Presentation on Map Reviews Nearby

Benchmark in Santa Ana

4.5 (199) 601 E Santa Ana Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92701, United States

Categories

Restaurant

Location on the map

Santa Ana, Orange County, California, US

Phone: +1 714-480-0225
Site: https://benchmarkoc.com/

Opening hours

Monday:Closed
Tuesday:Closed
Wednesday:4–9 PM
Thursday:4–9 PM
Friday:11:30 AM–3 PM
Saturday:11:30 AM–3 PM
Sunday:11:30 AM–3 PM

Edit info

Total reviews rating 4.5

199 Reviews for Benchmark 2024:

Review №1

2023-08-16 02:28:53

Great service. Great spot. Outside seating and loved the atmosphere. Parking can be tricky. Current favorite spot for some mimosas. The bottle for $25 and it comes with a flight of juice. I was there on a Saturday so they had the brunch menu available. The food was really good. Will definitely be coming back.

Review №2

2023-08-01 14:53:56

I am all about the atmosphere to get me in the door. But when the food and service matches a cool vibe, I am sold. This was the case at Benchmark, situated in the historic section on Santa Ana, blocks away from the central judicial courts of Orange County. It had been years since I had been in the area and my friend randomly chose Benchmark to meet for lunch, since it was not far from the courthouse where we were. She picked the perfect spot.Benchmark was all outdoor dining for lunch, but even on this hot July 2023 day, it was cool & comfortable under the white tent-like awnings. The delicious mock-tails helped in keeping us chill too. If it weren’t for a work lunch break, I would have enjoyed the cocktail version, which I bet are heavenly.(I see there is space which is indoor-outdoor for events, but for lunch just one patio was open for the weekday work crowds.)Our server was very busy managing 7 -10 tables on his own, but he was super attentive, delightful & helpful. Plus, the food came out super fast. Which was great for the working lunch crowd.We added Branzino to our salad & split the ahi tuna and artichoke dish. Plenty for all and was just what we needed on a heatwave Friday lunch in Santa Ana.

Review №3

2023-10-08 14:05:36

Expectations were met and exceeded. Everything I ate was delicious. Make your reservation. The staff made everything fun and delightful. They helped me decide between the hard choices. Tiffany & Eren were amazing.

Review №4

2023-04-28 17:13:08

Food is good, the tacos were a let down. They should have used a real corn tortilla or flour. A soggy wrap that had no flavor was disappointing. Colorful yes, but served no purpose. The burger was very good and cheesy. Spirit infused saké cocktails, no thank you, ordered wine instead. The brown butter cake was delicious. The pot de crème had these hard to bite into coco nibs. Along with a really big spoon that doesnt fit into the pot.

Review №5

2023-06-13 14:54:49

Such a cute brunch spot! They have a wonderful patio that is nice and shaded. I got the mimosa flight (x4 mimosas per person) with a good juice mix. The food came out fast and our server was so friendly! Will be back again.

Review №6

2023-12-08 16:26:51

Great casual dining elevated menu. Delicious burgers and decadent butter cake dessert.

Review №7

2023-02-13 05:36:04

Popped in for Sunday brunch. Hidden gem in Santa Ana. Great outdoor ambience. Food was excellent. Spanish omelette was unique and tasty, eggs light and fluffy and the accompanying Salmon and salad were great. One of our guests had the pastrami hash which we’d superb. Great knowledgeable service

Review №8

2022-10-03 20:30:46

We had a lovely dinner at this place. It has 2 nicely decorated outdoor sections. The weather couldnt be better for outside sitting. We wanted to try different menus, so we ordered 3 appitizers, which were plenty food for both of us. We enjoyed every dish and my favorite was the lemon oilve oil cake! It was just right amount of sweetness with refreshing citrus flavor. If you are more of a sweet tooth, their brown butter cake was also fantastic. We will definitely go back to try more dishes! Oh, and they also have their own parking area!

Review №9

2022-08-27 15:20:57

We had the most wonderful time celebrating my wife’s birthday at Benchmark. We rented the private dining room which is absolutely amazing. It was so spacious and well decorated. It allowed my wife to bring a balloon arch and have a space for photos to be taken as well as plenty of room for the gifts to be displayed. We felt like we had the whole restaurant to ourselves because it’s so private. The food was absolutely amazing and everyone loved all the options we provided. We ordered the food family style so that everyone had the chance to taste all the different menu items because we knew how good they were. Some of the items we got were the benchmark burgers, the Asian chicken, the pasta dish, artichoke fondue, crispy pork belly, flat iron steak, and even more I can’t remember. Having such a variety of different styles of dishes made the event so much fun because we tasted so many different beautiful flavors. The chef here is a genius and the service was exceptional. They were nice enough to allow us to bring in our own dessert and they served it on plates for us. They allowed us to come early enough to setup and didn’t rush us out when it was time to leave. The owner Duane even stopped by to make sure everything was going perfectly. What a nice guy! Wonderful restaurant, wonderful food, wonderful people!

Review №10

2023-01-14 00:45:48

This is the perfect space for an intimate wedding!My client got married at the nearby Old OC Courthouse and met their family at Benchmark for their reception. These are my impressions:+ Charming spaces and ambiance+ Creative and delicious dishes+ Friendly staff+ Onsite parking is limited, but there is a second parking lot within walking distance+ The small back dining area makes for a beautiful night portrait (see attached photo)

Review №11

2022-08-22 04:17:16

Delightful little shop tucked away in a magical little corner.Food flavors were bright and complex with portion sizes to leave you feeling satisfied but not overly full.I fully expect myself to be returning within the month to explore the other options on the menu.

Review №12

2019-11-25 02:55:34

Huge fan of this brunch spot. Came on a Sunday with no reservations with some friends and wait was around 15 minutes.Benchmark at this time has only been open for 4 months. Owner is super friendly. Service is a bit slow. Perhaps they are still working through some kinks.Food is great. Mussels and pan seared chicken 👌. Fries could use some work to be sturdier and crispier but not too bad. Salmon was great but the frisee salad didnt marry well with the salmon. They needed a divorce or counseling but each by itself was great.Worth a try in dtsa. Absolutely great vibe and outdoor seating makes brunch ideal. highly recommend.

Review №13

2023-06-16 19:36:31

Service was excellent, atmosphere great. Food was okay french fries was too salty. Overall it was nice

Review №14

2023-03-20 21:02:40

First time here and I thought it was great! The crispy chicken sandwich was a hit for both my friend and me. Our server Mitchell was great and attentive and if I happen to come to the area again, I would go back. Also, the waffle left me wanting more!

Review №15

2022-09-30 03:11:01

Staff is incredibly nice and caring. Not just our waiter but everyone there greets you and is genuine. The food fits the vibe and service. Its different, Fusion and incredibly good. This is most definitely a hidden gem.

Review №16

2021-09-14 00:39:06

Such a hidden gem. Love that it has a cute outdoor patio!! I came with a girlfriend on Sunday, we opted for ahi tuna, flat iron steak and a few cocktails that day. Food was beautifully presented. Cocktails were light and refreshing, if you’re sensitive to sugar, you might need to ask for adjustment. Servers were super friendly too! The only issue I had was the flies, they were just so hard to swat.

Review №17

2021-07-11 07:08:42

Was walking around in the area and came here on a whim. The restaurant itself is in the middle of lots of homes and apartments, a little away from the 4th street noise which was nice. It’s outside and under beautiful trees and lights. The atmosphere alone is enough to want to come, but the food is right up there as well. The risotto was delicious!!! The tomatoes were perfectly cooked and brought such a good brightness to the dish. The steak is totally worth ordering and it came with the most delicious potatoes and tomatoes. I felt like the food dishes look small, but they are hearty and fill you up. The cocktails were very different, but that’s what made them fun! Also, the mango sorbet was the perfect way to finish off such a beautiful meal. I felt like this location and meal really encompasses summer in California. Compliments to the staff and chef!

