Nestled among rolling foothills, Simi Valley’s top restaurants are equal parts laid-back California and multicultural kitchen, serving up big flavors in casual, neighborly settings.
It’s a city for families, commuters, and anyone seeking surprising creativity with a SoCal smile.
1. Szechuwan Garden
A neighborhood favorite, Szechuwan Garden offers flavorful Chinese classics—fiery mapo tofu, crispy orange chicken, savory hand-shaved noodles—in a warmly decorated space with friendly, quick service.
A go-to for family takeout, post-game dinners, and weekday lunch crowds, it also surprises with vegan and “heat lover’s” specialties.
Regulars rave about the spicy wontons and eggplant with garlic sauce.
2. Marshall’s Bodacious BBQ
Legend in Ventura County for brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and house-made sausages smoked low and slow.
The rustic room feels pure Texas; the portions are massive; and the combo plate with sweet cornbread, beans, and slaw brings cross-country barbecue fans to town.
The team takes pride in old-school service and always suggests the best sauce pairing for your meat.
3. Chi Chi’s Pizza
Families have celebrated birthdays and victories at Chi Chi’s for decades, drawn by red-checked tables, bowling alley nostalgia, and generous pans of zesty-sauced, cheese-loaded pies.
Beyond pizza, Italian-American combos—eggplant parm, lasagna, big salads—make for great value and even better leftovers.
Staff are cheerful and welcoming, ready with crayons for kids and a pitcher of soda for the table.
4. Eggs ‘N Things
Breakfast is king at this Simi staple, where morning means mountains of pancakes, big omelets, fluffy waffles, and housemade corned beef hash.
Servers are upbeat even when the wait is long, keeping coffee refills and good cheer coming.
Regulars know to get the fresh strawberry jam for their toast, and every meal feels like a weekend treat.
5. Donku Sushi
Tucked in an unassuming strip mall, Donku defies expectations with creative, beautifully plated rolls, pristine sashimi, and specialty warm dishes like bulgogi and teriyaki salmon.
Sushi chefs greet regulars by name, bento lunches are a hit, and the sake and craft beer list is surprisingly deep for such a casual, friendly spot.
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