Fullerton has quietly become one of Orange County’s most interesting food towns.
Between the historic downtown, college‑town energy from CSUF, and a wave of new development, you’ll now find everything from modern Korean spots to polished brunch cafes and creative bars.
These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy restaurants are great places to start.
1. Fuoco Pizzeria Napoletana
Fuoco helped kick off Fullerton’s modern dining moment and still feels fresh. It’s a cozy, brick‑oven pizzeria just off downtown, with a warm, casual vibe that works perfectly for date night, families, or a quick bite before drinks.
The focus is on true Neapolitan‑style pizza: blistered, chewy crusts from a wood‑burning oven, simple toppings, and really good ingredients.
Expect classics like Margherita and marinara, plus a few more creative options with spicy salami, prosciutto, arugula, and fresh mozzarella.
They round things out with antipasti (think burrata, meatballs, prosciutto and melon), salads, and a compact but thoughtful wine and beer list. If you care about pizza crust, this is the place to start.
Good for: casual date nights, groups, anyone serious about pizza
2. The Cellar
The Cellar is Fullerton’s go‑to for a special night out.
Tucked below street level in a dim, atmospheric dining room, it has that old‑school, speakeasy‑meets‑steakhouse feel—but the menu has been refreshed over the years to feel current.
You’ll find a fine‑dining‑leaning New American menu: steak and chops, rich seafood dishes, elevated appetizers, and seasonal specials that highlight whatever is best from the market.
Think filet mignon, scallops, lobster, and beautifully composed plates with modern sauces and sides.
The cocktail program is serious—classic martinis, old fashioneds, and house creations—backed up by a solid wine list.
It’s the kind of spot you book for anniversaries, birthdays, or any dinner where you want the whole experience to feel a bit extra.
Good for: special occasions, romantic dinners, celebrations
3. The Early Bird
The Early Bird is one of Fullerton’s most beloved modern brunch spots, where the vibe is laid‑back but the food is clearly chef‑driven.
Bright, busy, and casual, it’s the kind of place where there’s often a wait on weekends for good reason.
The menu takes classic American breakfast and brunch staples and levels them up: think thick‑cut bacon, house‑made biscuits, creative Benedicts, loaded scrambles, and French toast or pancakes with fun toppings.
Savory options like fried chicken and waffles, breakfast sandwiches, and hearty hashes keep things interesting for those who don’t have a sweet tooth.
Coffee is strong, and there are usually brunch cocktails—mimosas, bloody marys, and seasonal twists—to complete the experience. If you’re building a “best brunch in Fullerton” list, this needs to be on it.
Good for: brunch lovers, casual weekend meetups, hangover cures
4. Mr. Katsu
Mr. Katsu takes a simple idea—Japanese‑style katsu sandwiches—and turns it into something crave‑worthy.
The space is tiny and casual, more of a fast‑casual shop than a sit‑down restaurant, but what comes out of the kitchen is big on flavor.
They specialize in panko‑crusted cutlets (usually chicken or pork), stuffed or topped with everything from mozzarella and jalapeños to curry, teriyaki, or spicy sauces, all tucked into soft bread.
Expect melty, crunchy, saucy sandwiches that lean full‑on comfort food.
Add fries, loaded sides, and dipping sauces and you’ve got a spot that’s especially popular with students and anyone looking for something different from the usual burger or taco. It’s also a solid takeout choice.
Good for: quick, filling meals; takeout; something fun and different
5. Bourbon Street Bar & Grill
Bourbon Street brings a taste of New Orleans to downtown Fullerton with a lively, music‑driven atmosphere and a menu that leans Cajun‑Creole. It’s as much a nightlife spot as it is a restaurant, making it a great bridge between “dinner” and “going out.”
On the plate, think jambalaya, gumbo, po’boys, blackened seafood, fried catfish, and spicy pastas. There are usually bar‑friendly starters like wings, fries, and fried bites, plus big, flavorful mains for when you want a full meal. Portions tend to be generous and bold on seasoning.
The bar menu leans into New Orleans classics—hurricanes, sazeracs, and rum‑heavy cocktails—alongside beer and simpler mixed drinks. Live music and a buzzy crowd are a big part of the draw, especially on weekends.
Good for: groups, pre‑ or post‑drinks dinner, fans of Cajun/Creole flavors
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