After years of suburban routine and predictable takeout nights, Westminster is finally shaking off its sleepy reputation. New chef-driven spots are popping up like spring blooms, locals are trading sweatpants for actual pants, and our taste buds are ready for something beyond the usual. It’s time to rediscover our city’s vibrant dining scene—starting with these 18 essential bars and restaurants.
Equis Lounge
$$ | WEBSITE
It’s possible you’re planning a night out that’s not really about the food. It’s more of a low-key social gathering to prove you know where the good vibes are without all the pretense. Such an outing requires a spot that’s equal parts relaxed, flavorful, and genuinely friendly (with prices that reflect that accessible approach). If downtown Santa Ana works as your destination, Equis Lounge is exactly what you’re looking for.
The menu delivers fantastic flavors with standout dishes like the shrimp ceviche that regulars swear by. Grab a drink from their bar, settle into the low-key atmosphere with the friendly service, and remember to enjoy yourself thoroughly but not too loudly—parking can be tricky, but options are nearby.
Barcode
$ | (949) 390-8499 | WEBSITE
We all have friends who insist on finding the coolest, most entertaining hangout spot when you go out (it’s likely you are that type of friend – we certainly are). Take that person to this excellent bar that’s been a staple in Westminster since it opened, tucked away in the area with its vibrant atmosphere.
They’re one of the few places around offering such a unique blend of fun drinks, tasty snacks like chicken strips and mozzarella sticks, and an awesome video game setup with N64 consoles, fighting game cabinets, and pinball machines. We recommend grabbing a reasonably priced drink, enjoying the 80s and 90s movies projected on the wall, and settling in for some gaming with the good lighting and great music.
Shuck Oyster Bar
$$ | (949) 420-0478 | WEBSITE
I’ve wasted too many evenings debating whether to order the fried calamari or the mac n cheese when dining with people who don’t understand proper sharing etiquette. This is all to say that Shuck Oyster Bar in Westminster is a restaurant where you can slurp down a dozen East coast oysters from your own damn platter and not worry about anyone else’s fork.
Their seafood selection is thrilling to eat, partly because it’s fresher than anything I’ve tasted in months and partly because of their commitment to letting oysters be the stars of every bite. Plus, the restaurant has that easy ocean vibe so you can always take a leisurely drive along the coast before or after.
Manchester Bar & Lounge
$ | (714) 844-2811 | WEBSITE
Small talk has always been exhausting, and after months of avoiding it, you’ve become practically allergic to it. So instead of asking your friend about their work-from-home setup, focus the conversation on ordering as many gooey grilled cheese sandwiches with avocado as possible from this hotel lounge in Westminster. And don’t leave without trying their crispy pepperoni flatbread and the savory mushroom flatbread that comes hot and fast from the kitchen.
And the next time you need to meet up with someone you haven’t seen in ages, remember that you can also come back to Manchester’s cozy bar this winter, where bartenders like Evely and Ellen will mix you something special while staff like Itzel and Harley make you feel right at home.
Simmzy’s Restaurant Long Beach
$$ | (562) 439-5590 | WEBSITE
Simmzy’s is our favorite local spot in Westminster. Considering the quality and variety of casual dining in this area, that’s a very big deal. Eat the Fried Baja Fish Tacos and Simmzy’s Burger at one of their welcoming tables and allow yourself to forget about phrases like “fast food” and “chain restaurant” for just a moment.
Their Coastal Greens are another one of their dishes we think about constantly, and if you want a different kind of celebration, they make an excellent birthday touch with a warm donut and ice cream.
Tiki Juice Bar
$ | (714) 781-4636 | WEBSITE
A visit to Tiki Juice Bar in Disneyland will feel refreshing and pineapple-filled, in case those adjectives are priorities for your theme park adventure. The menu at this fantastic juice bar has things like Dole Whip, pineapple floats, and some dairy-free soft serve you can easily enjoy while walking around. They’ve set up a quick-service counter with tropical decor near attractions like Indiana Jones.
You can grab their signature treat any day from park opening to closing, or order ahead of time through the Disney mobile app.
Hammer Workshop & Bar
$ | (714) 844-2450 | WEBSITE
Even if you worry you’ll spend too much of the evening discussing mundane work details that have occupied your thoughts for weeks (like upcoming deadlines), the Zombie cocktail at this popular bar in Westminster will keep the conversation lively. It’s expertly crafted by the bartenders, and comes with the friendly service and laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for nights when you just want to unwind after a long day.
Clancy’s
$$ | (562) 594-8143 | WEBSITE
If you’re not looking for a fancy night out, but still want to unwind with a solid drink, head to this dive bar on Main Street. Clancy’s has a dimly lit interior with a couple of pool tables and a jukebox, but it’s the variety of beers on tap here that deserves your full focus. From the Cali Squeeze blood orange, a refreshing and thirst-quenching libation, to other rotating drafts, all their beverages are perfect for grabbing a casual drink with someone you haven’t seen in months.
Plus, they’ve got a friendly and engaging bartender, a chill atmosphere, and a simple, relaxed environment for those seeking a genuine dive bar experience.
