Best Restaurants for People Watching in Santa Ana

I had the pleasure of celebrating my 38th birthday at Ocean 48, and the experience was absolutely unforgettable. I was joined by a friend who was also celebrating a birthday, and the restaurant went above and beyond to make our evening special. From the moment we arrived, the staff’s thoughtfulness and generosity stood out. One of the highlights of the evening was receiving personalized birthday cards from the team—a small but incredibly touching gesture that warmed our hearts. To our surprise, the thoughtfulness didn’t end there. The restaurant even called the next day to check in and ensure everything had gone well, which truly reflects their commitment to exceptional customer service. The food was nothing short of phenomenal. We indulged in several dishes—almost the entire menu—and everything was absolutely delicious. Every bite showcased the chef’s expertise and attention to detail, making it difficult to pick a favorite. The manager and staff were the epitome of hospitality, setting a gold standard for customer service. Their attentiveness and genuine care turned our celebration into an extraordinary experience. I’m already looking forward to returning, this time with my mom, so she can also enjoy the amazing food and service. Ocean 48 is more than just a restaurant—it’s a place that knows how to create lasting memories. If you’re looking for a special dining experience, this is it.

DELICIOUS. Wonderful cocktails, tantalizing appetizers, and each of our 4 entrees were fantastic. Highly recommend the country bread shareable, the crispy fried chicken sandwich, and the butcher cut pork chop. Can't wait to go back - thanks for a delightful dinner!

Service was excellent. Server was attentive but not too attentive. Server was friendly. Food came out in a timely matter. Pot pie was hot and delicious

We loved the sides as well as the main entree! So much fresh produce! The ambiance was cozy.

Perla was amazing. Food was so delicious. I brought a party of 20 from my company and they were so impressed. Thank you for your service and good food and drinks. The night was special!