Wishing you a year of happiness and success in 2013.

There are plenty of places to get good Mexican food in Southern California. But how many of them are accompanied by the largest collection of Elvis memorabilia West of the Mississippi? Enter Azteca, a Garden Grove landmark that couples delicious, spicy tacos with more Presley than you can shake a stick at. Owner JJ Jaregui hung the first piece of Elvis art over a booth in the restaurant in 1993, and it was all downhill from there. But what about the food? Thankfully, Azteca has it on lock in the kitchen, with regulars praising their spectacular garlic tacos and albondigas. Step back into the Crooner’s Lounge for a more intimate bar vibe—this one-of-a-kind hangout is like a time machine to the glory days of the Rat Pack, staffed by some of the nicest bartenders in town. Regular live music and karaoke gives locals just one more reason to stop in—not like they need it.

Azteca
12911 Main Street
Garden Grove, CA 92840
(714) 638-3790
www.aztecamexicanrestaurant.org

Known for dependable meals at great prices, Mimi’s Café is the place to go for your everyday comfort food—soups, salads, sandwiches, hearty entrees (meatloaf, pot roast, etc.) and more. Founded in 1978, this local chain is known by their custom-constructed buildings, which resemble French country cottages, as well as their excellent hospitality. Starting out in Anaheim, California, there are now Mimi’s in 28 states. Regulars all rave about the carrot raisin bread, served in the free breadbasket that starts your meal. You can ask for nothing but that in the basket and they’ll gladly give it to you. The food is competent if not extraordinary, with the usual mix of breakfast, lunch, and dinner favorites. The service is also polite and respectful, making Mimi’s one of the few restaurants in town that doesn’t seem like they’re trying to rush you through your meal.

Mimi’s Café
7955 Garden Grove Boulevard
Garden Grove, CA 92841
(714) 898-5042
www.mimiscafe.com