Dining out in Anaheim

Key Points

Anaheim, the tenth-largest city in California, is best known for its theme parks, sports teams, and its convention center-the largest on the West Coast. However, those in town for AUA 2007 will be delighted to learn that this city, heavily vested in tourism, offers a vast collection of culinary options to satisfy even the most discriminating appetite.

That said, local urologist Brian Norouzi, MD, says that when choosing where to dine, visitors should consider the broader Orange County area.

"In general, I would say most of us don't always head toward Anaheim for dining, but, rather, toward Costa Mesa near South Coast Plaza and the Performing Arts Center or to Newport Beach," he says.

Anaheim/Central (1 mile)

Buca di Beppo800 West Katella Avenue714-765-8888 http://www.bucadibeppo.com/
Everything in this exuberant chain of casual Italian restaurants is served family-style: big bowls and platters brimming with enough food to serve two or three hungry people. The décor is kitschy and playful, the service, efficient. Dr. McDougall summed it up: "Pleasant environment, reasonable prices, and good-size portions."

Catal Restaurant and Uva Bar1580 S. Disneyland Drive, Suite 103 714-774-4442 http://www.patinagroup.com/catal/
This casually elegant restaurant in the heart of Downtown Disney is one of three that Dr. Deane prefers for its "good food, good service, and good ambiance." The Mediterranean menu features grilled seafood, meats, and main-course salads. Dr. Greenberger adds that, while the restaurant is upscale, it is still "family-friendly." Dr. McDougall describes it as "very nice continental/American cuisine" and advises, "Go upstairs for a more elegant venue."

ESPN Zone1545 Disneyland Drive714-300-3776
http:// http://www.espnzone.com/anaheim/
Although Dr. Norouzi may recommend dinner elsewhere, he says this sports-themed spot, a favorite in Downtown Disney, is a great venue for catching up on what's happening with your favorite teams. Like the House of Blues, this place is "noisy and fun," offering simple food.

House of Blues1530 S. Disneyland Drive714-520-2379 http://www.hob.com/anaheim
Dr. Norouzi enjoys this Downtown Disney venue, "not so much for the food," which is above-standard bar food, but for the atmosphere. He recommends dining elsewhere and coming back here for the noteworthy live entertainment.