“There’s nothing to do in Yorba Linda.” We hear someone saying this at least once a week. This is why the citizens of Yorba Linda were so excited for the opening of the Wholefoods shopping center. Although it is not technically in the city of Yorba Linda, the shopping center is close enough for people to drive and experience. The short twenty minute drive is worth it, not only because of the ambiance of the shopping center, but also for its surrounding restaurants.

One of of my favorite restaurants there is Urban Plates. It is conveniently located in the same shopping center as Wholefoods and is in walking distance to all the shops around it.

They have a variety of tasty foods, ranging from salads and greens to juicy meats to small desserts. This is not a sit down restaurant. When you walk into the building, you first grab a tray and go to the line of food that bests suits your appetite. If you are in the mood for some greens, go straight to the salad line, where you have the option to choose from a variety of salads with different toppings and dressings. If you want an actual plate, which is what I always get, you can proceed to the warm foods line.

With the dinner plate, you have the option to choose a meat of your choice, steak, chicken, or fish. Then you can choose any two sides, anything from mashed potatoes to Brussel sprouts. Every meal also comes with freshly made garlic bread.

I have tried all three meats: the steak, chicken, and fish. In my opinion, all three meats were delicious and cooked to perfection. For sides, I like getting the mashed potatoes with gravy, which goes well with the chicken. for my second side, I like to pair the meal with something green like Asparagus, which was also very tasty.

Ravi Patel (11) said that he also likes how “all the workers were very kind.” This is true; however, I think the element that makes this place so special is the setting itself and the decorative elements. The wooden tables and lights hanging from the ceiling make the room feel warm and inviting.

I would definitely recommend this place to anyone who wants a tasty, but reasonably priced lunch or dinner. It is nice to have new restaurants opening around us and I am happy that I tried the menu at Urban Plates!