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    The Cellar Restaurant

    4.1 (2k reviews)
    Closed 4:00 pm - 10:00 PM

    The Cellar Restaurant Photos

    THE CELLAR RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Intimate
    Romantic
    Dressy

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    Recommended Reviews - The Cellar Restaurant

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    Sticky toffee pudding with vanilla bean ice cream
    Liz F.

    Lovely place for a romantic dinner! My husband and I celebrated our dual birthday and it was our first time at The Cellar. The place is very different, underground vibe but a romantic setting. The service is outstanding, food and drinks are delicious! We even received complimentary macrons to celebrate our birthdays! Loved our experience and I think you would too! Book a reservation to get seated right away, but there is a very nice bar with great vibes that you can have a drink while you wait.

    Kathleen A.

    Five stars for food, service and ambience! This hidden gem offers a warm and upscale experience whether you're experiencing the bar or dining rooms. Tonight, my husband and I decided to visit for Happy Hour. Eric and Paola were fantastic. Eric's recommendation of the menu was perfect and Paola's mixology story was impressive. We will definitely be back!

    Split of a filet mignon
    Alice K.

    This place was great! It was almost like a speakeasy with the entrance so hidden. We ordered the escargot, lobster bisque and French onion soup. They were able to split the soups for us and it was perfectly portioned. I ordered the filet mignon to split with my partner and they were also able to split that for us too. The service was great! We also got the strip steak which was also amazing. Would definitely come back.

    Raspberry sorbet and salted caramel soufflé
    Cece Z.

    This was hands the most fun, intimate, coolest vibe of a restaurant in downtown Fullerton I have ever experienced. EVERYTHING and EVERYONE was so AMAZING and personable. DEFINITELY coming back to try the rest of the menu. There was nothing that we ate that wasn't *chefs kiss*. Such a GREAT amazing and fun experience. The staff were so kind, friendly and personable. The food was timed perfectly between appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Whether you're visting California or a local this is a must try place, you will not regret it!!

    Mel D.

    I've been wanting to try this place for a couples years but haven't had the chance or occasion to come. We're celebrating Valentine's Day late and our Anniversary. I was able to get a reservation for today. The winter drinks were good. Wifey got the snow blind I believe and I got the night something? Both were good! I don't drink as much as I used too so I felt a decent buzz on an empty stomach. Food was delicious! Ambiance was nice and intimate. Nice hidden restaurant.

    Bisque
    Kit T.

    It's a cute little place with underground dining, and just a tad bit dark in the inside. Our server was nice and attentive. The food was also delicious. I think at one point I couldn't tell it was a mushroom on my plate because it was just dark inside. I finally found my pork skewer! For dessert, I think the vanilla panna cotta was delicious overall. The waffle was a little bit sweet.

    Nina N.

    My friends and I chose to do New Year's Eve Eve dinner here and it was a blast. We made reservations and upon arriving, it was crowded as most of the seating towards the bar area and to the right of the restaurant were all taken. It wasn't until we were finishing up that we noticed that almost every table was filled. The host, to the servers and helpers were really friendly and made our experience a great one. Our server also gave us good recommendations as we ordered the bone marrow and chateaubriand as she stated and enjoyed it. The chateaubriand was cooked to our liking. The filet was juicy and flavorful along with the red wine demi-glace & béarnaise sauce really kicked the flavors up a notch. The mashed potatoes were so thick and creamy and the most perfectly seasoned carrots I've ever eaten at a restaurant. Another highlighting dish was the lobster bisque. Hands down, the best lobster bisque any of us girls have ever tried. It was creamy, rich, flavorful, lobstery without tasting like the ocean if that makes sense. We also tried the French onion soup, Caesar salad, beet salad, mushroom ravioli, Mac and cheese, and Brussel sprouts. The French onion soup was one of the better ones I've tried, but I think it's also because there was filet mignon in it. The Caesar salad was interesting as it was served with corn. Honestly I wasn't a fan of the paired flavors of the sweet and tangy Caesar. The beef salad was a better salad option. The mushroom ravioli had an amazing flavor and consistency in the filling but fell short as it was paired with an acidic tomato sauce. I would have loved it in a white sauce and maybe a little bit of truffle. Unfortunately, the Mac and cheese as well as Brussel sprouts were nothing special. We finished off the night with a salted caramel soufflé, creme brûlée and sticky toffee pudding. I was quite full and only tried the creme brûlée and it was a good way to end the night. The ambiance was cozy and romantic. It's dark chic while others might describe it as a little goth. The staff is friendly and attentive while the chef in the back knows exactly how to cook your stake perfectly! They had good drinks as well as a few non alcoholic beverages that were just as yummy. If you get a chance to check out this place, I highly recommend the lobster bisque and the chateaubriand.

    Crème brûlée
    Elisa P.

