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Best Californian Restaurants in Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel

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26 restaurants available nearby

A photo of 230 Forest Avenue restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2843)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 17 times today
At the heart of Laguna Beach, 230 Forest Avenue stands out as a beacon of superb American cuisine. Executive Chef Marc Cohen crafts dishes that are both visually impressive and tantalizing to the taste buds, creating a unique dining experience that blends modern bistro vibes with a martini bar's energy. Patrons rave about the "flashy-to-the-eye" fusion appetizers and entrees, with the Prime Rib sandwich and Fish & Chips hailed as "as good as you'll find!" Frequent diners consistently praise the restaurant for its "always exceptional" food and service, noting menu favorites like the macadamia nut encrusted halibut with mango salsa. The combination of vibrant atmosphere, artistic presentation, and high-quality American dishes makes 230 Forest Avenue a must-visit culinary gem in Laguna Beach.
A photo of Harvest restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2423)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 20 times today
Nestled in the picturesque backdrop of Aliso Canyon in Laguna Beach, Harvest epitomizes the essence of Farm-to-table cuisine with a unique Californian twist. Esteemed Executive Chef Kyle St. John crafts seasonal menus that highlight the freshest ingredients directly from the restaurant's own Harvest Farm, ensuring each dish bursts with local flavors and fresh simplicity. Diners consistently rave about the "amazing food and service in a beautiful setting," and praise the "wonderful staff." The restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality shines through in their "out of this world" short ribs and the highly recommended cinnamon bread and pasta. With its stunning views and innovative dishes, Harvest offers an authentic farm-to-table experience that is both memorable and deeply satisfying.
A photo of Las Brisas restaurant
4.3
Awesome(12123)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 109 times today
With world-class hospitality and a chef-curated menu, Las Brisas delivers classic Southern California cuisine and stunning ocean views Enjoy the panoramic view of Laguna Beach's coastline in our elegant dining rooms or relaxing outdoor patio, and you're bound to discover the magic of Las Brisas.
A photo of Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(416)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 25 times today
At Mayfield in San Juan Capistrano, the essence of Californian cuisine is celebrated with an innovative twist, integrating flavors from the Levant that elevate each dish. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality, with one customer exclaiming, "The food is so good every time. My partner and I are both Middle Eastern and love the flavor profiles and cuisine here!" This culinary gem artfully combines fresh, local ingredients typical of California with exotic spices and recipes from afar, creating a shared dining experience that's both delightful and unique. The glowing reviews underscore the exceptional service and atmosphere, making Mayfield a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier dining experience in California.
A photo of Larsen at Hotel Laguna restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1519)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 34 times today
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean in Laguna Beach, Larsen at Hotel Laguna epitomizes the best of Contemporary American cuisine. Diners rave about the "exceptional service, breathtaking views, and delectable dishes," making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. The restaurant's culinary prowess shines with dishes like the praised halibut fish and chips and creatively boozy craft cocktails. Each plate showcases fresh, local ingredients, capturing the essence of modern West Coast flavors. Patrons consistently highlight the "great value" and "top-notch food," with one noting it's "pricey but worth it occasionally," underscoring Larsen's commitment to quality and excellence in every aspect of dining. Whether enjoying a romantic sunset dinner or a lively brunch, Larsen at Hotel Laguna delivers a memorable experience that beautifully marries gourmet food with an idyllic setting.
A photo of OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1592)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 15 times today
Opah Restaurant & Bar in Town Center Aliso Viejo is renowned for serving the finest fresh fish in Orange County, making it a seafood lover's paradise. The expertly curated menu by celebrated Chef Marc A. Cohen features dishes that are both visually stunning and mouthwateringly delicious. Enthusiastic diners rave about their experiences, with one patron exclaiming, "The seafood soup was insanely good!" and another sharing, "The seared Ahi was so good and a very generous portion." Both locals and newcomers are consistently impressed, often highlighting the exceptional service and the quality of dishes like the Cioppino and Day Boat scallops. The ambiance, coupled with a diverse menu and signature martinis, ensures a delightful dining experience for all.
A photo of O'Neill's Bar & Grill restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1116)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 11 times today
Nestled amidst the scenic vistas of Rancho Mission Viejo, O'Neill's Bar & Grill offers an authentic Californian dining experience that's hard to beat. Celebrated for its "amazing food and stellar service" (customer review), this gem in Mission Viejo delights with a diverse menu that captures California's spirit. Whether it’s the "delicious and moist" flour-less chocolate cake or the "best food I have ever had" pork chop, each dish showcases local flavors and freshness. Patrons also rave about the "beautiful view of the golf course and Saddle Back Mountain" from the patio, enhancing the dining atmosphere. With glowing testimonials about both the cuisine and the setting, O'Neill's is a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of Californian hospitality and culinary excellence.
A photo of Skyloft OC restaurant
4.5
Awesome(898)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 17 times today
