This month we’re traveling to eat in Anaheim, California. While many people think of the Disneyland Resort when they think of Anaheim, there’s also a ton of hidden culinary gems all around the city. If you’re planning a trip to the home of Walt Disney’s original park, you’re going to want to check out these restaurants, bars, speakeasies, bakeries, and cafes fit both for adults and families traveling together. Here’s where to eat in Anaheim.
Best Restaurant For Families: Lamplight Lounge at Disney California Adventure
We couldn’t talk about a food-driven trip to Anaheim without talking about one of the best restaurants at the Disneyland Resort, Lamplight Lounge inside Disney California Adventure. Depending on what part of the restaurant you’re seated in, you could have great views of Pixar Pier and the lagoon that typically shows World of Color. There’s also a secret dining room downstairs that you can try to request; it has its own private balcony and seats a small group of people.
Lamplight Lounge Must-Have: Lobster Nachos
Best Restaurant For Adults: Parkestry
This rooftop restaurant is located on the 11th floor of the JW Marriott Hotel, and is the highest rooftop bar in Anaheim. Dining at Parkestry comes with a view of Disneyland and the stunning California sunsets. The restaurant is known for its delightful cocktail menu and small bites. Head here for happy hour and a light dinner, especially if you’ve had a bunch of snacks at the theme parks and want something a little lighter.
Parkestry Must-Have: Sliders and house-made chips
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Best Restaurant For Solo Travelers: The Blind Rabbit
Anaheim has a hidden speakeasy behind a wall of barrels inside the Anaheim Packing House. The super trendy Blind Rabbit has a fantastic food and drink menu plus a mysterious vibe that will have you feeling like you’re in a game of Clue. The dining experience is meant to last about 90 minutes, but no one is going to kick you out of the restaurant at minute 91. This spot is worth the short Uber ride from Disneyland.
The Blind Rabbit Must-Have: Roasted Pork Belly
Best Splurge Restaurant: Napa Rose
While you might think that dining at Disneyland is all corndogs and churros, there’s so much more to the vacation destination than deep-fried masterpieces. From the moment you walk into Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Resort and Spa, you can tell you’re in for a treat. If you can, try to sit at the Chef’s Counter (pending Covid-19 health and safety regulations) and watch chef Andrew Sutton and his team create exquisite meals, including a personalized tasting menu just for you.
Napa Rose Must-Have: Personalized tasting menu from Chef Andrew
Best Mid-Day Snack: Okayama Kobo Bakery and Café
Located in Downtown Anaheim, Okayama Koba Bakery and Café bakes up the ultimate in super cute treats. Each of its delightful baked goods are made from flour imported from Japan that’s free of preservatives and additives. People can’t seem to get enough of the salt and butter roll or the chocolate emoji, a bun that looks like a cute cat. If you want a taste of either of these best sellers, best get to the bakery early.
Okayama Kobo Bakery and Café Must-Have: Chocolate emoji
Best Anahiem Brewery: Modern Times Leisuretown
Modern Times Leisuretown is one of Anaheim’s newest breweries and is located in the Anaheim Packing District. The brewery has an onsite beer garden, plenty of outdoor seating, and an onsite pool. Yes, a pool. Most of the beer list is seasonal, so you can discover something new each trip.
Modern Times Leisuretown Must-Have: A seasonal beer and an order of Monster Tots
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More About Delicious Destinations
Some people plan their vacation with no thought of where they are going to eat, while others plan their entire trip around food. No matter which camp you’re in, FamilyVacationist’s Delicious Destinations has you covered! Each month, this food column covers local favorites including the best family dining spots, the best places for solo travelers, and irresistible snacks in cities around the U.S. Up this month: the best places to eat in Anaheim, California.
I’m Megan duBois. I’m a full-time food and drink writer, and when I don’t have a fork in my hand, there’s likely an ice cream cone there instead. In this Delicious Destinations column, you can come with me to a different city each month and we’ll explore great restaurants, bars, bakeries, and other eateries. I’ll offer recommendations for families, adults, and solo travelers in each city. I’ll also give you tips on finding great themed restaurants, mid-day snacks, and breweries.
