The Tastiest Cocktail Bars in Santa Ana

The Classic Q

★★★★☆ 3.6 (476) • $$

"Their zucchini sticks are ! The BEST in town. The pool table rentals are usually easy to get a table and the service is great!"

Aces Bar & Grill

★★★★☆ 4.4 (240) • $$

"Came here with Family, First time having the food. Have to say the sampler platter was great!! Onion rings were a wonderful size and tasted good and crunchy. The jalapeño poppers were also great. The Wings had great flavor and really good. The place is fun and the service is wonderful. Nice place hang out with Family and Friends. Very clean and very Welcoming."

Rodeo Bar

★★★★★ 4.9 (73) • $$

"After dealing with the horrible parking, dodging endless crackheads, and pushing your way through the narrow aisles of Rodeo 39 you need to relax. At the back of the building across from Bearded Tang is a small bar with counter seats and a few tables if you want to eat food while getting your drink on. I was by myself but figured I could use a cocktail so I pulled up a seat at the counter. Bar has mostly top shelf brands, a menu of creative cocktails, and it's served in high end glasses. I went with a cocktail on the menu which was Japanese whiskey infused with green tea. Simple yet so frickin good. The green tea was a perfect pairing with the whiskey. It was a heavy pour and I was feeling good by the end of my drink. Price was $14 which to me was a average price for a high end cocktail. Nice surprise to find this bar and next time I'll get some lunch at one of the Rodeo 39's eateries and eat it with a delicious cocktail!"

Larsen

★★★★☆ 3.5 (277) • $$$

"Service: very accommodating and adjusted the umbrella shade perfectly to suit the dining party.Ambiance: relaxed, upscale, gorgeous viewFood: everything we had was fantastic, including grilled shrimp on the quinoa salad and the burrata with Brussels sprouts."

Il Barone Ristorante

★★★★☆ 4 (620) • $$

"It was my first time dining here. I was delighted by all. The ambiance was very warm and welcoming. The service also was top notch. I love food from Sicily. From appetizers to entrees, everything was delicious. I look forward to returning and I would highly recommend everyone to go."

DRINK BAR

★★★★☆ 4.3 (52) • $$

"Came here to charge right around the corner and saw this place. Def a hidden gym and love the atmosphere here. They had live music great scenic hike routes. Very subtle low key and nice. Def coming back again :)"

The Crab Cooker

★★★★☆ 3.6 (693) • $$

"I haven't been to the Crab Cooker for a couple of years and driving by decided to stop in for a quick lunch. It was a bit after 2pm so maybe 20% full. I ordered the steamed clams which were delicious. Of course at the Crab Cooker all food is served on paper/plastic plates with plastic utensils. My clams arrived steaming hot in the broth they were steamed in. They were delicious with the melted butter. As all steamed clams lovers know the best part of the meal is dunking fresh bread in the clam broth. None was brought with the meal so I asked my server if I could have some bread. She advised me that bread didn't come with it so if I wanted some I'd have to buy it. She brought out a loaf of bread, sliced, I said she could slice it, in 10 big slices. I was by myself so I did enjoy 2 of the big slices dipped in the broth. The price of this loaf of bread is $4.95. on top of the steamed clams. I understand if a person wants bread for the table it would be fair if a restaurant wants to charge for it. But I don't think it's good customer service to serve a dish like this without a slice or 2 of bread. I left the majority of the bread on the table. I could have taken it but I'm not a big bread eater except when I want it for special meals. I live alone and there was no one to share with. I'm very disappointed with the "chicken poo poo ' attitude of this restaurant and I'm taking the time to call them out."

