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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita

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27 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Todos Santos restaurant
1. Todos Santos
4.5
Awesome(129)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 6 times today
Located in El Paseo Plaza, Todos Santos is a newly renovated restaurant specializing in modern authentic Mexican cuisine.With an extensive tequila & mezcal selection, heated outdoor dining, a brand new bar patio and a culinary team with decades of experience in Mexican cuisine, Todos Santos promises to deliver an amazing experience no matter the occasion.
A photo of Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse restaurant
2. Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse
4.6
Exceptional(912)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 9 times today
Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse, nestled in the serene Trabuco Canyon, offers an authentic American dining experience that is both rustic and charming. Known for its perfectly grilled steaks like the top sirloin and New York strip, this steakhouse ensures each dish is "cooked to perfection." The unique ambiance, complete with decades of cut ties hanging from the ceiling, adds to the nostalgic charm of this American classic. Guests rave about the "fantastic rustic atmosphere" and the consistently "great service." With delightful desserts like the famous hot cherry Gizmo, Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse promises a memorable escape with its hearty, genuine American flavors.
A photo of BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Rancho Santa Margarita restaurant
3. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Rancho Santa Margarita
4.2
Awesome(58)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 3 times today
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse in Rancho Santa Margarita is a standout destination for authentic Barbecue cuisine. Known for its "delicious food and drinks" and "excellent service," BJ's masterfully combines traditional flavors with a Southern California twist. The restaurant's commitment to quality and craft is evident in every dish, with their Barbecue offerings being no exception. Guests are not only treated to mouthwatering meals but also to an inviting atmosphere where "everyone is so friendly & hard working." Whether it's the expertly smoked meats or the vibrant dining experience, BJ's ensures that each visit leaves a lasting impression, making it a must-visit for Barbecue enthusiasts.
A photo of Urban Grill & Wine Bar restaurant
4. Urban Grill & Wine Bar
4.6
Exceptional(718)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 3 times today
Urban Grill & Wine Bar in Foothill Ranch is a must-visit for authentic American cuisine enthusiasts. This neighborhood gem has been celebrated for its "outstanding and fresh" dishes and "exceptional service," making it a favorite for both locals and newcomers. The menu boasts classic American staples like Prime steaks and Alaskan king crab legs, perfectly paired with a top-notch wine list that even connoisseurs rave about. Guests appreciate the warm, friendly atmosphere and the "super yummy cobblers" that end their meals on a sweet note. Whether for a casual night out or a special celebration, Urban Grill delivers an incomparable dining experience.
A photo of Hacienda on the Lake restaurant
5. Hacienda on the Lake
4.4
Awesome(138)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 6 times today
Hacienda on the Lake, nestled in the picturesque setting of Mission Viejo, presents a culinary delight with its authentic Regional Mexican (Baja Med) cuisine. Renowned for its vibrant dishes, this restaurant offers a taste of Mexico with a unique Baja Med twist, combining fresh ingredients and innovative flavors. Diners rave about the "fantastic atmosphere" and "great food and service," making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors. The lakeside view enhances the dining experience, while the menu’s standout dishes, like the Hacienda Enchiladas, reflect the quality and authenticity that Baja Med cuisine is known for. "Highly recommended" for anyone seeking an exceptional Mexican dining experience.
A photo of Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook restaurant
6. Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook
4.8
Exceptional(2877)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 16 times today
Ironwood, Cellar. Craft. Cook. in Laguna Hills is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, offering a menu crafted with the highest quality seasonal ingredients. Diners rave about their seafood dishes, with one guest exclaiming the halibut was the "best he ever had," while another praised the blue crab baked oysters as "oh so good." The restaurant’s commitment to freshness and authenticity ensures that each seafood dish is prepared meticulously, bringing out flavors that are both vibrant and true to the sea. With an inviting ambiance and stellar service, Ironwood promises an extraordinary dining experience for seafood lovers.
A photo of Javier's Irvine Spectrum restaurant
7. Javier's Irvine Spectrum
4.6
Exceptional(86)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Irvine
Booked 133 times today
Javier's Irvine Spectrum serves original Mexican cuisine. Opened in 2004 and located close to the 405 and 5 freeways, the restaurant offers numerous entrees and combo meals. Javier's Irvine Spectrum selects and serves only the freshest ingredients, including sustainable and in-season seafood, natural chicken and center-cut #1 prime Angus beef. Every dish is prepared fresh to order, and guests may sit in the spacious main dining room, on the intimate patio, at the bar or in a private dining area.The dining room is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday until 11:00 p.m. Javier's Irvine Spectrum's full bar is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Reservations are accepted.