Skyloft OC in Laguna Beach offers an authentic American dining experience that truly stands out. Known for its Specialty Smokehouse BBQ, the restaurant has received rave reviews for dishes like its tender pulled pork sandwiches and a BBQ platter that is both delicious and generous. Guests have highlighted the "outstanding BBQ sauce" and the "perfectly cooked" meats that exemplify the best of American cuisine. Additionally, Skyloft OC's rooftop dining provides an unrivaled view of the ocean, enhancing the dining experience with a beautiful backdrop. This perfect blend of flavor and scenery makes Skyloft OC a must-visit for anyone craving genuine American dishes in a spectacular setting.
A photo of Driftwood Kitchen restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1305)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 36 times today
Driftwood Kitchen in Laguna Beach truly encapsulates the essence of Californian cuisine with its splendid ocean-to-table offerings. Executive Chef Rainer Schwarz masterfully presents a diverse selection of seafood, ensuring each dish highlights the natural bounty of the Pacific. Diners rave about the "eclectic seafood dishes" and the "outstanding" ocean views, making every meal a delightful experience. Praised as "possibly the best on beach restaurant in central Laguna Beach," Driftwood Kitchen is celebrated for its "amazing sauce" on the Chilean Sea Bass and the perfectly cooked Ses Bass. With its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and a menu that satisfies both seafood lovers and landlubbers, Driftwood Kitchen stands out as a premier destination for authentic Californian dining.
A photo of Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(332)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 21 times today
Rancho Capistrano Winery in San Juan Capistrano is a celebrated gem, consistently lauded for its exceptional Winery cuisine and vibrant ambiance. Crowned the 2024 San Juan Capistrano Business of the Year, it's not just the largest winery in Orange County but a beloved culinary haven. With over 40 different wines meticulously crafted from the finest grapes across premier regions like Paso Robles and Northern California, it offers an unparalleled wine experience. Critics and patrons alike rave about its harmonious pairings, such as the "delicious BBQ chicken pizza with their exquisite wines" and "the outstanding macadamia mahi." Truly, Rancho Capistrano Winery provides an authentic and high-quality winery experience, making it a must-visit destination for both wine connoisseurs and casual diners seeking a memorable meal in a charming setting.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Darby
    Toronto / Ontario •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Sat outside with heaters and was comfy and quite which we were in mood for. Inside was more lively and loud but nice if you wanted that vibe. Amazing hazel nut encrusted halibut. Waiter was great
    More info
    OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso ViejoPrice: Expensive• Californian• Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
    4.8
  • Kathryn
    San Diego •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The host and the Maître d’ were friendly and helpful when we first sat down the young woman next to us did not seem to know how to keep her screeching, loud voice down in a public place. We moved inside and the rest of the experience was absolutely fantastic. The waiters were helpful, knowledgeable and professional. The food was exceptional, particularly the calamari to start and the main courses of halibut and scallops were outstanding and presented well with different vegetables than you usually see. The martinis we enjoyed were perfectly chilled with tiny bits of ice crystals floating on the top. I requested and got blue cheese stuffed olives, which I love all in all a moderately priced restaurant for Southern California, generous portions, and a wonderful night out. Will be back!
    More info
    230 Forest AvenuePrice: Moderate• Californian• Laguna Beach
    4.9
  • LINDA
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Wonderful lobster roll. Service was first class. Lunch on the patio was spectacular on a beautiful Laguna Beach day.
    More info
    Larsen at Hotel LagunaPrice: Expensive• Californian• Laguna Beach
    4.5
  • Katherine
    Denver / Colorado •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Superb dining experience. Wished we had gone during lunch hours to better see the views that were still amazing at night. We ordered the lobster for two and it was epic. With this dish, I recommend ordering a side of asparagus if Mexican sides do not appeal to you. The scallops with raisins were amazing too. The servers were friendly but professional. 10 out of 10
    More info
    Las BrisasPrice: Moderate• Californian• Laguna Beach
    4.3
  • Larry
    San Francisco Bay Area •108 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Best Burger I’ve ever had. Cobb salad and wild shrimp tacos were excellent. Edgar our server added so much to A great lunch outing.
    More info
    HarvestPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Laguna Beach
    4.7

Discover best Californian restaurants in Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel

Discover the vibrant Californian dining scene in South Orange County, specifically in the Aliso Viejo and Laguna Niguel areas, where culinary innovation meets local charm. The restaurants here capture the quintessence of Californian cuisine, offering a diverse range of dishes that emphasize fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and creative culinary techniques. Patrons can expect a variety of dining experiences, from casual, cozy eateries to sophisticated, upscale venues, each providing a unique take on the flavors of California. The dining scene in this region is characterized by its commitment to quality and freshness, often highlighted by the use of organic produce and seafood caught from the Pacific Ocean. These establishments not only cater to the taste buds but also to the ambiance, with settings that enhance the dining experience, reflecting the laid-back yet refined lifestyle of Southern California. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor, the restaurants in Aliso Viejo and Laguna Niguel offer a compelling reason to explore the culinary delights of Californian cuisine.

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