P10NEER

★★★★★ 4.7 (127)

"We had a guys night on that one dark lonely evening when we came in. Initially, we were kinda confused because we thought we came to wrong area with all the empty parking spaces. The tall nice woman working there took care of us good. She was patient and gave all of us good recommendations on the drinks. Although the bar was a little tight, the music and vibes were popping off great. It was very intimate for sure. It made it seemed as if it was just only us against the entire world. As for the drinks, we ordered theNew York sour, Army/Navy, Paloma, Milk Punch, Old Fashioned, & Appletini. Each drinks costed $16. My favorite was the Milk Punch and the Appletini. The Milk Punch tasted like a creamy lemon sweet tea, but the drink was hot. The Appletini was sweet like a green apple. It was bomb. I had to order two more for myself, lol. It was no hazy or buzzed night, alright. I would gatekeep this, but this spot is too good to be kept hidden. If you know, you know!"

Chapter 4 at Les Amis

★★★★★ 4.5 (56)

"Chapter 4 at Les Amis is classified as a speakeasy on Yelp, which I don't agree with at all because a speakeasy implies some secrecy when they had a huge sign saying Chapter 4 outside. They are a quaint upscale bar with lounge-like ambiance and a decent selection of craft cocktails and whiskeys. There is also an outdoor patio with additional seating. When we came it was really busy, so it was a good thing we had a reservation from Open Table.The staff checked if we had a nut allergies, and upon confirmation that we did not, the brought out a complimentary nut assortment. It was nice but nothing amazing. We also decided to order a Hummus ($12) to share for something to munch on. It come with large sheets of pita and house pickles. The hummus had a lot of tahini that was a bit strong for my friend. I thought it was average hummus but I didn't like the pita. For drinks I had the Flowers for Fiona ($16). I can't recall what my friend got. I feel like my drink more than she liked her drink. We had the capacity for more drinks but the other customers here were so loud and rowdy. Considering how small this space is, it was hard to have a conversation with my friend right across from me. Not taking this away from the bar cause they can't control their customers, but it's not my scene. Overall cool to check out but I wouldn't care to revisit."

Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (843) • $$

"Hive & Honey is located in the Marriott on the 16th floor. It's a gorgeous space & lots of great spots to socialize & space heaters to keep warm during the colder parts of the night. They also have cute fire pits (the seating is super uncomfortable). The bartenders were professional & the drinks I ordered were consistent & really good. I opted for a Whiskey Sour as my drink for the night & asked for the Garrison Brothers Single Barrel Bourbon as recommended by one of my friends in the group I went with.We tried a few apps & the sliders were really good. I also tried a little bit of the skirt steak skewers.The reason for the low score is the price for valet. 2 hours with validation is $15. Without is $22. After that is $55 dollars (the price you pay if you stay the night at the Marriott. We literally got there at 8 & stayed until last call (11:45). I think the price is ridiculous especially when you are spending easily over $100 per person to eat/drink there. They also told a few people in our party that it was "Valet only." But others had parked at the self park at the courtyard. There are so many gorgeous restaurants/bars in Orange County that Hive & Honey is competing with. I just don't see how they would have returning patrons & maybe just count on the ones that are staying at the hotel specifically to be their main crowd. Anyway, it was a cutie vibe but I don't see myself going back"

ROL Hand Roll Bar by Kei Concepts

★★★★☆ 4.4

"Loved this restaurant! From the drinks to the food to the amazing service. Brien was our server and was amazing. He gave great suggestions and was very attentive and friendly. Food we tried: unagi Don, crispy rice, spicy edamame, variety of handrolls. Everything was delicious! Drink: tried the velvet sour and it was the perfect balance. Not overly sweet but just enough. Will be back and highly recommend. Tip: join waitlist on yelp if coming in the evening time when they experience higher wait times."

