Cedar Creek is one of those restaurants that you would have liked to visit much sooner.  And now that the personal discovery has been made want to visit it much more often.   We could not find anything not to like about this restaurant.  The ambiance and decor is what we would call contemporary rustic with, not one, but four fireplaces, high beamed ceilings and several dining rooms and patios.  The bar lounge is spacious with a view to the outdoor patio and yes has its own fireplace.
The menu is large and the cuisine  all  American.  We were at Cedar Creek for lunch which quickly moved to luncheon as our group had to try several of the most tempting selections.  We opened with the Calamari which was tender, flavorful and arrived with two dipping sauces.  Next to arrive was the Chicken Papaya Salad, a house specialty, with fresh fruit and batter bread.  Then followed the Monte Cristo with fresh fruit, and French dip prime rib sandwich.  The wine list is large and well selected and one of our party enjoyed a glass of Argentina Malbec while the rest of us had iced tea, lots and lots of ice tea as our most attentive waitress could not stand a half empty glass.
We thought the staff both well trained and professional.  We told co-owner Jim Walker just how much we admired the excellent, attentive service and he promptly introduced us to NanceeJo Hoertz, general manager.
The Cedar Creek is a large restaurant with four dining spaces that can accommodate private events.  Actually the restaurant can accommodate 300 guests at one time.  There are two back Terrace rooms for private events, also the well shaded front patio for mixer events.
Our next visit will be for dinner after looking over a menu that offers New York Steak with Whisky sauce, Porcini Crusted Filet Mignon, Cedar Plank Salmon, Chicken Cordon Blue or Jumbo Prawns over Garlic mashed potatoes.  We thought prices most modest for the quality of the cuisine and attentiveness of the service.
Cedar Creek is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Friday with an extensive Brunch menu served on Saturday and Sunday.
Cedar Creek is located at 20 Pointe Drive in Brea, California, 92821, with ample free off street parking.  Hours 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., later for the lounge and bar. Telephone 714 255-5600, web www.cedarcreekbrea.com.