Eating out a lot can cause a dent in the wallet, but there are many restaurants which offer excellent value for money meals the whole family may enjoy. Here are some of my favorites for 2015.
If you’re looking for a delicious casual meal with the family, Forn Alhara in Little Arabia has an array of choice Middle Eastern pizzas which will be a hit with both young and old. There are many varieties including those with meat, cheese, za’atar, and my favorite, cheese and egg. The pizzas run between $2 to $4 depending on toppings. There are also pastries of sorts including spinach and incredible sweet offerings such as baklava.
Restauration in Long Beach was one of the best surprises of the year. The space is incredibly charming and so cozy, especially the beautiful patio. I was so impressed I returned for a second visit several months ago for a birthday celebration. The food is hearty and creative, but also tasty and reasonably priced. It is no wonder the place is always packed! They don’t take reservations, so prepare to wait for a table, but it’s TOTALLY worth it.
If you’ve not heard, Moulin Bistro in Newport Beach serves dinner two nights a week — Tuesdays and Thursdays — with a menu that’s only $25 per person. On Tuesday nights, a 3-course meal is served and it rotates every week. On Thursday nights, diners may enjoy a simple green salad, followed by steak frites, a piece of perfectly executed steak and unlimited French fries served with a Bearnaise and black peppercorn sauce. It is the best deal in town! Reservations HIGHLY recommended.
If you’re a fan of Sunday brunch, look no further than TAPS in Brea and Irvine. The restaurant puts on a spectacular buffet brunch for $36.99. Start with some cold selections such as crab legs or shrimp cocktail, then move to the array of charcuterie and cheeses on display. The Eggs Benedict is a classic and one of my favorites. There are also hot, made-to-order selections offered with the buffet. I also love the house-brewed beers to wash everything down. Reservations are a must! (Photo credit: A Boring Photo)
It is no secret that the bulk of my love this year has been for EATS Kitchen & Bar at The Hotel Irvine. Chef Jason Montelibano’s menu is one of the best deals in town. From happy hour to both the lunch and dinner menus, the food is good, and the prices? Even better! I’m always there with friends for the outstanding happy hours, and we even spent Thanksgiving dinner here. EATS is the best value for money in OC hands down.
So there you have it. Goodbye to 2015! This is my last post of the year. I look forward to welcoming 2016 with more food adventures with all of you!
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