Review №18

2023-02-13 04:23:53

Food was great order Spanish omelette- taste quite good. Omelette has good stuffing and cavier. Also other dishes like spicy Chicken sandwich and waffles were good as well. Portion size is decent. Time I visited they served only brunch. Would like to visit again to try other items on their menu. Basically they serve black coffee. And restaurant is pretty unique this is outdoor restaurant. Service is good.

Review №19

2023-10-31 00:29:18

Love the atmosphere, food is amazing. The Artichoke fondue soooo good. Benchmark Hamburger, Crispy chicken sandwich, Avocado corn salad and Roasted sweet potato & brussel sprouts all delicious 😋🤤Fantastic service.I forgot to take pictures of the other food.🤦‍♀️

Review №20

2023-11-10 07:16:07

Apps were good. Fish tasty. Steak was fine. Best rendition of lava cake I’ve had yet! Had some weirdness with the reservations so triple check!!

Review №21

2022-08-27 02:55:55

Amazing food! Every course suprise me with great taste! The head chef is very passionate with his food and is very nice environment at the restaurant. Won’t need to break my bank with great food!

Review №22

2021-08-22 22:34:17

Benchmark is a quaint outdoor only restaurant located in downtown Santa Ana. All the tables are seated outside, and the restaurant also features a bar with a selection of drinks and cocktails. Do note that because the restaurant is entirely outdoor’s, it is likely to be closed if there is heavy rain.There is, however, a private dining room located near by that may be booked for large parties, and does have a roof over its head.All of the dishes are excellent, and cover a wide range of flavors. Designed and prepared by Executive Chef Stefano Ciociola, the menu offers many small dishes for the table to share.Check out the pictures for some featured items. Do note that the menu is seasonal and does change quite often.

Review №23

2021-07-24 23:53:44

The seared scallops are super delicious and presentation was beautiful. Heirloom tomatoes salad was out of this world. But they messed up of our order on chicken instead crispy chicken we got the spicy one. Kind like orange chicken but with Sriracha sauce was ok. Too much batter. And I am very disappointed that they no longer has mussels. And it is very hard to find parking. Do recommend to get reservations. It is small place and out door.

Review №24

2023-08-17 17:29:47

Had high hopes for this well reviewed New American restaurant.However, the food simply fell flat. Dishes ranged from okay to meh. The salad lacked freshness and pop from the vegetables. They overdid it on the dressing. The shrimp tostada was okay but felt like an uninspired jumble of flavors. The artichoke fondue w/ pretzel was the most decent thing we ordered. The sorbet was fine but two small scoops for $11 seemed like a rude joke.I would love to give them credit for trying, but at an elevated price point I have elevated expectations. Their presentation with the dishes is fun, but no points here if the food itself is not that good! I would tell them to focus more on the quality of the ingredients and the execution of the dish than making it look pretty on a plate.The ambiance was cute, but we were really warm because we were seated close to the kitchen. The service was fine. They dont have physical menus here. When I go to a nice restaurant, I would rather not scan a QR code menu and look at my phone 🤷‍♂️Given the mediocre food and overall lack of polish on the experience, definitely avoid this spot. I would have been more content eating at a Tender greens or Flower Child than paying 3x for a meal here. Many many better options out there, like Malibu farm in Newport Beach.

Review №25

2019-08-11 19:06:51

Great place. The place is kind of in the middle of nowhere. Which is not a problem. I pass by this neighborhood all the time and great anchor restaurants like this are always welcome. The place is very cool with hanging bulb lights and shade. We had quite a few dishes. All of the food was delicious, but the standout dishes were the mussels and the artichoke fondue. The soft pretzel for the fondue were super good and the mussels were cooked perfectly in a very well done broth. We also had mac and cheese for the kids. The mac and cheese was great and it came with fruit or fries and a soft drink. The gochujang chicken wings were ok. I know people rave about them and they are great, but I personally like a more traditional style. The burger was ok but a bit heavy (which is normal for a burger). If you like juicy restaurant burgers, this should be right up your alley. The fried pickles were very well done with a crispy outside. I really enjoyed these. The owner is very friendly and seems to care. I wish him the best of success. Kudos.

Review №26

2023-11-06 00:19:22

Service was amazing-- like I cant explain how fantastic every single member of the staff wasSure, the food was stupid good and the chefs nailed my burger -- did I mention the service was exceptional??Tons of great draft beer to choose from - be sure to visit!

Review №27

2023-11-08 04:54:28

If you want to try this place MAKE A RESERVATION!!!! (When they are not busy)This place looks really niceIve been here twiceThe first time I just showed up, I had no reservation. I was told that without a reservation, I would have to sit it this corner facing the street. Thats fair they may have been busy.But, given the price for the food, I decided to make a reservation for a later date and have a nicer dining area.I got there for the reservation on time, and I was told they were getting a nice table ready for me. Cool.A couple came with no reservation. They were told to sit at a table built around a tree. Pretty cool seat arrangement, in my opinion.I was waiting to be seated for a decent amount of time. While waiting, I watchthe couple. It was clear they wanted to be helped by this point they were seated for 5-7 minutes, but all STAFF CLEARLY IGNORED THEM.Bar tender check on them eventually, and my table was ready. A table in a coner. But decided maybe the day was too busy. And given the price. I thought it maybe best to leave if the service was going to be like the couples at the tree . So, Ive never eaten here, but the food looks good.

Review №28

2023-07-31 04:22:56

This place is very not dog friendly. We were a party of 4 with 2 service dogs. They seated us in a weird corner thats not a table (so we were all facing walls, not each other) with high stools because they said dogs are not allowed in the main area. Our friend was very pregnant and couldnt sit on a high stool and they ignored this even though we mentioned it during check in.

Review №29

2022-05-06 03:08:57

Good food is hard to find. Benchmark doesnt sell good food. Benchmark sells an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere creates both a tranquil and grounding effect. The drinks are beyond amazing and main course makes you wonder if you have room for dessert. Highly recommend. Do yourself a favor and try this place. Youll be glad you did.

Review №30

2023-11-01 18:28:53

First timer, parking can be difficult but got a spot in the front. Kinda weird at first, but took in the atmosphere, then felt better. Service Sucks! Waited 20 min for someone to help me so I went to the bar. Bartenders are kinda rude, but I think its because the employees look so disorganized.

Review №31

2022-10-17 15:21:59

I should take off one star because the timing of bringing our dishes wasn’t the best, but we did have a group of 14. I did overall like this place as it’s a nice essentially outdoor space with friendly service and nicely plated, scrumptious dishes. Will definitely return!

Review №32

2023-02-04 23:01:08

We tried 8 of the brunch items and enjoyed all

Review №33

2021-11-21 23:25:02

Chorizo was wonderful but the flat iron steak had cumin or some spice I didn’t like. The pork belly was awesome too.

Review №34

2020-11-18 23:57:56

A phenomenal experience! Head chef Rob is excellent! The owner is also incredibly gracious. Service is impeccable. There is a parking lot half a block down the street that you can use

Review №35

2023-10-01 17:24:25

Good for and service. The burger was nice and my daughter liked the lavender lemonade. Just wish they had served the kids meal first.

Review №36

2022-02-15 07:15:06

Benchmark located in the heart of Santa Ana, is one of the best places to eat Al fresco. Perfect for a date night or brunch date. Benchmark serves new American food that is refreshing and inviting. Word of advice: plan your visit around the weather. I’d recommend any temp between 72-78F for that perfect SoCal weather to pair with such a beautiful out door space.