Blvd. Cocktails
$ | (714) 833-5929 | WEBSITE
Even on a quiet afternoon, we always feel like it’s game day at Blvd. Cocktails. The lively space in this Westminster sports bar has pool tables, dart boards, and TVs galore, with tons of entertainment options beyond the cocktails and snacks on the menu. Check out their social media so you don’t miss one of their football watch parties or special sporting events.
Sunset Lounge
$ | (714) 525-0311 | WEBSITE
We’re big believers in karaoke as a social activity, especially in Westminster. If you want to grab a mic and belt out your favorite tunes, know that this lively bar on the main strip is open and ready for you. Head inside to write down your song requests, and then settle into your booth and order from their bar menu. We’d suggest getting the fry sampler, some cheap beer, and then making a night of it with the pool table, comedy shows, and friendly bartenders like Christina and Samantha.
BOTTOMS UP TAVERN
$ | (714) 991-9979 | WEBSITE
Looking for a spot where you can unwind without the fuss of a formal dinner? Bottoms Up Tavern in Westminster is our current go-to for a casual drink and some laid-back socializing. They pour very cold pints from clean lines and keep some premium tequila on the back bar, all at prices that won’t break the bank. You can grab a bag of snacks to munch on while you shoot pool or pick a tune on the jukebox.
Plus, the friendly vibe from bartenders like Patty and Travis, along with the clean, welcoming dive-bar atmosphere, is engaging enough to keep you happily settled in for a good couple of hours.
Wang Cho BBQ All You Can Eat
$$ | (714) 668-7777 | WEBSITE
Here’s a Westminster option for people looking for more of a lively feast than a quiet catch-up over coffee. This Korean barbecue spot on the list is always a fun place to consume garlic pork belly and rosemary shrimp, but especially so at their outdoor tables when the weather’s nice. They also offer a premium menu where you can become rather indulgent with specialty cuts like galbi or rib-eye. Go during off-peak hours or be prepared for a wait when it’s packed.
99 Bottles & Cocktails
$ | (714) 826-2040 | WEBSITE
Like many of the spots you frequent in Westminster, 99 Bottles & Cocktails has been holding down its corner for years. In its lively Old School-style space, the bar is still pouring those killer $2 beers and Mexican Candy Shots – the only thing that might surprise you is how packed it gets. They’ve got a great setup where you can grab a drink, catch a game on the screens, and hang out for as long as it takes for you to grow tired of trying to beat someone at pool.
The staff, especially Adela, keeps things running smoothly even when it’s busy, and that perfect pineapple mojito is still the highlight of any visit. Parking can be a challenge, but the good drinks and fun atmosphere make it worth the effort.
The FIFTH Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
$$ | (714) 772-0899 | WEBSITE
Any conversation about the best rooftop dining in Westminster needs to include The FIFTH, so, naturally, any discussion about where to meet up for cocktails with a view should as well. Experiences like sipping drinks while watching Disneyland fireworks during tiki nights, and enjoying the Crafted Burger with its excellent value during happy hour are available from their elevated patio.
But even if you just need a low-key option for house wine and dancing under the stars, The FIFTH is here for you.
Posse Bar
$ | (657) 227-7172 | WEBSITE
Posse Bar is a sports bar in Westminster that could easily win a local fan loyalty award. The bar is essentially one comfortable space surrounded by game-day energy, friendly regulars, and a welcoming vibe. Plus, this cozy spot serves one of our new favorite game-day snacks in the area – complete with a delicious hot dog that hits the spot. Up front, they’ve got a row of bar stools that work for solo visitors, plus there’s a quieter corner in the back with a pool table and other amenities.
The break room bar Fullerton
$$ | (714) 870-0711 | WEBSITE
The Break Room Bar Fullerton is a lively neighborhood hangout in Westminster with the occasional (unmasked) DJ. This Fullerton bar and restaurant is offering indoor and outdoor seating daily from 4pm until late, with sports viewing options for those who prefer games over beats. The vibe skews mostly upbeat, with drinks like craft cocktails, local beers, and a margarita you may or may not spill on your jeans while trying to look casually cool.
Hopscotch Craft Beer and Whiskey
$$ | (714) 871-2222 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for a fun spot for drinks with a couple friends who usually hang out together. This craft beer and whiskey bar in Fullerton has everything from spicy edamame to shrimp tacos and burgers. But what really sets Hopscotch apart are the dance lights and DJ later in the evening, where you can enjoy a lively vibe with a group of friends under the lights. The atmosphere shifts after dark, so make sure to check out their hours ahead of time.
Johnny’s Saloon & Pizzeria
$ | (714) 984-3760 | WEBSITE
Johnny’s Saloon & Pizzeria boasts “secret off-site kitchen pizzas,” which is something we’d like to tattoo on our forearm with a slice next to it. This Huntington Beach dive serves mouthwatering pies every day from a hidden kitchen, and there are a few booths where you can hang out with a buddy, date, or buddy who thinks it’s a date.
And if you like the sound of the meat-lover’s “Danny DeVito,” and the garlicky cheesy bread sounds like something you’d be into, stop by any night when the bar hosts a killer soundtrack of punk, rock, and even some Disney tunes in the restrooms.