Best Southwest American Restaurants in Lake Forest

74 restaurants available nearby

A photo of King's Fish House - Laguna Hills restaurant

1. King's Fish House - Laguna Hills

4.7

Exceptional(4884)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch

Booked 78 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 Javier's Irvine Spectrum restaurant

2. Javier's Irvine Spectrum

4.6

Exceptional(88)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Irvine

Booked 167 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.

3. Puesto Los Olivos

4.6

Exceptional(1781)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Irvine

Booked 45 times today

Puesto Los Olivos in Irvine sets the bar high for Cocktail Bar cuisine with its exquisite and innovative offerings. Known for its vibrant bar program, the restaurant serves handcrafted cocktails that "showcase the best of Mexico City," featuring fresh ingredients and housemade Micheladas. Diners rave about the "beautiful and refreshing" cocktails, with the Puesto Perfect Margarita being a standout. The bar also offers unique tequilas, mezcals, and rare Baja craft beers, making it a true haven for cocktail aficionados. The ambiance complements the drink experience, providing a lively and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying their renowned drinks.

A photo of Del Frisco's Grille - Irvine restaurant

4. Del Frisco's Grille - Irvine

4.5

Awesome(2286)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Irvine

Booked 48 times today

Del Frisco's Grille in Irvine offers an exceptional American dining experience, perfectly blending modern elegance with classic bar and grill charm. Known for its "excellent food, drinks, dessert, and service," this vibrant spot serves a tempting menu featuring prime steaks, fresh seafood, and innovative twists on American comfort cuisine. With rave reviews highlighting its "super attentive and helpful" staff and "impeccable food," Del Frisco's Grille stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic American flavors. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, guests consistently praise the restaurant's inviting atmosphere and "amazing dining experience."

A photo of Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook restaurant

5. Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook

4.8

Exceptional(2878)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch

Booked 41 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 Paul Martin's American Grill - Irvine restaurant

6. Paul Martin's American Grill - Irvine

4.5

Awesome(3271)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Irvine

Booked 33 times today

Paul Martin's American Grill in Irvine is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, skillfully elevating classic American dishes to new heights. Nestled in the Irvine Spectrum Center, it offers a polished yet inviting ambiance perfect for any occasion. Diners rave about the "outstanding food and service," emphasizing the delectable hand-cut blackened ribeye, expertly prepared over a live mesquite grill. The menu boasts a variety of exceptional offerings from chicken parmesan to halibut, each dish crafted with precision and flair. With glowing reviews highlighting the "awesome service" and "delicious brunch options," Paul Martin's is a must-visit for those seeking authentic and high-quality Contemporary American fare.

A photo of BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Laguna Hills restaurant

7. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Laguna Hills

4.3

Awesome(183)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch

Booked 13 times today

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse in Laguna Hills is a barbecue lover's dream destination. Known for its mouthwatering pork ribs, guests rave about the "excellent food" that never fails to impress. The quality of their barbecue stands out, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The restaurant's ambiance, combined with attentive service, makes each visit memorable. As one satisfied diner noted, "BJ’s never disappoints!" Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a barbecue feast, BJ's delivers with authenticity and flair. It's the perfect spot to savor top-notch barbecue while enjoying a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to return again and again.

A photo of Urban Grill & Wine Bar restaurant

8. Urban Grill & Wine Bar

4.5

Awesome(718)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch

Booked 4 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 OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo restaurant

9. OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo

4.8

Exceptional(1597)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel

Booked 32 times today

Opah Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo offers an exceptional American dining experience that truly stands out in the heart of Aliso Viejo. Renowned for its consistently great service and high-quality cuisine, this local gem impresses with its diverse menu and meticulous preparation, especially their seafood selections. Regulars rave about the "amazing hazelnut encrusted halibut" and the "delicious bacon-wrapped dates," showcasing authentic American flavors with a gourmet twist. The inviting atmosphere, enhanced by a cozy outdoor patio, makes Opah a favorite spot for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. With glowing reviews praising the "phenomenal service" and "excellent experience on all points," Opah is a must-visit for anyone seeking stellar American cuisine.

A photo of Hacienda on the Lake restaurant

10. Hacienda on the Lake

4.5

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.

‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

D
Danny
Orange County •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days 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
M
MichaelVIP
Los Angeles •12 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days 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
•
4.2
W
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
D
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

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Lake Forest

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74 restaurants available nearby

1. King's Fish House - Laguna Hills

2. Javier's Irvine Spectrum

3. Puesto Los Olivos

4. Del Frisco's Grille - Irvine

5. Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook

6. Paul Martin's American Grill - Irvine

7. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Laguna Hills

8. Urban Grill & Wine Bar

9. OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo

10. Hacienda on the Lake

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