The Cellar has American Gastropub fare with a little bit of pixie dust history

After the original Pirates of the Caribbean ride was built in New Orleans Square in Disneyland, some of the Walt Disney Imagineers were called to help build and decorate The Cellar. In 1970, The Cellar opened its doors bringing themed fine-dining inside the historic Villa Del Sol in downtown Fullerton, CA. Over the course of the last four decades, ownership has changed hands a few times. In 2004, Ryan Dudley took over the helm and has brought back dining of yesteryear. His career working for Lawry’s Restaurants, Five Crowns in Corona Del Mar in particular, gave him the experience of managing a themed fine dining restaurant. As you descend the staircase to The Cellar, you’ll notice that the atmosphere will change. You forget that you are in Downtown Fullerton when you reach the door. The door looks as if you’ve been transported to a seaport in the 1600’s, where you would need to know the secret knock to enter. The door is heavy and as you open it, you start to see very familiar décor, similar to the caves in the Pirates of the Caribbean. The dining room is well-lit and has white linen adorned tables and is very elegant. The Spirit Room has a speak-easy feel with red booth seating. Almost like a secret hideaway where the likes of Jack Sparrow or Blackbeard would be sitting in a dark corner drinking rum. The food is prepared with traditional French techniques using locally grown produce, grass-fed meats, and sustainable fish from the Seafood Watch Program.

Buffalo Tartar is mixed with a shallot and caper relish, topped with fried quail egg, and crispy capers. The presentation was nice and different, being square in shape. The minced buffalo was absolutely scrumptious with a rich flavor. The quail egg yolk added an amazing creamy flavor. The brioche crust added structure and matched perfectly with the buffalo. This dish will definitely give you an OMG moment or two. Thumbs up, way up!

To read more and see slideshow of photos, please visit: http://www.examiner.com/review/the-cellar-has-american-gastropub-fare-with-a-little-bit-of-pixie-dust-history

Mahalo,

OC Food Diva