The Ultimate Brussels Sprouts Guide–Orange County
I am a fiend for roasted brussels sprouts. Growing up, I had the notion that brussels sprouts were nasty… but that’s only if they’re raw or steamed. Enter the restaurant world…the land of roasted brussels sprouts. Whenever they’re on the appetizer menu, it’s an immediate must-order! Looking through my camera roll, I’ve had many brussels sprouts dishes, so I thought I’d make a guide! No one ever asked for this, but here you go! These are not ranked in any particular order because they are all amazing! Enjoy!
Seabirds Kitchen
2930 Bristol Street and 3333 Bear St. Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Burnt Brussels Sprouts
I just had these last night, and they were so addicting! Super crisp and crunchy, flavored with lime, dijon, cayenne and fried garlic! The fried garlic really made these stand out, while the lime added a nice tanginess to the dish.
222 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, CA, 92651United States
Brussels Sprouts~ coppa chips, mustard espuma, onions confit, micro mix, balsamique glaze
Now, these are the fanciest brussels sprouts I have ever seen. I mean, it makes sense, since the restaurant is called Brussels Bistro. There were only 6 pieces on this $12 plate, but to be fair, the presentation was on point and it was super fun to eat. Those crunchy pieces of coppa added a salty contrast to the sweet balsamique glaze.
Wood Ranch Kitchen + Bar
28061 Greenfield Dr., Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Almonds & Parmesan
Brussels sprouts and bacon…the perfect combination. I’ve tried making this myself, but it never comes out as well as the restaurant’s version. This side is gluten-free, and it’s $7. Perfect for two people to share! It wasn’t as crispy as others I’ve had, but still tasty.
Zov’s
Multiple locations
Brussels and Bacon: brussel sprouts, nueske applewood bacon, caper vinaigrette, pinot noir syrup
My whole family loved these, even my dad, who dislikes brussels sprouts on every other occasion. Both the bacon and brussels were crispy, and the sweetness from the pinot noir syrup made these the perfect pre-entree “treat”.
Urban Plates
Multiple Locations
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon
I always choose brussels sprouts as a side at Urban Plates. It’s like a buffet, but the servers plate your food. Super customizable and these brussels are only 180 calories! I would say these are more chewy, but still a good choice.
Portside Fish Co.
2222 Michelson Dr, Irvine, CA 92612
Brussels Sprouts: grilled sprouts tossed in bacon bits, cotija cheese, lemon juice with chipotle aioli
Located inside TRADE food hall, Portside Fish Co. serves a variety of seafood, from burritos to tacos to brussels sprouts! I had these so long ago, but I remember them being great…because they have bacon…duh! The cotija cheese and chipotle aioli give them a Mexican twist. At $5.99, these are the best deal!
Gather
2200 Oxford St, Berkeley, CA 94704
Brussels Sprouts: preserved lemon, cashew, tamari, aleppo (v, gf)
Ok, I know this is not in Orange County, but the best brussels sprouts I’ve had in the Bay Area are from Gather. I especially loved the cashew tamari–it tasted exactly like cheese–and since I’m lactose-intolerant, I enjoy having the taste of cheese when I get the chance. Also, the presentation was beautiful!
how cute is this dish?!
Eureka!
Multiple Locations
Crispy Glazed Brussels Sprouts~orange chile glaze, chimichurri, almonds
Last but not least, Eureka! These brussels sprouts were crispy, but not too crispy. The orange chile glaze gave it the perfect tang, while the almonds added a nice crunch. I highly recommend ordering these and their honey sweet potato fries for appetizers!