I must forewarn you that I’ve only been to Dano Restaurant, or more commonly known as “Dano’s,” once in my life. It was during a trip to New York city in the early months of 2006 that the restaurant was recommended to me by my hotel’s concierge. I can’t put into words how grateful I am to the concierge for recommending Dano’s to me, because to this day, I have never had a better tasting salmon.

The restaurant itself is rather small. It’s very chic, and the service is good. It’s good for a date, but I went by myself and didn’t feel awkward at all. In fact, there were a few other single party customers during the time that I was there.

I was seated promptly, and the server immediately brought me water and bread. The bread was ordinary, but the butter was some of the best butter I have ever had in my life. It was similar to an olive butter, but it wasn’t oily. In fact, it was creamy in texture. I ate so much bread just to finish off that butter I actually feared that I wouldn’t be able to eat my entree. My entree, “Pan Roasted Salmon with Fresh Roasted Corn, Leeks, Shiitaki Mushrooms and Tomatoes in a White Wine Sauce Served over Rice ,” was even more delicious than the butter. (See the dish review below for more information.)

Overall, Dano’s was one of the best restaurant experiences I have ever had, if only because the food was absolutely delicious. I haven’t had the chance to visit New York since, but I think about Dano’s often. In fact, from that trip I think about Dano’s more than any of the other shows, activities, or restaurants I enjoyed. I also rave about Dano’s to anyone I know who is going to visit New York.

Maybe my delightful experience was a fluke. Maybe the fish was extra fresh and the butter was extra blended. If it was, though, then it was the best fluke of my life. I HIGHLY recommend this restaurant, and please review after me if you have a drastically different experience =)

Dick Church’s is the oldest restaurant in Costa Mesa, and quite possibly Orange County (although I’m not positive so I won’t state it as fact.) In any case, DC’s is a place to get delicious American style meals. Weekend breakfasts are usually busy and there is sometimes a wait depending on what time you come, but it’s worth it. The waitresses have worked there for years and they know what they’re doing. The customer base consists of many regulars and locals, and during the summer OC Fair guests stop by. Some dishes are better than others, but all are good. I’ve listed a few of my favorites for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Also, I listed that I came here for a family meal, because that’s truthfully what started me coming. I bring friends when I can though, just because I enjoy some of the food so much.

If anyone cares, some local celebrities frequent the place with their own families (that’s how much of a family restaurant DC’s is) including some of the guys from Sugar Ray who live in the area =)

The service is friendly, and the food is good. It isn’t fancy, and the age is there, but it’s a nice, comfortable place and I highly recommend it. Explore the menu – there are a lot of hidden gems (cinnamon rolls, ice cream, shakes, etc.) Try the daily soups as well… and don’t forget to check out the daily specials =)