Review №37

2020-11-29 20:58:20

Good morning my friends, woke up today to brunch @benchmark.restaurant located Santa Ana. Had the gochujang fried chicken - Hong Kong waffles, garlic butter, powered sugar, really crispy great savory taste. The second plate was chilaquiles which I love because they were crunchy corn tortillas not soggy and the egg on top I bomb. This is a hidden gem, located near residential places but lovely atmosphere.

Review №38

2019-10-31 01:41:36

Wonderful 1st visit! The bartender, Joseph, was great at recommendations, and making a sabe infused Old Fashioned, with a fresh herb ice cube.I ordered the fresh fig with pistachio and goat cheese app. Light, flavors blended so well! Great to share! Then I added the Sunchoke soup with fried capers and olive oil. Creamy, earthy taste of the choke, and the capers when fried were subtle and not overpowering! Delicious!Cant wait to come back and try the Lamb Ragu, Salmon, Chicken, and the Bavette Steak. And the Brunch!Atmosphere, outdoor, lights in the trees, heaters to stay warm, and just off the beaten path (but walking distance) from 4th St. and all of its activity!They are expanding to add wine tasting and a private party venue. Company parties, engagements, birthdays. Fun!!BTW.... Parking in the back, and on the streets.

Review №39

2023-06-27 22:41:40

I love this place really good place for a special occasions, great customer service we didn’t make reservation and they gave us a spot right away ! The food is delicious in the workers are really nice 👍 It was my boyfriends birthday and they gave us ice cream 🍦 It was my boyfriends birthday and they gave us a free ice cream. With one candle on it the mole enchiladas are delicious

Review №40

2023-06-18 23:28:32

Cute little outdoor patio with 70 & 80s music provided a fun atmosphere! We enjoyed their brunch cheese burger with parmesan cheese fries and the breadsticks with artichoke cheese dip, everything was excellent! The owners were onsite and accommodating, the servicer was knowledgeable and attentive. A classy casual dining experience for sure! Parking is a little challenging but if you park in the public off-site place around the corner, they will validate your parking so dont pay for it when youre standing there, take your license plate number to the restaurant with you and theyll gladly take care of it.

Review №41

2021-06-11 02:44:11

I cant believe I had never been here before. The food was so good and the atmosphere perfect! Ill definitely be back!

Review №42

2021-06-12 21:27:05

First time at Benchmark and we thoroughly enjoyed the setting, food, and cocktails. The only caveat is that while dining al fresco, leaves are constantly falling…in our drinks and food. Minus one star for the lack of service…did not replace our water when a big twig fell into the glass and never came back to ask how we were doing.

Review №43

2023-05-20 05:07:08

Nice outdoor patio, very cute. Parking lot as very difficult.Food was decent, but super expensive and tiny portion size. Fine dining prices but didn’t get fine dining experience.Service was good.

Review №44

2023-05-26 23:37:00

On 5-06-23, i had the Steak Huevos Ranchero, and it was pretty awful. The meat was cold and tasted old - like it had been cooked a couple days before. my friend agreed. Moreover, it took awhile for the food to be come.i should have returned it but it was my first meal of the day and i was super hungry (even though i was super hungry, the fact that it tasted so me tells you something).the same day and asked for a refund from the manager, Pedro who said he would refund the entree to the credit card used. I followed up several times. It’s now 5-26-23, and no refund.Very dissatisfied with this restaurant.

Review №45

2022-02-07 22:48:49

This review is based on service by Carlos & the delicious yummy food & drinks.My dad treated our family of 7 adults and 2 children to dinner here for my upcoming wedding. The food is family style with portions for about two or three people per plate. It was on the more expensive side but worth the money!Carlos heard us talking about the wedding & brought us complementary ice cream to celebrate 🥰😍.

Review №46

2022-05-07 16:37:11

Absolutely a great restaurant to enjoysome delicious food and beverages.I really loved this place.I will visit this restaurant many times.

Review №47

2021-12-12 03:20:54

Was very excited about this place, but the food was a little flat for how inflated and self important their price point was. The vibe was great with conversations flirting about, but the broken heat lamps in,admittedly, california winter was a downer. Fine point of the food were the drinks. Go for drinks.

Review №48

2022-12-10 00:17:48

Pros:+Quality food. I had the chicken and tried the risotto. The fries were also delicious.+Nice atmosphere with outdoor heating.+Alcoholic drinks were nice, creative and the menu is extensive. Beer, wine and cocktails.+Good service which is quick.Cons:-Parking is a little difficult to find around dinner time.-Prices are downtown prices so its slightly more.

Review №49

2021-09-22 22:54:33

Busy and reservations recommended. I had the rockin salad and gochujang chicken and waffles...spicy, sweet, and savory. I love the outdoor dining environment.

Review №50

2022-01-11 05:33:33

Came here for brunch. The food was good and very reasonably priced. Make reservations or you might not get a table.

Review №51

2020-12-13 08:17:57

Wow! Such a great ambiance and environment. We had such a fun time. Food and drinks were delicious. Oh did I mention separate brunch menu and bottomless mimosas? Yep! 🤤🥂

Review №52

2020-08-23 17:55:46

The fiancé and had dinner last night we made them through Yelp, pork belly had more crispy Brussel sprouts than expected, burger was ok, tuna tar tar was good, Damon was good. Mixed drinks were made with Sake, which was just ok. Beers were good except second beer was warm and I asked for a different beer but the waiter brought a second same beer again anyway. Waiter didn’t come over go ask us how are food was because he was too busy with other tables.

Review №53

2023-09-23 21:51:09

Joseph, our waiter, was so great! The food was amazing, and the atmosphere was fabulous!

Review №54

2021-09-25 20:10:28

The crispy pork is so so good even though the portion between pork and pepper is not balanceI enjoy the Canadian bacon hollandaise egg

Review №55

2023-04-28 22:58:46

First time at Benchmark in Santa Ana. Food was delicious. Service was friendly and fast. Surrounding was under construction, so it was little difficult to find the place. Restaurant is located in residential zone. Our party of 14 were settled at a long table in a converted garage (I think) behind the main kitchen.

Review №56

2022-09-18 20:05:05

Awesome restaurant for any meal!! Great service, awesome burgers and lunch under the tree.

Review №57

2023-02-23 15:46:31

One of my favorite places I have eaten in California. The restaurant is all outdoors and feels like an outdoor party. The staff was super welcoming and friendly, from the moment we walked up until we left. The food was fantastic, seasonal and very fresh. I am a sometimes pescatarian mostly vegetarian and a foodie and there was so much for me to enjoy. The ahi tuna appetizer was to die for, brussels were fabulous and the wine was delicious. My friends had the risotto and raved! Dont miss this great restaurant!

Review №58

2023-02-01 09:34:29

For the price of the food, it should be better. Its been a few weeks since i went so i dont recall everything i got but the entree and appetizer were just okay and extra salty. Drinks and decor were great but if youre charging $30 or more for an entree, it should be better than i can cook at home.

Review №59

2020-01-16 19:48:01

I had dinner at Benchmark, this restaurant its unique having seating outside while it was cold the staff make sure to bring heaters to make a warm event, the location has a great location, the food and the drinks have a good flavour, the price is fine, the staff are friendly and is clean. AND Yes I will be going back. Thanks.

Review №60

2022-07-09 16:52:59

The food and drinks here are top notch! As a party of 3 we shared every appetizer, a salad, and the brown butter cake dessert. Everything was excellent! We especially enjoyed the Korean tacos and the cake. The cocktails are creative and each had a unique taste. Be sure to make a reservation!

Review №61

2023-04-18 05:02:14

Cheerful vibes. Delicious food and drinks. We sat outside but heaters made it nice and cozy

Review №62

2022-04-28 15:45:35

Wow, what a place to enjoy life. The service was impeccable. The food, marvelous. The ambiance, spectacular.Our server, Joseph S, really helped make this meal remarkable. His understanding of the food along with the drinks made dining here an exceptional experience.The food itself is simply outstanding. Everything has such robust flavor and nothing was overwhelming. Its like each dish was made simply to make the next even better.The ambiance really made the mood and complimented each dish. Combine the amazing food with the surroundings plus the awesome service truly makes this restaurant a favorite of mine. I will certainly be coming back soon.

