Walk into the Anaheim White House and you’ll likely see a man in a chef’s coat, probably wearing a thick Italian accent and a smile that makes you feel like you've known him since second grade. That’s Sir Bruno Serato. He’s been the soul of this place since 1987. But honestly, if you think this is just another fancy steakhouse where you pay $60 for a filet mignon, you’re missing the entire point of why this building still stands on South Anaheim Boulevard.
It’s a miracle it’s even there. Seriously.
In the early morning hours of February 2017, a fire sparked by a bad electrical connection nearly erased a century of history in thirty minutes. By the time 60 firefighters from across Orange County got the flames under control, the roof was gone and the interior was a charred skeleton. Bruno stood on the sidewalk and cried. Not just for the wood and the gold leaf, but because the kitchen was the engine for something much bigger than dinner service.
The Anaheim White House: A History of Survival
The house itself dates back to 1909. It was built by a citrus rancher named Dosithe Gervais. Back then, Anaheim was basically just miles of orange groves. It’s one of the few Colonial Waterbury-style mansions left in the area. Most people don't realize it almost became a parking lot or a condo complex in the 1980s. Jim and Barbara Stovall bought it in 1981 with the intent to tear it down, but legend has it Barbara couldn’t go through with it. She saw the "bones" of the place. They turned it into a restaurant instead.
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When Bruno took over in '87, he didn't just want a business; he wanted a stage. He’s served Presidents, sports legends, and Hollywood types. But the real story is what happened in 2005.
The Pasta That Feeds a County
One day, Bruno’s mother, Caterina, visited the Boys and Girls Club of Anaheim down the street. She saw a kid eating a bag of potato chips for dinner because his family, living in a local motel, couldn't afford a real meal. She told her son, "Bruno, go make him some pasta."
That was the birth of Caterina’s Club.
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Since that one bowl of pasta, Bruno has served over 10 million meals. Even when the restaurant was a pile of ash in 2017, he didn't stop. He borrowed a kitchen at the Christ Cathedral. He used the Highway 39 Event Center. He kept the "motel kids" fed while he spent $2.5 million rebuilding his dream.
What to Actually Eat (Beyond the Hype)
If you're going for the first time, the vibe is "Old World Opulence." It’s formal, sure, but it’s not stuffy. There are 12 different dining rooms, including the "West Wing" ballroom and the "Gold Room." You’ll see Swarovski chandeliers and gold enamel everywhere.
Now, about the food. It's Northern Italian with some weirdly delightful French and Californian twists.
- Salmon Chocolat: This is the dish everyone talks about. It sounds like a dare—steamed Atlantic salmon served with Belgian white chocolate mashed potatoes. It shouldn't work. The ginger and citrus beurre blanc somehow bridge the gap between the savory fish and the sweet chocolate. It’s iconic for a reason.
- Braised Beef: This is Bruno's comfort food. It’s Midwest beef slow-cooked in a Cabernet Sauvignon reduction. It’s served over yellow polenta that’s so smooth it’s basically silk.
- The Lobster Ravioli: Pretty standard for Italian spots, but they do a citrus sauce here with fresh basil and Japanese ginger that gives it a bite you won't find at a chain.
Prices are what you’d expect for fine dining. Steaks usually run between $45 and $70. If you’re on a budget but want the experience, look into the "Sip, Savor and Shop Pass" from the city's tourism board—they sometimes have a $50 prix-fixe menu that’s a total steal.
The 2026 Experience: Why It Matters Now
Post-renovation, the Anaheim White House is actually closer to its 1909 roots than it was before the fire. They worked with the Historical Society to get the exterior right. Inside, it’s a mix of that historic frame and new-age tech in the kitchen.
One thing that confuses people: the dress code. While they won't kick you out for wearing nice jeans, this is a "dress up" spot. People come here for anniversaries, wedding receptions, and those big-deal business meetings. It’s one of the few places in Anaheim where you can escape the theme park noise and actually hear the person across the table.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
If you’re planning to drop by, don't just wing it. This place is consistently booked, especially on weekends.
- Book 4-5 Days Out: Use OpenTable or call them directly. If it’s a special occasion, tell them. They’re known for little touches like complimentary anniversary desserts.
- Valet is Best: Parking on Anaheim Blvd can be a nightmare. The valet is efficient and worth the few extra bucks.
- Check the Charity Calendar: If you want your dinner to mean more, look at the Caterina’s Club events. Sometimes they host galas where the proceeds go directly to their "Welcome Home" program, which helps families move from motels into permanent housing.
- The Garden Patio: If the weather is nice (which it usually is), ask for a table in the garden. The trees light up at night, and it’s way more romantic than being inside one of the smaller rooms.
The Anaheim White House isn't just a restaurant. It’s a testament to the fact that you can lose everything to a fire and come back stronger if you've spent your life taking care of the people around you. When you pay your bill, remember that a chunk of that profit is probably buying pasta for a kid who needs it. That makes the Salmon Chocolat taste a whole lot better.