Remember that feeling you would get in elementary school as you anticipated going out to “recess” after what seemed like HOURS of torture in the classroom? When that bell rang and you were released to go outside; the excitement was uncontainable. This is the type of joy I felt during my first visit to “The Recess Room”. 
First of all, let me just say that this place is incredibly captivating inside. You would never be able to tell from the outside that you were going to walk in and have your breath taken away. I mean, for goodness sake, the wood paneled walls and tabletops are all handmade from Kentucky (?I Think?) wood! You just have to see this place yourself to understand what I am saying.

I knew coming here the first time that the food was either going to be average, mediocre, typical bar food, or freaking amazing…. Let’s just say I was mind-blown.
I sampled a few different things from the menu, and now I am sitting here tearing up reminiscing because it was all SO tasty.

 Brussel Sprouts : What. the. actual. heck. I think they put crack in these or something because I could barely contain myself from eating the whole bowl. Literally. They use brown sugar and it just opens a whole new world. These are the best brussel sprouts I have ever had, and believe me when I tell you that I have had my fair share. Get them or go home. 
Octopus Salad : This is not your typical “fried calamari” This is real deal, fresh from the sea, octopus. It is not really your typical salad either (see my picture). I enjoyed this, but I think it is for someone with a much more sophisticated taste palette! 
Blue Crab Cake Beignets : If you think are contemplating getting these, don’t think again. Get them. This is unlike any other crab, or crab cake, or beignet you have ever tried. I am talking FRESH MARYLAND CRAB- none of that filler shit they use at your sushi joints. It is a little ball of fluffy, fresh, light heaven… When I cut it open, I heard the angels singing. 
Pork Belly BLT : Possibly the star of the night, other than my brussel sprouts… For me, pork belly is either good or bad. I’ll eat it and drool, or I will pass. I left TRR covered in pork belly goo. Literally I was so sticky- and I loved it. Lol. They glaze their pork belly in MAPLE SYRUP which is a revolutionary idea and will keep you wanting more. The only thing that could have made this sandwich a wee-bit better would have been maybe a brioche bun instead of the ciabatta.. but that’s just me being a bread snob. 
Fluffer Nutter : Ok, I have had this eastern dessert specialty a couple places, and haven’t been impressed. Ive got to say that this was one I would order again. But make sure you save a LOT of room if you aren’t sharing.. It is another meal in itself. I really liked how it wasn’t greasy or yucky, like many things tend to be when they are deep-fried. In fact, I would have never guessed that they deep fried that sucker. 

The owners (2 of them that I met), Victor and Viet, were amazing. They have such a passion for their restaurants, and are foodies at heart. 

Service is always spot on. Thomas, the bar manager, is super friendly, fun, and awesome at making drinks. All the servers share this same passion and great hospitality. Vangie is especially wonderful as well! 

The Recess Room is one of those places that every foodie should go. With an eclectic menu and praise-worthy service, you will not be disappointed. 

– they now offer SUNDAY brunch!! –

Sauce Boss Suggestions : Garlic sauce was really good!
The Recess Room, 18380 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley, CA 92708.