Top restaurants list
10 Best New Restaurants in Orange County
- 10 restaurants
- Orange County, California
- Updated June 7, 2026
The ten best new restaurants in Orange County CA include Taco Maria, Old Vine Kitchen & Bar, Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, The Capital Grille, Inka Grill, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, Wild Goose Tea, Matiki Island Barbecue, Lemon & Thyme, and Café Tu Tu Tango. Popular menu items are dry-aged steaks, blue corn tacos, and Hawaiian short ribs. New restaurants line the streets of Irvine and fill the retail centers of South Coast Plaza. A meal at a new restaurant in Orange County costs $60 per person, on average.
Taco Maria is number 1 on our list for the overall best destination with its Alta California menu, impeccable service, and beautiful setting inside the SOCO complex. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar delivers hand-crafted American dishes in Newport Beach. Bosscat Kitchen & Libations offers an energetic Irvine backdrop for modern American plates.
The top ten best new restaurants in Orange County appear below.
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1
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations features a dedicated whiskey room and American comfort food. This new restaurant serves pork belly poutine and burgers. The lively bar area provides an entertaining night out in Orange County.- Item Prices
- 70
- Average Item Price
- $9.14
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations - Orange Menu PricesMore about Bosscat Kitchen & Libations - Orange
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
American
Signature Dishes:
12 Hour Beef Short Rib
Mac N Cheese
Sugar Barrel Steak
Location:
118 W Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92866
Special Feature:
The building contains a glass-enclosed room holding hundreds of whiskey bottles.
What Makes It Special:
The menu elevates heavy comfort food with premium meats and rich sauces.
What Sets It Apart:
The loud, energetic atmosphere draws large crowds every weekend.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PMThursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PMFriday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PMSaturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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2
2. The Capital Grille
5.0 (4 Reviews)
The Capital Grille is a fine-dining restaurant chain specializing in dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. Popular items on the Capital Grille menu include the Porcini Rubbed...- Item Prices
- 37
- Average Item Price
- $21.78
The Capital Grille Bone In Dry Aged NY Strip Price The Capital Grille Maine Lobster Salad Price The Capital Grille Grilled Shrimp with Sweet Corn Polenta Price The Capital Grille's Signature Cheeseburger Price The Capital Grille Seared Salmon with Avocado, Mango, and Tomato Salad Price The Capital Grille Creamed Spinach Price The Capital Grille Filet Mignon Price The Capital Grille Dry Aged Sirloin Steak Frites with Housemade Bearnaise Price The Capital Grille Sushi Grade Sesame Seared Tuna with Gingered Rice Price The Capital Grille Cold Shellfish Platter Price The Capital Grille Wedge with Bleu Cheese and Smoked Bacon Salad Price The Capital Grille Sliced Filet Mignon with Cipollini Onions, Wild Mushrooms, and Fig Essence Price“The Capital Grille’s Creamed Spinach is a classic steakhouse side done right. The spinach is tender and fresh, coated in a rich, velvety sauce that’s...”
“The Capital Grille’s Grilled Shrimp with Sweet Corn Polenta is a beautifully balanced dish that showcases both flavor and texture. The shrimp are expertly grilled,...”
The Capital Grille Menu PricesMore about The Capital Grille
Type of Restaurant:
Upscale Eatery
Type of Food:
Steakhouse
Signature Dishes:
Seared Tenderloin with Butter Poached Lobster Tails
Flourless Chocolate Espresso Cake
Dry Aged Ny Strip Steak Frites with Aji Verde
Location:
3333 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Special Feature:
The bar features an enormous selection of rotating wines from across the globe.
What Makes It Special:
The flawless execution of primitive preparation techniques applied to high-quality proteins.
What Sets It Apart:
The dimly lit, energetic setting provides a fun backdrop for enjoying premium spirits.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PMSunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Price:
Over $100 per person
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3
Inka Grill serves Peruvian plates like lomo saltado and ceviche. The kitchen staff at this new restaurant utilizes South American spices. The casual room provides a quick lunch option in Orange County.- Item Prices
- 166
- Average Item Price
- $11.21
Inka Grill Menu PricesMore about Inka Grill
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Peruvian
Signature Dishes:
Saltado
Spinach Basil Spaghetti
Chaufa
Location:
23600 Rockfield Blvd #2K, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Special Feature:
The menu highlights a large variety of fresh seafood marinated in citrus juices.
What Makes It Special:
The strict dedication to preserving original South American recipes.
What Sets It Apart:
The straightforward, no-frills approach to delivering satisfying dishes creates a loyal customer base.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PMFriday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
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4
The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar pairs ocean views with an extensive wine list. A waterfront meal at this new restaurant includes steaks and seafood. The elegant setting creates a romantic atmosphere in Orange County.- Item Prices
- 37
- Average Item Price
- $24.68
The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar Menu PricesMore about The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
Type of Restaurant:
Upscale Eatery
Type of Food:
New American
Signature Dishes:
Filet Mignon
Sonoma Free Range Chicken
King Salmon “a la Plancha”
Location:
2647 Park Ave Tustin, CA 92782
Special Feature:
The two-story building features panoramic views of the Newport Beach marina.
