Huntington, a charming coastal city in Orange County, California, is a haven for foodies and beach lovers alike. With its stunning beaches, vibrant downtown area, and rich cultural heritage, Huntington has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. One of the most essential aspects of planning a trip to Huntington is deciding where to eat, as the city boasts a diverse range of culinary options that cater to various tastes and preferences.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of Huntington’s Culinary Scene
Huntington’s culinary scene is a reflection of its eclectic mix of surf culture, beachside eateries, and upscale dining establishments. From seafood restaurants serving fresh catches of the day to trendy cafes and food trucks, the city offers a wide range of dining options that are sure to satisfy any appetite. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American comfort food, international cuisine, or innovative fusion dishes, Huntington has something for everyone.
Neighborhoods to Explore
In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Huntington’s most popular neighborhoods, including Downtown Huntington, Pacific Coast Highway, and Beach Boulevard. We’ll highlight the top-rated restaurants, hidden gems, and local favorites that showcase the city’s unique flavor and character. From beachside eats to upscale dining experiences, we’ll provide you with insider tips and recommendations to make your dining experience in Huntington truly unforgettable.
Where to Eat in Huntington: A Foodie’s Guide
Huntington, a charming coastal city in Orange County, California, is a haven for foodies. With its rich culinary scene, Huntington offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From seafood to Mexican, Italian to Asian fusion, Huntington’s restaurants serve up a world of flavors. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best places to eat in Huntington.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast or brunch at one of Huntington’s top-rated eateries.
- Duke’s Huntington Beach: This beachfront restaurant serves up breakfast with a view. Try their signature dishes like the Beachcomber Omelette or the Duke’s Breakfast Burrito.
- The Breakfast Club: This popular breakfast spot offers creative dishes like the Stuffed French Toast or the Breakfast Tacos.
- The Hangar: Located in the heart of downtown Huntington, The Hangar serves up breakfast and brunch favorites like pancakes, waffles, and omelettes.
Seafood Lovers’ Paradise
Huntington’s coastal location makes it a seafood lover’s paradise. Here are some top seafood restaurants to try: (See Also: Where To Eat In Malaybalay)
- Duke’s Huntington Beach: In addition to their breakfast menu, Duke’s also serves up fresh seafood dishes like fish tacos, seafood salads, and fish and chips.
- The Beachfire: This beachfront restaurant offers a seafood-focused menu with dishes like grilled fish, seafood paella, and fisherman’s stew.
- Sanchos Tacos: While not exclusively a seafood restaurant, Sanchos offers delicious seafood tacos and burritos made with fresh, sustainable ingredients.
Mexican Cuisine
Huntington’s Mexican restaurants offer a flavorful and festive dining experience. Here are some top picks:
- Sanchos Tacos: This casual, beach-inspired eatery serves up authentic Mexican dishes like carne asada tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
- La Taqueria: This family-owned restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Mexican dishes like enchiladas, fajitas, and chiles rellenos.
- Wahoo’s Fish Taco: This popular chain restaurant serves up Baja-style fish tacos, burritos, and salads made with fresh, sustainable ingredients.
Italian Cuisine
For a taste of Italy in Huntington, try one of these top-rated Italian restaurants:
- Bella Terra: This cozy Italian restaurant serves up homemade pasta dishes, pizzas, and risottos made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Carrabba’s Italian Grill: This popular chain restaurant offers a wide range of Italian-American dishes like pasta, seafood, and wood-fired pizzas.
- Il Barone Ristorante: This family-owned restaurant serves up traditional Italian dishes like osso buco, chicken parmesan, and fettuccine Alfredo.
Asian Fusion
Huntington’s Asian fusion restaurants offer a unique blend of flavors and cuisines. Here are some top picks:
- Sushi on Fire: This popular sushi restaurant serves up creative rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese-inspired dishes.
- Pho 79: This casual Vietnamese restaurant serves up delicious pho, banh mi, and other Vietnamese favorites.
- Kababayan Filipino Cuisine: This family-owned restaurant serves up traditional Filipino dishes like adobo, sinigang, and lechon kawali.
Dessert Spots
Save room for dessert at one of Huntington’s top-rated sweet spots:
- The Creamistry: This unique dessert shop serves up made-to-order nitrogen ice cream in a variety of flavors.
- Sweet Combforts: This artisanal ice cream shop offers unique flavors like honey lavender and strawberry balsamic.
- The Donuttery: This popular donut shop serves up creative flavors like maple bacon and strawberry shortcake.
Foodie Favorites
Here are some Huntington eateries that don’t fit into a specific category but are definitely worth trying:
- The Longboard Restaurant and Pub: This beach-inspired restaurant serves up burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a wide selection of craft beers.
- The Hangar: In addition to their breakfast menu, The Hangar also serves up lunch and dinner options like burgers, salads, and sandwiches.
- Slapfish: This modern seafood restaurant serves up creative dishes like seafood towers, fish and chips, and lobster grilled cheese.
Food Trucks
Huntington’s food truck scene is thriving, with a variety of trucks serving up everything from tacos to BBQ to gourmet grilled cheese. Here are some popular food trucks to try: (See Also: Where To Eat In Tbilisi)
- Tacos El Gordo: This popular taco truck serves up authentic, delicious tacos made with fresh, sustainable ingredients.
- Big Belly BBQ: This BBQ truck serves up tender, slow-cooked meats like tri-tip, brisket, and ribs.
- The Grilled Cheese Truck: This gourmet grilled cheese truck serves up creative sandwiches like the “Thanksgiving” (turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce) or the “Elvis” (peanut butter, banana, and bacon).
Recap: Where to Eat in Huntington
In this article, we’ve taken you on a culinary journey through the best places to eat in Huntington. From seafood to Mexican, Italian to Asian fusion, Huntington’s restaurants offer a diverse range of flavors and cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, Huntington has something for everyone. Be sure to try some of these top-rated eateries on your next visit to Huntington Beach!
Remember to always check reviews, make reservations, and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. Happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Huntington
What are the best restaurants in Huntington for seafood lovers?
Huntington has plenty of excellent seafood options. Some popular spots include The Oar Steak & Seafood Grill, Huntington Harbor Boat House, and Finley’s Seafood Restaurant. These restaurants offer a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, from lobster rolls to fish tacos, and even sushi.
Are there any good breakfast or brunch spots in Huntington?
Absolutely! Huntington has a vibrant breakfast and brunch scene. Some local favorites include The Breakfast Club, Toast Coffeehouse, and La Parma II. These eateries serve up delicious eggs benedict, pancakes, omelets, and more, often with a creative twist.
Where can I find gluten-free or vegan options in Huntington?
Huntington has several restaurants that cater to gluten-free and vegan diets. Some popular options include The Shed, which offers gluten-free burgers and salads, and The Vegan Junk Food Co., which serves up tasty plant-based comfort food. You can also try Toast Coffeehouse, which has a separate gluten-free menu. (See Also: Where To Eat In San Carlos City)
What are some budget-friendly dining options in Huntington?
You don’t have to break the bank to eat well in Huntington. Some affordable options include Tacos El Fogoncito, which serves up delicious tacos and burritos, and Huntington Village Diner, which offers classic American comfort food at reasonable prices. You can also try Finley’s Seafood Restaurant, which has a more affordable lunch menu.
Are there any restaurants in Huntington with outdoor seating?
Yes, many Huntington restaurants offer outdoor seating with beautiful views. Some popular spots include The Oar Steak & Seafood Grill, which has a patio overlooking Huntington Harbor, and The Shed, which has a large outdoor area with picnic tables. You can also try Finley’s Seafood Restaurant, which has a deck with water views.