22 Best Restaurants in Placentia, CA

Arabella Cruz

Aug 6, 2023 • 22 min read

There's something about the warm, orange sunsets of Placentia that perfectly complements the rich and diverse flavors of this charming California city.

With each crack of dawn, I find myself anticipating the day's culinary adventure.

Whether it's the sizzling sound of fresh ingredients hitting the pan, the tantalizing aroma wafting from a neighborhood bakery, or the vibrant colors of locally grown produce at the farmers market, food is an integral part of life here in Placentia.

And trust me; there's nothing quite like exploring the city's thriving food scene.

It's a tale of tradition, innovation, and everything in between.

So, get ready to embark on a delicious journey as we discover the best restaurants in Placentia, California.

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About this article: This article was written by a local contributor based on their own experiences and those around them. While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note that this is an opinion piece, and there are many other exceptional dining establishments that are not featured here.
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself

The Power Club

There's nothing like the sweet satisfaction you get after a great workout at The Power Club.

It's like a sanctuary for both my body and my palate.

The minute I walk in, I am greeted by an infectious positive energy that is as refreshing as their shakes and teas.

I often find myself stopping by after a strenuous session at the gym or even on a lazy Sunday afternoon when my sweet tooth strikes.

The best part?

It's all guilt-free!

Their shakes are not only a delight to my taste buds but also a fuel for my body.

Their teas, too, are a must-try.

The flavors are rich, and the aroma is invigorating.

It's a one-stop shop for a healthy, post-workout refreshment.

But the Power Club is not just about shakes and teas.

They add an extra layer of care by offering appointments for body composition and macro consultation.

I’ve never been anywhere that combines such amazing service with delicious, nutritious offerings.

Campitelli Cookies Placentia

Every once in a while, I find myself at Campitelli Cookies Placentia, a gem tucked away in our quaint little city that serves up the most delightful cookies you'll ever taste.

As always, he provided excellent service, balancing professionalism with a warm, inviting demeanor.

On this occasion, I decided to give their Italian wedding soup a try - a delicious decision, I must say.

The soup was hearty, flavorful, and comfortingly reminiscent of an authentic Italian kitchen.

But visiting Campitelli's wouldn't be complete without tasting their famed cookies.

Apart from their regular assortment, I have a sweet spot for their "misfits," day-old or slightly damaged cookies that are as delightful as their more perfect counterparts.

Believe me when I say there's something uniquely satisfying about snagging these delicious treats at a bargain.

The butter toffee cookies, in particular, are something of a must-try.

A bite into these cookies reveals a perfect blend of sweetness and buttery goodness that is both indulgent and comforting.

And if you're in the mood for something a bit more substantial, their sandwiches are definitely worth exploring.

Being conveniently located, it's also a great stop post a hike in the Chino Hills or Carbon Canyon.

Susie's Freeze

There's no denying it; Susie's Freeze has a special place in my heart.

Every time I want to treat myself, I know where to go.

Their chocolate soft serve is something dreams are made of.

And here's the kicker - they offer it as a topping for my favorite dessert, the banana split!

Not many ice cream places around here do that.

This family-run joint has a personalized touch that's hard to resist.

The son, who's often at the counter, is such a warm person.

He always welcomes everyone with open arms and a smile.

It's no wonder I and many others have been frequenting this place for years.

But it’s not just about the desserts here.

They’ve got some pretty impressive food, too – I mean, where else can you get a tender combo for just $6.99?

Plus, the nostalgic, old-timey vibe of the place adds to its charm.

It's like stepping back in time; only the food is much better.

JD's WINGZ & THINGZ

There's a little gem of a place in our neighborhood that has become a go-to for me and my friends, JD's WINGZ & THINGZ.

You wouldn't believe the kind of flavors they pack into their wings!

I remember the first time I stepped into JD's; the vibe felt like stepping into a music video, a throwback to the 90's hip hop era, with cool beats filling the air.

You can check out their site here.

I've often ordered the 7-wing combo, a hearty meal that comes with a side of fries.

The lemon pepper and honey bbq wings are, believe me, a revelation.

The tanginess of the lemon pepper perfectly balances out the sweetness of the bbq sauce.

The wings were so flavorful and juicy that I didn't mind that the fries were soft.

The thing about JD's is not just the food but the overall experience.

And while you're waiting for your food, you can indulge in a friendly game of Connect 4.

