Anaheim’s 12th floor BluSky is a sunny rooftop stunner, perfect for after-work drinks, Disneyland fireworks, or a weekend hangout with friends. Add in the robust Spanish menu, and this is one of the hottest new destinations to hit Anaheim in a minute.

The Rodeo 39 Public Market in Stanton is a testament to pandemic perseverance. The do-it-all food hall features a rotating collection of existing and up-and-coming talent, making it a must-stop for Angelenos on the way through Orange County.

This new strip mall ramen and izakaya specialist from the Kei Concepts team is turning out some of Orange County’s most flavorful new food — especially the creamy, coconut milk-infused seafood laksa ramen.

While meat is obviously the focus of French chef Jeoffrey Offer’s newer Costa Mesa restaurant, it’s not the only thing on the menu. Swing through on weekends for steak at dinner, or in the daytime for a colorful, breezy brunch.

Fans are still running to South Coast Plaza for a taste of Paradise Dynasty (and downstairs sister project Le Shrimp Ramen). The airy upstairs room is home to this Singaporean chain’s classic dumplings and bao creations, all made by hand from a glassed-in corner of the kitchen.

Noted vegan chef Matthew Kenney hit Costa Mesa with Veg’d last year, converting a former Del Taco into a drive-thru destination for casual plant-based snacks like breakfast sandwiches, burgers, and bowls. 

Chef Jimmy Martinez and crew have taken over an unassuming office park space in Newport Beach, playing the taco and craft beer its (as they have in Anaheim for years) to a whole new audience. Thankfully the roll-up doors and infectious energy in the new dining room keep the meals here feeling fun and light.

For morning buns, big loaves of crusty bread, and pastry of all sorts, get to Rye Goods at Lido Marina Village as soon as possible. This former underground bread operation has gone legit, and now fans are lining up on weekends for a taste.

Chef Marcel Vigneron launched Laguna Beach’s Comedor last year as a Spanish specialist that leans into tapas, paella, and plenty of cocktails and wine.

Keizo Shimamoto’s Ramen Shack is the talk of San Juan Capistrano at the moment. The chef, famous for his Ramen Burger, is now offering lunch through dinner options that move from ramen to karaage, teas, and more.

This Laguna Niguel market and restaurant is the hottest thing to happen to South Orange County since Heritage Barbecue. Stop by for rich colors and a robust menu that includes pastas, pizzas, and plenty of wine.