The best way to learn a business is from the ground up. The four “fathers” of Derricks Grille, located on the sprawling grounds of Black Gold Golf Club in Yorba Linda, each got their start in the restaurant industry many moons ago—but their love of cooking and entertaining remains stronger than ever.
Executive Chef Ron Armendariz was introduced to the culinary lifestyle at age 14 when he worked as a busboy. He’s the father of five sons and a daughter. All five of his sons followed in his footsteps into the food industry.
As a young child, Sous Chef Ricky Vivas learned the ropes from his father, a chef at Tony Roma’s. Ricky loves creating different recipes and is always hungry for feedback to improve his skills.
Tony Frausto, Food and Beverage Manager at Derricks, has over 20 years of experience in the food industry. The father of two holds a high standard for exemplary customer service and providing memorable experiences for all guests. He always enjoys peoples’ smiles and happiness with the food and service he represents. Tony lost his father at a young age. His admiration for his mother’s tireless work ethic and passion for working with people continues to inspire his daily endeavors.
Rounding out the team is Marco Diaz, the Weddings & Special Events Banquet Captain. Marco is committed to executing every event to perfection and finds joy in bringing clients’ visions to life.
“Our team was created and brought together because we are the best at what we do, service, cooking, experience, we have the qualities, heart, and passion for the job we do every day,” says Tony.
In addition to being led by a powerhouse team, Derricks Grille offers diners a truly unique experience—the flavorful, diverse dishes they offer are not your typical golf course fare.
“The items that are selected for the menu are created uniquely by Chef Ron and I,” says Chef Ricky. “We cater our ideas towards our demographic and stay consistent with current trends.”
An enticing array of breakfast and lunch items, as well as a full-service bar, are served inside Black Gold Golf Club’s beautiful 20,000-square-foot clubhouse, offering expansive views of Yorba Linda and Orange County.
Patrons can also enjoy their meal al fresco on the covered patio overlooking the picturesque 18th green waterfall, lake, and rolling vistas.
Breakfast options range from fruit bowls, breakfast burritos, and sandwiches to classics like pancakes, eggs, avocado toast, and the “Rock” French toast, topped with Nutella, bananas, fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and cornflakes.
Take your pick from omelets with veggies, chorizo, green chiles, and carnitas, or indulge in the “Hey Ricky!” eggs benedict, a homemade sope filled with refried beans, los primos chorizo, poached egg, hollandaise, and pico de gallo.
For lunch, whet your appetite with a scrumptious starter like roasted Brussels sprouts, Angus beef sliders, a spicy tuna roll, or a delicious bowl of Captain Hodge’s Clam Chowder.
A variety of salads, sandwiches, and burgers make for a delectable main course, and specialty dishes like fish tacos, spicy pork, and an orange chicken bowl are sure to satisfy every craving.
The clubhouse also features banquet facilities for 200-plus guests and boasts panoramic views of the golf course.
According to Marco, “On the banquet side, every event is handled differently because we want each event to feel unique in its own way.”
“Banquet setups, menu options, and even guiding clients to help them experience their vision solely because we care is what sets our business apart from the competition,” he explains.
Tony echoes the sentiment that a key to Derricks Grille’s success is its dedication to prioritizing the customer experience.
“Derricks is different because we genuinely care about every one of our customers,” says Tony. “We’re not a chain or a large corporation—we want each guest to feel like they are a part of what we have and what we can provide.”
As for the future, the team at Derricks Grille hopes to keep flourishing in the community they hold so dear. “We plan on continuing to grow and stamping our brand everywhere as the best-kept secret of Yorba Linda,” says Tony.
“We welcome everyone to experience Derricks Grille and Black Gold Golf Club. Whether you are planning a date, special event, wedding, or golf tournament, our services are unmatched. See you soon!”