Review №63

2023-03-09 05:07:51

My husband and I dined here for restaurant week. We absolutely LOVED it. The food was amazing and the staff was warm and welcoming. The entire experience was wonderful. We look forward to coming back soon!!

Review №64

2022-10-23 04:39:06

Absolutely incredible dining experience.The food was amazing. Service could have been a bit better but it seemed they were short staffed and the place was BUSY. The rush of people didnt stop the kitchen from getting the food out fast and perfect though!10 / 10 would recommend!

Review №65

2022-03-29 04:56:00

Went there for brunch for my first visit, and it will definitely not be my last. In fact, I cant wait to go back with other friends and family. The food was so good! All the dishes we ordered from appetizers to entrees were delicious and perfectly flavored and seasoned. We had the nicest waitress to boot! Friendly greeting all around from the moment we arrived until we left. Great outdoor ambiance.

Review №66

2022-05-31 04:42:33

The food and drinks are so delicious! I didn’t have anything I didn’t like. Highly recommend coming to Benchmark!

Review №67

2023-11-13 02:35:56

My fav place in LA area! Perfect service and food. Just perfect!

Review №68

2020-06-20 21:25:06

This place is amazing. Absolutely delicious food and wonderful service. The atmosphere is very comfortable, relaxed and friendly. The chef Definitely knows his stuff. Everything was exceedingly fresh, beautifully presented, seasoned to perfection. From the fried brussel sprouts and pork belly, to the delightfully seasoned hanger steak and (yes, seasoned) scrambled eggs, to the exquisitely crisped skin on the perfectly cooked salmon, to the most delicious brown butter cake wed ever tasted. This place is truly a 5 star dining experience.. Cant wait to go back.

Review №69

2020-11-25 23:45:13

I agree with everybody that the outdoor seating space is great. Super chill, great vibe, very comfortable... it would be your neighborhood hangout spot if you lived within walking distance.Its good for everybody because the menu is varied with lots of classic stuff paired with lots of innovative preparations and styles. The space is great, but the food is the star here. I had a piece of salmon that was expertly prepared. Looking back, it was probably the best piece of fish Ive had all year.The service is great, water as we sat down, plates removed quickly, and offered a very friendly explanation of the menu when we had a few questions. Very professional and personable.So whats not to like? Well, Ill tell you that I came in on an off-day, lunchtime, and pulled right into their lot to an empty awaiting space. I suggested having a neighborhood hookup or a rideshare service for dinnertime. I could see parking being a real issue after 8 pm.

Review №70

2021-07-07 05:29:52

Where to begin? Benchmark and its staff (Duane, Pedro, Rosemary, and Carlos) go above and beyond to ensure every detail is impeccable. I had the pleasure of celebrating my birthday in the private dining area and it was so memorable, from the atmosphere, to the decor, the service, and especially the food and cocktails. Carlos, our server, handled our entire party of 30+ with charm and professionalism. Duane and Pedro assisted with decor and ensured the appetizers and entrees were plated beautifully. It goes without saying (but I am writing it here for good measure) that the food helped make the celebration a success. Each of my guests appreciated the quality and presentation of our meal (artichoke dip with pretzel bread, stone fruit salad, crispy chicken, and zucchini risotto). Each dish offered a robust, full-flavored taste that is incomparable. Last, but not least, the event coordinator, Rosemary ensured that the event went on without a single hitch. Her eye for detail and appreciation for the wants and needs of the guests make her the amazing coordinator that she is, and a true asset to the Benchmark team.If you are thinking of dining here for fun, a date night, or with a large party, you must consider this remarkable restaurant.

Review №71

2020-09-06 02:49:14

First time dining at Benchmark and it was a great experience. They had sufficient Covid guidelines to make my family and me feel safe. The food was excellent, we had their burger and the gochujang fried chicken. Finally, the service was excellent as well, Joseph was very funny which made the experience all the better. It felt good to support a small business during these tough times, I highly recommend it.Almost forgot, we had the artichoke fondue with pretzel appetizer... it was amazing. I could have had a whole dish of it.

Review №72

2020-08-29 15:48:22

This is the perfect spot for a laid back evening of great food in a gorgeous outdoor environment. The space has portico lighting and a romantic atmosphere that’s great for a date night too. We had the artichoke fondue (amazing!) and the hamachi sashimi (beautiful presentation and full of flavor!) to start and then I had the airline chicken with strawberry mole sauce. The chicken was incredible and juicy! Sarah’s mixology skills didn’t disappoint with our cocktails and their wine list is just the right combination of casual and refined. Our server Joseph was attentive and made sure we were all taken care of throughout the night. Covid precautions are enforced and your safety is an obvious priority. Highly recommend!! Oh... don’t skip the brown butter cake either.

Review №73

2023-03-06 04:05:09

Review is tailored towards the hosting of events only. Family has an awful experience with how they handle and uphold venue agreements. Food was good, so just unfortunate that this place isn’t cut out for larger scale events. Disappointed

Review №74

2022-03-18 16:10:21

My co-workers and I had a wonderful time at Benchmark while visiting Santa Ana, so much that we came back twice during our trip! Pedro and Duane are the sweetest and our food/drinks were delicious. Highly recommend for a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Review №75

2022-03-07 17:54:08

Had the place bookmarked and finally came with my kids and friends.Venue - Place is really unique and cozy, the layout and decor is very relaxing and Romantic for dates, girls night etc.Parking - Limited parking inside the lot and street.Service - Staff here is very nice, on the orders, and always checking in for anything needed.Food - Great food options and taste, everything tastes flesh with great flavors.Drinks - Only downside is they have drinks based on wine products and alchohol content isnt as high.Prices - I think it was on the higher end since the end bill was a lil higher than usual.Overall very nice place and would come back again for sure and recommend it.

Review №76

2021-11-07 04:22:09

Food was delicious, we got a salmon, steak and roasted vegetables but unfortunately the service was a bit of a let down. Our server forgot our drink, served us our side 30 minutes before any of the other food, then served us a cold albeit delicious steak, followed by the salmon another 10 minutes later. Also savage as the table next to us ordered way after us, ordered some of the same dishes and got served all their food and drink super quickly.

Review №77

2019-08-01 16:38:05

We have eaten here a few times and each time both the service and food were amazing. We shared the burrata salad and cheese platter. Then my partner had the muscles which he said were the best he’s had. I’m allergic to shell fish so I had the steak, DELICIOUS! So the food is great.Also the location is fun and inviting. It’s all outdoor seating shaded by trees in a hip part of Santa Ana.The owners came to our table and said hello. They, along with our servers couldn’t have been more attentive.I would recommend this place to everyone. We loved it.

Review №78

2021-10-31 19:48:06

We’ve been to Benchmark twice. We love the atmosphere and the food is good and presented well.However, last night I was disappointed in my entree. I ordered risotto . It was bright green and looked and tasted more like lumpy room temp soup. Not good.The wine was fabulous and the butter cake was rich.We’ll try again.A

Review №79

2021-10-17 22:15:46

I do plan on trying this place again so I hope to revise this review.Service was excellent, staff was friendly and welcoming, atmosphere was awesome and plating was great too.Unfortunately both dishes my wife and I ordered were cold, not by design cold they just weren’t hot anymore. It definitely messed with the flavor.We were thinking maybe since we were seated right as they opened the warming lamps aren’t hot? Idk, we’ll see next time.

Review №80

2021-04-17 18:32:12

Amazing place, location and delicious food. Could be a special occasion location but it definitely doesnt have to be.

