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Playground Reviews List
Playground
The Playground is a chef driven small-plates restaurant that highlights the freshest and most exciting available ingredients in dishes inspired by great culinary traditions all over the world. The menu changes daily based on available ingredients and the chefs’ whims. The optimal party size is between 4 and 6, so that everyone can sample a number of dishes. We're not the kind of restaurant where you should expect to order your own dish (plan to share,) to think in terms of starters and mains (who made those rules anyway?), or to customize your order. Each plate has been crafted by the chefs in the way they believe best highlights the ingredients. Modifying an element would change the dish into something we don't believe in, and we're not going to serve you anything we don't believe is the best we can do.
Please note that we allow two hours for all reservations. If you would like more time please give us a call and we can see if we can accommodate you.
See more Playground details
Please note that we allow two hours for all reservations. If you would like more time please give us a call and we can see if we can accommodate you.
203 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Rating Breakdown 203 reviews
5 stars
(139)
4 stars
(45)
3 stars
(15)
2 stars
(2)
1 star
(2)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(181)
- neighborhood gem(120)
- hot spot(114)
- good for groups(89)
- special occasion(70)
- vibrant bar scene(56)
Playground Reviews List
Review 1 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Adult Playground
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Intriguing menu, craft beers and bar-style seating makes this an adult playground. We ordered the scrambled eggs with wild mushrooms, huevos rancheros with lamb and the cornbread, all fabulous. Service was spot on. We plan to return with additional family."
Dined on 6/16/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, hot spot
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Review 2 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
LOVE THIS PLACE!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Everything was spectacular, cant wait to try Playground 2.0."
Dined on 6/14/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 3 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food is excellent. Always an adventure in culinary delights. Service is great, everyone is friendly, helpful and quick to respond to request"
Dined on 6/13/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 4 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Sunday Funday
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Started Sunday funday off at this spot. I had been here previously for dinner twice, but not for brunch. The french toast and corn bread was amazing and for the birthday they brought a "pronne" ,(not sure if I spelled it correct) of sierra nevada, to the table. Great beer and wine list. amazing handmade cocktails and the food is excellent. Highly recommended!!!"
Dined on 6/09/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, notable wine list, late-night find, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 5 for Playground
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I come from San Francisco and have been disappointed by the average food most resturants serve in OC. However, The Playground's food and service were both fantastic. I could not have been happier or more pleasently surprised to find such a nice, foodie orriented resturant in Irvine. Thank you for caring about what you serve!!!!!
Nice job."
Nice job."
Dined on 6/11/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 6 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best meal I've ever had!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"On top of the amazing food our server was patient and funny. He was an absolute doll and I've been raving about this place so much most of my friends have already gone to try it!"
Dined on 4/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 7 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food, service, and ambiance.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Awesome, fresh food, amazing service, a bit pricy but worth every bite. D.J. Played great 80's high energy and alternative mixes. This was a great dinning experience.m"
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 8 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A lot of fun
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The Playground has a very hot trendy vibe. Unbelievable food made to perfection withe extreme details of the small stuff that makes a foodie go WOW ! Most fun dining in a very long time. The service was on the spot excellent. Small tables but this also creates a vibe to look at what others are eating to help you figure what to order first. Very good and fun place.
Craig F - Brea, CA"
Craig F - Brea, CA"
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 9 for Playground
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great but there's room for greater!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food and concept is absolutely stunning, but the some of their attitude towards certain things MUST change for their continued success. We had a delectable dinner, but service and attitude needs a bit of adjusting. Asking for a well drink with a specific combo of available items should not be too much for them, but on the night we were there, the bartender copped an attitude and was supported by a bar manager claiming they only serve those drinks they specifically call out. So they can have a rum, and a diet Coke, but if you want a rum and diet coke you have to go elsewhere? This is ludicrous! The fried chicken and pork chop both were the best of each I have ever had. So yes I will return, but I pray they learn about service."
