Location: Tustin
Top Restaurants in Tustin
Where to Eat in Tustin: The Best Restaurants and Bars
Tustin is a city located in Orange County, California, in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. As of the census of 2010, Tustin had a population of 75,540. The city is located next to the county seat, Santa Ana, and does not include the Tustin Foothills.
Things to do in Tustin
1. Roma D Italia
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 221 reviews
Reviewed By princpinot - North Tustin
This restaurant has been serving families since 1968 in Old Town Tustin and many customers are regulars. Some families are now bringing in a third generation and this restaurant is ideal for children of all ages. It is "old-school" Italian with red and white checkered table cloths and decor. Many of the wait staff are young people from the area and very polite. The Italian cuisine does not break any new ground, but the food is reliably good, and includes many appetizers, pastas, seafood, pizza and other specialties. The menu is huge with over twenty pastas, both thin and thick crust pizzas with any topping you could want, and ten different preparations of chicken. Prices are inline with most similar Italian restaurants with pastas ranging from $11-$15. The restaurant welcomes large groups and will do off-site catering. Parking can be tight on weekends but there is enough in the surrounding residential streets. Open for lunch Mon-Fri and dinner every day. I believe reservations only for large groups but restaurant is large and waits are reasonable on weekend nights.
2. The Playground
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 200 reviews
NOTE: We're doing major renovations that will require us to close the restaurant from July 18 through July 29. We're sorry if this causes you any convenience. Chef driven, ingredient driven affordable small plates and craft cocktails and beers. A young and creative team of chefs led by Executive Chef, Jason Quinn, change up the menu daily to keep the dining experience fresh and exciting. Orange County's "Best Bartender" making exciting craft cocktails and Santa Ana's best beer program, with 15 craft beers on tap and approximately 60 bottled beers, including many rarities. The dining experience is different at Playground: You're expected to share, so don't think in terms of my dish or your dish, and we're stubborn about our no-modification rule. If you're adventurous you'll probably love it; if you need control over your dish preparation, you probably won't.
Reviewed By SDCA312 - California
Culinary connoisseurs who are looking for a new and unique dining experience will find that and much more at the Playground. Central location with easy parking near by. Order several plates to share from an eclectic menu that changes every day with exotic drinks to match. We had 8 dishes that were interesting and well designed to please the eyes and the palate. No point writing lengthy description of the various dishes – you have to try for yourself an experience that packs a few surprises even for those who tried everything in the past. Can't wait to visit again, worth every penny and a gem for those who love the art of food.
3. Zov's Bistro and Bakery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 200 reviews
Founded in 1987 by Chef Zov Karamardian, legendary Zov's Bistro & Bakery in Tustin, CA has become a culinary institution. Serving her unique cuisine that blends contemporary cuisine with Eastern Mediterranean influences, in an upscale chic environment.
Reviewed By KARXPRT - Tustin, California
Interesting menu with alternative takes on many dishes - think of the cuisine as Mediterranean or Armenian. Lots of hummus alternatives. Kebobs. Lamb. Beef/Chicken kebob was very flavorful. Seared tuna salad looked good, but the tuna was a bit more raw than my tastes. The service was excellent. The space is very nice, but on a very hot day they had the windows open and fans on. Maybe there is no A/C, but the staff and patrons were sweltering. Nice ambience, overall.
4. Rutabegorz Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 148 reviews
Reviewed By CathyO22 - Tustin
Huge menu but I always seem to order one of their fabulous salads. So many fresh flavor combinations. You can't go wrong! Garlic Chicken is one of their most popular.
Each month there is a new appetizer to try. Just had the red pepper dip with crisp pitas. Delicious and under a dollar.
5. Gabbi's Mexican Kitchen
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 277 reviews
GABBI PATRICK is dedicated to integrating moderngastronomy with the indigenous and traditional recipes of Mexicancuisine. In her pursuit of preserving the rich culinary heritage ofMexico, Gabbi has adopted an eco-gastronomic approach in herinterpretation of “Old World” recipes. Her passion and vision arereflected in every detail of her craft, from supporting local farmsto her extensive travels throughout Mexico.
Reviewed By Cynthia S - Los Angeles, California
Very quiet, restaurant had more staff than diners. Two young women who were at front desk made their personal conversation a priority. They seemed annoyed that I asked for a menu and to be seated. Three times I asked for a waiter. Finally Juan announced he would be my server. Initially he was pleasant but that lasted briefly. The black bean soup lacked flavor and was very watery. Juan asked if I wanted chips. I agreed, not knowing there was a separate charge for stale, store bought chips. The salsa was reasonable. I ordered the shrimp tacos, soggy shell, tough watery shrimp which indicated they had been over cooked. The sauce was good but not enough to make up for $17. Three times I tried to get a server's attention. Meantime there still were very few diners. I told a waiter (name not given) that the meal was unacceptable. He shrugged his shoulders and walked away. Juan appeared with the bill and a different attitude. The total for this poor experience was $31.25. Staff said a manager was not available.