Review №81

2021-11-27 08:51:23

The food was a hit and miss. The steak was okay and definitely not my favorite. Out of all the food I like was the pork belly pepper, scallops and ahi tuna. Those were amazing and very flavorful!Highly recommend this spot!

Review №82

2020-10-24 23:04:28

My experience was amazing due our server, Joseph.The food is also amazing. The steak was cooked to order and the mussels were very well seasoned. We also got the Artichoke Fondue which, as per Josephs recommendation, tastes AMAZING on the potatoes that are served alongside the steak.

Review №83

2022-02-23 06:31:20

I have been to benchmark many times in the past. My recent visit and dining experience was probably the worst service I had at a restaurant. This was mainly customer service and our waiter that day. I took my whole family out to celebrate my parents anniversary, and this was their first time there.... The waiter would forget some of our orders and told us 40 minutes later that the item we ordered wasnt available and trying his attention about our orders took a while. He would just serve other tables...mind it wasnt busy. Asking for our check, this took a while, and those items were canceled. We were still charged and asked why we were charged. He gave us attitude. If you had a bad day, dont put on your customer leave at home. Very disappointed in the service and leaving a bad taste with my guests. Horrible service with good food..... not good combo.

Review №84

2021-10-17 00:44:30

What’s going on guys? Did you fired the chefs. Today food wasn’t like the first and second time I visit. Inspiration wasn’t there. A salty small sample of chicken a Panda Express like chicken don’t deserve to be at your menu. The menu is poor and the mussels where substituted by pork belly bites that honestly don’t have anything special. The first beer took 10 minutes to arrive I just decided to cancel the second one after 5 minutes waiting for it. And the restaurant want even full. I’m giving 4 stars just because I now the real potential and past experiences I had. But please, don’t let quality bring down the whole experience.

Review №85

2021-06-07 01:50:32

Amazing ambiance for outdoor dinner. Excellent service. Loved the margaritas, the beer and wine, the poutine with fries, and crispy chicken. Our favorite was the orange chicken (called fried chicken). Just meh was the artichoke dip. And the scallops were bad. We had a great time and loved the experience. All together 5 stars and we will go back.

Review №86

2021-09-12 07:32:17

Exquisite food and ambiance. Our waitress was so pleasant and knowledgeable about every dish and cocktail on the menu. The artichoke dip with the barberian pretzels are a great appetizer. The dip is so creamy! I ordered the Crispy Chicken and I will order jt again, and again! Highly recommend this unique gem in Santa Ana.

Review №87

2019-11-25 04:37:37

Loved this spot!! Warm and cozy atmosphere with trees and lights. Amazing service. Stephanie our server never let our drinks become empty. Food was DELICIOUS!! From the appetizers to the dessert. One of the owners came to ask how everything was and even brought us a condiment that we didn’t ask for but he wanted us to have. Thank you! We will be back ✨

Review №88

2021-07-18 05:03:28

Delicious and interesting menu. We enjoyed apps, entrees and desserts! We were all happy with our selections. The food was delicious! Our server was attentive. We enjoyed outdoor dining and the ambiance. Highly recommend and we will be back!

Review №89

2021-07-10 15:16:39

What a cool place! We discovered Benchmark by happenstance and were lucky to be seated without reservation on a Friday night. Their 2 outdoor patios under the trees are beautiful! Very nice ambiance, casual yet warm and romantic. They have an outdoor bar with a very nice offering of craft cocktails. We had a local beer. The service was genuinely friendly and caring. I had the Summersquash Risotto with Confit Tomatoes and Goatcheese, it was out of this world!!! For that alone Benchmark deserves a Michelin star!!! My husband had the Fried Chicken, with kind of an aioli or mole dressing that was super flavorful! We will definitely be back, hopefully bring some friends (and make a reservation), and leave space for their deserts.

Review №90

2021-06-22 23:43:53

This cute restaurant is in the middle of Santana and its so warm and cozy. The workers are super friendly and chill. The lovely bartender made us some crazy cocktails. Its a perfect place to wind down and relax. Great atmosphere!!

Review №91

2020-11-15 20:52:35

My wife and I came here to celebrate our 11yr anniversary.Felt very safe with Covid guidelines being followed.Our server Joseph was excellent very personable, polite, professional.The food quality for the price is on point. Great atmosphere will definitely be back.

Review №92

2020-07-30 21:29:06

Ive gone here a couple times now and each time I was happy. They are a little difficult to spot and easy to pass by if youre driving too fast, but if you do find them, theyre great. The seating is all outside (even pre-COVID) and the decor is really nice. The food has always been great- the fries are delish- and the drinks are yummy, too. They have a good craft beer selection, but also premium drinks with vodka-infused sake, which I tried and found light and refreshing. Its a great date spot!

Review №93

2020-03-08 01:18:14

We had a bad experience when the waitress kick us out of the table when we are about to order. We are about to leave thinking that the food will not be that good after the experience. Yup! The feeling that you dont have an appetite anymore. We chose to stay and after waiting for a table we got our order. It was a surprise that the food still tasted great and think that it would have tasted better if not for the earlier experience. I guess it was also because our new host made us feel less uncomfortable (sorry we forgot the name, shaved head tattooed guy). He was helpful w/ the menu and also keeps visiting our table if we needed anything. Manager was also great, he approached us after we ate and made sure we still have a great food experience. I definitely recomend this place. We are a foodie that goes out regularly to satisfy our taste buds. 10 stars for rhe food!

Review №94

2022-04-04 04:07:20

Great food, service and ambiance. Highly recommend this gem. Tried a lot of the dishes and each one was delicious and unique. Really fun place and can’t wait to bring more of my friends.

Review №95

2021-11-07 17:54:31

Hate to say, but they’re not ready to be up and running. Uncoordinated and uncaring.We would have been happier turned away if they couldn’t handle how many people they already had in the restaurant.We were asked after 40 mins to serve our own waters when they finally came as a pitcher and stack of glasses dropped off to the person who had been asking for them since we arrived. Forget about the actual drink service.The poor staff was in the weeds! There’s no way they could keep up, so it seemed like they weren’t even trying anymore. Staff looked glazed over like they didn’t care to work there and knew the place was a mess. I’ll say there was a sparse amount of hustle between the bunch. We did a lot of self service and cancelled most of our orders after 2 hours. We didn’t really get to try the food. I bet it was just aiight and definitely not made with any love.Overall, they shouldn’t seat as many people as they do if they can’t handle it.LADIES RESTROOM USERS BEWARE!!!!!! The bathroom is down a dark alley around the back of the building outdoors and exceptionally shady! We all FELT UNSAFE as I now know after conversing about how terribly the place was run after we left. Just saying… sorry guys, but whoof.Caviat: I worked in restaurants for a long time and so have some of my attending friends from dinner. We all agreed to generously tip the staff and get the heck outta there. We all felt bad for them.

Review №96

2021-04-04 01:36:46

Great place to eat, in a residential neighborhood. We were sat at 6pm for a reservation for two. The place had was filled, the waiter (Joseph) was fun, knew the menu and very helpful. We ordered the artichoke fondue which was awesome. We also ordered the french fries with garlic aioli which was also good. A bottle of the red blend was ordered which was devine. The entre was the flat iron steak with chinchurri, cheese grits and pan fired onions. It was flat out amazing. I will be coming back, do yourself a favor and try this place out you will not be disappointed

Review №97

2019-09-04 17:35:20

One of the newest spots in Santa Ana, Benchmark has a great outside seating area that is perfect for enjoying cocktails and drinks in the summer.Their food menu is also short and concise, which I prefer, and delivered on everything we ordered. While this is not a tapas style restaurant, Id recommend sharing some dishes with your party, so you can enjoy more items off the menu.My personal favorite on the list was the gochujang chicken.On top of the good food offering is a solid selection of local wines and beers, and I hope they continue to deliver on the selection as time goes on.

