Santa Ana has become one of Orange County’s most exciting food destinations, especially around its revitalized downtown.
Newer restaurants, bars, and food halls are showcasing everything from elevated Mexican cooking to inventive market‑style concepts. These five standouts capture that energy.
1. Playground
Playground helped set the tone for modern dining in downtown Santa Ana—creative, seasonal, and a little bit rebellious.
The space is lively and open, anchored by a visible kitchen and a bar that feels central to the experience…