25 Best Restaurants in Westminster, CA
This article was written by local contributor Lucas Martinez & edited by the Travel Lens team.
From scrumptious Vietnamese cuisine to mouth-watering Mexican dishes, there truly is a taste for every palate.
So, if you're looking for the ultimate dining experience, buckle up and get ready to explore the best restaurants in Westminster, California, with me.
Shinobu Japanese BBQ
Last weekend, my friends and I decided to visit Shinobu Japanese BBQ for a fun dining experience.
I had heard good things about this place, and I must say it lived up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed was how spacious and informal the restaurant was, making it a great spot for families and groups.
We chose the all-you-can-eat option, which turned out to be a great value for our group of big eaters.
The meat quality was top-notch and fresh, and the variety of sides, appetizers, and ice cream was impressive compared to other similar establishments.
The best part was the grill-your-own Japanese BBQ, which made for a fun and interactive meal.
During our visit, we witnessed an unexpected dinner show when one of the tables got completely engulfed in flames!
The 90-minute time limit for all-you-can-eat was just right, and we indeed got our money's worth.
Yamas Teriyaki
One of my favorite places to grab a bite in OC is definitely Yamas Teriyaki.
I can't help but visit this amazing restaurant every time I'm in the area.
In fact, it has become my absolute favorite spot for teriyaki dishes!
The last time I went there, I opted for the spicy pork and chicken - and let me tell you, it was absolutely scrumptious.
The flavors were spot-on, and the spicy kick was just right.
If you haven't tried their spicy pork yet, I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a try.
Yamas Teriyaki is also my go-to place for chicken bowls.
The chicken has that delightful smoky taste, and the portion sizes are just perfect.
I've also tried their gyozas, which are equally delicious.
It can get a bit busy at times, so I always recommend calling ahead to place your order.
The lady who usually takes my order is awesome and always has a smile on her face.
Kenshō Vegan Sushi
I have to admit, I was skeptical when I first walked into Kenshō, a casual Japanese vegan restaurant right in my neighborhood.
As an avid sushi lover, I couldn't imagine a plant-based sushi experience that could compare to the traditional one.
However, I am happy to say that I was proven wrong!
With their plentiful plates of plant-based sushi, not only do they cater to vegans, but they've also managed to impress even a non-vegan like me.
The first thing I noticed when I walked in was the clean, aesthetically pleasing interior.
As I scanned through their menu, which can be found on their Instagram @kenshovegansushi, I was amazed at the variety they offered.
When my food arrived, I was genuinely impressed by the flavors and textures they achieved using plant-based ingredients.
Ham 'n Scram
I absolutely love starting my day with a delicious breakfast from Ham 'n Scram.
Their breakfast burritos are truly one of the best in OC, loaded with ham and bacon – a real treat for my taste buds.
All I need to do is order "one burrito, please," and my morning is complete.
The salsa they serve with the burritos is just the perfect topping and seriously elevates the flavor.
But it's not just the food that keeps me coming back to Ham 'n Scram.
The customer service here is outstanding.
Taco Grill
The other day, I decided to satisfy my craving for Mexican food and headed over to Taco Grill.
This cozy spot can be found on Google Maps if you're ever in the area and looking for a tasty bite.
I was pleasantly surprised by the family feel of the place, which seemed like everyone knew each other - it's always nice to see a strong sense of community.
I ordered the blackened fish tacos, which turned out to be amazing.
As I dug in, I couldn't help but overhear some other patrons talking about their experiences.
One person praised the shrimp, rice, and beans.
Mr. Shawarma
Ever since I moved to the neighborhood, I've been on the lookout for a place that serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.
One evening, I stumbled across Mr. Shawarma in a nearby shopping mall, and I cannot recommend it enough.
I remember my first visit vividly; I ordered their shawarma, and it was a mouthwatering trip down memory lane.
The taste was so fresh and authentic that it instantly reminded me of the flavors I enjoyed growing up.
The food is always flavorful and satisfying, making it a go-to spot for me whenever I crave Mediterranean cuisine.
Kabab Grill Restaurant
Let me tell you about my recent experience at Kabab Grill Restaurant in Westminster.
I was craving some Mediterranean food, and this functional counter-serve eatery was just what I needed.
The menu offers a variety of basic Mediterranean grub, such as hummus and chicken shawarma.
