Chapter One: The Modern Local is part of a larger revitalization of cities around the L.A. basin, where the emphasis is on energizing downtown businesses in core areas. In Santa Ana, this particular restaurant mixes innovation, ideals, community and history. Celebrating all things local, the farm-to-table, seasonal menu adheres to sustainability which makes the simple, yet flavorful ingredients stand on their own. The craft libations, from beer to cocktails are excellent, and if you arrive late, the kitchen stays open until midnight.

Pop's Cafe in Santa Ana is a classic, old-school style diner specializing in breakfast and American dishes. From the red vinyl seats to the checkerboard floor, you will know you made the right choice as soon as you step in the door. Once you check out the menu, take your pick from American breakfast classics like sandwiches, eggs Benedict, French toast (grilled or fried) and of course, pancakes. For those who aren't breakfast folk, they also serve classic American lunch dishes like salad, burgers and BLTs.

Casual yet classy, Old Vine Café is a popular local dining spot. Featuring a small, tastefully decorated vibrant space, the cafe's menu offers a diverse range of delicious gourmet options through breakfast and lunch daily and is open for dinner Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm onwards. Choose from seasonally inspired dishes to classic lunch time fare like Seasonal Blueberry French Toast, Lengua Omelet, Southern Brunch, Porcini Mushroom Mac & Cheese, Torta de Lingua and more. Paninis, salads, soups and starters are the mainstay during lunch. A 3 course menu is offered at USD23 per person as well. Dinner is a more elaborate affair diners can choose from several tasting menus as well as a la carte options with dishes like Hand Made Raviolo, White Truffle Polenta and Rabbit Mole. Resrvations for dinner are highly recommended.

SOL Cocina situated on Balboa Marina in Newport Beach is a Mexican restaurant with a difference. Specializing on authentic Baja cuisine with a contemporary assimilation of Baja's street food such as antojitos, street tacos and cocteles de mariscos. Simplicity and flavor are rulers of this delectable cuisine made with fresh ingredients. Smoky aromas fill the air from the open kitchen as the chefs grill their meat and fresh seafood on mesquite wood, rousing your appetite for the delicious spread that is to come. Salsas and sauces are freshly made daily using only the freshest ingredients. The restaurant offers quite a few dining options that includes the private dining room illuminated by the warm glow of the lovely candle wall which is downstairs. Their beautiful patio overlooks the Balboa Marina, and their unique bar with a welcoming fire pit is a great place where you can enjoy the creative hand made cocktails highlighting over 60 hand-crafted tequilas. The restaurant serves lunch, dinner and weekend brunch and also features live music on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday nights.

Alley Restaurant and Bar is a legendary Newport Beach restaurant that has been reveling locals and visitors with its American pub cuisine of classic burgers, sandwiches, Filet Mignon, lamb shank, chicken piccata, garlic green beans, pound cake, sand dabs, New Zealand Rack of Lamb, Chilean Sea bass and more. The late-night happy hour is one of the highlights here. The vintage look of the main dining area with its stained glass bay windows and dim lighting, invites you for a time of fun and frolic.

Lulu's Creperie Cafe has all the idyllic French countryside charm. Be it indoors or on the beautiful patio, you will be serenaded by the French experience. Delicious food, whether it is gourmet French, lovely crepes or classic American dishes, you will surely relish. And the warm hospitality and affordable prices sets the tone right for a delightful time here. At Lulu's you will feel as if you are meeting your long lost friend. Enjoy the live music nightly and on Sunday brunch, and just unwind with a great smile playing on your lips. Lulu's is known for their hearty breakfasts and brunches, so step in to have a wonderful dining experience.

This is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Orange County or, for that matter, Southern California. The views here are to die for, with the coastline spread out before you. This makes it a popular spot with tourists, who like to take pictures of themselves against the spectacular backdrop. Locals love it too. Most of the entrees are seafood-centric but there is something for everyone. Try the pasta Las Brisas, Bouillabaisse with a half-lobster tail, or scallops in tomato saffron broth. There is a full bar and an extensive wine list with some good medium-priced bottles.

TAPS Fish House & Brewery is a pleasant and casual restaurant specializing in all thing’s seafood and beer, a classic pairing. You can start out with a selection of various preparations from the oyster bar. Next move on to their internationally-inspired menu of appetizers like Maine Lobster Roll and Grilled Swordfish and entrees like Dynamite Scallops or their "Colossal" Surf and Turf. Never fear non-seafood eaters, there are a few menu options for you as well. To accompany your meal, try one of their more than 30 different kinds of beers brewed especially for TAPS, in styles ranging from a Bohemian Pilsner to Imperial Russian Stout.