Chef Zach Scherer from Darkroom and Chrysalis is expanding beyond Santa Ana with two new restaurant concepts headed to Katella Commons, the market hall at OCVIBE in Anaheim. Both concepts are scheduled to open in early 2027 as part of the highly anticipated culinary destination.
The chef behind Darkroom Restaurant and Wine Bar plans two distinct takes on comfort food. One concept will center on elevated New York-style pizza made with artisan dough techniques and premium ingredients, while the second will focus on fried chicken sandwiches infused with flavors from American, Asian, European, and Latin American cuisines.
Known for its ingredient-driven cooking and inventive approach to familiar dishes, Scherer’s Darkroom recently earned a place on the Los Angeles Times’ 101 Best Restaurants list. Scherer’s new ventures may continue that philosophy by reimagining everyday favorites with refined techniques and global influences.
The new restaurants are part of OCVIBE’s latest chef announcement, joining concepts from Burritos La Palma, Evil Cooks, Manaao’s Khao Soi, and Amiga Amore. Katella Commons is expected to become one of Southern California’s largest food halls, featuring six bars and lounges, indoor and outdoor seating, event spaces, and a podcast studio alongside its collection of chef-led kitchens.
While the names of Scherer’s pizza and chicken sandwich concepts have not yet been revealed, they are expected to debut when Katella Commons opens in early 2027.