The first thing I noticed upon entering was the cleanliness of the restaurant.
The tables and the soda machine were all clean, and I appreciated the free refill on drinks.
I ordered a wrap with chicken shawarma, which was absolutely delicious.
The service was friendly and efficient.
I've heard from friends that their dine-in experience is equally enjoyable, with large servings and super fresh sides.
Although I've only taken food to go, I look forward to trying their lamb shank plate and garlic sauce during a future visit.
Uncle Pete's Cafe
One of my favorite spots to grab a bite in town is Uncle Pete's Cafe.
Their fish sandwich is absolutely delicious, with crispy fried fish pieces that never get soggy.
I've also tried their country-fried steak, which is a bit thin, but the gravy makes up for it.
A friend of mine really enjoyed the combo omelet, although he mentioned it was a bit smaller than before.
The atmosphere at Uncle Pete's is nice and relaxed, with efficient and kind service.
The place can get quite busy, and it's a seat-yourself system, so be prepared to wait a bit during peak hours.
They also offer daily specials on the board, and it's worth noting that they're open for dinner as well.
Pho Akaushi
I recently visited Pho Akaushi for a meal, and I must say, it's one of the hidden gems in our neighborhood.
The moment I walked in, I noticed how clean and spacious the place was.
The front receptionist welcomed me with a warm smile and led me to a comfortable booth.
I decided to try their signature dish, the Pho Akaushi Combo, which was an absolute delight.
The Wagyu beef was cooked to perfection, and the broth was rich and flavorful.
I also ordered some fries on the side, which were tasty, though they needed a little salt.
To quench my thirst, I went for Thai Tea, and it was the perfect blend of sweet and creamy.
Another highlight of my visit was their house-made Sriracha Sauce, which added the right amount of heat to my meal.
It was a fun and refreshing change from my usual dining experiences.
Pam's Place
One of my favorite breakfast spots in the area is Pam's Place.
I've been going there for quite some time now, and it never disappoints.
The food is consistently delicious, with large portions that can easily be shared.
My personal favorite is the corned beef hash & eggs, which I highly recommend trying if you haven't already.
They have both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can choose whichever setting you prefer.
Another thing that always stands out to me is the cleanliness of their restrooms.
They are not only well-decorated but also spotless, which is a big plus in my book.
Renato's Restaurant and Catering
There's no better place to satisfy my Italian food cravings than Renato's Restaurant and Catering.
Whenever I feel like treating myself to a delicious and authentic Italian meal, this cozy spot is my go-to restaurant.
The last time I dined here, I ordered the chicken fettuccine, and I have to say, it's the best I've ever had in town.
The spaghetti with marinara and grilled chicken is also a must-have, as the homemade sauce adds a special touch to the dish.
Apart from the mouth-watering entrees, the garlic bread is always perfectly toasty and soft.
What sets Renato's apart is not only the quality of their food but also the exceptional service they provide.
It's also great to see how they prepare the food in the small open kitchen, and the pizza oven right in front truly brings an authentic Italian charm to the place.
Shinobu Shabu
I frequently visit Shinobu Shabu, and I must say, the drive of 45 minutes to an hour is absolutely worth it.
Every time I visit, I'm impressed by the incredible food and fantastic service.
When I went for dinner at around 5 pm, I was seated immediately.
Being allergic to some foods, I appreciated the guidance on which items to avoid.
I ordered the Kombu seaweed broth with short ribs, while my cousin chose prime rib.
Along with the main dish, we got a plate of veggies and a bowl of rice.
The delicious broth was flavored with garlic and green onions.
One of the most amazing things about Shinobu Shabu is their all-you-can-eat option.
They offer you good portions, allowing you to order up to three rounds, with a 90-minute time limit.
And to top off the great meal, they even provide ice cream as a dessert!
Poke Haus
I recently decided to try out Poke Haus for the first time, and I was pleasantly surprised by my experience.
I ordered two large bowls and found the fish to be incredibly fresh, and the variety was impressive.
They had yellowtail (hamachi), tuna, salmon, spicy tuna, octopus, and shrimp, and it didn't leave me wanting more.
The portions were generous, and the flavor was fantastic.
That said, the food was delightful, the portions were ample, and it was quite yummy overall.
I have eaten at Poke Haus a handful of times now, and it has become one of my favorite poke spots in town.