I called the next day, the manager wasn't available. A woman who said she was in charge (again no name) became very rude when told of the issues. I gave her my home number and asked for a follow up call. It never happened.
Absolutely a waste of my money and time. I would never go back nor would I recommend this place to anyone. Fast food would be better!
6. Citrus City Grille
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 213 reviews
Lunch & Dinner Lounge Bar Take Out Catering Banquets Brunch Buffets (Weekend)
Reviewed By 65oski - Irvine, California
OK, we didn't actually visit the restaurant, but my son and his wife hosted Thanksgiving dinner with food from Citrus City Grille. It started with butternut squash soup followed by a full Thanksgiving table with salad, mashed potatoes, candied yams, roast Turkey with stuffing, gravy, and bread with balsamic vinaigrette. Everything tasted wonderful there was plenty of food to serve seven adults. All of this was followed by an apple and a pumpkin pie. It was just like a home cooked meal without all the preparation.
7. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 156 reviews
Known for bringing a taste of Wine Country to the heart of Orange County, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar at The District in Tustin has been named "Restaurant of the Year" by the Orange County Concierge Association multiple times since opening. Led by Partners JC Clow, William Lewis and Yvon Goetz, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar pairs contemporary California regional cuisine, with a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, to create a cutting-edge dining experience. <br> <br>Executive Chef & Partner, Yvon Goetz, is considered one of the most highly decorated chefs in Southern California and his menu incorporates many selections from the restaurant's expansive wine list, which currently offers 650 selections, offering diners a wide range of varietals from around the world. The restaurant's 800-square-foot visible, climate-controlled cellar holds up to 6,500 bottles!
Reviewed By Jim C - Anaheim, California
This is the type of restaurant that can break your heart! As a top end restaurant, expectations are high as many patrons come to celebrate special occasions and can easily be disappointed. Well, I have to admit that, as the birthday boy when we came, I fell into that category and I definitely was NOT disappointed! The Winery met or exceeded all expectations! From the onion tart (pizza) to the ribeye steak, to the desert, everything was wonderfully prepared and bursting with great flavor. Yes, it was expensive but then that's why they can break your heart when they fail! The Winery did not fail us and we'd definitely go back.
8. Lucille's Smokehouse BBQ
Overall Ratings
4 based on 235 reviews
Reviewed By SouthwestDude - Tustin, California
I usually go here with my friends for lunch. Everyone enjoys the food and good BBQ in Southern California isn't always easy to find. The food here is consistently good and the biscuits, well, the biscuits are addictive.
Sometimes there is a long wait here and I have wondered why when I see so many empty tables. Perhaps they are short handed? That being said the staff is typically congenial and helpful. I am a fan of the brisket and tri-tip salad. Both are excellent dishes and highly recommended.
The prices here are a bit on the expensive side but parking is great (and free) and portions are large.
9. Christakis Greek Cuisine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 59 reviews
On April 1, 1996, Yanoula Christakis Wallace opened the doors of Christakis, a restaurant that represented her homeland and the passion she felt towards her culture. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or celebrating a special event, Christakis Greek Cuisine is the place to enjoy traditional Greek dishes at a reasonable price. Since 1996, we’ve used only the finest and freshest ingredients to create traditional Greek cuisine. Today, the family at Christakis continues to bring the authentic spirit and warmth of Greece to Orange County.
Reviewed By Lydia T - Tustin, California
I have been at this restaurant several times and visited with two other friends for lunch on a Tuesday. I was delighted with the service and it looked very good for my friends that I chose this restaurant. the food is very consistent and the service was outstanding. Our server was very attentive, respectful and friendly.
10. Snooze an AM Eatery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 58 reviews
Snooze an AM Eatery seeks to evolve the A.M. dining experience through culinary innovation, an eclectic and energetic atmosphere and comfortable and friendly service. We celebrate each day and invite our guests to do the same. Snooze believes in doing the responsible thing for people and the planet. From composting and recycling about 90% of our waste to focusing on resource conservation and usin
Reviewed By Phi S - Bangkok, Thailand
We came here for brunch around 11am on a Friday and there was a long queue - a good sign.
We ordered pancakes, eggs, burrito wrap, french toast and grilled cheese with tomato soup. The portion of the food was huge and all of them tasted delicious.
Definitely worth the wait!