Caló Kitchen + Tequila - Costa Mesa

★★★★★ 4.5 (914) • $$$

"We have been here numerous times and have taken friends and family. Each time it has been a great dining experience with delicious food in a beautiful space. Last night was no different. It was a very busy Saturday night and we had to make reservations. We waited just a bit but that was to be expected because the place was buzzing. Our family was served by Natalie and she was fantastic. Her presence made it a memorable dinner. It really shows how excellent service can make or break a dining experience no matter how delicious the food. She was on top of it even with how busy the restaurant was. Our water was topped, our chips and dips were switched when low, she checked in at the right times to make sure we had everything we needed but wasn't overbearing. The food was excellent and she brought out plenty of boxes for leftovers along with items to bag up chips and dip. I haven't had such great service in a while and this was comparable if not exceeded nicer restaurants like The Ritz. We walked away impressed and very happy with our meal. The food (amazing every single time) and ambience (a variety of seating styles that are all very comfortable and stylish) is always great here, but the service definitely made this meal. Thanks to Natalie and the wonderful staff for always making it so we are looking forward to coming back."

The Blind Rabbit

★★★★★ 4.5 • $$$

"Atmosphere and Service wer top notch! Does not get better than that. Now on to the food----the menu is very very limited..........I didnt even know what to order off of the overpriced menu. When our food arrived I noticed that the portions were small. Iḿ sad to say that the the drinks were above average, but not as good as the place LOOKS.......and frankly were not well poured. Good place to go to check out and to visit the Marketplace location, but not a place Id go back to. Not worth it."

Gema

★★★★☆ 4 (100) • $$$

"We have been to Gema at least 10 times since they opened, and it never ceases to impress. We often bring a couple guests for their first time experience, and it never disappoints. The ambience is so inviting, chic and fresh; as soon as you walk in, you know you are in for a special night.Sara, the owner is often there working the front of the house and she always makes us feel welcomed. The chef is also part owner which makes this place special as both the front and back of the house are invested in doing the best job possible. Service is always great. The staff know the menu well. Drinks are divine, both the alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic agua frescas. The food is awesome. Think Mexico City gourmet. My husband is obsessed with the birria and tortillas. We are so lucky to have this local gem. Thank you Sara!"

Element

★★★★★ 5 (2)

"Awesome new spot in downtown Santa Ana. Food was amazing. Vibe was on point. Definitely worth checking out"

The House Newport Beach

★★★★☆ 4.4 (15)

"An exclusive gem nestled on the coastal edges of Newport Beach, The House is the perfect restaurant for a good evening out with your significant other or a group of friends. Decorum and service is a bit on the high end, so expect to make reservations, valet your car, and to come in dressy casual attire or better. The membership-only restaurant has an array of mouth-watering offerings (check the photos, sorry for the lighting) with many menu items uniquely curated by the head Chef, who so graciously greeted us, along with the owner, during our multi-course meal. The meats are tender and high quality and the appetizers are like a banquet of angel bites from heaven. The atmosphere is very romantic and shrouded in mystery, yet lively (there's a bar for those looking for a good time). You'll have the option to enjoy your meal on the waterfront (inside and outside dining are available). I would divulge more, but you have to check it out yourself... if you can get in."

Morena's Mexican Cuisine

★★★★☆ 4.1 (227)

"Update: just had Just had the Flautas De Camaron, which is fried flour tortillas filed with shrimp, roasted corn, bell pepper, onion, celery, and jack cheese. Garnished with mango relish, sour cream, and cotija cheese. Maybe the best thing I have ever eaten at a Mexican restaurant!"

Hammer Workshop & Bar

★★★★☆ 4.1 (389) • $$

"This is hands down one of the best cocktail bars in Orange County!!Located in the Anaheim Packing District this place is a must whether you're local or visiting!!All the bartenders are amazing and they pour some mean drinks!!Cheers!"

Mogu Mogu

★★★★★ 4.6 (451) • $$

"Have heard good things about MoguMogu, was in the OC so wanted to check it out. So glad we did, loved it! There was a bit of a wait, but the servers were very nice and moved people through quickly, we got a beer while we waited and relaxed.The location is in a strange area, near railroad tracks, seems to be an industrial complex, so don't worry you are in the right spot when you arrive.The is a Mazemen ramen style spot which means it is a soulless noodle, but that does not mean it is flavorless, in fact these bowls are flavor bombs of goodness.Got an order of Shishito peppers to start, always love these and a tall chilled Sapporo on draft, so good.For my main, got the Tokyo, which is spicy minced pork, poached egg, scallions, chives, minced garlic, fish umami, seaweed flakes. Once you get your order you, mix it all together inside the noodles and enjoy. You must get the minced garlic, it makes the dish. I also added some spicy chili sauce to mine and their umami vinegar, perfect! At the end, they bring you a scoop of rice to use to eat the rest of the toppings left at the bottom of the noodles.Enjoy!"

