Since moving to Canyon Lake, I’ve been on the lookout for great “regular” places to eat that aren’t chains. Sure, I love Yardhouse, the Cheesecake Factory, Chilis and all that just as much as the next person. But I really try to support smaller places whenever I can.

Although it’s located at the mall (The Shops at Dos Lagos in Corona), Citrus City Grille is a great restaurant that is not a chain (there is only one other location, in Old Town Orange).

Citrus City Grille is an American/Mediterranean restaurant that was started in Old Town Orange by some locals to be a neighborhood destination. It expanded to Corona in 2008.

I’ve eaten here several times, and each time the food has been really good. From small-plate bites with some drinks in the evening out by the fire pits (and the “dos Lagos” the mall is named for) to a fresh lunch with my parents out on the patio, Citrus City Grille is consistently good.

Their menu is fairly robust and features lots of vegetarian options. Sure, you can get the standard American burger-and-fries fare here, but why bother with the usual when you can opt for their delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes?

The Mediterranean vegetable penne comes with artichokes, broccoli, fire roasted tomatoes, garlic, mushrooms, onions, Kalamata olives, feta cheese and a light tomato-basil sauce. It was so good, and a perfect light and fresh lunch.

The Angel hair pasta with fire roasted tomatoes, garlic and basil (not pictured) is another pasta staple for me. It’s light, fresh and satisfying.

The portion sizes are small here, and the prices are somewhat high. However, it’s clear that the quality of food is good and the staff is always friendly. Plus, it’s got a prime location in the mall with a view.

Avoid the Chilis and Applebees of the area and stop in to Citrus City Grille next time you’re in Corona!