Review №98

2023-04-30 22:37:32

Good food and excellent service.😊

Review №99

2020-05-30 23:36:09

Lives up to all its hype and my friends hype. Everything about this place is wonderful -- the service, clean bathrooms, great food, reasonable price, great atmosphere, lots of parking, and an extra kudo about the service. We brought our own wine -- no corkage. And as a joke we asked about whether they had a cakeage fee and they laughed. Of course not. Speaking of food, we went right after the county opened up seating again so Brnchmark had a limited menu. Our group of 4 basically ordered everything and EVERYTHING was delicious.

Review №100

2020-05-12 00:48:24

We ordered take out yesterday for Mother’s’ DayEvery dish was marvelous starting with the ahi, then the shaved Brussels sprouts salad and finally my husband had the short ribs and I had the “Chinese” chicken. It was a lot of food for 2 people, very generous portions every one excellent !

Review №101

2019-12-28 02:28:50

Benchmark is a really cool outdoor restaurant/bar that is great for a date or a quick hangout.When you first come in, youll notice a really lovely set of lights, outdoor bar, some heat lamps (at least in the winter) and seats scattered about. Loved the lights and the trees being mixed in throughout the place. We RSVPed ahead of time just in case which is convenient.We sat down and looked through the menu. My friend started with the cab which was solid and I got the sake old fashioned. A bit bummed there wasnt any whiskey but with the agave syrup, this old fashioned wasnt too shabby. I also got the red ale which was good.Food-wise, we got a few items.+Gochujang fried chicken: Yum! The gochujang goes perfectly with their fried chicken although youll have to realize that this is more of a popcorn chicken style. Absolutely loved it.+Little Gem Salad: Not bad. The croutons were actually my favorite part of this fairly straightforward but good little gem salad.+Artichoke Fondue: Perfect for a start, especially a beer. Note that we got three pretzel pieces in case you want to inquire about more with our fondue. The fondue itself is terrific - cheesy but not overly salty.+Ahi Tuna: Probably my least favorite dish personally but not bad. They give you a lot of rice crackers which arent too bad. The tuna itself I think I wish there was a little less aioli.+Their brown butter cake dessert is really terrific and worth trying. Not overly sweet; buttery; and love the presentation. The seasonal sorbet wasnt too shabby either.Service was super kind. Kudos to Stewie (sorry if I got your name wrong!) for being an awesome host and really being kind to us throughout the evening.Parking is a bit tight. They have a private lot they share with a few other shops that is a little hit or miss in terms of room. There is some neighborhood parking but it definitely seems like there isnt a lot of room sadly enough.One quick suggestion: I think blankets would be really nice for the winter nights. Especially this past month, its been uber-cold and although the heating lamps are warm, ours did go out a bit through our dinner. A blanket wouldve been a nice back-up.

Review №102

2020-08-21 01:58:42

Cool restaurant, great food, and great owners. Staff is super friendly too! First time here, had the burger and fries. Had that back yard gourmet burger taste, and is one of the best Ive had around OC. The fries were absolutely the best Ive had anywhere. Cant wait to come back with friends for lunches, dinners, and weekend brunches. My new little fav OC getaway. Be sure to make a reservation because this place is that good.

Review №103

2019-09-19 22:39:48

This little outdoor place is very nice. I took my wife on a surprise date night and made reservations here. We walked in early and the owner came abd greeted us and sat us right away. Their menu isnt this huge mess with 10 chicken plates and then steak and etc. Their have a small one oage menu but the items are good. The only drawbacks was we had a few flies which were starting to be a bother. I know youre outside so this will happen but they do have candles outside and they should just put a few drops on incents and it will greatly reduce flies. Our waitress was good for the most part. Im thinking she was new to working and still getting the hang of it. I am definitely going to come back because I had their burger which was good but I want to try their fried chicken. The owner also made sure to thank us for coming as we left.

Review №104

2023-10-07 20:03:19

Benchmark Burger is the best burger I have ever had.

Review №105

2019-11-16 18:51:00

This hidden jewel is worth the travel. Come enjoy the atmosphere while eating good food, sit at the bar and order a drink. The staff here is awesome too. We ordered the chicken and cabbage, wow, what an amazing dish.They also gave me a veteran discount. Heck yeah, give em 10% off. Thats what its all about

Review №106

2019-11-19 20:55:28

The food is amazing. I’ve tried the fried chicken, salmon, the salads, the burger...it’s all SOOO good. The fried chicken is definitely my favorite, and the staff there in so dang friendly. The perfect atmosphere...makes it feel like you’re eating in your neighborhood patio with some excellent food and atmosphere. Huge fan!

Review №107

2021-02-05 06:16:41

Absolutley amazing outdoor dining experience. Servers are lovely and knowledgeable about their rotating menu and ingredients. Their brunch is as good as it gets in DTSA. Parking seems limited, but there is a huge lot for the restaurant just 1 block away. Make a reservation for weekend dining as it is pretty busy. Covid didnt make this place skip a single beat. Definately try the half chicken. Uh-mazing!!!

Review №108

2021-08-21 03:41:01

I posted it on yelp and Ill post it here. A true diamond in the rough . The pork belly shishoto peppers were savory and sweet . With a hint of soy sauce that made the flavors bloom on your pallete . The cheeseburger was a melt in your mouth master piece . You could taste every flavor, who knew lettuce could be tasty ? The garlic aioli paired beautiful with the crispy fries . Lets not forget the star of the night, the flat iron steak . A statement of its own wonderful paired with grit potatoes and heirloom tomatoes dressed with basil infused oil . The drinks are just on par if not beyond the greatness of the food . Excellent cocktails concocted by glorious hands, the flavors explode and dance on your tounge . We could stay away from a second round of the Rosé Sangria . The cherry on top of the evening was the peach crumple, never have I tasted such a silky gelato, it rested i conspicuously atop the savory goodness of the cobbler and jam . This is place you wont resist . Youll spend your noghts dreaming of something so delectable . Thank you Caitlin our server for being our guide one this glorious experience.

Review №109

2019-08-01 14:59:36

I’ve enjoyed this gem in Santa Ana a few times already. The food is well seasoned and delicious. The owners and staff are very friendly and always willing to make your dining experience a memorable occasion. The outside dining experience is a plus as it adds to the charm of the restaurant.

Review №110

2021-09-05 05:34:34

We enjoyed our meal at Benchmark tonight.We started with ahi, pork belly with shishito peppers, and fries with aioli. All were delicious, but we all agreed that the ahi was the stand out among these appetizers. After that, we shared the heritage tomatoes with burrata and the goat cheese and stone fruit salad. The heritage tomatoes were a revelation - with flavor unlike most tomatoes. The burrata was a little firm on the outside, creamy on the inside. The stone fruit salad had candied nuts balanced by creamy and slightly salty goat cheese.The special margarita with elderberry and blackberry made with rice wine was surprisingly good and refreshing. The old fashioned, also made with rice wine, was smooth with an authentic flavor and aroma.We couldnt resist getting desserts. We each chose a different one. The berry sorbet garnished with blueberries and strawberries was outstanding. The brown butter cake was topped with a caramel syrup and nuts and served with vanilla gelato was another favorite at our table. The butterscotch pot de creme was over salted and disappointing.Our server, Joseph, was helpful with menu suggestions and thoroughly professional.Benchmark gets 4 stars instead of 5 because there is significant fly problem caused by open trash bins located near the back patio where we were seated.

Review №111

2019-11-22 06:31:33

My friend and I had the pleasure at sitting at the bar for their mimosas. Joseph was a friendly bartender and every staff we made in contact with. Joseph gave us a sample of different juices for our champagne. He was a great sport. We had fries and mayo dip? I’ll be coming back for their food sometime and I recommend you sit at the bar for good conversations with the bartender and staff. Cheers!

