Orange County
Orange County Content
Orange County’s restaurants form a diverse, vital part of its economy, supporting both tourism and local communities. From upscale Newport Beach venues to family spots near Disneyland, they cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. This sector generates significant sales tax revenue, funds public services, and creates jobs at all levels. Restaurants also support local suppliers, keeping economic activity and prosperity rooted in the region.
By Haiden Emmett and Esau Flores
PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 15, 2026
Orange County
Policy:
Anaheim Sends Possible Tourism Mobility Tax Measure Back to Staff
Anaheim
Anaheim City Council materials for July 28 included an ordinance ordering submission of a general tax measure for the November 3, 2026 election. The proposed Tourism Mobility Tax would apply to rideshare trips originating or ending in specified nonresidential areas, including the Anaheim Resort, Transit District/Katella District, Arena and Stadium District, and Platinum Triangle. The Council directed City staff to continue studying the possible measure, meaning it will not appear on the November ballot.
Why it matters: Restaurant and hospitality operators in destination districts may want to monitor how transportation taxes could affect visitor costs, employee trips, event activity, and tourism competitiveness.
Source: City of Anaheim Council Agenda – July 28, 2026
Anaheim City Planning and Building Fees Increased
Anaheim
Anaheim’s Planning and Zoning page notes that Planning and Building Department fees increased effective August 24, 2026. The city directs applicants to updated fee information for planning, zoning, building, and project-review services, including tenant improvement projects.
Why it matters: Restaurants considering tenant improvements, patio changes, signage, remodels, or new locations in Anaheim may need to account for higher permitting and review costs.
Source: City of Anaheim Planning and Zoning
Plates:
Maleza prepares first standalone restaurant at The CAMP
TMC Hospitality announced September 10 that Maleza will open its first standalone restaurant at The CAMP in Costa Mesa on September 12-13, with regular lunch and dinner service beginning September 16. The modern Mexican concept originated inside Drift Palm Springs and will be led in Costa Mesa by executive chef Marco Arreguin, whose background includes Taco Maria and other Southern California kitchens.
Why it matters: The project represents the evolution of a hotel restaurant concept into a standalone brand and brings an experienced Orange County chef into a leadership role.
Source: What Now Orange County
Verification note: The opening falls just after the report’s coverage window; confirm that service begins as scheduled.
Mr. Moto Pizza opens second Irvine restaurant
San Diego-based Mr. Moto Pizza opened its second Irvine location at 5613 Alton Parkway in Oak Creek Shopping Center. The September 8 opening gives the company four Orange County restaurants, all opened within approximately the last year.
Why it matters: The expansion illustrates a regional restaurant brand building density quickly in Orange County rather than entering one market at a time.
Source: What Now Orange County
White Rooster plans second location
Chef-owner Michael Campbell is preparing a second White Rooster restaurant at 2931 East Coast Highway in Corona del Mar. The concept debuted in Dana Point earlier this year and focuses on a coastal California approach influenced by Mexican flavors.
Why it matters: The project represents an independent chef-owner moving quickly from a first restaurant into a second Orange County market.
Source: What Now Orange County
Verification note: Confirm construction and opening timing before publication.
Levain Bakery opens first Orange County shop
Levain Bakery opened at Fashion Island on September 4, marking the New York company’s first Orange County location and fourth California shop.
Why it matters: The opening strengthens Fashion Island’s growing food-and-beverage mix and represents another established out-of-market brand expanding its California footprint.
Source: Orange County Business Journal