabob was my favorite dish here."

"The Mediterranean food here is perfectly grilled and flavorful."

"The Salmon Wrap's salad was superb."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult because it's shared with a bowling alley and gym.

2

Expect long wait times during busy lunch hours.

3

No refill for the pita bread; extra charge for additional baskets.

23
Gokumi Ramen & Yakitori image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Cozy space with an open kitchen and authentic izakaya vibe offers lively nights with DJs. Yakitori pairs well with a notable sake selection. Salads come with grilled dishes but watch for salty dressing.

Salads come with grilled dishes and yakitori, offering a tasty combo. The salad sauce tends to be too salty.

People are saying

"The yakitori here is some of the best I've had outside of Japan."

"It's a laid-back spot to chill with your crew and lose track of time."

"I found the salads here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

3

Expect to spend over $100 for two people on average.

24
Soltani Restaurant image 1
Persian restaurant

Cozy dining space offers a quiet, old-school vibe with a relaxed, homely atmosphere. Fresh salads with grilled jalapeños and tomatoes come with meals, adding a healthy touch. The setting feels personal and welcoming, perfect for unhurried visits.

Fresh salads come with meals and feature grilled veggies like jalapeños and tomatoes. Salads appear as part of combos or plates alongside main dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tasted so fresh."

"The owner's kind gestures made the hummus experience feel so personal."

"The owner's kindness makes this salad a sweet experience."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers Halal Persian Mediterranean cuisine with generous portion sizes.

2

Prices are considered fair for the amount of food served.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but it's good to check for mobile payment options.

25
Black Angus Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers an old west interior with private cozy booths for a calm, family-friendly vibe. Salads feature real blue cheese dressing on chilled plates, including a large steakhouse Cobb. A bar with sports on TV adds a casual, fun element to the peaceful setting.

Salads come with real blue cheese dressing and are served on a chilled plate. Options include a chicken Caesar and a large steakhouse Cobb salad.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are super delicious."

"It's a quiet place, perfect for conversation."

"I enjoyed a delicious chicken Caesar salad."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour specials are available daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks.

3

Kids' meals are priced between $6-8, making it family-friendly.

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Santa Ana, California

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