Fiesta Imperial

Let me take you on a culinary journey to one of my favorite spots in the city- Fiesta Imperial.

Tucked in the heart of our city, this family-run diner has always been my go-to place for authentic Mexican food.

Trust me when I say their Tacos are to die for!

The first time I visited Fiesta Imperial, I was instantly charmed by their fast and friendly service.

I remember ordering a meal to go, and before I had time to sip my drink at the counter, my food was ready.

My second visit to Fiesta Imperial came after almost a year.

Can't believe I let that much time pass by before returning!

Let me tell you, their Taco Tuesday deal is fantastic.

Not only are the tacos packed with meat but they're offered at a great price too.

I called and ordered ahead, and by the time I made it to the restaurant, my food was ready.

Their service, as always, was top-notch and very friendly.

Sake Sushi & Grill

What's a better way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon than indulging in some delicious sushi at Sake Sushi & Grill?

It was yet another beautiful day in the neighborhood, and, as usual, the restaurant was bustling with activity.

Expecting nothing less from this staple of our community, I was met with the familiar warmth of exceptional service.

One thing that consistently stands out at Sake Sushi & Grill is their unique ginger mustard oil dressing.

The fusion of ginger's hint of spice and mustard's tanginess, alongside the subtle richness of the oil, is simply irresistible.

It's a small detail that adds a huge kick to their salads, making them a must-have before digging into the main course.

The food, as always, was top-notch.

Each piece of sushi was delicately crafted, with an excellent balance of flavors that made my taste buds celebrate.

I must admit, I was so excited to devour the sushi that I completely forgot to take photos.

The only photo evidence of my visit is the beer we ordered - a classic choice for a laid-back lunch.

Their exceptional friendliness is always the cherry on top.

It adds to the overall pleasant atmosphere that makes you want to come back time and again.

Mini Gourmet

What a joy it is to begin my day at the beloved Mini Gourmet!

The minute I step into this charming breakfast haven, I'm greeted by an amiable crowd and a mix of cheerful elderly locals.

Mini Gourmet is famed not just for its warm and friendly ambiance but for its mouthwatering menu too.

Their French toast is unsurpassed and is an absolute must-try.

But my personal favorite, a hidden gem, if you will, is their salsa.

It's not listed on the menu, but trust me, a request for it will be met with a knowing nod.

This salsa is an explosion of flavors, perfect for drizzling over just about everything from omelets to breakfast burritos.

This quaint restaurant isn't just a breakfast spot; it’s the heart of Placentia.

Afternoon hunger pangs are just as efficiently quashed here.

The Tuna Melt and the California Chicken Sandwich are crowd favorites and for a good reason.

City Bagel

I'm no stranger to waking up before the sun rises, a habit born out of necessity but also a secret pleasure of mine.

I've always found solace in the quiet hours of the morning, accompanied by a fresh cup of coffee and an equally satisfying breakfast.

And the best place to satiate these morning cravings?

City Bagel, of course.

Type "breakfast sandwich near me" into your search bar, and you'll find this gem.

Nestled in the heart of the city, this quaint and cozy bagel shop is where my mornings transform into something truly delightful.

They manage the till, taking orders with a warm smile, all while simultaneously crafting their magic in the kitchen.

The aroma of freshly baked bagels, a tantalizing scent I've come to cherish, wafts out from the ovens, inviting you to delve into its gastronomic wonders.

I've sampled quite a fare from their menu, but my heart always returns to the lox bagel.

An explosion of flavors, it's the perfect blend of a classic bagel with a generous helping of delicious lox.

On the days when I fancy a touch of sweetness, their blueberry muffin never fails to hit the spot.

And then, there's the coffee.

A brew so perfect; it's as if the beans themselves were plucked, roasted, and ground for your individual cup.

The way it invigorates the senses is the perfect complement to the bagel or muffin du jour.

An added delight is the charming outdoor seating area, a tranquil spot where I enjoy my bagel and coffee, all while watching the city stir awake.

This makes it a go-to spot for locals like me, a place to unwind, even if for a brief moment before the day's hullabaloo takes over.

B & C Burgers

Sometimes, the universe conspires to lead you to unexpected culinary delights.

That's what happened when a random shopping trip led me right to the doorstep of B & C Burgers.

Being a spontaneous person, I just walked in, not knowing that I was about to be introduced to some of the most flavorful street tacos I've ever had.

The Al Pastor and Chicken Tacos were a revelation - beautifully cooked meat, tender and bursting with flavors, and the salsas were just the cherry on top. sauce.

