Today, The Playground looks much different than founder Jason Quinn envisioned it. The beer-only, no-reservations, bar-service burger Santa Ana eatery he once dreamt of was never to be—but The Playground is better. That is, if you're up for venturing outside mealtime norms.
The adventure begins with completely handing over your dining choices to The Playground's chefs, who are so devoted to their craft that they refuse special requests. Only their unique culinary vision and fresh, inventive ingredients drive the menu. But you likely won't regret relinquishing control when dishes begin to arrive.
Pan-roasted wild mushrooms to start, maple-glazed pork chop as an entree, and Black Mission fig toffee sticky pudding for dessert are three of your best options, according to customers. Complement dinner with a craft beer, maybe one that's brewed specifically for The Playground, or a glass of wine. Or seize an opportunity to get better acquainted with the libations and cuisine at special winemaker dinners and chef demonstrations held in 2.0, a 17-seat "culinary theater" next door.
The Playground
220 East 4th Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
(714) 560-4444
http://playgrounddtsa.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-playground-santa-ana-2
Equal Housing Opportunity