2026 Taste of Buena Park Food Award Winners

The table is set and the results are sizzling. Visit Buena Park is proud to share the Top 10 Best Restaurants in the city for 2026. The Food Awards celebrate the city’s diverse culinary scene, highlighting hidden gems, beloved favorites, and innovative newcomers that make Buena Park a food lover’s paradise.

#1 – Jin Cook $$

Jin Cook is a Korean food destination that’s impossible to overlook. This family-owned gem delivers bold, savory flavors in every dish, from tender bulgogi and crispy pork katsu to spicy braised short ribs that pack serious punch. Fan favorites like Brisket Ddukbokki—marbled brisket and crispy fried dumplings in a rich, flavorful sauce—and the Jalapeño Cheese Curry Katsu, stuffed with melty cheese, showcase the creativity and comfort that keep diners coming back. The sizzling spicy pork hot stone turns up the heat, while the seafood pancake is perfect for sharing. With flavors this irresistible, it’s no wonder Jin Cook earned the #4 spot on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in Orange County in 2025 by Yelp Elites—a true must-visit for anyone craving authentic Korean soul food. (8890 Valley View St)

#2 - Porto’s Bakery & Café $

Porto’s Bakery, ranked #10 on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in Orange County in 2025 by Yelp Elites, is a must-stop for anyone craving authentic Cuban flavors. The lines can get long, but they move fast—and every bite is worth the wait. Fans flock for favorites like potato balls, empanadas, cheese rolls, meat pies, Cuban sandwiches, guava pastries, and sweet fruit tart cakes, while their rich tres leches cake is a must-try. Wash it all down with classic Cuban coffee or a refreshing tropical drink for the perfect finish. Beloved by locals and visitors alike, Porto’s has received tons of awards, cementing its reputation as one of the area’s most celebrated bakeries. (7640 Beach Boulevard)

#3 - M Korean BBQ $$

Walking into M Korean BBQ feels like stepping straight into a buzzing night spot in Korea. The energy is electric, the space is sleek and immersive, and the glow of the grills instantly pulls you in. Smoke rises, conversations hum, and the sound of meat sizzling at the table sets the tone for an unforgettable meal. Thin-sliced prime brisket and marinated beef oyster steak cook right in front of you, while favorites like spicy cold noodles with beef tartare and cheesy corn pancakes add to the excitement. With a wide selection of beef and pork cuts to grill and drinks like strawberry yogurt cocktails or traditional rice wine, M Korean BBQ delivers an experience that feels authentic, lively, and completely transportive—like a night out in Korea without ever leaving town. (6982 Beach Blvd)

#4 - Atoyubu $$

Ranked #15 on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in Orange County in 2025 by Yelp Elites, Atoyubu serves up vibrant Asian fusion flavors with every bite. Their signature tofu-wrapped bites are packed with fresh fillings like salmon, crab, avocado, and spicy tuna, all finished with a zesty house sauce. Hearty favorites like grilled bulgogi topped with egg bring rich, satisfying flavor, while seafood-forward dishes—from garlic butter crab to lemon pepper salmon—shine with freshness. Light, simple touches, like creamy avocado with a hint of lemon, complete a menu that’s full of excitement and flavor. (7041 Western Ave)

#5 - Portillo’s $

Stop in at this can't-miss spot for seriously crave-worthy bites, where classic Chicago flavors meet playful twists. Sink your teeth into iconic Chicago-style hot dogs, hearty Italian beef sandwiches, and the legendary chocolate cake shake. Cheese fries take indulgence to the next level, smothered in rich, gooey cheddar, while the Beef-n-Cheddar Croissant delivers savory, flaky perfection. For the ultimate adventure, dive into the secret menu, where hidden gems like the Triple Cheeseburger—stacked with three juicy 1/3 lb. char-broiled patties—await the bold and hungry.(8290 La Palma Ave)

#6 - The Cauldron $$

Step into the magic of The Cauldron, a French-inspired restaurant and bar where the experience begins with a hidden dining room revealed behind a secret bookcase. Inside, rich, comforting flavors take center stage—think deeply savory French onion soup and indulgent house-made bacon jam that’s impossible to resist. The cocktails are just as spellbinding. The Boysenberry Cotton Candy Cocktail, known as The Knotty Kid, is a showstopper as fluffy cotton candy dissolves into a bright, boozy blend of vodka and lemon. For something truly enchanting, Roses by the Stairs pairs gin with a dramatic, poppable smoke bubble, filling each sip with aroma and flair. At The Cauldron, every dish and drink feels like a delicious discovery. (8028 Beach Blvd)

#7 - Nobibi $

Step into Nobibi and discover imaginative soft-serve creations that are almost too fun to eat. Indulge in fan favorites like Brown Sugar Boba or Strawberry Blush, or go all out with the whimsical Dream Cloud, nestled in cotton candy. For a true showstopper, try the D’or, featuring delicate 24K gold flakes placed atop silky soft serve. Oreo lovers will want to keep an eye out for their cookies-and-cream creations, while those craving something extra indulgent can opt for soft serve sandwiched between warm, egg puff waffles.(7941 Beach Blvd)

#8 - Izakaya Ichie $$

Step into the buzz of Izakaya Ichie and dive into an energetic take on Japanese fusion, where ultra-fresh seafood and bold flavors steal the spotlight. Sushi lovers can’t go wrong with the Crunch Philadelphia, packed with crispy salmon, or the wildly popular Flamin’ Cheetos Roll, delivering a playful, spicy crunch in every bite. The Truffle Crispy Rice Stack is a standout favorite, pairing crispy rice with Korean bulgogi and a side of fries for a crave-worthy twist. Sip on a refreshing lemon soju cocktail, then wrap up the experience with a smooth, creamy matcha cheesecake for the perfect sweet finish. (6920 Beach Blvd)

#9 - Rock & Brews $$

Turn up the volume at Rock & Brews, a high-energy, rock-and-roll–themed hangout serving classic American comfort food. The vibe is fun and unapologetically cool—perfect for kicking back with friends and enjoying hearty, crowd-pleasing grub. Rock legend Alice Cooper brings the heat with his signature Poison Burger, powered by his fiery Reaper Sauce. The Giant Soft Pretzel is a showstopping, shareable favorite, while Tuna Poke Nachos add a fresh twist to the menu. Pair it all with a deep selection of 60+ craft beers, then head outside to the patio for games like cornhole. Save room for the indulgent Brownie Sundae to round out a truly rockin’ experience. (7777 Beach Blvd)

#10 - Thirty Acres Kitchen $$

Celebrate the legendary boysenberry—created from a delicious blend of loganberry, blackberry, and raspberry—right here in Buena Park! Located inside the Knott’s Hotel, Thirty Acres Kitchen is a lively American eatery that celebrates Knott’s rich sweet-and-savory heritage. Indulge in smoky Boysenberry Chipotle BBQ Burgers, tangy BBQ Wings, and refreshing boysenberry cocktails from the full-service bar. Start your day with a hearty breakfast buffet or a rich cup of boysenberry coffee, then relax indoors or on the outdoor patio, where a cozy fireplace adds the perfect finishing touch. (7675 Crescent Ave)

Culinary Hall of Fame

2025 Winners

2024 Winners

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