Flame Broiler

Founded in 1995 with the opening of a single Fullerton location, Flame Broiler (previously The Flame Broiler) is now a chain of Korean-American fast food restaurants focused on healthy recipes and portion sizes, headquartered in Santa Ana. Guests can choose between mini bowl, bowl, or plate-sized combinations of rice (white or brown), vegetables, and Korean-style proteins; the plates include a sliced half orange and small portion of cabbage salad not bundled with the bowl. Fountain drinks, bottled sodas, and limited sides are available, primarily extra portions of the rice, veggies, and proteins, as are half-avocados, kimchi, and jalapenos, none of which are normally included with meals.

Unsurprisingly, the star attractions of Flame Broiler’s meals are the proteins, which are basted and charbroiled over a 550-degree grill. Proteins range from chicken and spicy chicken to steak bulgogi and organic tofu, with options for NAE (“no antibiotics ever”) dark or white meat chicken, the latter less expensive than spicy or white meat chicken, while steak is the most expensive. Half & Half Plates let you sample two proteins. While we weren’t blown away by the protein flavors or portions, it’s clear from their relatively light fat content and lack of super-strong sweetness or spice that health and calorie control are the focus. Guests have access to sauce dispensers that can boost the flavors – a particularly good idea if you don’t like eating mostly plain rice.