By: Shelby Stancliff
Need a new place to grab lunch, coffee, or even an afternoon drink? Here’s a list of my favorite spots around Fullerton:
Roll & Grill
Two words. Cheap. Sushi. And I mean that in a good way. Roll & Grill is essentially a fast sushi and teriyaki spot located off Chapman Ave. You can get your fix of sushi, tempura, miso, and other sides, along with their grilled plates like chicken, beef, and salmon. Grab a miso soup for $1, a handroll for $3, and a chicken teriyaki plate for under $7. They’ve got tons of sushi roll options ranging from simple, fresh, tempura, and even baked rolls. Having a party? Order a platter for around $40.
Tips: Call ahead and order! They are always super busy so you may get the busy tone the first few tries, but keep calling until you get through. It will save you tons of time. Call, place your order and it’s usually ready in 15 minutes. I don’t believe they are currently allowing dine-in but no worries, they provide chopsticks, soy sauce, wasabi, and any extra sauces you’ll need.
My favorites:
Philadelphia roll ($4.95)
Salmon tempura ($5.95)
Crunch Handroll ($3.50)
Crepes Bonaparte
If you are looking back at all your past relationships and flings and need a song that captures how you are feeling then, “Thank U, Next” is the song for you. All those past relationships and breakups were painful but at the same
Did someone say mimosas? Okay, okay, I know their whole thing is crepes BUT I’ve just gotta talk about their mimosas first. Let me start by saying one mimosa is $3.50. Yes, you read that right. Most places charge double that for a mimosa. Are they on the smaller side? Sure, but the ratio of champagne to juice is…. Generous.
You can get just the classic OJ or spice it up with one of their fun flavors including strawberry, lavender, hibiscus, or blackberry. With a group of friends? Get a bottle of champagne with juices for only $12.
Now let’s talk crepes. I’m a sweet crepe fan so basically anything with Nutella, whipped cream, or berries, I’m in. As a vegetarian, I usually don’t have many options for savory crepes, but here they offer a Vegan Southwestern, and two vegetarian breakfast crepes, all under $10. If you’re looking to brunch (and for under $20), I suggested heading to Crepes Bonaparte in downtown Fullerton. They have a food truck too that you can occasionally catch on campus (sans mimosa of course).
My favorites:
Lavender Mimosa ($3.50)
Al Capone ($8.50)
HazelBerryAna ($8)
Wake Up Call ($8)
Pickled Monk
Going through a breakup could make you feel as though you are never going to get through it but that could not be
Since we’re on the subject of alcohol, let’s talk Pickled Monk. The Monk (I just decided on that nickname) is essentially a self-serve taproom, bar, and grille. The selling point here is their happy hour. Stop by 3p-6p Tuesday through Friday (6p-9p on Sundays) for half off pour-your-own beer. Don’t like beer? Don’t worry, me either. Lucky for me (& possibly you) they also have wine, hard cider, and hard kombucha on tap. Grab a pint or a taste tester flight.
Food-wise, not the best place for vegetarians but I’m a fan of loading up on appetizers for the table. This is a great place to gather, and it’s self-seating which is always nice. Also located in downtown Fullerton, it’s a convenient walk to other food spots if you’re not feeling their menu.
My favorites:
Blood Orange Hefeweizen (price varies)
Mango Cider – Ace (price varies)
Mac n Cheese ($6.99)
Fried Pickles ($4.99)
Skinny Garlic Fries ($4.99)
Chicana Vegana
If you need another song that will help give you strength then listen to “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child. If you were in a relationship with a toxic person then it is a good thing that relationship is now over. Sing this lyric from the top of your lungs because it is 100% true, “Now that you’re outta my life, I’m so much better”. Listening to this song over and over will help remind you that you can survive this breakup. You may want to punch your ex in the face or tell
Chicana Vegana is fairly new to the DTF scene, but let me tell you, I’m glad they’re here. They specialize in mexicali style food and everything on the menu is vegan! Burgers, burritos, tacos, loaded fries, and even desserts. Not only do they have great food, but the staff is so friendly and the interior is just the cutest.
My favorites:
Al Pastor Street Taco ($3)
Chili Cheese Fries ($13.50)
Ensenadas
Going through a breakup is rough and it feels as though your heart is undeniably broken but you are going to get through it and I promise you there is a light at the end of the town. However, if you do not believe that you can get through this rough patch then maybe the song “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson will convince
Fish tacos! That’s all I have to say. Ensenadas is home to the best grilled fish taco I’ve ever had at $3.25 a piece. They come dressed with slaw, pico, and a lime to squeeze on top. I only need two to fill me up. I choose grilled over fried but you have that option too. Come by on Wednesdays and battered tacos are only $1.59 a piece.
Not the taco type? Grab one of their football-sized burritos priced between $5.99 and $13.99. Ceviche is also on the menu and I’ve heard great things. Ensenada’s is conveniently placed right down the street from campus just off of Nutwood. It’s a great place to grab lunch if you have time between classes.
My favorites:
Grilled Fish Taco ($3.50)
Made Coffee
Who doesn’t love coffee? If you want to support a small business, here’s your place. Titan Radio has been a friend of the station for a few semesters so we always vouch for them. Not only are the beverages good but the atmosphere is great, with both indoor and outdoor seating (both should now be open). The staff is always super friendly too!
My favorites:
Hot Chai Latte (~$5)
Hot Cherry Rose Tea ($4)
Hot Blueberry Jasmine Tea ($4)
Iced Caramel Cold Brew ($5.25)
Any Muffin ($3.50)
Smoking Tiger
I’ve only been here once but it was good enough to mention. DTF has Wilshire blocked off for outdoor seating right in front of the shop so this is a great place to grab a drink and chat outside with friends. I can’t wait to go back and try more!
My favorites:
Pineapple Express ($6.25) ←- totally worth it!
Strawberry Matcha ($5.75)
What are your favorite spots in Fullerton? Let us know in the comments.