Review №112

2019-11-19 05:34:14

Lovely outdoor space... Tasty food!

Review №113

2022-11-10 19:22:57

Great breakfast & brunch spot to try unique recipes. Friendly staff and quick service. Their lemonades are really good!

Review №114

2019-08-01 20:51:44

Without a doubt one of the best restaurants in the area. With a unique combination between a pleasant atmosphere, excellent service and exquisite and original dishes. Definitely a highly recommended place to eat during lunch or for dinner with friends. Make sure you reserve as the place is pretty busy especially on the weekend.The whole crew is very friendly and courteous. We did not find a problem for parking since you can do it for free a public parking at Mortimer St. (Next block I think!)My favorite dish so far: The Gochujang Fried Chicken (To die for..Yumm!)

Review №115

2019-08-01 15:24:36

My experience with dining at Benchmark has been outstanding. The food, the wine and the service has been a delight. Having a meal outside reminds me of being in Paris. Foodies like me are always seeking meaningful dining experiences like the one that Benchmark provides. Thank you and I’m looking forward to another visit soon...

Review №116

2019-08-01 17:50:53

I’ve had the opportunity to eat at Benchmark on three different occasions and each visit has been exceptional. I’ve enjoyed many of the dishes and all of them have been wonderful. My favorites are the artichoke dip with pretzel bread, ahi tuna, burrata and tomatoes, and steak - delicious!! The outdoor patio seating under the trees is complemented by excellent service that makes for a great al fresco dining experience. Definitely will be going back and highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a great place to eat lunch or dinner in downtown Santa Ana.

Review №117

2023-05-21 20:50:32

Have been amazing since they opened, a bit of a ways away from DTSA but well worth the mini trek in that direction! Also near Hidden house coffee if you wanna grab a drink while waiting for brunch to open at 11:30

Review №118

2019-08-23 13:29:22

Wow! Amazing food in a very cool venue. The service is fantastic. They have a really good wine list that is very approachable. The depth of the flavor in the food will keep us coming back.

Review №119

2020-07-04 21:07:49

My fiancé and I were driving to LA from San Diego and we googled places to eat in Santa Ana and stumbled upon this gem. If you are ever in the area be sure to check this quaint amazing spot. We had Joseph ad a waiter and he showed up so much love. Be really enhanced the entire experience. Def ask for him!!!Oh yea the food was phenomenal I had the chicken and waffle which was a spin on Asian chicken and waffles. My fiancé is vegetarian so he had the heirloom tomatoe penzella salad (?spelling) but it was a super good salad like so good and he got the herb permaseans fried to fill his stomach.Anywho; check this amazing spot out !!!!!Xox

Review №120

2021-01-04 13:27:33

Such an amazing place! The server was super nice and it was a great option to dine in the outdoors during a pandemic. The food was beyond amazing from the drinks to the desserts. Definitely recommend it!

Review №121

2022-03-24 03:03:58

We just visited to have cocktails and beers. The atmosphere is really nice. The service was great. The food looked really good that everyone else was eating

Review №122

2019-07-31 01:38:04

Rad open-air boutique restaurant. The Gochujang fried chicken and artichoke fondue with bavarian pretzel are top-tier! Delicious. Great selection of draught beer, all local. Staff is great. Vibe and atmosphere are ideal for dinner. Do NOT listen to the haters. (You can see its outside before you choose to eat here, smart ones.) This place is not only worth your time--its also reasonably priced. Will definitely return to try the other great quality food items.

Review №123

2020-02-25 00:57:08

Started with the Ahi tuna and Pork Belly and from there it was a unique eating experience because it is an outdoor patio restaurant. For dinner we shared the Gochujang Fried Chicken and the Short Rib Tartine which was very good. For dessert we shared the Brown Butter Cake with goat milk ice cream. All in all the food was excellent.

Review №124

2019-08-30 19:48:30

Casual dinning experience, food prices are pretty reasonable ass well. I had the salmon and it was great. My wife had the fried chicken and that was great too. This place is definitely worth visiting if you live in the area.

Review №125

2022-04-03 03:01:45

Wonderful atmosphere, especially in the evening. Currently outdoor seating only, although they are expanding into the building next door soon. Lots of trees strung with lights. Food, drinks and service were all outstanding. Definitely recommend, and will be going back.

Review №126

2020-03-08 20:49:08

This place is really really cute, but small. Be sure to make a reservation for weekend brunch if you want to guarantee a quick table. The outside atmosphere is really nice on a nice day and the food is really tasty. Definitely suggest the chicken!

Review №127

2019-08-11 17:44:23

It’s a fun, casual, local little place that you must try out. The owners are delightful the food is great and the beer and wine selection is really good. The last time I was there I had the salmon and it was excellent. It’s a place you want to go and spend a while with friends. Try it out I promise you won’t be disappointed

Review №128

2020-01-24 03:54:43

First time here. Seems they have been open for only 4 months. Had the Airline Chicken. I song review much usually only if its bad service or bad food, but this place hits the nail on the head. The airline chicken, is amazing. The perfect balance of juicy chicken and quinoa had me on the first bite.

Review №129

2022-05-06 02:54:45

Lovely restaurant, amazing atmosphere, superior service and the most delicious craft cocktails and dishes. Hands down my favorite meal during my entire trip.

Review №130

2023-02-03 18:39:43

Love this place. Benchmark and kaizen are the all around best restaurants in DTSA. Never had a bad dish here.

Review №131

2020-01-30 04:30:12

The food here is inspired and varied, surpassed only by the hospitality of the amazing owners and their staff. Easily in the top 5 restaurants in O.C., and very affordable. Try the Braised Pork Al Pastor...basically the nachos served in heaven.

Review №132

2019-10-26 00:03:05

Get here early or better yet make a reservation, it fills up fast! The owner is friendly and welcoming and I always find it a huge plus to see them so involved in the service for the night. Delivered a great ambiance and a great way to kick off a birthday weekend for my wife!

Review №133

2019-11-03 07:08:53

The food was delicious full of flavor...the different flavors and textures in the butternut squash greens salad, the krispy skin on the cooked to perfection fried chicken and the amazing sauce on the steak.

Review №134

2019-07-27 18:09:35

Good food. Worth trying for anyone.Just a update after my second trip to this restaurant. 2:00 pm is too warm to sit outside and eat. Having only outdoor seating is not a plus.

Review №135

2022-05-11 16:56:26

Good food, nice outdoor setting, good drinks and good service - really enjoyed the ahi tuna dish but the gochujang chicken tasted less like gochujang and more similar to a sweeter orange chicken flavor.

Review №136

2021-05-25 14:15:29

Mothers Day 2021 dinner celebration. We ordered small plates to share; poke, scallops, etc. Ill return for the outdoor dining atmosphere.

Review №137

2021-08-18 19:17:19

BAD VIBE - I stopped by a little before they opened and was told I had to wait, no big deal. So as I was walking around admiring and taking pictures of the landscaping. I was told that I would have to leave and I had to stop taking pictures because it was private property and they werent open yet. So I left and will never return.

Review №138

2022-07-15 04:34:11

Great food and service. But all dining is outdoors. I was less than thrilled to share my meal with a fly, then a bee.

Review №139

2023-01-22 23:37:58

Good vibe, really good food with innovative flavors, definitely one of the more deserving hipster themed places.

Review №140

2021-04-24 03:18:55

Such a cool place with great service, atmosphere and food! Loved the artichoke fondue, flat iron steak, and burger with fries! Will be back soon

Review №141

2021-03-31 21:21:40

Super hip place with an expansive patio and fairly elevated but affordable fare. The food was unique and excellent. Nice staff as well. Highly recommended!