It was a stark contrast to the delightful tacos I had savored.

The ambiance is warm, with a spacious dining room and an outdoor seating area.

It's a place that I'll be frequenting more, exploring more of their offerings, and hoping to discover more gems like their street tacos.

Tony's Little Italy

You haven't truly experienced the magic of Anaheim until you've dug into a slice of deep-dish pizza at Tony's Little Italy.

This place has been my go-to for years, not just because they offer the best Chicago-style pies in the city.

I remember the first time I stepped into Tony's; it felt like a cozy sports bar, complete with TVs, drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere.

But let's talk about the real star of Tony's - the pizza.

The crust is always baked to perfection with that satisfying crunch around the edges.

The toppings are piled high, and the sauce is a tangy delight - a true taste explosion.

I'm in love with their Pepperoni deep dish, which in my opinion, is simply out of this world!

A word of advice - Tony's is a popular spot, especially on nights and weekends.

Fresh Off The Boat Fish Grill

You bet I've eaten fish, but not like this.

Fresh Off The Boat Fish Grill is a little gem you stumble upon, tucked away in the heart of our city.

One afternoon, I was driving down the street when I caught sight of this quaint eatery.

My curiosity piqued, I decided to give it a shot a few days later, and boy, am I glad I did!

The restaurant has this warm, inviting atmosphere, and the star of the show is, without a doubt, its tasty fare.

I remember ordering the two taco plates, which surprisingly turned out to be quite a meal for one person.

The balance of rice and beans was just right, leaving ample room for me to savor the delicately seasoned fish.

But what strikes me the most is their hot, orange salsa.

Don't go by the word 'hot'; it's nowhere near fiery.

However, it pairs beautifully with the fish, adding just the right amount of zing to the meal.

They guided me through the menu, helping me pick something that would suit my palette.

The outdoor patio is a charming spot, perfect for a laid-back lunch under the sun.

It’s a place I look forward to visiting again soon, especially now when the weather is nice.

Yasai Grill

It was an ordinary afternoon when I stumbled upon Yasai Japanese Grill in Northern Orange County.

The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with a warm, friendly atmosphere.

The menu offered a variety of delicious Japanese dishes.

My partner and I decided to try the beef and chicken combo, listed as number 18 on their menu.

To our surprise, the serving size was larger than we expected.

For about $15, we were served a hefty combo meal that came with two different types of salad — kale and romaine lettuce — and a side of rice.

Both salads were fresh, and a four-piece California roll complemented the meal beautifully.

But the true star of the show was the meat.

The beef and chicken were cooked to perfection, tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

I also indulged in their pork Katsu with curry, which was equally mouth-watering.

The flavors brought back fond memories of my grandmother's home-cooked Japanese meals — a testament to Yasai's authentic taste.

Mi Casita

You know when you stumble upon a place so good you almost don't want to share it for fear that it'll become too popular?

That's how I feel about Mi Casita.

Nestled on Santa Fe Street in old-town Placentia, this gem has become my ultimate go-to for authentic Mexican food.

The menu is a culinary journey through Mexico, with so many delicious options that it took me many visits before I was able to narrow down my favorite dishes - Camaron a la diabla and the Mi Casita molcajete.

Just be warned - the Camaron a la diabla is not for the faint-hearted, it's spicy, but oh, it burns so good.

What sets the place apart is the fact that they offer handmade corn tortillas - a little detail that makes a world of difference.

I've become such a regular here that they recognize me and my family on sight.

Now, I know some of you might be die-hard El Farolito fans, but I urge you to give Mi Casita a try - you won't be disappointed.

It's the kind of place that makes you realize what you've been missing out on.

It's not just the food that keeps me coming back; it's the unbeatable prices and the excellent service.

I've had zero complaints in all my visits, and I don't see that changing anytime soon.

Even when we had to wait longer than expected for our order once, they more than made up for it by adding guacamole and chips to our order for free.

301 Cafe

Every week, it's become a ritual to swing by 301 Cafe, a quaint spot in the heart of our city, run by a delightful elderly couple.

Their food, especially Mexican cuisine, is a symphony of authentic flavors.

Their Chili Verde Wet Burrito has become my die-hard favorite, and the added touch of sour cream really takes it to another level.

Don't expect a swanky ambiance here; it's a simple, homely place — a bit worn, perhaps, but the faded charm only adds to the appeal.