What Makes It Special:
The climate-controlled cellars hold thousands of bottles from global vineyards.
What Sets It Apart:
The chic, modern design provides a polished backdrop for business meetings and date nights.
Operating Hours:
Monday: 2:30 PM – 9:00 PMTuesday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PMFriday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PMSaturday: 4:30 PM – 10:00 PMSunday: Closed
Price:
Over $100 per person
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5
BBQ Bowls HawaiianMatiki Island Barbecue cooks Hawaiian-style short ribs and macaroni salad. Big portions of marinated meat define the menu at this new restaurant. The counter-service model delivers fast meals in Orange County.- Item Prices
- 334
- Average Item Price
- $11.16
Matiki Island BBQ Menu PricesMore about Matiki Island BBQ
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Hawaiian, Barbecue
Signature Dishes:
Beef Rib Plate
Chicken and Steak Plate
Steak and Kalbi Plate
Location:
3070 W Lincoln Ave, Anaheim, CA 92801
Special Feature:
The grill area fills the room with the scent of sweet teriyaki marinades.
What Makes It Special:
The kitchen staff marinates meats for hours before searing them over an open flame.
What Sets It Apart:
The large portion sizes and affordable prices make the location a popular daily gathering spot.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PMSunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
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6
Latin American Spanish TapasCafé Tu Tu Tango provides a tapas-style menu in an art-filled space. A shared meal at this new restaurant includes small plates and sangria. The colorful decor creates a fun environment in Orange County.- Item Prices
- 84
- Average Item Price
- $34.19
Cafe Tu Tu Tango Menu PricesMore about Cafe Tu Tu Tango
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Spanish, Tapas
Signature Dishes:
Chipotle Chicken Empanadas
Cuban Filet Mignon Skewers
Spanish Paella
Location:
20 City Blvd W, Orange, CA 92868
Special Feature:
The walls display artwork from local painters and photographers.
What Makes It Special:
The menu encourages sharing multiple small dishes among large groups.
What Sets It Apart:
The lively, clubby neighborhood vibe makes the location a popular daily gathering spot.
Operating Hours:
Permanently Closed
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
-
7
7. Taco Maria
Taco Maria prepares Alta California cuisine using heirloom blue corn. A chef-driven menu improves Mexican street food at this new restaurant. The patio seating offers a comfortable space in Orange County.More about Taco Maria
Type of Restaurant:
Upscale Eatery
Type of Food:
Mexican
Signature Dishes:
Blue Corn Tacos
Aguachile
Mole
Location:
3313 Hyland Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
Special Feature:
The open preparation area allows guests to watch chefs assemble intricate taco dishes.
What Makes It Special:
The kitchen staff applies modern techniques to ancient Mesoamerican ingredients.
What Sets It Apart:
The Michelin-starred menu provides a highly refined take on familiar flavors.
Operating Hours:
Permanently Closed
Price:
Over $100 per person
-
8
8. Old Vine Kitchen & Bar
Old Vine Kitchen & Bar provides a tasting menu format with wine pairings. A meal at this new restaurant features seasonal ingredients. The rooftop patio offers a relaxed environment in Orange County.More about Old Vine Kitchen & Bar
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
New American
Signature Dishes:
Goat Omelet
Chili Verde Quiche
Biscuits & Gravy
Location:
2937 Bristol St a103, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
Special Feature:
The roof deck features comfortable lounge seating and fire pits.
What Makes It Special:
The kitchen staff pairs multi-course meals with specific wine selections.
What Sets It Apart:
The relaxed setting combined with high-end plating creates a memorable night out.
Operating Hours:
Permanently Closed
Price:
$50 to $100 per person
-
9
9. Wild Goose Tea
Wild Goose Tea offers handcrafted beverages and light snacks. A quick stop at this new restaurant provides refreshing drinks. The casual counter service caters to busy people in Orange County.More about Wild Goose Tea
Type of Restaurant:
Cafe
Type of Food:
Beverages, Asian
Signature Dishes:
Classic Burger
Gains Bowl
Buffalo Wrap
Location:
436 E 17th St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Special Feature:
The ordering counter displays a wide variety of customizable drink toppings.
What Makes It Special:
The staff brews fresh tea leaves daily to ensure crisp flavors.
What Sets It Apart:
The bright, colorful interior creates a fun environment for afternoon breaks.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AMFriday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AMSaturday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 AMSunday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
-
10
10. Lemon & Thyme
Lemon & Thyme is a local favorite in Orange County for a meal featuring a casual dining room. This new restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired plates in a downtown location.More about Lemon & Thyme
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Mediterranean
Signature Dishes:
Steak Frites
Spicy Rigatoni
Chicken Tinga Empanadas
Location:
1907 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Special Feature:
The counter-service model allows for rapid food pickup during the lunch hour.