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 10 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Epic
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Absolutely stunned at the quality of this restaurant. The moment we walked in, I tasted the various smells instantly. I was in hog heaven. Everything on the menu is good, regardless of the fact that it changes every day. 100/100."
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 11 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
hip and delicious
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Two of us ate and I had a couple of cocktails for $100.
The small plates are interesting, fresh, and well balanced.
They don't accommodate any changes or substitutions, if it matters to you."
Dined on 5/31/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, hot spot
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Review 12 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I've only been to this restaurant two times...and they coincidentally were in the same month due to different one-on-one birthday celebrations for different friends. For the first dining experience, my friend heard about the place from another friend. The second time I went it was because I suggested the place to this other friend. I was happy to have a special reason to attend both times. Haha. The different male waiters I had for both occasions were very friendly and helpful. I like the concept of changing up the menu everyday. That's really unique! The food and desserts are delicious. You can bet that I'll be recommending this restaurant to other friends and family members if they haven't heard of this place already. :-D"
Dined on 5/28/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 13 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Creativity
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Chef Jason does a superb job of mixing flavors you would not think of. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that keeps you coming back for more"
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 14 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
tryityouwilllikeit
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was Excellent. The famous wagyu house burger and cauliflower nachos should not be missed. They were both indescribably delicious. Also, the wagyu ribeye tartare was perfect. So glad that we discovered this restaurant. I can't wait to go back."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 15 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Never disappoints
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I enjoy this restaurant so very much because they get it. There are so many restaurants that are trying too hard that they continually disappoint. I have lived in Orange County all my life and always had to travel to Los Angeles or San Francisco to enjoy good food. Now we have something to be very proud of here in our neck of the woods. The creativity, quality ingredients, and really the passion and love that goes behind every dish, makes this place a winner time and time again. I also love the fact that they have a full liquor license now and the drinks they have produced so far are outstanding. Go ahead, be adventurous. Let the chef be your guide to wonderful taste poems. I promise you won't be disappointed."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 16 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Tremendous
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This place is heaven. The food is sublime."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 17 for Playground
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Chef''s Place
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food that is unique. A place that speaks to chef''s."
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, late-night find, hot spot
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Review 18 for Playground
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Overrated
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We love fresh farm to table, but were underwhelmed. The menu changes daily..so maybe it was just an off day. Flavors were forgettable..Chapter One nearby was much better, with better drinks. Great service...we'll come back to give it another chance."
Dined on 5/22/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 19 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Very Good Food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"For Santa Ana this place is a home run it should be on Newport Beach not in the slums of sholin... lol"
Dined on 4/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 20 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Second time is a charm.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"They had just changed the menu and I saw that they were no longer serving the octopus carpaccio. I asked the waiter about it and he confirmed that they had just ran out- the downside to buying fresh and local, and in smaller quantities. Fifteen minutes later he brought out the octopus carpaccio and said that there were enough ingredients to make just one more and that it was on the house. I can honestly say that I have never had a single greater experience of customer service at a restaurant.
The wagyu tartare was delicious and the pork chop was delectable. I actually ordered the mission fig dessert while we were still eating the pork chop. When the dessert came I lapped up its juices with a piece of the pork. I nearly started grunting."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 21 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
An OC Gem!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The menu is always evolving with exciting new seasonal tastes. Uncle Lou's chicken and the Pork Chop are amazing and The Hamburger (not on the menu, you must ask for it!) is over the TOP delicious.
The wait staff is very friendly and astute at matching the beer and wine with the food...
The Playground is a true OC treasure."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 22 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellence in Santa Ana
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"One of the only foodie restaurants in OC. Cool vibe, GREAT food."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 23 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
You should go
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were so surprised how fabulous it was the service, the waitstaff and the presentation of the food. Do not miss the cauliflower nachos, we ended up ordering a second serving. Our beautiful Maple Glazed pork chop easily fed the three of us. The staff was friendly, knowledgable and helpful. The staff have been trained to work in concert with each other."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 24 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
My new favorite restaurant!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"My husband and I woke up thinking about how great the food was here. Or server Patrick made great suggestions and was spot on with service. I cannot wait to go back!"
