Best Stays & Eats in Anaheim/Costa Mesa for Wondercon & Pixar Fest

Whether you are driving to Anaheim to go to Disneyland® Resort's first-ever Pixar Fest or attend the comic and pop culture convention Wondercon, there are some amazing restaurants and hotels that support the business/family traveller.

If you need a comfy spot that's in walking distance to the convention center, you might like the Element Anaheim Resort, a dog friendly hotel with large rooms and an elaborate free breakfast.

Element Anaheim ResortPhoto bysusan hornik

Just around the corner from the convention center is Puesto's Anaheim location, a dynamic spot for lunch between meetings or dinner. After a busy day of walking, there's no doubt you will be looking for a tasty meal!

“We get a ton of business travelers at Puesto Anaheim due to the close proximity to the Convention Center and numerous hotels," noted co-founder Eric Adler. "The restaurant is a fantastic spot for those seeking upscale Mexican cuisine and cocktails."

A short distance away is Pali Wine Co, which has a spacious outdoor patio.

"Our Anaheim tasting room is the fourth we've opened, serving as an outpost of our Santa Barbara County winery," said managing partner Nick Perr.

Pali AnaheimPhoto bySusan Hornik

"It attracts a diverse crowd, from residents to tourists, both here for business and vacation. With Disneyland and other amazing Southern California attractions nearby, Anaheim is bustling."

Pali Anaheim is also a great spot for happy hour for business travelers after a busy day of meetings.

"Our tasting room is perfectly set up to host larger tastings and events for businesses, as well as bespoke wine tastings for tourists eager to explore California wines. We also cater to locals, providing a comfortable and friendly spot to sit back, relax with a glass of wine, and enjoy some very nice food pairings. These include fine cheeses, charcuterie, and more, all made in-house specifically to complement our wines."

Another impressive Anaheim hotspot is The Ranch, which features an array of fantastic dishes, country music bands and lively dance floor. The owner is from North Carolina and his daughter runs the venue. Tip: If you are with a group of friends or business associates, have dinner in one of their private dining rooms which have a lovely view.

The RanchPhoto bySusan Hornik

Renting a car? For a unique experience that's not too far away from Anaheim, check out Costa Mesa's Avenue of the Arts Hotel , an AAA Four-Diamond rated with cozy rooms, public spaces, a fitness room with a Peloton bike.

"We’re conveniently located by the intersections of the 405 and 55, so travelers don’t have to drive far off the major freeways to get to the hotel," said general manager Kevin Schjei.

View from hotel balconyPhoto bySusan Hornik

The hotel also offers a complimentary airport shuttle to/from Orange County airport and within 3 miles of the venue. Your doggo is welcome at the hotel too. Plans are in the works for a dog menu, dog treats and rooms package," Schjei enthused.

The hotel is a hidden gem, with a nice man-made lake to stroll around, before heading for a quiet, restful night of sleep. "At the hotel, along with many of the neighbors here, all voluntarily take interest in helping to take care of the ducks, koi fish, turtles, birds, and butterflies that co-habitat this area!"

Another perk is the hotel's impressive full-service restaurant and bar, Silver Trumpet, under the helm of executive chef Hector Zamora. On the weekends there is also live music in the bar area.

"I have spent the majority of my life in the kitchen, working with different flavors and creating culinary art pieces that will leave an unforgettable taste in people's mouths and make them want to come back for more," acknowledged Zamora.

"At Silver Trumpet, I can create and do what I love the most - cooking and striving to achieve the perfect balance of flavor, health and art in every meal."

The restaurant and bar manager, James Pilcher has a wonderful rapport with guests and his staff--all are well trained in anticipating travelers' needs and assisting with anything requested of them.

Silver TrumpetPhoto bySusan Hornik

"It’s exciting to run Silver Trumpet with the varied customers we get—ranging from the traveler here in town for business to the stay-vacationer from LA or San Diego to the OC resident visiting the Orange County Museum of Art across the street. We take great pride in offering personalized service with incredible dining and a lively atmosphere." Tip: When at the restaurant, ask for Valorie for extra great service!

The restaurant is also close to the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. innovative bartender Allison Tiongson comes up with specialized drinks in celebration of the performances at the venue.

"I create custom cocktails tied to some of the biggest performances, so you get our beverage take on the show before you even get to the theater," said bartender Allison Tiongson.

Photo bySusan Hornik

"Some of the cocktails I have created are so popular that we have guests come back asking for it again! The best of our theater-inspired cocktails, such as Pearished Dragon ("Shen Yun") and The Smoldering Temptress ("Moulin Rouge") get put on Our Eclectic by Silver Trumpet cocktail collection list, which is offered all year-round."