It's not about the interiors but the food that keeps pulling you back.

Make no mistake, though; this place is not for the faint-hearted, especially their fiery hot salsa that comes with chips, pickled carrots, a jalapeno, and smooth guacamole.

The Ground Beef Tacos and the Chile Rellano come highly recommended by regular patrons, and I can't wait to try them next.

El Cantarito

You know, there's just something about the familiar comfort and taste of my favorite Mexican joint, El Cantarito, that keeps me coming back week after week.

You can find out more about them at El Cantarito's website.

It's a casual spot, and yet they serve up the most sumptuous Mexican classics with a flair that rivals gourmet kitchens.

Every week, they have specials on tacos and drinks, and I never pass up the chance to indulge.

Their soft tacos are a thing of beauty.

I can never get enough of the meat they use – rich in flavor, wonderfully tender, and cooked to absolute perfection.

The enchiladas are another favorite of mine, filled with a hearty helping of delicious fillings and blanketed in the delightful flavor of their homemade sauce.

What really stands out at El Cantarito, though, is the service.

El Farolito

There's a bustling little corner in the city that has been my go-to spot for traditional Mexican food, and it's called El Farolito Mexican Restaurant.

Now, I've lost count of the number of times I've been there, but each visit has been nothing short of a delight.

The first thing to hit my taste buds and leave me craving more is their house rice and beans, a signature dish that sets El Farolito apart.

But if you ask me to pick a favorite- tough call, but it has to be the arroz y pollo.

You see, the salsa they serve is magnificently spicy, adding an extra kick to every bite that keeps me coming back for more.

You're always greeted with a warm smile and treated like a valued guest.

The casual ambiance adds to the charm of this place, making it a hidden treasure in our city.

But if you're a fan of bold, meaty flavors, El Farolito's carnitas are a must-try.

Order them crispy, and you're in for a treat.

And God, the beans and rice they serve!

They're prepared with lard, which significantly enhances the flavor making even the most forgettable sides stand out.

One word of advice, though, try not to fill up on their chips and salsa before the main course arrives.

The portions are generous, and you wouldn't want to miss out on the good stuff, would you?

And, if you're planning trips to Disneyland or Knotts Berry Farm, it's the perfect spot to fuel up beforehand.

Other Restaurants Nearby

Shorty'z (Fullerton)

Let me tell you about my favorite breakfast spot, Shorty'z.

It's a modest, low-key establishment, but don't let its unpretentious exterior fool you - the food here is anything but ordinary.

They serve your typical American breakfast and lunch comfort staples with a delightful spin that leaves your palate craving more.

My weekend ritual starts with their breakfast burritos - they're downright incredible!

Generous in size, packed with flavor, and not greasy in the least.

And then there are the pancakes.

I thought I knew pancakes until I tried theirs - they're simply the best I've ever had.

Soft, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweetness.

You'd think they've got a secret recipe handed down through generations.

But wait, there's more!

They serve fantastic French toast and a soul-warming biscuit and gravy.

Everything here is just wonderful.

And the portion sizes?

They're so generous; you'd think you're at your grandma's house.

They're incredibly friendly and attentive.

They take your order with a smile and are always there to refill your coffee when you need it.

The place is also impeccably clean, so you can enjoy your meal without worry in the world.

And the best part?

Shorty'z isn't just for dining in.

Their phone and pick-up service is top-notch.

Even during rush hour, they manage to be friendly and efficient.

It's no wonder I keep coming back here weekend after weekend.

The Good Fish and Noodles (Fullerton)

When it comes to sushi cravings, there's one place that always hits the spot for me - "The Good Fish and Noodles."

I still remember my first visit to this delightful restaurant.

It was a chilly evening, and I found myself yearning for something warm and comforting.

Intrigued by the name, my partner and I decided to visit The Good Fish and Noodles, and it was love at first bite!

Our culinary voyage began with a steaming cup of winter melon tea, a perfect antidote to the cold weather outside.

I found the tea absolutely delicious, with my partner even adding fresh boba to hers for an extra flavor punch.

Wanting to keep up with the theme, we opted for the quintessential California rolls for our first course.

They were genuinely palatable - a perfect balance of flavors that had us reaching for more.

As we moved on to the dumplings in chili sauce, we were pleasantly surprised by the zesty kick it added to our meal.

Each dumpling was a bundle of flavor, leaving us no choice but to devour them eagerly.

