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Best Southern American Restaurants in Santa Ana

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125 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Chapter One: the modern local restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(583)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Santa Ana
Booked 6 times today
Chapter One: the modern local in Santa Ana is a gem for anyone craving authentic American cuisine with a modern twist. Executive chef Tony Castaneda's kitchen shines by using local, sustainable, and seasonal ingredients that elevate traditional dishes. Guests rave about the “delicious food” and “fabulous drinks,” while the inviting atmosphere perfectly marries elegance with the cozy feel of a local pub. With standout offerings like steak salad and ribeye, it’s no wonder diners say they “never leave disappointed.” The exceptional service and the vibrant yet relaxed vibe make Chapter One: the modern local a must-visit for both locals and visitors.
A photo of Le Hut Dinette restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(0)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Santa Ana
Chili Fries & Fine Wines “Ma Vie Folle” New concept by @heritagebarbecue located in the historic French Park Santa Ana Ca.730 N Poinsettia Street, Santa Ana, CA 92701
A photo of Hector's on Broadway restaurant
2.1
(2)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Santa Ana
Booked 1 time today
MEXICAN KITCHEN SEAFOOD + BARComidas Bebidas Banda SinaloenseAbiertos hast las 2 am409 N Broadway Santa Ana CA 714 285 9896
A photo of Water Grill - South Coast Plaza restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(8388)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 158 times today
Water Grill - South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa stands out as a beacon of authentic American seafood excellence. Renowned for its "delicious fresh seafood" and "amazing food," this restaurant consistently delivers high-quality, boat-to-table dishes that capture the essence of American coastal cuisine. With an ever-evolving menu, diners can savor the freshest catches of the day, whether it's the "awesome Dover sole" or the "divine lobster rolls." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every dish, making it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers. Plus, the "beautifully designed space" and "exceptional service" elevate every dining experience, ensuring guests leave with a smile.
A photo of Seasons 52 - Costa Mesa restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(9187)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 123 times today
Seasons 52 in Costa Mesa is a shining beacon for seafood enthusiasts, offering an exquisite range of dishes that are both fresh and flavorful. The seasonal menu, a hallmark of its culinary offerings, ensures that every seafood dish is prepared using the freshest ingredients, providing a "delicious" and "consistently good" experience according to patrons. The "Crab cake, Ponzu broth-poached Butterfish, and grilled Sea Scallops" are particularly beloved, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. Guests frequently praise the "excellent" food and "attentive" service, making Seasons 52 a must-visit destination for those seeking top-notch seafood cuisine.
A photo of Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1113)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Orange
Booked 17 times today
Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar in historic Old Towne Orange is a true gem for cocktail enthusiasts. Known for its "delicious and spot-on cocktails," this establishment offers a vibrant selection that includes seasonal craft cocktails and hand-selected spirits. Guests rave about their Old Fashioned, calling it "one of the best ever," and the mezcal margarita as a standout. The bar's extensive list of specialty bourbons, scotches, and whiskeys is a testament to its dedication to quality. The lively atmosphere, combined with the "attentive and friendly" service, makes Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic cocktail experience.
A photo of Black Angus Steakhouse - Santa Ana restaurant
4.5
Awesome(2189)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Santa Ana
Booked 33 times today
Black Angus Steakhouse in Santa Ana is a true testament to authentic American cuisine, offering an unforgettable dining experience since 1964. Their expertly flame-grilled cuts, aged for at least 21 days, are a standout, with many claiming the steaks are "perfectly cooked" and "deliciously seasoned." The ambiance is perfect for both "quiet & cozy" dinners or large gatherings, making it a versatile dining spot. Diners rave about the "amazing" service, as attentive staff ensure every visit is special. The restaurant's dedication to quality and excellence sets it apart, making each meal an American culinary delight that guests eagerly return for.