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 25 for Playground
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Every bite was delicious!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We enjoyed great service from Brandon with check-ins from Ryan. Appreciated the beer knowledge and recommendations. Food was awesome. We had asparagus, aji sashimi, and ribeye tartare. All were delicious. Pricing was reasonable. A vibrant and interesting place. We are from out of town but hope to visit again on our next So. Cal. Trip!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 26 for Playground
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The menu is very creative and awalys changing. The philosphy to trust the kitchen on their preparation and their policy to tell them genuinely if you love the dish or not is a great way to have customer interaction with the dining exerience is fun. Not everything is alway perfect. There has been some dish which I didn't love or really care but it felt cool to give the feedback when the waiter asked. I know most people just try to be polite even if the dish didn't work for them but usually the waiters can usually tell by people reaction they're lying. So they will try to dig deeper on what you thought didn't work without being defensive about. Even better now is that they have a full bar now. I've tried some of the drinks...AWESOME!"
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 27 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Trust them & go with an open mind
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Fun & different experience. Located in the heart of Santa Ana which is interesting and colorful in itself.
No condiments or modifications allowed. They are more than willing to go over every dish and you feel like they've been waiting for you all day to serve you this great meal. We had cauliflower nachos, ribs & wagyu beef, all wonderful but remember they create their dishes for balance and flavor, not your cardiologist's orders. The food is meant to be savored. We wanted to taste more but were stuffed, which is why you should take lots of people. The fig pudding with toffee sauce, WOW.
One thing to keep in mind: the meat dishes do not have a lot of veggies, just enough to balance the flavor. Order veggie dishes/salad separately."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene
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Review 28 for Playground
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Good but Heavy
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Playground was pretty good. I'd say the whole vibe of it was my favorite part. The food was good but heavy, so be ready when you get there!"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 29 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Just go
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Do not miss the cauliflower nachos!"
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 30 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This was my fourth visit, and each time it has been incredible. The food is always different, always fun, and always tasty. The items I have liked the least have merely been good, but everything is usually more at a level of amazing."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 31 for Playground
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
The Food May be Good, But....
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I felt constrained by a two hour dining limit .
Playground claims that they search the globe for "best-in-the world-ingredients." How about supporting local sources and keeping prices down.
"...do not request to modify the food." Does that mean as a vegetarian I cannot have my eggs without suckling pig ? Who are the chefs really trying to please?
Never have I been given a full printed sheet of the policies of the restaurant including dos and don'ts as soon as I sat down. I looked forward to the meal, but after receiving my marching orders, I lost my desire.
Service sweet; chairs uncomfortable after a salad we left and completed our meal with local street food."
Playground claims that they search the globe for "best-in-the world-ingredients." How about supporting local sources and keeping prices down.
"...do not request to modify the food." Does that mean as a vegetarian I cannot have my eggs without suckling pig ? Who are the chefs really trying to please?
Never have I been given a full printed sheet of the policies of the restaurant including dos and don'ts as soon as I sat down. I looked forward to the meal, but after receiving my marching orders, I lost my desire.
Service sweet; chairs uncomfortable after a salad we left and completed our meal with local street food."
Dined on 5/05/2013
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Review 32 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Always amazing
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food, great knowledge from the servers. Never disappointed."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem
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Review 33 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The Best
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food and the service just can't be beat at The Playground. It is always a special occasion when we eat there, even if it is just Tuesday night!"
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 34 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Memorable dining experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Presentation is the thing at the Playground and every server was attentive and pleasant. The Maple glazed pork chop was outstanding and over 4 inches thick and enough to feed a table of 6. The Trade winds beer which was on draft was excellent also. Will definitely be coming back."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 35 for Playground
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
I thought the food overall
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I thought the food overall was very good. It was a bit expensive though for the portion and "type" of restaurant it is. I would go again however."