However, the star of the show was undoubtedly the seafood ramen.

Laden with shrimp, salmon, veggies, and crab, each spoonful was a revelation of flavors.

With every bite, it felt like we were being transported to a different culinary world.

Ensenada's Surf N Turf Grill (Fullerton)

Every now and then, I find myself craving some fresh seafood tacos.

When that craving hits, I don't hesitate to drive to my favorite spot.

You guessed it, Ensenada's Surf N Turf Grill.

It has become somewhat of a tradition.

Whether it's the dedicated parking spots or the clean, albeit chilly, atmosphere inside, there's something about this spot that keeps me coming back.

This isn't just any taco joint; Ensenada's takes it to another level.

My usual order includes salmon, fish, and baja, all grilled to perfection.

I appreciate the generous portions of seafood stuffed into each taco, a pleasant surprise compared to your run-of-the-mill traditional tacos.

And let's not forget the size; each taco is so big that it is practically a meal on its own.

Price-wise, you might find it a tad expensive at about $15 per taco.

But when you compare it to today's prices and the quality you'd find at fast food joints, it's actually quite reasonable.

Ensenada’s ambiance is comfortable, lively, and always teeming with happy customers.

Brian's Original Sports Bar (Fullerton)

Oh, the memories I've created at Brian's Original Sports Bar!

This is the kind of place where everyone might not know your name, but they sure do recognize your face.

As someone who's been frequenting this cozy sports bar for years, I can't help but feel a little nostalgic whenever I think about the good times I've had there.

Brian's is decked out with sports memorabilia, creating an atmosphere that makes even a casual sports fan feel at home.

And if you're a big sports fan like me, you might never want to leave.

The TVs are perfectly placed so you can catch the game from any spot in the bar, but the real gem is the billiard table.

There's nothing like a good game of pool to spice up a night out with friends.

I must give a special shout-out to the food and drinks on offer.

The beer is always cold, and the pub eats are quite delicious.

But the star of the show is definitely Brian's bbq ribs.

These are not just any ribs; they are, hands down, the best in the city.

Mr. Katsu (Fullerton)

When I thought I knew every sandwich shop in Fullerton, California, I stumbled upon Mr. Katsu.

Unassuming at first glance, this venue packs a punch with its innovative Asian fusion sandwiches.

The place is simple and unfussy, with a spare eating area.

But, let me tell you, it's the food that will truly grab your attention.

The first thing that surprised me was the size of the sandwiches.

They are large and substantial enough to leave you feeling gratified.

The unique combination of ingredients is also a fascinating twist to the usual sandwich fare.

My favorite sandwich so far?

The pesto habanero.

After trying this, I haven't even bothered to explore the rest of the menu - it's just that good!

I've heard from some friends that other options are equally tantalizing, but I can't bring myself to order anything else.

Juicyladas Cantina (Fullerton)

Every time I step into Juicyladas Cantina, I feel like I've been teleported to a culinary haven.

They go above and beyond to make you feel welcome and answer any queries, all the while giving you a sneak peek into the restaurant's journey and future events!

The food, oh the food!

Every bite is a tantalizing explosion of flavors that leaves you craving for more.

The carne asada deluxe is cooked to sheer perfection - flavorful, juicy, and tender.

It's the kind of food that makes you want to savor every bite, relishing the burst of flavors that follow.

The chilaquiles, doused in a sauce that's bursting with flavor, are equally mouthwatering.

And if you're looking for breakfast options, their burrito is a hit!

It's massive, loaded with filling, and absolutely delicious.

Their drinks are equally impressive and beautifully presented.

The carne asada roll is a must-try.

It's a creative twist on asada with sushi, and trust me, it's every bit as delicious as it sounds.

And to top it all off, their desserts are just the perfect sweet ending to an incredible meal.

Juicyladas Cantina also caters to the foodie in you, offering a menu that's refreshingly different yet delightfully delicious.

I remember trying their Chili Relleno Taco with pork belly and crispy shrimp taco for the first time and being pleasantly surprised by how delectable they were.

Final Thoughts

Being a part of this vibrant neighborhood in Placentia, California, has certainly enhanced my palette with the variety of cuisines and dining experiences it offers.

Every visit to these restaurants has been a delightful culinary journey, and I am sure, as you explore them, you will find your favorites among this list.

There is always something new and exciting awaiting me on my gastronomical adventures, and I love that I can always count on these spots for a satisfying and delicious meal.

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