A photo of The Capital Grille - Costa Mesa restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5030)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 70 times today
The Capital Grille in Costa Mesa is a shining beacon of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its impeccable dry-aged steaks and a wine selection that is nothing short of extraordinary. Guests rave about their experiences, with one diner declaring, "The food is unparalleled, and the staff is wonderful!" This restaurant captures the essence of fine American dining with its expertly prepared dishes and top-tier service. Whether celebrating milestones or simply enjoying a night out, The Capital Grille promises a memorable dining experience. The ambiance, combined with a team that goes "above and beyond in hospitality," makes it a must-visit for American cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Maggiano's - South Coast Plaza restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(8090)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 190 times today
Maggiano's - South Coast Plaza stands out as a quintessential American dining experience with an Italian twist, offering authentic Italian-American dishes that pay homage to Nonna's cherished recipes. Located in the bustling heart of Costa Mesa, diners are treated to an unparalleled blend of "fantastic food" and "amazing service," making every meal memorable. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and "delicious entrees" consistently impress guests, creating "great memories" and leaving them eager to return. With its prime location just minutes from the beach and luxury shopping, Maggiano's provides an inviting retreat for those seeking genuine American cuisine infused with Italian flair.
A photo of Bosscat Orange restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(594)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Orange
Booked 36 times today
Bosscat Orange in Orange, CA, offers a delightful taste of Contemporary Southern cuisine that is truly exceptional. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and hearty dishes, diners rave about their “absolutely delicious” shrimp and grits that evoke memories of New Orleans and the Carolinas. The restaurant’s inventive approach to Southern classics, like their “pork candy” and “12-hour beef short ribs,” keeps patrons coming back for more. Bosscat’s commitment to quality shines through in their use of seasonal produce and collaborative kitchen environment. With excellent service and a warm, inviting setting, Bosscat Orange promises a memorable dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of Southern hospitality.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • DeborahVIP
    Los Angeles •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    This was our first time dining here and we enjoyed our experience. This is a cute and quaint restaurant with friendly staff, located on a quiet street in Newport Beach. Parking is on the street or in a nearby lot. We made reservations but decided to sit at the bar. The bartender was eager and enthusiastic to answer our menu questions. The fried green tomatoes as an appetizer are delicious. For dinner we had the ribs, super delicious, the meat fell off the bone. We also enjoyed the grilled Jidori chicken wrap, it was yummy too. The southern flair menu is unique with many options. This place is now on our repeat list.
    More info
    Tupelo Junction CafePrice: Expensive• Southern• Newport Beach
    4.8
  • Lauren
    Orange County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Dinner was great! Service was amazing! We had a reservation so we were seated right away.
    More info
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - OrangePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Orange
    4.2
  • Lisa
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We have always loved this place! Although, I do wish they had a better wine selection or at least a reasonable corsage fee.
    More info
    Smoqued California BarbequePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Orange
    4.6
  • Maliyah
    Orange County •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    First impression wasn’t giving bc we were told to wait with a reservation but once we were seated ? AMAZING. Service was top notch, the manager came and checked on us our server was elite. When we told her we don’t eat pork she let us know the fries were fried in shared grease and helped us to find another option. The calamari was absolutely delicious and the biggest portion I’ve seen served for such a great price. We were skeptical about the cuisine being that we have roots in Louisiana but wow the flavor was amazing and the wine was very tasty but effective.
    More info
    Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & PatioPrice: Moderate• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Anaheim
    4.5
  • LarryVIP
    Orange County •70 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 9, 2025
    Since discovering their smoked Prime Rib dinner (Fri-Sun), our frequency of visits has increased only to learn that this favorite may soon be going away. Maybe if they could get the word out they could sell more. Table tents, e-mail, menu inserts, server upsell. Also, we were delighted to have been given a $20 bounce back coupon good on our next visit. Unfortunately, it seems the coupon had already expired Jan 31.
    More info
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - IrvinePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Irvine
    4.4
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