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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch

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17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Paul Martin's American Grill - Irvine restaurant
1. Paul Martin's American Grill - Irvine
4.5
Awesome(3259)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Irvine
Booked 43 times today
Paul Martin's American Grill in Irvine is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful experience with its expertly prepared dishes and inviting atmosphere. Patrons rave about the "excellent food," particularly the "hand-cut blackened ribeye" and the "brick chicken and butter cake," which showcase the restaurant's commitment to elevating classic American dishes. The mesquite grill adds a distinctive touch that enhances the flavors, making each meal memorable. Customers consistently highlight the attentive service and the polished dining room, ideal for everything from business luncheons to special family celebrations. With glowing reviews emphasizing both the quality of the meals and the warmth of the service, Paul Martin's stands out as a premier dining destination for those seeking authentic and sophisticated American fare.
A photo of O'Neill's Bar & Grill restaurant
2. O'Neill's Bar & Grill
4.9
Exceptional(1116)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 14 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 The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach restaurant
3. The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach
4.7
Exceptional(2055)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Laguna Beach
Booked 28 times today
At The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach, contemporary American cuisine reaches new heights, delivering not only on flavor but also on an extraordinary dining experience. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Laguna Beach, this restaurant is celebrated for its innovative dishes that encapsulate the essence of California and the broader American culinary landscape. Guests rave about the "colorful and tasty-yumi food" and the "coffee crusted steak and the scallops," highlighting the creative twists on classic favorites. The Loft's setting, with its stunning ocean views, complements its culinary prowess, making every meal a visual and palatable feast. With accolades like "one of the best dining experiences we have ever had," it's clear that The Loft is a hallmark of fine contemporary American dining. Whether it's the exceptional service, the ambiance, or the exquisite food, The Loft promises a memorable gastronomic journey that's both authentic and innovative.
A photo of The Drake in Laguna restaurant
4. The Drake in Laguna
4.9
Exceptional(1467)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Laguna Beach
Booked 13 times today
At The Drake in Laguna Beach, seafood lovers are in for a sublime dining experience that combines freshness with culinary flair. Known for its "exquisite" and "perfectly cooked" seafood dishes, such as the praised Halibut and Shrimp Curry, The Drake ensures every plate is a testament to the quality and authenticity of its ingredients. Guests rave about the "tender tuna tartare" and the "best salmon I have ever had," highlighting the skilled preparation and flavorful execution. Pairing their meals with live music, diners enjoy an "amazing" atmosphere that complements the sophisticated seafood offerings. Whether it’s the vibrant Salmon, flaky Sea Bass, or the savory Shrimp Curry, The Drake's commitment to excellence makes it a must-visit for seafood connoisseurs in Laguna Beach.
A photo of The Quiet Woman restaurant
5. The Quiet Woman
4.7
Exceptional(1547)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Corona del Mar
Booked 8 times today
At The Quiet Woman in Corona del Mar, steak aficionados are in for a treat with their perfectly cooked steaks that consistently receive rave reviews. Esteemed for its outstanding cuisine, the restaurant's steaks are highlighted as "perfectly cooked," ensuring each bite is succulently flavorful. Patrons celebrate the quality and service, noting, "the steaks were perfectly cooked," which underscores the culinary precision and care taken with each dish. The Quiet Woman not only promises a delightful dining atmosphere with live music but also a steak experience that is bound to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual dinner, the steak at The Quiet Woman is a top-notch choice in the city.
A photo of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar- Tustin restaurant
6. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar- Tustin
4.4
Awesome(2644)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Tustin
Booked 17 times today
The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar in Tustin is a beacon for wine lovers, boasting one of Orange County's most extensive cellars with over 7,500 bottles. This sophisticated spot not only offers a vibrant atmosphere but also consistently pairs culinary excellence with its outstanding wine selection. Patrons rave about the exceptional pairings, with one guest noting, "the wine paired amazing with my steak at the recommendation of our waiter." The knowledgeable staff, led by the acclaimed sommelier and partner Mr. William Lewis, ensures each visit is memorable, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a top-tier wine bar experience.
A photo of Larsen at Hotel Laguna restaurant
7. Larsen at Hotel Laguna
4.5
Awesome(1520)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Laguna Beach
Booked 46 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 Pelican Grill restaurant
8. Pelican Grill
4.8
Exceptional(3265)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Newport Beach
Booked 20 times today
Pelican Grill in Newport Beach exemplifies the quintessence of Californian cuisine with its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a menu that radiates the state's vibrant flavors. Nestled at the scenic Pelican Hill Golf Club, it offers a spectacular dining experience with stunning ocean and golf course views. Critics and patrons alike rave about its innovative seafood and steak dishes, with one reviewer declaring the Chilean sea bass as "among the best" they've ever had, praising its "unique citrus flavors under a perfectly seared and seasoned fish" (David, restaurant review). The ambiance, described as stylish yet relaxed, complements the exceptional food and service, making every meal a memorable Californian dining adventure. Whether it's the sunlit balcony or the chef-led Tasting Table, Pelican Grill is a celebration of all things California.
A photo of CRAFT HOUSE Dana Point restaurant
9. CRAFT HOUSE Dana Point
4.7
Exceptional(1483)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 17 times today
Craft House in Dana Point is a gem for lovers of Contemporary American cuisine, consistently delivering an exceptional dining experience. Situated in the picturesque area of Monarch Beach, this restaurant prides itself on using the freshest local ingredients, sourced directly from Dana Point Harbor and nearby farmers' markets. Patrons rave about their diverse menu, with one guest exclaiming that the "food and service are always stellar!" The Craft House also boasts a remarkable American whiskey selection, making it a standout in South Orange County. From their innovative birria egg rolls to the classic smash burger, every dish is crafted to perfection. One reviewer enthusiastically recommended the venue for its "fantastic yet casual meal," highlighting the grilled meatloaf's unique preparation. Whether it's for a fun evening out or a delightful family dinner, Craft House ensures every visit is memorable with its upscale yet comfortable atmosphere, attentive service, and culinary excellence.
A photo of Scarlet Kitchen and Lounge restaurant
10. Scarlet Kitchen and Lounge
4.6
Exceptional(738)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 19 times today
At Scarlet Kitchen & Lounge in the heart of Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita, the essence of American cuisine is elevated to a fine art. This chef-driven haven, created by a dynamic husband and wife team, showcases the perfect fusion of East Coast classics with West Coast flair. Diners rave about the "amazing service and atmosphere," with menu highlights like the "perfectly cooked" ribeye steak and "mouthwatering" kale Caesar salad. With a new seasonal menu crafted by Chef-Owner Paige Riordan and Chef de Cuisine Daniel Martinez, each dish features local, quality ingredients that capture the peak of their freshness. Whether it's enjoying a meal on the heated canyon-view patio or indulging in live music during dinner, Scarlet promises an unforgettable dining experience where "everything is perfect."
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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