The Cellar Restaurant

★★★★☆ 4.1 • $$$

"The best fine dining experience I've ever had. My partner took me here to celebrate my birthday. Located in a basement, the restaurant was nicely decorated and felt like you're living a different era. I've never seen something like this before so it was truly a unique setting for a fancy yet cozy dinner. This spot is great for a special occasion or date night. Our server was awesome. Since it was our first time, she was always checking in on us and also provided awesome recommendations from cocktails, appetizers, and entrees. For cocktails, we ordered the London Fog, Pumpkin Old Fashioned, and Cellar Old Fashioned. I had the London Fog and it was one of my favorite cocktails I've had. Not what I was expecting in terms of flavor and was truly surprised! We also had a complimentary bread basket which we devoured, then had the bone marrow appetizer and French onion soup. The bone marrow came in a big portion and was full of flavor. I didn't eat much of the bread since it was too hard for my liking. The French onion soup was delicious! Great service since they split it for us into two bowls so we can enjoy our soup. The best French onion soup I've ever had. For our entree, we had chef's choice. From what I remember, it was a 20oz medium rare Boneless Ribeye with a blue cheese sauce and duchess potatoes. With the sauce, it reminded us of what a dry aged steak tasted like, which blew our minds. The potatoes were also delicious. And you can't forget the dessert... we ordered a petite chocolate soufflé with salted caramel anglaise. They recommend ordering as you get your entree as it takes time to prepare. No regrets here as this soufflé was so tasty. I love the warmth of the dessert, and it wasn't too sweet! Chocolate and salted caramel go well together. The crème brulee was amazing. So rich and creamy. Although we were full, we finished our dessert because of how delicious they were.If I could give 10 stars, I would! Will come back again soon."

Club 616

★★★★☆ 4.4 (119) • $$

"Came here to celebrate November birthdays with some coworkers. Super cool to have visited an establishment that has been "serving Santa Ana since 1928".We arrived around 9p, so there wasn't a line outside. The security staff were friendly and welcoming (humbled to still get carded...LOL!). I could only imagine how cool this place must have looked like back in 1928, so fast forward to 2024, the interior was very inviting, dimly lit, with plenty of table and booths inside. There is a spacious patio outside with a DJ playing good music, taco guys serving up some delicious grinds, and a talented local artist doing her thing!The drinks were refreshing and overflowing! Awesome seeing a diverse crowd in there with the common denominator being a great time! Would definitely come back here again!CHEERS till next time!"

South of Nick's

★★★★★ 4.6 • $$

"Came here on a Weds 12:30-1 pm with my husband and I to celebrate my birthday. (They don't give you a little bday celebration pastry btw)We started off with the house margarita. 7/10 ( very on the rocks and zesty tasting)I ordered the queso fundido. I liked it 9.5/10. The tortillas are handmade. So delicious. I just wish it didn't have so much of the secret sauce in it. A little goes a long way for me. (See picture. Cheese almost pink.)My husband loved the chicken flautas. He compared them to Miguel's flautas. He wants to go back just for flautas. 11/10 he said. I got the 2 taco plate with rice and street corn as sides. The street corn tasted like pure sour cream. I didn't eat it. Rice was ok. A little bland. The meat in my tacos was good tho. Overall I would give this plate 6/10. Their refried beans were really good with the chips. Our waitress forgot about us. She had a bigger party but wasn't busy at all. The place was clean and it does have a small ocean view. Bar was cute."

Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar

★★★★☆ 3.7 • $$$

"This is a great spot we stopped in for dinner after walking around the area looking at the Christmas decorations. It was busy but the hostess sat us down within 5 minutes. The restaurant was lively and our waiter was friendly and very attentive. We ordered the lobster roll and burger. The lobster was flavorful but the sauce was a bit thick and overwhelming. My burger was okay, it was also too saucy for me. Presentations were beautifully done though. The drinks we got were an old fashioned and a whisky sour. Amazing drinks!! This was a nice place for our date night out, parking in the area is a bit tricky as it does get packed but just be patient you'll find a spot. Definitely recommend!"

Daimon Japanese Restaurant

★★★★☆ 3.8 (630) • $$

"12/28/23 This was my second time here. Both early dinners. Last time I was here, we did the teppanyaki, but this time, we just sat at a regular table. It's a must to try both. The teppanyaki chef was very entertaining! Food was delicious. I believe my share was around $80. Looking at the menu, I'm sure I ordered the filet minot but we had many drinks that night so that explains it. All I remember was that the service/chef was amazing and the food was so delicious. Today's order was more simple. We ordered the shrimp tempura, Nigiri/sashimi special, and the Friki Tiki, which is crunchy roll topped with seared albacore and 2 bottles of Kikusui sake. Everything was simple but perfect. We made it on time for happy hour so the food items were a little cheaper. Parking lot is limited. I'm sure you can find a spot on the street. If you're using gps, slow down before you come up on the restaurant because it's on pch - a very busy highway. You might miss it! Overall, 10/10. Great food, great service and love the hole in the wall type of vibes. Will definitely be back to try all their other sushi's."

Gourmet Pie & Cafe

★★★★☆ 3.8 • $$

"I've been here countless times since it's my old stomping ground, and it never disappoints. The food is always hot and delicious, and the service is exceptional. I especially love coming here for breakfast. While I wish I lived closer, it's always a top choice whenever I'm in the area. The pancakes and omelets are amazing, the coffee is perfect, and my companions couldn't stop raving about the mimosas.Make sure to try their pies, deliciousness. 12/27/24"

Chako's Social

★★★★☆ 3.7 (119)

"The food was great the atmosphere was awesome and the comedy show was a hit! Great job KJ! The manager Curtis was also very gracious, he came up to our table and introduced himself.Great vibe all around. We will definitely be back!"

Toast Kitchen & Bar

★★★★☆ 4 • $$

"Toast is the perfect brunch spot in Brea!Located super close to the Brea Mall, parking is super easy and it's modern, clear ambiance is fun and relaxing! Service here is pretty average, but nothing to complain about. Since I'm an Eggs Benedict lover that's what I always order and it never disappoints. There's a good selection of brunch/lunch options and everything I've tried has been delightful.If you're looking for a new place to try in the Brea area, definitely put Toast on your bookmark list!"

Jolie Restaurant & Rooftop

★★★★☆ 4.4 (322) • $$$

"My first review for 2025! This place embodies luxury California coastal vibes. Celebrated our friend's birthday here last night and it was amazing. Even though the sun had already set (the view would've been spectacular during sunset), sitting out in the patio overlooking PCH was still really fun. They had plenty of heat lamps so no one was cold. The food was delicious. I had the prime rib, which was a very generous portion (had plenty of leftover for the hubs at home LOL). All our appetizers were yum: tuna crispy rice, goat cheese stuffed artichoke flowers, & ikura potatoes. Friend's rib eye looked mouthwatering and another friend said the pork chop was really good. So everyone was happy with their choices. Cocktails were allllll delicious. Birthday girl's cold brew martini was damn good, but we looked at the menu again, and of course with Bailey's and Kahlua and crème de cacao, of course it was gonna be creamy and sweet. I enjoyed the peach old fashioned, but honestly, all the cocktails sounded good. Service was great. Would definitely come here again. They also validate for 2 hours parking, of which parking was in a garage under the restaurant."