A photo of Rancho Capistrano Winery - Ladera Ranch restaurant
8. Rancho Capistrano Winery - Ladera Ranch
4.6
Exceptional(250)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Ladera Ranch
Booked 12 times today
Rancho Capistrano Winery in Ladera Ranch stands out as a beacon of authentic American cuisine, perfectly blending traditional flavors with a modern twist. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of dishes like the "10 oz filet mignon" and "massive 14 oz ribeye," which are consistently praised for their "excellent taste" and artful presentation. The restaurant's expansive wrap-around heated deck offers a charming outdoor dining experience, enhancing the overall ambiance. With over 40 "Best of" awards, Rancho Capistrano Winery is a must-visit for those seeking top-notch American fare paired with exquisite wines from the finest West Coast vineyards.
A photo of King's Fish House - Laguna Hills restaurant
9. King's Fish House - Laguna Hills
4.7
Exceptional(4878)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 55 times today
King's Fish House in Laguna Hills is a true gem for lovers of authentic American cuisine, particularly seafood fans. Renowned for its "fresh oysters and seasonal catches," this establishment has been delighting patrons since 1997 with a menu that changes daily to reflect the freshest offerings. Diners rave about the "perfectly cooked and delicious" dishes, from the crispy fried shrimp to the flavorful sand dabs. The warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by an attentive staff, ensures every visit is a memorable experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, King's Fish House consistently delivers excellence in American seafood dining.
A photo of The Tea House on Los Rios restaurant
10. The Tea House on Los Rios
4.8
Exceptional(2747)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 76 times today
Nestled in the historic heart of San Juan Capistrano, The Tea House on Los Rios is a charming haven for authentic American cuisine, offering a "magical experience" that seamlessly blends tradition with modern flair. Set in a beautifully restored 1911 cottage, this restaurant is celebrated for its "scrumptious menu" featuring the finest scones, tea sandwiches, and luscious homemade preserves. Guests rave about the "exemplary service" and the "delightful" array of teas, making it a perfect spot for both special occasions and casual outings. The Tea House on Los Rios promises a taste of American elegance in a picturesque setting, leaving diners eager to return.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Danny
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Food and drinks were amazing I would definitely be going back with my family and friends..
    More info
    Cha Cha's Latin KitchenPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Brea / La Habra
    •
    4.7
  • MichaelVIP
    Los Angeles •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We were given a spacious booth and received service quickly. We started with the margarita sampler, which seemed like three margaritas for the price of two, and they were delicious and strong. For food, we had the queso fundido with chorizo and the papas bravas and both were very good. The queso came with two small tortillas, so we asked for chips. The potatoes were well seasoned, but we asked for salsa and that made them better. We also shared the campechano tacos and they were delicious. Great service too.
    More info
    Palenque Kitchen - RiversidePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Riverside
    •
    4.3
  • William
    Cancun / Riviera Maya •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 29, 2024
    First time, won't be the last! Service was excellent and the food was top notch. Tony's Tacos were amazing as were the chicken taquitos and the carnival enchilada. We were a family group of 5 adults, and we all enjoyed our meals very much!
    More info
    Blind Coyote CantinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Yorba Linda
    •
    4.4
  • DeniseVIP
    San Diego •140 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 25, 2024
    Always a wonderful Christmas Eve dinner experience for the whole family!!! This is our tradition....
    More info
    Guadalajara Mexican GrillPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Temecula
    •
    4.7

Discover best Mexican / Southwestern restaurants in Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine in the heart of South Orange County, specifically in Mission Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita. This area boasts an array of Mexican restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes, from traditional dishes to modern twists on classic favorites. Enthusiasts of Mexican food can expect to indulge in a wide selection of offerings including tantalizing tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and refreshing margaritas. Each restaurant in this locale promises an authentic dining experience, complemented by festive atmospheres and genuine hospitality. The dining scene in Mission Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita is well-known for its commitment to authenticity and quality, making it a prime destination for Mexican cuisine lovers. Patrons can look forward to not only great food but also picturesque settings that enhance the dining experience. Whether you're in search of a casual meal or a more sophisticated dining affair, the Mexican restaurants in this area are sure to satisfy your cravings and provide a memorable culinary journey.

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