Huntington Beach has surfers, tourists, and that relentless California sun, but look beyond the obvious and you’ll find culinary gems worth savoring. We’ve got oceanfront patios, harbor views, and that endless stretch of sand we call the Pacific. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood with a sunset or just want to watch the waves roll in over dinner, these 13 spots showcase why this city’s dining scene is truly special.
Hummus Republic
$ | (714) 737-3133 | WEBSITE
This popular Huntington Beach spot is a full Middle Eastern restaurant, but you won’t miss much if you focus on their signature bowls. The real draw is the fresh, healthy food that you enjoy from the outdoor seating area with friends in tow. As with their reputation, Hummus Republic has a toppings bar with the variety and generosity of a Mediterranean feast.
Most bowls hover around $14 (reasonable for this quality) but come with unlimited additions, like lemon chicken with tahini sauce and falafel spiked with flavorful herbs.
Pho May
$ | (562) 588-3044 | WEBSITE
It’s not every day you’re going to be able to convince yourself (or anyone else) to drive to Huntington Beach for a casual meal, but when it involves Pho May, you make it happen. Yes, it’s quite affordable here, but they recently re-did their menu, and it was a much-needed upgrade. That said, everyone’s still here to huddle around one of the indoor tables and gaze out over the (shockingly) beautiful water views.
Turcs Cocktails
$$ | (562) 592-2311 | WEBSITE
If you want to know what kind of neighborhood bar you could have if you threw a couple hundred dollars at a casual night out in Huntington Beach, grab drinks at Turcs Cocktails. The friendly spot is actually a mix of pool tables, saltwater aquariums, and several different bartenders, but you want to head right up to the bar, where you’ll be treated to service from Jamie, Snow, and Kyle, who provide friendly smiles and great value as you kick back.
The bartender-helmed bar isn’t groundbreaking, but its cocktail-heavy menu is filled with drinks that taste great as you watch the game on TV or chat with the nice people around you.
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant
$$ | (714) 891-4666 | WEBSITE
Tucked into a bustling Huntington Beach strip, Buca di Beppo is a boisterous Italian restaurant with a sprawling dining room, lively Pope room, and generous portions that can easily feed a small crowd. On weekends, the energy is high and families gather to celebrate over plates of pasta and hearty entrees. It’s also designed for large gatherings though, meaning you’ll find plenty of seating and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for work functions or group events.
Kung Pao Bowl
$ | (714) 842-7262 | WEBSITE
This Chinese spot remains pretty straightforward, but at the end of the day, eating your meal with that perfect Kung Pao chicken is why you’re here. The menu reads somewhere between neighborhood takeout and satisfying lunch counter, but in general, everything tastes consistent and the portions are generous. Did we mention the hot & sour soup is considered the best around?
Norm’s
$ | (714) 841-1919 | WEBSITE
Here’s the thing about Norm’s—it’s located right in the heart of Huntington Beach, which means a meal here will cost about as much as it takes to keep your car’s gas tank full for a week. And here’s the other thing about this place—it has some of the most reliably satisfying pancakes in the entire area. Your plan of attack when it comes to breakfast? Don’t overthink it. Head to the clean, no-frills dining room for a stack of those better-than-most pancakes and a bottomless cup of coffee.
It’s our go-to spot when we really want a good quick meal that won’t disappoint, but that said, we also leave with a little more appreciation for simple, honest food, too.
Ruby’s
$ | (949) 673-7829 | WEBSITE
Located right in the heart of Huntington Beach, Ruby’s is a local classic, with a welcoming atmosphere that most diners can only dream about. The family-friendly restaurant is admittedly a bit on the simple side, but that’s exactly why you keep coming back. The menu offers reliable favorites that never disappoint, and if you’re considering another round of those chocolate milkshakes, the answer is always yes.
Creme De La Crepe
$ | (657) 400-9009 | WEBSITE
As far as Huntington Beach French spots go, this cozy creperie is one of the rare ones where you’ll want to spend extended amounts of time. The menu at Creme De La Crepe includes a good mix of classic breakfast dishes and savory options that work well for a relaxed family meal, but the real draw is the outdoor bistro garden. It has charming twinkle lights, comfortable patio seating, and you can usually bring your dog right in without waiting around for a table.
Stop here for a rich French onion soup before a beach walk or enjoy a perfect cappuccino under the stars at one of their inviting evening visits.
Tower 15 Pizzeria
$ | (714) 698-1234 | WEBSITE
One of the best hotel dining options everyone completely overlooks is the pizza joint tucked inside the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach. This extremely convenient spot has resort-level quality with a fraction of the wait, plus a great pizzeria to satisfy the craving: Tower 15.
As the main casual eatery inside the hotel, Tower 15 serves the kind of very solid (and very affordable) pizza you’d expect from a passionate kitchen, fast and convenient service from staff like Christian, and the unpretentious vibes that make this a perfect “see, I still know good food” quick meal spot.
Sancho’s Tacos
$ | (714) 536-8226 | WEBSITE
The days of Huntington Beach’s endless surf breaks and sun-drenched boardwalks might be what draws the crowds, but there’s no denying this spot is still delicious as ever. Walking in from the parking lot, you’ll pass colorful murals, beach-themed decorations, and cheerful outdoor tables that have all become local favorites. It’s a fantastic breakfast stop, and one that’s made even better by grabbing lunch at Sancho’s Tacos.
The spacious interior is filled with bright colors and fun accents that feels like you’re eating inside the beach shack of your California dreams. But instead of soggy fries and bland burgers, you’ll refuel on breakfast burritos, yard bird tacos, and very good homemade salsas.
Cucina Alessá
$$ | (714) 969-2148 | WEBSITE
Situated along the main street with perfect lighting and an open, spacious atmosphere, you’re not going to find many better dining experiences than the one at Cucina Alessá. Sitting at a table with a view of the bustling street and enjoying a glass of discounted white wine with lobster ravioli in front of you is something we could do every Tuesday for the rest of our lives.
L&L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE
$ | (714) 968-1898 | WEBSITE
It’s kind of a toss-up as to which part is better at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue—the crispy chicken katsu, or the friendly service. If you don’t get your order quickly here, you aren’t paying attention. We’d actually understand if the ambiance was fancy, but the best part about L&L is that it’s the opposite. All that generous Hawaiian food comes at a reasonable price, but when you’re enjoying a hearty dinner with indoor or outdoor seating, that’s the least of your worries.
Hot n Chili Indian Restaurant
$$ | (657) 301-2121 | WEBSITE
Hot n Chili Indian Restaurant is the Indian dining spot in Huntington Beach. And yes, the name does mean it’s known for authentic spice levels, making it one of the best Indian flavors in Southern California. We were impressed to learn that too, but either way, it makes for a nice setting to enjoy homemade-style dishes with friends or family. There are lively Indian pop tunes, generous portions to share, and aromatic flavors in every bite. Order the Aloo Gobi or Malai Kofta if you get hungry.
