Each year, we ask Orange County Register readers to choose their favorite places to shop, dine, play and do business in OC.<\/p>\n
Out of the entries voted on, here are the top picks for Best date-night restaurant:<\/p>\n
1. Summit House Restaurant<\/p>\n
2000 E. Bastanchury Road, Fullerton; 714-671 3092; summithouse.com<\/a><\/p>\n With a motto like \u201cthe special occasions place,\u201d it\u2019s easy to see why the Summit House continually returns to the list of best date-night restaurants in Orange County, among other national plaudits.<\/p>\n Scenic patios, romantic English manor style gardens, gazebos and a spectacular dining room all lend to the atmosphere. And then there is the view of hills and valleys, twinkling lights and distant coastal fog that is at once seemingly infinite and intimate.<\/p>\n \u201cFor ambience you can\u2019t build this again,\u201d says Proprietor Gary Parkinson of the venue on 12 acres of secluded prime hilltop property. \u201cIt\u2019s a unique location and it all leads to romance.\u201d<\/p>\n Inside the dining room with vaulted, timbered ceiling, massive stone fireplace and exhibition kitchen, the specialness continues.<\/p>\n The staff, many of whom have been at Summit House for 25 years or more, are rigorously trained to provide first-class service. When reservations are made for special occasions, the staff will all sign individual cards to express thanks.<\/p>\n The menu is top-shelf as well, featuring award-winning steaks to John Dory fish with macadamia nut and panko bread crumb topping, and rotating specials.<\/p>\n There are also specialty cocktails and a nice wine and liquor menu.<\/p>\n Summit House is also a popular venue for parties large and small and, of course, weddings.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re excited that people can come here for their special time,\u201d Parkinson says. \u201cThat\u2019s what we\u2019re here for.\u201d<\/p>\n Also see: Best of Orange County 2026: See all the winners<\/a><\/p>\n 2. L\u2019Hirondelle Restaurant<\/p>\n