Jane

★★★★☆ 4.4 (101)

"Loved the ambience in here, very lowlight. Candles and little lamps everywhere. We got an espresso martini and a no. 2 which was an earth drink with mezcal. Very good. We came here before we went out to dinner and it definitely set the vibe and mood for the rest of the night. Service was amazing. They gave us water with our drinks and made sure to keep refilling our waters."

Yang Ming Garden

★★★★☆ 4.2 (336) • $$

"Delicious Chinese food. We went here once during 2020 and ordered take out. It was great and decided we wanted to try it again for once they reopened. Don't know why we didn't try it sooner. We went with a group of friends and they accommodated us without a reservation. But next time I would recommend one if you have a party of 6 or more. The dining area is pretty small. Service was fantastic, very attentive and friendly.We shared main dishes and everything was fresh and delicious. We ordered a lot but I tried orange chicken, cashew chicken, chow fun beef. The orange chicken was good, but not the flavor I'm used to, so I probably wouldn't order it again myself. My favorite was the chow fun beef. The beef was very tender and the noodles were delicious. Even talking about it I'd love to have some right now. This will now become one of our regular places to eat. Friday nights can get busy so I'd recommend showing up before 6 to get a seat."

AnQi Bistro

★★★★☆ 3.7 • $$$

"Took my wife here for a date night. Great decision. Atmosphere was great. Service was good. Food was excellent. The lobster dumplings and filet mignon potstickers are a must try! Highly recommend."

Splashes Restaurant

★★★★☆ 4.1 • $$$

"Firstly, valet parking is easily accessible and the view here is beautiful!I love going out on Valentine's Day but my husband always says food and service isn't great anywhere on holidays, and even he was thouroughly surprised by how good this Valentine's Day dinner was!Thank you George for great service, and for the delicious food, all coming out at their right temperatures. My favorite was the oyster trio, and seabass as a main dish. My husband loved the lobster soup and wagyu steak. Good blue cheese olives are a must for me in a martini and they delivered. While the snapper crudo was just ok, the scallop and pork belly were, we both agreed, our favorite dish."

The Lounge at Steakhouse 55

★★★★☆ 4 (41) • $$

"Smiles are always forthcoming while exercising in the happiest place on earth. Wore a skirt with flowing blouse---date night was an active one requiring a 5 mile walk. We took a seat in the luxurious lounge with velvet appointments and ordered from the leather-bound menu book. Someone insisted on the 55 Porterhouse and I had a salad along with a side of truffle macaroni and cheese. Our servers were Rudy and Magic. Water glasses were always full and as usual wine was ordered. Steakhouse 55 has a joyful little lounge full to the brim with regulars overflowing with character.Upon dinner service, all china clinks on the counter at the same time. Service at Disney is like the fine dining restaurant where you are treasured, remembered and given no secret/secrets. Can't finish the gourmet cuisine? We brought some home for family in 3 paper boxes. Environmentally conscious and exceptional. See you soon Magic and Rudy."

Triple Crown Tavern

★★★★★ 4.7 (189) • $$

"I love this place! The food is excellent, the staff are friendly and professional, and it's easy to stay longer than you plan. Conversations with other patrons are always lively and interesting but never contentious. Everyone, staff included, have excellent senses of humor. I want to pay particular compliments to Debbie Diaz (Kuhl), one of bartenders. She is friendly, funny, and fastidious in providing service.I recall Shakespeare's famous line in the Merry Wives of Windsor that recall Ecclesiastes 8:15:"Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labor the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.""

Olive & Rose

★★★★★ 4.5 (49)

"Came for bagels. They only had plain bagels left so I ordered one with black garlic cream cheese and one with smoked fish. They were both delicious. Fish is a little pricey but it's really elevated bagel. Black garlic was unique and had me gobbling the entire thing. Probably not an everyday bagel spot but when I want an elevated bagel I know where to go. Staff was super friendly and the location is in a really cute hotel."