    What a fun experience in the area! We came to this spot for an anniversary dinner and were pleasantly surprised. There's a good amount of parking in the designated lot. When walking into the restaurant you need to descend a flight of stairs so be wary of that. The restaurant is dark and moody but feels romantic and intimate. We made reservations and got seated quickly. All of the staff members were very attentive and quick to help us out. My favorite thing of the night was the French onion soup. It was so good. Other than the soup we got the lobster bisque, beef tartare, rigatoni, and a crème brûlée. The crème brûlée was pretty disappointing - not very creamy or soft. Overall I was surprised by the food here and really enjoyed myself!

    Entrance
    Frank P.

    We went for the Christmas Eve dinner. It was three courses and dessert. The presentation pay price included tax and tip. If you order drinks you had a drink tab.. We got there a bit earlier than our scheduled time, but we're seated right away. This place is cool. You enter by going down a flight of stairs. Its like you're really in a wine cellar. Our server took our drink order, since we knew what we wanted to eat, we ordered food too. From each course we ordered something different so we could try different things. Course one Mary had the French onion Tartlet. I had lobster croquet. Course two Mary had squash soup, I had the salad. Course three Mary had Filet Mignon. I went with the pan seared halibut. For dessert Mary ordered apple tart, I had chocolate mousse We shared everything except the tart because I don't like apple. The food was amazing and the service too. Mary always says how good the lobster bisque is but today it was on the menu. We will have to come back. We loved all the food. Our non alcoholic drinks were also tasty. My favorite was the lobster and halibut. I will definitely return, and look forward to other special menus. The Cellar is the perfect place to bring a date.

    Dessert
    Monica D.

    The cellar has amazing food & drinks. I love trying the chef's special. Their menu changes seasonally. The staff and people who work there are friendly and kind.

    Karen G.

    Second visit, and The Cellar continues to deliver a consistently excellent experience. We had a 6:00pm reservation but arrived right at 5:00pm when they opened. Instead of waiting, we decided to start at the bar and learned they offer happy hour daily and yes, even on weekends! The bar itself is intimate and fills up fast, so we snagged one of the nearby cocktail tables instead. Lilly was our server during HH and she was wonderful. I ordered the Night Train- a spirit-forward cocktail that was bold, sophisticated, and perfectly on brand for this elegant, speakeasy-like space. The chocolate garnish on top was a nice touch. I also enjoyed a glass of Cab from the HH menu. My boyfriend went with a classic Manhattan, which felt like the perfect fit for the moody, old-world vibe of the bar. We hadn't eaten all day, which led to some questionable (but delicious) decisions. Watching what the couple next to us ordered off the HH menu didn't help either. We ordered the bread and the HH mac and let me tell you what a big mistake that was! This is how you ruin your appetite, people!!! Once we moved into the dining room, Caden took over as our server. He was friendly, fast, and efficient. We ordered everything at once, and he expertly coursed it out for us. What we ordered: Grilled Spanish Octopus Skewers - Delicious overall, though the octopus was just a tad dry. Still enjoyable and not a deal breaker. Nordic Blue Salmon - My boyfriend told me to order something else since I eat salmon all the time... I ignored him! Zero regrets!! The salmon was perfectly cooked (medium, just how I like it), and the roasted squash and oyster mushrooms complemented the dish beautifully. Unfortunately, I only managed two bites before surrendering. Happily boxed it up though and it held up incredibly well the next day. 10oz Cape Grimm Filet Mignon - My boyfriend's order and a recommendation from Caden. He usually doesn't gravitate toward filet mignon, but he absolutely loved it. For dessert, we ordered the Sticky Toffee Pudding, and it was heaven in every bite. The Cellar has been part of downtown Fullerton since its grand opening in 1970, originally built into the underground space of a historic brick building. With its stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and European wine-cellar ambiance, it's easy to see why it has endured for over five decades.There's a reason this restaurant has stood the test of time and remains a staple of Orange County fine dining 55 years later.

    kayla r.

    This was such a unique experience. I had never tried anything like it before, and it definitely exceeded expectations. The atmosphere was great, and the Fullerton area adds to the overall vibe. Highly recommend for a fun and memorable dinner date.

    French Onion Soup, must get!
    Victoria S.