Dined on 04/24/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining
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Review 36 for Playground
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
As always the food was excellent.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"As always the food was excellent. Favorites included the short ribs, Tri-tip, fried chicken, yummy garlic pasta, and the sticky toffee dessert. Dungenous crab was average and the steamed buns were better than the pastrami on the inside. Missed having Jason describe his favorites but he was busy with an IO next door."
Dined on 04/24/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
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Review 37 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Playground is phenomenal
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food at Playground is absolutely incredible! And too compliment the great food is the service that comes with it. Will be back to Playground many times to keep trying their changing menu."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem
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Review 38 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The Playground is fabulous!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The Playground is fabulous! Food is creative and delicious. We love coming here. However, we did notice that the prices went up and the portions went down recently. Hopefully they will keep the "no corkage fee" policy; otherwise it may be harder to justify driving from South Orange County."
Dined on 04/12/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 39 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The food was fantastic. The
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was fantastic. The service extremely help and fun. Gave a good explanation for all of our questions. The beer choices were phenomenal. Enjoyed the whole experience. Can wait to go back."
Dined on 04/12/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 40 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great waiter, friendly, attentive
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great waiter, friendly, attentive and had great suggestions. Food was the best I've had there so far....4th time!! Great evening with girlfriends for a birthday dinner."
Dined on 04/12/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 41 for Playground
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Gastropub that marries creative
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Gastropub that marries creative cuisine with craft brews. We tried Playground for the first time this Saturday. The location is off-putting and would have worked better in the Arts District a few blocks away but we enjoyed several of the small plates and two of the large plates. Would have liked the addition of salads and/or vegetables with large plates. There are no tables for 2 and only 2 tables for four so be ready to dine at the bar or on bar stools at the window. Our tab was $85 and there is no corkage, which is nice. Would probably not come back unless we had something to do at the Bowers Museum or in the Arts District at the same time. Parking can be challenging and there is no valet."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 42 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
excellent food, hip, noisy,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"excellent food, hip, noisy, vibrant.......no substitutions on the menu, so choose carefully.......lots of fun!!!"
Dined on 04/13/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 43 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The explosive pea ravioli
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The explosive pea ravioli was amazing."
Dined on 04/10/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 44 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Six Contented Diners
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The six of us had a fun experience. Fabulous glazed pork chop--Angela, our excellent server said it weighed three pounds--was shared by all of us after sharing quite a few items on the Starter menu. We even shared one toffee pudding. We brought our own wine and appreciated the no-corkage fee policy."
Dined on 04/09/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, hot spot
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Review 45 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Very unique dining experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Very unique dining experience . Food is always changing and prepared brilliantly. Nice outdoor patio available. Very hip and current."
Dined on 04/07/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 46 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
One of the most inventive
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"One of the most inventive resaurants in OC. Focused on the best ingredients available at the time. The Chef and staff are obviously very passionate and proud about the food they are serving and it shows. The location is a bit off putting but well worth it!"
Dined on 04/03/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 47 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best restaurant in So Cal,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Best restaurant in So Cal, hands down."
Dined on 04/07/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 48 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
My boyfriend and I went here
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"My boyfriend and I went here to try something new. He's in culinary school and is quite adventurous when it comes to trying new foods. You have to keep an open mind here at this place and be courageous. Everything we tried was spectacular. We loved everything! What's great about this place is the chefs really enjoy what they do and it shows in the quality and taste of the amazing food. If you have some extra cash to spend for a food endulgence, we highly recommend The Playground! We'd definitely go back again!"
Dined on 04/04/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 49 for Playground
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We stopped by after work and
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We stopped by after work and we pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere and fun nature of the whole business. They took comfort in the food, knowing that they could let the food speak for itself. We had even caught a glimpse of the chef(ess) dancing along with the waitresses."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 50 for Playground
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best pork chop ever; it's
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Best pork chop ever; it's meal enough for two. Offset by one scallop for 22 dollars. Great place to have fun, be part if the fun and the staff made sure to lighten the mood for all. Great music. Well deserving if its name."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
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