During my most recent visit, they had a seasonal option of adding mango to the poke bowl, and it was absolutely delicious!
I can't wait to bring my partner here to try it as well.
The friendly service and vast array of options make Poke Haus a must-visit for any local looking to satisfy their poke cravings.
Freshco Mexican Grill
I recently decided to try out Freshco Mexican Grill in my neighborhood shopping center, and I must say, it was a delightful experience.
The service was quick and friendly, and the food tasted fresh and delicious.
One thing that caught my attention was their interesting smoothies menu.
I tried the Date, Walnuts, Almond Milk, Strawberries, and Banana smoothie, and it was absolutely delightful.
It was totally worth the $8.99 price.
From salads to burritos to carne asada fries, Freshco Mexican Grill offers a wide variety of options to choose from.
Big Rob's Pizzeria
Oh man, I've been going to Big Rob's Pizzeria for quite some time now, and I must say, their breaded mozzarella sticks are to die for!
The crunchiness and the perfect temperature make them stand out from any others I've tried.
The marinara and ranch sauces that come with them just elevate the experience even more.
Although the place itself is quite small, I usually just grab my order to go.
I've also tried their pizza once, and it wasn't really up to the mark for me, but those mozzarella sticks keep me coming back.
Recently, I went there craving a pizza, and I got the works Sicilian.
I must admit, it was so tasty!
Their soda choices are limited to cans, but they do offer a massive pizza for around $50 if you're in the mood for a thin-crust fresh pizza.
D Thai Chinese Restaurant
I can't believe I only recently stumbled upon D Thai Chinese Restaurant.
The place is small and only offers take-out, but that didn't bother me at all since the focus here is on the incredible food.
I tried their pork larb, and I must say it was exquisite.
The flavors were just perfect – not too salty, not too bland, and cooked to perfection.
The food felt so fresh as well since they prepare your meal as soon as you place your order.
It's no wonder this place has become a hidden gem in the neighborhood.
The fact that they only accept cash adds to the authentic, hole-in-the-wall charm of this restaurant.
I'm definitely going to be a regular customer at D Thai Chinese Restaurant now.
I can't wait to try some of their other dishes, like the extra spicy row boat, green curry, and tom yum.
Pho 101
I recently discovered a hidden gem in our neighborhood, Pho 101.
It's located just off the 405 and Beach, near Edinger.
I heard that it's one of the offspring of the famous Pho 79, so I decided to give it a try.
You can check their website here.
From the moment I walked in, the decor was newer and cleaner than other pho places I've been to.
The best part, of course, was the pho itself.
The broth was delicious, and I could definitely taste the strong bone-marinated flavor that had been cooking overnight.
I chose the medium size with four proteins, and the portion was quite generous for just $13.1.
One thing that really stood out to me was their egg rolls - they make them with meat instead of just vegetables, which I absolutely loved.
Dino's Italian Restaurant
I'm always on the lookout for a great spot to satisfy my Italian food cravings, and Dino's Italian Restaurant has become a favorite for me and my family.
You can check out their menu here.
Located in a strip mall, the space might be no-frills, but the food is anything but.
From the cheesy, thick, and soft pizzas to the jumbo calzones, pasta, and wings, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
One thing I particularly love about Dino's is the freshness of their ingredients.
The meatballs are big, juicy, and full of flavor, making me wish I had ordered a plate of spaghetti to go with them!
The pizza is another standout, with options to customize it with toppings like chicken, mushroom, pineapple, spinach, and cilantro.
Aside from the delicious food, the atmosphere is casual and welcoming.
There's a small arcade area at the entrance, and during the holidays, they set up a beautiful Christmas tree.
I also appreciate the daily specials they offer, except on Fridays and Saturdays, making it an affordable option for a night out or a family dinner.
Peking Restaurant
Peking Restaurant never disappoints!
I have been coming to this restaurant for 40 years already, and it's still my go-to spot for traditional Chinese favorites.
Their eggplant basil with pork is hands down the best around.
You can find their location on Google Maps here.
One time, I was craving some wood ear mushrooms, and they were kind enough to stir fry some with veggies just for me.
It was absolutely delicious!
Another favorite of mine is the massive beef roll - it's even bigger than the ones I've seen in San Gabriel Valley.
Of course, their pork green beans and chicken veggie plate are also very tasty.