    Came here for dinner on a weekday and under reservations, we were immediately seated. The hostess also called us to make sure we were still on the way as we were running late due to parking (there's parking at the bank) Location was a bit hard to find but it is through the garden plaza by somi somi and then down the stairs. It gave cellar and speakeasy vibes - which played into their name and I very much enjoy themed restaurants. Service was great overall, however the only thing that bothered me was that we were not given dinner menus with the initial drink menus. When I asked the waiter, they said the menus will come out after placing our drink orders. I'm not sure the reasoning for this method but it only seems to prolong the amount of time we wait for our food. Drinks: we ordered 2 mocktails, river of dreams and another seasonal drink that had apple lemon and ginger in it. I preferred the seasonal drink as it wasn't as sweet as the river one but the ginger can be a bit overwhelming (3/5) Appetizer - Bone Marrow (2/5) This was a seasonal twist that flavored it with jam making the dish much sweeter like a dessert. I prefer my bone marrow to be more savory and because of this, I was not fond of it. Soup - French Onion (5/5) I loved this! The fact that we only ordered 1 to split, the waiter had it pre served into 2 bowls and it was the perfect amount for each person. The soup was also prepared with chucks of filet mignon that combined so well with the cheese and onions. It was the perfect soup during a fall night. Entree - Classic Chateaubriand for Two (5/5) The 20oz filet mignon is intended for 2 people to share but honestly, this could have fed 3 or 4 people with how big it was. It came rolling out in a cart and then cut and plated at side table. We asked for medium rare and it was cooked to perfection. I had no issues cutting through it and every bite just melted in my mouth. Eating meats that are this delectable, are reasons why I can never give up meat. Side - Mac & Cheese (3/5) This was good, but not great. Nothing really stood out from any other mac&cheese. I would probably skip this next time as everything else will begin to fill you up. Overall it was a great experience! The atmosphere, the service, the dishes, and presentation really brought everything together. The bill will definitely add up very fast but if you're looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or willing to splurge a bit, definitely give this place a try!

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    We came for the ambiance and were amazed by the service and food. Great date spot. Loved the seasonal drinks too

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    6 months ago

    Had a date night here with my lady and we had a wonderful experience. The ambiance is super nice and romantic.

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    The Cellar Restaurant Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Cellar Restaurant

    Is there a dress code?

    Not Really. Casual is fine.

    Is there a kids menu?

    No there is not. It's a fine dining restaurant, but kids are allowed.

    Are there gluten free options a available?

    To my knowledge I didn't see "gluten free" pasta.. but I know they have meats and seafood that are gluten free! Definitely options.

    Is there beer menu? If so what types of beers are available?

    Yes, there is a beer menu. There are international options; I had a Belgian beer when I was there.

    With Valentines tomorrow, do you have some walk in availability or reservations only? Thanks (another potential last min walk in guests)?

    Are they handicapped accessible?

    When we dined there the other evening, they seemed to usher a fella in a wheelchair through the kitchen. So it can be done.

    Do they have zabiha halal meals?

    Is there a dress code?

    No dress code. People will be causal in jeans n shirts and also dressed up. Dealers choice.

    Are babies or kids allowed?

    Hi, I did see an infant with a couple, however I didn't see any other kids. Not sure if that helps

    Where do you park?

    Behind the building, even in parking structure. It looks like parking for the apartments but there is public parking in the building.

    For Valentine's Day will you have a pre fixe menu per person?

    They do have pre fix for Valentine's

    Saw corkage fee 2019 @$35 (max 2-bottles), is this still same? Also can champagne be one of the bottles? Thank you?

    Yes, the corkage fee is $35 per bottle (including sparkling wine). If you purchase a bottle from The Cellar, they will waive your corkage fee.

    Will there be zombie theme for Halloween time again? Ive been wanting to go since 5yrs ago and I finally went last night, the cocktails, food and dessert were so good.

    Is the wine list available online?

    It changes a lot so it's not online, but if you call they will send it to you.

    On yelp it says "Monday there is no table service, there is full bar and small plates". Does this mean there is a reduced menu on Mondays?

    This is actually incorrect. They are full service on Mondays.

    Is there inside seating available?

    Yes. They are seating at the required 25% occupancy.

    What do they offer for Happy Hour?

    Yes! A great happy hour from 5-6pm

    Are reservations required for dinner and what are the prices?

    On the weekends, yes I would make reservations. You can do it via OpenTable. Usually $30-$50 per person. I have been going there for more than a decade. It's an amazing place

    Is this restaurant more quiet & intimate? Not loud like Mastros Steakhouse? I been trying to look for a intimate/QUIET restaurant to have dinner at.

    Yes, this place is quiet and intimate. We had a very nice wedding anniversary dinner for two there.

    Grew up here but oddly I've never been to The Cellar. Looking for a place for my 60th birthday in a week. Do I need reservations for the bar? Hear cocktails are amazing. Can we order dessert too? Is there music?

    No reservations needed for the bar and yes the cocktails are amazing! They do have delicious dessert but no live music as far as I have experienced. Happy Birthday!

