Poppy’s: A Culinary Gem Shines Brightly in the Heart of Anaheim

Anaheim, a city synonymous with magical escapes and family-friendly fun, has a new destination for discerning palates. As part of a multimillion-dollar renovation, the Hilton Anaheim—a sprawling and impressive hotel that serves as an excellent home base for those visiting Disneyland Resort—has unveiled Poppy’s, its new signature restaurant.

Recently, I had the pleasure of attending a media dinner to sample their offerings, and I can confidently say that Poppy’s is a culinary landmark worth celebrating.

The moment you step inside, you sense that this is more than just a hotel restaurant. Developed by Hilton’s in-house StiR Creative Collective, Poppy’s embodies the vibrant, fresh spirit of California. The menu, under the masterful direction of veteran chef Prabeen Prathapan, is a testament to the state’s abundant produce and commitment to mindful, sustainable dining. Chef Prathapan’s vision is clear: to capture the “colors and flavors of California” and serve them with “friendly and refined hospitality.” From our experience, he has succeeded on all counts.

Our evening began with a selection of expertly crafted cocktails and mocktails. The beverage program is a thoughtful extension of the California-inspired menu. I particularly enjoyed the Solstice Squeeze, a drink that perfectly balanced its components, made with del maguey vida mezcal, chinola passionfruit, ancho reyes amaretto, lime, orange bitters and tajin rim. The mocktails were just as inventive, a welcome sign that the bar takes every guest’s experience seriously.

The menu itself is a journey through California’s culinary landscape. We sampled an array of dishes, and while the entire meal was a delight, the main event was the Tomahawk steak. This was, without question, a standout. Cooked to a perfect medium-rare, the steak was succulent and deeply flavorful, a true carnivore’s dream. The high-quality cut speaks to Poppy’s commitment to artisanal, hearty fare for its dinner service.

We also got a taste of the lighter, starter menu selections. The Kingfish Yellowtail Crudo was crisp and refreshing, a perfect example of a lighter dish executed with precision. This elevated the fresh Yellowtail, proving that simple ingredients can produce complex flavors. We also enjoyed the Hot Honey Mustard Wings, the California Summer Salad and Prosciutto Flatbread. For those looking for a heartier option during lunch, the Route 66 Chicken Club sounds like a comforting and delicious choice.

Dinner transitions to a more substantial menu, with a focus on prime cuts of meat like the Imperial Wagyu Filet and Prime Bone-In Ribeye. But it’s not just about the steak. The commitment to fresh, local ingredients shines through in every bite, from the seafood to the fresh produce.

To end the evening, we were treated to the Warm Poppy Seed Cake as well as the Dark Chocolate Espresso Mousse. The Poppy Seed Cake dessert is an elegant and fitting tribute to the restaurant’s namesake. Paired with orange blossom lemon curd and vanilla bean ice cream, it was a subtle yet satisfying conclusion to a truly memorable meal.

Poppy’s is more than a new restaurant; it’s a statement. It’s the centerpiece of Hilton Anaheim’s reimagined food and beverage program, a place where locals and travelers can gather to enjoy high-quality, California-inspired cuisine. And for anyone planning a visit to the magical realm of Disneyland, staying at the Hilton Anaheim now offers an added perk: an unforgettable dining experience right on site. Poppy’s is a triumph, and a must-visit for anyone who appreciates great food.

Poppy’s is located inside Hilton Anaheim and is now open. Reservations can be made at OpenTable. For more info click here.