Conveniently located next to Sears in South Coast Plaza, Claim Jumper has claimed a prime location. A great restaurant to visit if you are just shopping at the mall or if you want to have a nice dinner before going to the South Coast Repertory or the Orange County Performing Arts Center across the street. The architecture of this restaurant is very open, high ceilings with a mountain lodge décor and an exhibition kitchen with a wood-fired oven.
Service with a smile was spot on the greeter who asked how many in our party, to the hostess who immediately took us to our table, our server, and our busser. Working in the restaurant business for 11 years, it was greatly appreciated.
The Parmesan Zucchini Spears were a little different. They were breaded like a mozzarella sticks, deep-fried, sprinkled with parmesan cheese and served with ranch for dipping. Zucchini should be battered rather than breaded and the ranch serving was too little for the amount of spears that were on the plate. The server happily came out with more for our dunking delight.
The Grilled Liver, Bacon, & Onions were cooked to perfection and topped with grilled onions & thick applewood smoked bacon. It was served with grilled mixed vegetables, red potato mash with beef gravy, and a huge buttermilk biscuit with honey butter. The portion was so big, a doggie bag was a necessity.
The beef ribs arrived succulent and juicy. The meat quite literally fell off the bone as they were lifted from the plate; a true tribute to their preparation. They were just the right temperature and had just the right amount of sauce on them although an extra helping of bbq sauce was available for those who like to drown their ribs in thick, smoky goodness.
The Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad was not skimpy with the salmon. The salmon was blackened, chilled, and chunked on top of a topped traditional Caesar with parmesan & croutons. It is served with their famous garlic cheese toast. The dressing is too mild, needs more garlic and anchovies.
They have lunch specials from 11am to 4pm Monday-Friday. They also have Happy Hour specials from 3pm to 7pm – $2 off appetizers, ½ off certain well drinks in the bar and patio areas only. Claim Jumper now takes reservation via phone or website.
Atmosphere: 5 out of 5 stars
Service: 5 out of 5 stars
Décor: 5 out of 5 stars
Food: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall Rating: 9 out of 10
For more information:
Claim Jumper
3333 Bistrol St
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714.434.8479
www.claimjumper.com
