This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Santa Ana, California—a nostalgic look back and a helpful resource for those seeking available restaurant spaces. These are the places that we miss. This is our restaurant history. A forgotten piece of our heritage. No matter how long each of these eateries were open, on a daily basis they paid someone’s rent, provided sustenance for a hungry traveler, or simply became a part of the community. So please join us in remembering and honoring this aspect of our town.
Santa Ana, California, with a population of around 332,000, thrives in the vibrant heart of Orange County, known for its rich cultural tapestry and diverse food scene. This city boasts a thriving Mexican culinary tradition, highlighted by iconic dishes such as pozole, tamales, and the beloved street tacos, which reflect the area’s roots and immigrant influences. A standout establishment, Restaurante El Metate, serves up authentic flavors and has become a local favorite for its handcrafted salsas and traditional recipes. Nestled near the Santa Ana River and just a short drive from the Pacific coastline, the city’s geography has historically supported agriculture, allowing for access to fresh, local ingredients that inspire its dynamic cuisine.
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Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided as a resource, but it may not always be 100% accurate. While we strive to research and verify details, errors can occur, and businesses frequently change names, locations, or reopen after closing. Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect. Use this information at your own risk. If you spot an error, please contact us here, and we will do our best to update it promptly.
Closed Down Restaurants in Santa Ana, California
Exploring the Restaurants That Once Defined the City’s Dining Scene
Santa Ana has experienced the rise and fall of many beloved restaurants over the years. From popular fast-food chains to cherished local spots, here’s a look at some of the most memorable closures, organized by decade.
2020s
Little Onion Mexican Restaurant (La Cebollita)
Location: 110 W. MacArthur Blvd., Santa Ana, CA
Closure Date: August 30, 2024
For 52 years, this family-owned Mexican restaurant delighted patrons with its authentic dishes and friendly atmosphere before closing its doors in 2024.
Yellow Basket
Location: Grand Ave. and Edinger Ave., Santa Ana, CA
Closure Date: Circa 2023
Famous for its breakfast burritos and classic American fare, Yellow Basket closed around 2023, leaving locals craving its beloved dishes.
Velvet Lounge
Location: 416 W. 4th St., Santa Ana, CA
Closure Date: Prior to June 2021
Once a vibrant nightlife destination, Velvet Lounge served as a popular spot for music, dancing, and drinks before ceasing operations.
Plaza Cafe & Deli
Location: 600 W. Santa Ana Blvd. Ste 103, Santa Ana, CA
Closure Date: Prior to June 2021
This downtown eatery offered casual dining options before quietly shutting down.
China Olive
Location: 3420 S. Bristol St., Santa Ana, CA
Closure Date: Prior to June 2021
A popular spot for Chinese cuisine, China Olive closed before June 2021, leaving a void for lovers of its buffet-style dining.
Wienerschnitzel #710
Location: 1700 E. McFadden Ave., Santa Ana, CA
Closure Date: Prior to June 2021
This well-known fast-food restaurant, famous for its hot dogs, quietly closed before mid-2021.
Braizen Sexy Sandwiches
Location: 31 E. MacArthur Crescent #102, Santa Ana, CA
Closure Date: Prior to June 2021
Known for its creatively named sandwiches, this shop was listed among the many that shut down before June 2021.
1970s (and Undated Locations)
Pup ‘N’ Taco (16252 Harbor Blvd)
Status: Now a Taco Bell.
Once part of the popular Pup ‘N’ Taco chain, this location is now a Taco Bell following Taco Bell’s acquisition of many Pup ‘N’ Taco properties.
Pup ‘N’ Taco (806 S Main St)
Status: Now Main Teriyaki and Burgers.
The building previously occupied by Pup ‘N’ Taco is still standing, continuing its legacy as a dining location.
Pup ‘N’ Taco (Old Tustin Ave & 17th St)
Status: Occupied by various businesses over the years.
Though the subsequent occupants are not known, the building once housed a well-loved Pup ‘N’ Taco.
Pup ‘N’ Taco (Flower St & W 17th St)
Status: Various subsequent businesses.
This Pup ‘N’ Taco location has seen multiple tenants over the years.
Jack in the Box (Formerly Pup ‘N’ Taco)
Location: 2502 S Harbor Blvd, Santa Ana, CA
Status: Now a Jack in the Box.
Panda Express (Formerly Naugles)
Location: 2130 S Bristol St, Santa Ana, CA
Status: Now a Panda Express.
Law Office (Formerly Naugles / Dairy Queen)
Location: 2121 N Tustin Ave, Santa Ana, CA
Status: After serving as a Naugles and later a Dairy Queen until 2014, this building now serves as a law office.
Bonanza Sirloin Pit
Location: 1120 W 17th St, Santa Ana, CA
Opened: 1969
Status: Now a Mexican restaurant.
A popular steakhouse during its prime, Bonanza Sirloin Pit was known for its affordable prices and hearty meals.
Sambo’s (3001 S Bristol St)
Status: Now a breakfast restaurant.
Once part of a controversial national chain, this location continues to serve breakfast but under a different name.
Sambo’s (2101 E 1st St)
Status: Occupied by various businesses over the years.
The original building has housed multiple tenants since its time as a Sambo’s restaurant.
Blue Fish
Location: Santa Ana, CA
Closure Date: Circa 2009
A well-regarded restaurant reported closed around 2009.
Daphne’s Greek Cafe (Sunflower Plaza location)
Location: Santa Ana, CA
Closure Date: December 2009
The Sunflower Plaza location of Daphne’s Greek Cafe closed in late 2009, much to the disappointment of its fans.
Topz (Health-Focused Burger Chain)
Locations: Santa Ana and Orange, CA
Closure Date: Circa 2009
Topz was known for its healthy take on classic fast-food fare before disappearing from the area.
Carl’s Jr.
Location: 1301 E. Chapman Ave., Fullerton, CA
Closure Date: October 26, 2009
This location closed due to lease issues and the lack of a drive-through, a significant factor in its decline.
Final Thoughts
Santa Ana’s culinary scene has evolved significantly over the years. The restaurants listed above, whether national chains or local favorites, each played a role in defining the city’s unique dining culture.
For more stories of closed-down restaurants and to share your own memories, visit Closed Down Restaurants.com.
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