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    Nine Social

    Nine Social

    4.6
    (79 reviews)
    3.5 mi

    We (three adults) walked in on a Friday evening around 7PM and had an absolute blast! We were able…read moreto snag a table, but if we had been even three minites late, we may have had to wait. There was live music, which was a really nice surprise! A pianist and a singer. We shared flash fried peppers and warmed mixed nuts. The peppers needed a little more salt, and I was able to get more salt fairly quickly from the staff. They had a decent selection of wine, and the vodka martini I had was nice. I think it's a lovely place to stop by for pre-dinner drinks (i think they had a full menu of heavier foods, not just appetizers if you're wanting something more filling), or after dinner drinks. It's also right by the movie theater, so probably nice for that as well I probably don't need to list all the occasions a drink could be had, hahaha. Friendly staff, casual and welcoming vibes, and a small intimate layout made the place feel really cozy and accessible. I would totally visit again next time I'm in town!

    The food here is great, everything is well portioned and tasty. The service is amazing, super…read morefriendly and attentive. The location is a little small inside however, I feel like for something very intimate this is the perfect place. Parking is great there's a structure across with tons of parking. Great place to go drink some wine and have a charcuterie board.

    Photos
    Chris the piano man was great!
    Chris the piano man was great!
    Lounge area
    Lounge area
    Back of restaurant

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    Back of restaurant
    Let It Brie

    Let It Brie

    4.7
    (498 reviews)
    0.2 mi
    $$

    Went on a Saturday evening & although the parking lot was pretty full, there was plenty of free…read moreparking on the street just behind the lot. Our server was quick & friendly. It helped that it wasn't crowded. The outdoor seating is nice. My friend and I shared the vegan BFF board. You get to select two cheeses. I highly recommend the brie. We thought we might also order a sandwich, but everything on the board along with a glass of wine for each of us was just the right amount of food for the 2 of us. I'm so glad this place has vegan options. I'm looking forward to trying their other cheeses, vegan meats, and their sandwiches.

    Absolutely love their charcuterie boards and paninis! They have both diary and vegan boards…read moreavailable, which is very rare to find. They also have happy hour Tuesdays-Thursday from 2:00-5:30pm, where they offer house wines for $5 and personal cheese board for $10. For boards, I usually get the Goldilocks specialty board, which comes with 3 cheeses ranging in texture from soft to hard. For an additional cost, you can add meat: prosciutto, salami, Spanish chorizo, or half & half of any two. For paninis, everything I've tried was very good. I've had the Signature which has a double-cream brie, pear slices, mixed greens, and fig jam. Lib Grilled Cheese comes with three premium cheese blend, grilled with olive oil, and minced garlic. All paninis are on their sourdough bread and served with their signature side salad. The decor here is very cute - showcasing their cheese fridge and shelves lined with wines and jams available for purchase. There are some tables both indoors and outside. I recently saw that they host events, offer quick same-day catering within 2-3 hours of ordering, and deliver for orders up to 50 people! Always coming back for their cheese boards and great happy hour!

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Custom Charcuterie Build Your Own Board
    Custom Charcuterie Build Your Own Board
    Honey Berry Jam'Brie Panini

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    Honey Berry Jam'Brie Panini
    The Blind Rabbit

    The Blind Rabbit

    4.5
    (3.5k reviews)
    3.0 mi
    $$$

    Surprisingly, I've never been to a speakeasy locally (only when traveling!) and this experience…read moregenuinely made me feel like I was somewhere far away. The space is hidden and intimate, and once you're inside, it really does feel exclusive in the best way. It adds to the whole experience and makes it feel like a true escape. The food was fresh and thoughtfully prepared, and they were also accommodating with our dietary restrictions, which I really appreciated. Overall, such a fun and memorable night. Definitely recommend making a reservation ahead of time -- it's a small space with only 30 spots and fills up quickly.

    Been wanting to try this place ever since it opened and finally got the chance to do so…read more Located at the packing district, expect to park hella far away or prepare to valet. Not sure if reservations are required, but this speakeasy is pretty tiny so I can't imagine it can accommodate walk ins. We had a reservation for 8pm on a Friday night. The door is very well hidden, I thought it'd be in a basement around the corner or something. The space is really small, so big groups are not advised. I had the niña fresa, a strawberries and creme type drink. Delicious! If you like sweet drinks, otherwise do not get it. I had the Saturn afterwards. Still a little sweet, but mostly sour. The server came by to say that we only had 25 min left, so we hurriedly ordered a last drink. But when he delivered it, it magically became 5 min! I chugged my drink and was ushered out the door. Overall it was pretty nice but I didn't enjoy having to rush at the very end.

    Photos
    Make My Millennium: Berry, Anise, Bold
    Make My Millennium: Berry, Anise, Bold
    It's Showtime: Umami, Rich, Floral
    It's Showtime: Umami, Rich, Floral
    Dead Man's Party: Tropical, Funky, Spiced

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    Dead Man's Party: Tropical, Funky, Spiced

    The Cellar Restaurant - french - Updated June 2026

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