THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Z'Tejas Awards

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Z'Tejas Restaurant Review:

This Southwestern-themed watering hole and dining spot located in South Coast Plaza and within walking distance from the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is comfortable and never so busy that you can't nab a good table. The margaritas are some of OC's best, so order up something unusual like the one flavored with Grand Marnier. Sip slowly while noshing on the signature cornbread and spicy appetizers like the grilled shrimp tostada bites or jumbo quesadillas. The cuisine, deftly prepared by longtime chef Danny Stevens, is a modern take on native dishes from Louisiana, Texas, California and Mexico. Regulars go for the signature ancho-rubbed pork tenderloin, a “diablo” chicken pasta, the rib-eye steak with chipotle sauce, Asian-inspired miso salmon and the “voodoo” ahi. Not to be outdone by fine dining restaurants nearby, chef Stevens also cooks up several well-crafted seasonal and regional menu items daily. He also accommodates modern dining trends by creating a sizeable number of vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. Prices are reasonable, but for even better deals go for half-off specials during happy hour from 3:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. on weekdays. Service can sometimes be a bit slow, so alert your server early on if you are pinched for time, especially if you are planning on seeing a show at the performing arts center across the street.