Review №142

2019-11-15 01:56:10

Everything was delicious. Two of us had the salmon plate, another had the mussels, and we shared the artichoke Fondue. I look forward to coming back.

Review №143

2019-07-27 23:48:51

Not a fan of being in the sun eating while flys and things from the trees above are falling in my food. My waitress said you have to deal with that when you eat outside. Duh! They only have outside dining. No roof. No walls. What the hell do they do when its windy blowing dirt, or raining? I guess open or close due to weather. My wifes answer was, Not my cup of tea My problem is I do not want to sit in the sun burning up at 1:30 while flys are circling my food.

Review №144

2019-09-30 03:42:54

Had a great dinner. It starts with wonderful ambiance. The food is creative fresh and delicious. Looking forward to future visits

Review №145

2022-10-14 04:02:50

Now it will s difficult to find a good place to eat where food is amazing, I always enjoy my experience when I go that place.. love it..

Review №146

2021-01-31 02:20:45

Service let me down, felt badly and made my day not as good. The food I ordered was ok; Thanks to the kitchen staff. Better places to eat with great service or courtesy.

Review №147

2021-06-10 14:25:05

2 for the food, but the service was really bad our food came out at different times from the first plate to the last was an hour apart no water refills were given they just need to be more attentive. Place and food are good.

Review №148

2019-09-05 21:24:15

Terrific food. Great ambiance but its all outdoors. Hot/cold/inclimate weather may keep you from enjoying this little neighborhood gem.

Review №149

2021-06-24 03:40:33

My best friend took me to my birthday dinner and I was amazed with the food and also cocktails they were making.Definitely going back soon !!

Review №150

2019-11-18 04:02:39

We enjoyed the food and pleasant outside dining experience. The restaurant is built with storage containers that makes for a unique atmosphere.

Review №151

2019-08-04 05:22:09

Love this restaurant. Outdoor seating is perfect for warm evening dinning. Airplane chicken was delicious. Great addition to the neighborhood.

Review №152

2022-08-15 03:51:36

Pretty tasty meal the girls and I shared. And our waiter dude was amazing!!!

Review №153

2020-08-07 15:53:32

What a gem!Def a local spot, great ambiance and the owner is usually always on site and is always so friendly. Highly recommend for casual drinks or an intimate dinner

Review №154

2023-04-10 16:56:50

Sun was directly in my face and waiter refused to move us, had to ask for water refills every time

Review №155

2021-02-08 02:09:26

Great food my brother and I made it our regular Sunday dinner spot and come here every week would have given them a full 5 stars but they were closed on super bowl Sunday

Review №156

2021-03-07 06:33:57

This place its far the best restaurants for usPrice is a little High but worth it went on a date with husband or as a coupleStop by you will enjoy .believe usThey food drinks desert 15 star from us

Review №157

2019-11-09 23:55:45

We are from MN and had Benchmark recommended. Such a cool outdoor place to have lunch. Airport chic, burger and kids mac were delicious.

Review №158

2019-09-02 04:31:09

Pretty good food. Great patio. Wish the Chilaquiles had two eggs instead of just 1 but... great taste though!

Review №159

2020-03-11 15:20:07

A relaxed, warm restaurant with a delicious and creative menu. I would describe the atmosphere as chill. Would definitely dine there again.

Review №160

2021-11-09 08:16:19

Good vibes! Great for family dinner!

Review №161

2020-09-13 00:55:09

Benchmark is seriously amazing. One of the best restaurants in santa ana. You have to go here. Eat everything because its all incredible.

Review №162

2022-02-19 10:47:45

We had a wonderful experience and cant wait to come back for their regular menu.

Review №163

2021-08-24 04:12:35

15 dollar corkage fee. Food was so so but ambiance was 5 stars

Review №164

2020-11-30 03:08:51

Great food amazing flavors. Unpolished wait staff but very pleasant. Im planning to go back.

Review №165

2020-02-06 00:29:26

This place is super cute and the food was really good! They do not have a full liquor license but the drinks they do have are good.

Review №166

2019-09-29 14:06:27

Love the al fresco ambiance. Food flavor & servings were great! Highly recommended & will revisit 🤗

Review №167

2019-08-08 13:20:03

Delicious and beautiful food. Setting is very cool. Great spot for a date or to meet friends.

Review №168

2022-07-04 04:46:35

Amazing food with amazing vibes.

Review №169

2021-03-16 20:57:24

I come here every month to treat people to awesome food. Excellent service and friendly owners. Great food!

Review №170

2021-08-28 14:58:18

GREAT STAFF, FOOD IS AMAZING !

Review №171

2020-10-31 03:26:19

Food is delicious - one of the best burgers anywhere! Friendly service all around.

Review №172

2021-01-26 05:45:30

All outdoor seating. Great drinks. Wonderful food. A real treat!

Review №173

2022-10-30 07:30:55

Great experience from the staff, to the wine and the mouth watering food in between.

Review №174

2019-10-12 03:59:25

Food was delicious. Service was wonderful. Ambiance was charming. Definitely will be back for more.

Review №175

2020-01-09 04:55:08

Such a great place for a date or a dinner with your loved ones. Staff very friendly with an excellent service.

Review №176

2021-10-01 02:52:07

Great experience, beautiful spot... Our server Katie was excellent and very nice.

Review №177

2020-11-22 03:21:40

Benchmark is always great food and great service the outdoor ambience is on point.

Review №178

2021-06-29 11:21:26

Great food. Location makes parking and atmosphere a little awkward though

Review №179

2020-02-08 03:08:19

It was one fo the best restaurants I have been to. Get the Benchmark Burger if you are a burger fan.

Review №180

2020-02-09 05:57:22

Restaurants phone was off the hook, couldn’t get through, went to the restaurant at 9:30 to place a to go order and they said they closed the kitchen. But they advertise late night food...and it’s a Saturday night.

Review №181

2022-08-02 01:29:00

Compact outdoor atmosphere, friendly staff, and food & drinks that will not disappoint.

Review №182

2020-01-20 22:39:50

Good food and service. Wait staff was easy to work with re: allergies.

Review №183

2020-01-23 01:04:20

Great wine, bartenders, ambience! Would be perfect for a date night!!

Review №184

2019-10-23 21:00:35

Wow!! Very impressed. Food excellent and the service just as good. Must try

Review №185

2020-01-01 04:32:43

Very expensive. Food not good and very small portions. Service was awful. Never again.

Review №186

2021-10-08 05:24:16

We loved Caitlyn!!! Made dinner a great night!

Review №187

2021-05-04 00:54:09

Brown Butter Cake with pecan pralines, sage, and vanilla gelato.

Review №188

2021-04-13 15:33:21

Cute little spot to enjoy with friends. Drinks are cute and yummy

Review №189

2020-03-07 18:35:50

Really cute little restaurant with great atmosphere and really delicious food.

Review №190

2020-09-13 05:20:51

Delicious food and friendly service. Our favorite restaurant.

Review №191

2023-04-02 03:02:10

Amazing food, must try!

Review №192

2019-12-16 03:28:22

Great place with comfortable feel, vibe, and ambiance. Trendy and modern with great customer service.

Review №193

2019-12-16 02:30:14

Great ambience and food! Looking forward to making a regular spot!

Review №194

2019-07-27 23:57:25

New restaurants will always start out with everyone wanting to try, but the artificial attitude of the under trained wait staff will be the demise of this restaurant.

Review №195

2022-01-17 02:47:52

Great ambience, neat crowd, nice food.

Review №196

2019-07-27 00:15:39

Great food and atmosphere... Great for families and friends..

Review №197

2020-02-16 22:38:42

Great tasty food especially the hamburger great service

Review №198

2020-06-06 17:49:18

Really good food, great outdoor setting

Review №199

2021-01-09 07:15:52

I love the vibes!!!!!!!! Wish they had background music! 5 stars!!!