Zach Scherer and Drew Adams are introducing a new concept to Orange County: everyday fine dining, with a side of vinyl. darkroom will open for dinner service on Thursday, September 12, at its location on S. Harbor near SOCO & The OC Mix.
The menu focuses on smaller shared plates, large-format mains, and desserts, with a wine list featuring small-batch artisanal wines. “We want to feature winemakers who are as passionate about their craft as we are about food,” said Chef Drew.
Music is a key part of the experience. “Music is incredibly important to me,” said Scherer. “We’ll have vinyl playing, a great sound system, and a live DJ on weekends.”
darkroom’s menu highlights seasonal ingredients with a global flair. “For us, everything starts with the ingredients,” said Chef Drew. “If I get a perfect tomato, I’m not limited to a tomato tart or caprese. I can use techniques from around the world to showcase it in the best way possible.”
“We’re lucky to have access to such diverse, high-quality ingredients,” said Scherer. “It’s our job to turn those into something truly memorable.”
The menu will change with the seasons, featuring dishes like soft shell shrimp from Transparentsea Farms with hystrix lime leaf dukkah, and a whole duck, slow-cooked for 24 hours, smoked, and served with cured stone fruit and olive caramel.
The wine program, like the food, is an adventure. “Yes, we’ll have Napa Cabs and chardonnays, but they’ll be better made, more affordable, and from smaller producers,” said Zach. “We also want to introduce guests to wines they’ve never tried.”
The curated list includes a Champagne-style rosé from South Africa, dry German rieslings, and wines from Bordeaux, the Rhone, and beyond. “The nice thing about lesser-known wines is the better value for the money,” said Adams. “We have over 25 wines rated 95+ points, offering world-class quality without breaking the bank.”
The bar menu, designed by Scherer and Adams, takes the same creative approach as the kitchen. “I used to think some elements would be great in a cocktail,” said Chef Adams. “Now we can bring that creativity into the bar and make it world-class.”
Open 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 5 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
darkroom is located at 3751 South Harbor in Santa Ana.
information about the restaurant menu, hours, and reservations, please visit wearedarkroom.com