What Makes It Special:
The menu focuses on seasoned meats and fresh, herb-forward salads.
What Sets It Apart:
The location offers a straightforward approach to Mediterranean food that is rare for the downtown area.
Operating Hours:
Monday: ClosedTuesday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PMWednesday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PMSunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price:
$70 to $80 per person
On the map
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes New Restaurants in Orange County Famous?
New restaurants in Orange County are famous for tapping into the area's affluent, suburban culture and its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Hype is generated when a chef with a strong reputation, often from Los Angeles, opens a concept in a high-profile location like Newport Beach or a design-focused complex like SOCO. The food culture values a sense of relaxed luxury, where menus feature pristine seafood, high-quality steaks, and farm-fresh produce from nearby California growers.
What Types of New Restaurants are Commonly Found in Orange County?
The types of restaurants found in Orange County include upscale chophouses, global small-plate lounges, and retro-inspired diners. These Orange County restaurants present a mix of heavy West Coast meat customs and global food formats, as discussed here.
- Upscale Steakhouses: Elegant spaces provide premium cuts of beef and extensive wine lists. The Capital Grille functions in this format.
- Alta California Kitchens: Bright rooms serve heavily spiced, wood-fired dishes. Taco Maria fits this style.
- Peruvian Eateries: Casual spaces focus on ceviche and tableside service. Inka Grill fits this category.
- Hawaiian BBQ Counters: Casual eateries prioritize globally inspired street food. Matiki Island Barbecue offers this experience.
- Wine Bars: Laid-back lounges dish out large portions of comfort food. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar provides this exact setting.
Does Orange County Have an Authentic New Restaurant?
Yes, an authentic new restaurant in Orange County is defined by its commitment to a specific culinary tradition, with places like Taco Maria, Inka Grill, and Matiki Island Barbecue leading the way. Taco Maria is authentic to its "Alta California" mission, using heirloom Mexican corn and modern techniques. Inka Grill provides an authentic taste of Peru with its classic ceviche and lomo saltado. Matiki Island Barbecue is authentic to the Hawaiian plate lunch tradition.
Do New Restaurants in Orange County Offer Easy Online Reservations?
Yes, a new restaurant in Orange County offers online reservations, with The Capital Grille, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, and Taco Maria being prime examples. High-demand businesses utilize apps like Resy and OpenTable to organize seating. People reserve spots in advance to guarantee tables for special occasions. Large-volume daytime spots like Matiki Island Barbecue skip reservation systems, requiring people to order at the counter.
What are the Signature Dishes of the Best New Restaurants in Orange County?
The signature dishes defining a high-level eatery in Southern California represent the pinnacle of food in Orange County, displaying everything from dry-aged beef to handmade tortillas. Notable plates from highly rated businesses are detailed below.
- Dry-Aged Bone-In Ribeye: A premium cut of beef aged for maximum flavor. The Capital Grille executes this classic.
- Blue Corn Tacos: A comforting Mexican staple cooked over an open fire daily. Taco Maria offers this savory item.
- Hawaiian Short Ribs: A sweet and savory meat dish paired with macaroni salad. Matiki Island Barbecue executes this preparation.
- Lomo Saltado: A Peruvian beef stir-fry served on clean plates. Inka Grill offers this savory item.
- Pork Belly Poutine: A rich, heavy appetizer utilizing seasonal produce. Bosscat Kitchen & Libations executes this preparation.
Does Orange County Enjoy New Restaurant Food?
Yes, people in Orange County enjoy trying out new food, a fact shown by the constant activity in dining hubs like Costa Mesa and Newport Beach. As a fast-growing and affluent area, there is a strong demand for high-quality and innovative dining options. This enthusiastic local backing has made the county an attractive location for both celebrated chefs and popular restaurant groups.
What is the Average Meal Price at New Restaurants in Orange County?
The average meal price at a newly opened eatery in Southern California is $60 per person. A fast order at a spot like Matiki Island Barbecue costs $15 to $25. A shared meal for two to four people at a sit-down business such as Bosscat Kitchen & Libations or Inka Grill runs from a total of $60 to $100. A full multi-course experience with premium wine at upscale locations like The Capital Grille requires over $100 per person.
Are There Vegan Options at New Restaurants in Orange County?
Yes, people who eat a diet free of meat and dairy have choices at new restaurants in Orange County, including Taco Maria and Old Vine Kitchen & Bar. Taco Maria provides a selection of vegetable plates without meat or dairy. Old Vine Kitchen & Bar offers salads and roasted vegetables that can be modified upon request.
Do New Restaurants in Orange County Offer Gluten-Free Options?
Yes, people who need gluten-free meals have choices at new restaurants in Orange County, such as The Capital Grille, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, and Inka Grill. The Capital Grille serves premium cuts of fish and crisp sides prepared without wheat proteins. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar offers specific grilled meat options prepared without flour. Inka Grill provides customized plates and modifications.
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