Chef Roy Choi to Launch Celebrated Best Friend Restaurant in Southern California

Celebrated Chef Roy Choi Returns Home with Best Friend Restaurant

In an exciting development for Southern California’s culinary scene, internationally recognized chef Roy Choi is bringing his acclaimed restaurant concept, Best Friend, to the OCVIBE district in Anaheim. Scheduled to open in the fall of 2027, this will be the first Best Friend location outside Las Vegas, where it has garnered rave reviews since its inception at Park MGM.

Roy Choi, a James Beard Award winner, has been a game-changer in the American food industry, celebrated not only for his cuisine but also for his influence on food culture and community. Best Friend is remembered for re-imagining Korean barbecue in a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates Choi’s Korean heritage and Los Angeles roots. Choi's personal connection to Orange County—where he grew up—makes this restaurant opening particularly meaningful for him. "Orange County has always been an important part of my life and my career," he shares. "This restaurant will celebrate the neighborhoods, cultures, and people that make Orange County special."

The Vision Behind OCVIBE

OCVIBE is a visionary 100-acre mixed-use district transforming the area adjacent to the Honda Center. With its focus on vibrant community experiences, OCVIBE is looking to redefine what it means to dine out in Anaheim. This new project is backed with a hefty $5 billion investment, signaling a clear commitment to enhancing the area’s cultural and social offerings.

The announcement to introduce Best Friend as the inaugural restaurant is just the beginning of an ambitious culinary undertaking. OCVIBE aims to be home to a collection of chef-driven dining experiences, each designed to represent the rich diversity and creativity of Southern California.

A Tailored Experience for Orange County

Best Friend at OCVIBE promises to integrate local storytelling and art with its menu. It aims to reflect the unique character of Orange County while offering a fresh take on the concept that made it famous in Las Vegas. Diners can look forward to exclusive offerings that celebrate local ingredients and seasonal flavors, providing an immersive experience that is both innovative and rooted in tradition.

Anthony Olheiser, Senior Vice President of Hospitality at OCVIBE, expressed excitement about partnering with Choi: "Roy Choi has fundamentally changed the way people think about food, culture, and community. Best Friend embodies our philosophy to tell authentic stories while creating spaces where people want to gather."

Expanding Culinary Offerings

OCVIBE plans to feature over 35 restaurants and food spaces, which will complement the upcoming Katella Commons, a food market hall opening in early 2027. This ambitious plan aims to elevate Anaheim’s profile as a premier dining destination while providing intriguing experiences for both locals and tourists.

As Choi notes, "I've always wanted to do something big in Orange County that represented not only my own roots here, but the voices of all that live here." This passion for community and culinary innovation is what attendees can expect when Best Friend opens its doors.

The Best Friend opening marks the start of an exciting new era for culinary innovation in Orange County, blending delicious food with the rich tapestry of its culture. Food enthusiasts and community members alike are eager to see how the new venue will shape the dining landscape in the years to come.

Conclusion

Chef Roy Choi’s Best Friend promises to be more than just another dining experience; it’s a fusion of culture, community, and cuisine that is destined to resonate deeply with the people of Orange County. As we look ahead to the anticipated opening, the excitement continues to build for what is sure to be a landmark entry into the vibrant world of Southern California dining.