I appreciate that they are willing to accommodate requests, like leaving out MSG if you prefer.
Silk Noodle Bar
I must admit, I am a huge fan of Silk Noodle Bar.
I've been coming to this place for quite some time, and it never disappoints.
The quick service always amazes me, and the food is consistently excellent.
One of my favorite dishes is their crispy and flavorful wings.
Their pork buns are also to die for, especially with the sauce that comes on them.
I've tried the filet mignon pho too, which was lightly flavored and incredibly satisfying.
You can check out Silk Noodle Bar here if you're curious to give it a try.
But allow me to share more about the dishes my partner, and I usually order.
Pho Bo Vien has rich broth and delicious noodles.
The portion size is quite decent as well.
We also enjoy the Shaken Beef Rice Plate, which is very flavorful.
What I love most about this place, besides the amazing food, is the ambiance and the attentive service.
The whole place is clean, modern, and comfortable, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal or a date night.
Golden Flower Veggie Vietnamese Restaurant
As a frequent visitor to Golden Flower Veggie Vietnamese Restaurant, I can confidently say that their food has never disappointed me.
The ambiance is lovely, and the service is always quick.
I remember trying their soup, which was not as spicy as I expected but still very tasty and filling.
My favorite dish at this restaurant has to be their noodles - they are simply delightful!
During one of my visits, I noticed they had a special on corn milk, which was a bit pricey at $6.
However, my son loved it so much that he wants to visit just for that corn milk treat.
On another occasion, I opted for rice while my partner had noodles, and we were both pleased with our choices.
The soup that came with my rice was delicious, and I'd love to come back and try it again next time I'm in town.
I also appreciate how they offer vegetarian versions of classic dishes, such as my favorite non-vegetarian dish - com tam bi cha thit nuong.
The shredded pork in this dish is made out of tofu, and it comes with a side of small salad and pickled carrots, and dikon.
My mom once ordered her favorite non-vegetarian rice dish, salt fish fried rice, and we were amazed at how the aroma and taste mimicked the real thing so well.
As a bonus, they also make their corn milk in-house and sell a variety of snacks and takeout items located in the front and in the freezer.
Maru Sushi
I've tried many sushi places, but I must say that Maru Sushi holds a special place in my heart.
The restaurant has a warm and contemporary atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions.
I usually visit Maru Sushi for their All You Can Eat (AYCE) lunch deal on weekdays.
Although I've heard some mixed reviews about their AYCE, in my experience, the quality has been quite good for the price.
One of my favorite rolls at Maru Sushi is the one with scallops on top - it's simply delicious!
I also enjoy their salmon nigiri and yellowtail pieces, which are usually decently sized.
Kim Ky Noodle House
I've been a regular at Kim Ky Noodle House for quite some time now, and I must say, it never disappoints.
There's something special about the bustling atmosphere that reminds me of my visits to Saigon.
In fact, the authenticity of the dishes served here is what keeps me coming back.
They truly go above and beyond to ensure a personalized dining experience.
Their sate noodles are an absolute must-try, and the complimentary vegetable dish adds a nice balance to the meal.
Bồ Đề Tịnh Tâm Chay
I can't say enough about my experience at Bồ Đề Tịnh Tâm Chay.
The spacious establishment, filled with a variety of lovely plants, creates an inviting and relaxed atmosphere that makes for an enjoyable dining experience.
The menu offers a wide range of vegetarian Vietnamese dishes, and I have to say, the quality and taste of the food is absolutely incredible.
My personal favorite is their bun bo hue, which is one of the best I've tried in the entire Orange County area.
I am also a fan of their vegan sausage, which has a great flavor and texture.
My non-vegetarian daughters love chicken pho, and I have to admit that it's really good, too.
In addition to the fantastic food, the service at Bồ Đề Tịnh Tâm Chay is top-notch.
I can't wait to return and try more of their delicious dishes!
Final Thoughts
I have had the pleasure of dining at many of these fantastic restaurants in Westminster, California, and I must say that they have never disappointed me.
From delicious sushi at Maru Sushi to satisfying my cravings for pho at Pho Akaushi, each establishment offers incredibly delicious dishes that leave me coming back for more.
Living in this beautiful city has allowed me to experience a diverse range of cuisine and culture in each of these eateries, making it even more enjoyable to share my personal recommendations.
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