Best Southern American Restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

42 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Luxe Restaurant and Bar restaurant

1. Luxe Restaurant and Bar

4.9

Exceptional(619)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 16 times today

Luxe Restaurant & Bar in Dana Point is a hidden gem renowned for its exceptional Italian cuisine. The menu boasts a delightful array of classic Italian dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring every bite is a culinary delight. Guests rave about the "outstanding meatballs" and the delectable house-made lobster ravioli, which a diner described as "absolutely amazing." The ambiance is enhanced by live music, creating a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere, perfect for any occasion. With its attentive service and authentic flavors, Luxe offers a dining experience that effortlessly transports you to the heart of Italy, making it a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts.

2. Coastal Kitchen

4.8

Exceptional(4914)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 99 times today

Coastal Kitchen in Dana Point is renowned for its exceptional Seafood cuisine, offering a menu that is both "delicious" and "fresh." Diners rave about the perfectly cooked salmon, which boasts a "mild crunch from the sear," and the crab cakes, praised for being "crispy and loaded with crab." The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity shines through every dish, with seafood selections like the halibut receiving high accolades for their exquisite flavor. The ambiance, complemented by a friendly and attentive staff, ensures a memorable dining experience. Coastal Kitchen is truly a gem for seafood lovers seeking an unforgettable meal.

A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Dana Point restaurant

3. Chart House Restaurant - Dana Point

4.4

Awesome(6389)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 72 times today

Chart House Restaurant in Dana Point is a beacon of exceptional American cuisine, offering a dining experience that perfectly marries classic American flavors with a touch of coastal sophistication. Renowned for its breathtaking views of the harbor and the Pacific Ocean, this establishment is “truly majestic,” as one reviewer notes, providing a backdrop that enhances every meal. From “great steak and wine” to the “out of this world” filet with blue cheese butter, guests consistently praise the delectable menu offerings. The service at Chart House is celebrated as “outstanding,” with attentive staff ensuring a memorable dining adventure. Perfect for any special occasion or a cozy dinner date, Chart House stands as a testament to quality American dining.

A photo of CRAFT HOUSE Dana Point restaurant

4. CRAFT HOUSE Dana Point

4.8

Exceptional(1494)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 37 times today

CRAFT HOUSE Dana Point stands out as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine, proudly sourcing the freshest local ingredients to craft a menu that celebrates the heart of American flavors. Located in the picturesque Dana Point, this restaurant offers more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Diners rave about the "outstanding" service and "creative, hand-crafted" dishes that consistently deliver a "first-rate" dining experience. With an impressive American whiskey selection, including the coveted Pappy van Winkle collection, CRAFT HOUSE perfectly blends authenticity with innovation. Whether you're a local or a visitor, it's a must-visit for any lover of true American dining.

A photo of Salt Creek Grille Orange County restaurant

5. Salt Creek Grille Orange County

4.2

Awesome(339)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 72 times today

Salt Creek Grille Orange County is a barbecue haven that beautifully marries authenticity with a California coastal twist. Situated along the Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point, this newly remodeled gem is winning hearts with its “perfectly cooked rib eyes” and “absolutely beautiful” lamb rack. Patrons rave about the “wonderful and perfectly cooked” barbecue offerings that keep them coming back for more. The ambiance, described as a “great dining experience,” complements the flavorful, wood-fired barbecue dishes. Whether you're a barbecue enthusiast or a casual diner, Salt Creek Grille promises an exceptional culinary journey, making it a must-visit in Dana Point.

A photo of The Tea House on Los Rios restaurant

6. The Tea House on Los Rios

4.8

Exceptional(2757)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • San Juan Capistrano

Booked 62 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.

A photo of Bloom Restaurant + Bar restaurant

7. Bloom Restaurant + Bar

4.8

Exceptional(831)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • San Juan Capistrano

Booked 37 times today

Bloom Restaurant + Bar in San Juan Capistrano is a haven for fish lovers, offering an exceptional seafood experience that's both authentic and refined. Diners rave about the "perfectly cooked" salmon and the "to die for" sea bass, underlining the restaurant's commitment to quality and freshness. The seafood ceviche is praised for its "amazing flavors," making it a standout dish that shouldn't be missed. Located across from the historic Mission, Bloom not only provides a beautiful setting but also a culinary journey through expertly crafted fish dishes. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Bloom promises a delightful and memorable dining experience.

8. Harvest

4.7

Exceptional(2437)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Laguna Beach

Booked 41 times today

Harvest in Laguna Beach is a shining example of exceptional Contemporary American cuisine, where farm-to-table freshness meets culinary artistry. Executive Chef Kyle St. John crafts each dish with ingredients harvested from the restaurant's own half-acre Harvest Farm, making every bite a testament to quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "incredibly fresh options" and "beautiful presentation" of the dishes, highlighting the chef's ability to infuse traditional American flavors with a contemporary twist. The stunning views of Aliso Canyon and the friendly, attentive service further elevate the dining experience, making Harvest a must-visit for anyone seeking remarkable Contemporary American fare.

A photo of Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano restaurant

9. Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano

4.8

Exceptional(340)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • San Juan Capistrano

Booked 27 times today

Rancho Capistrano Winery in San Juan Capistrano is a delightful gem that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike, winning the 2024 San Juan Capistrano Business of the Year! Renowned for its exceptional Winery cuisine, the restaurant offers over 40 distinct wines crafted from the finest grapes of premier regions like Paso Robles and Northern California. Guests rave about the "delicious wine selection" and the "perfectly paired signature dishes." The ambiance, described as "vibrant" and "relaxing," is enhanced by a beautiful outdoor patio, making it a perfect spot for any occasion. Rancho Capistrano Winery is truly an unforgettable dining experience.

A photo of The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach restaurant

10. The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach

4.7

Exceptional(2069)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Laguna Beach

Booked 18 times today

Located in the picturesque Montage Laguna Beach, The Loft offers an exceptional American dining experience with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Celebrated for its creative take on American cuisine, the restaurant brilliantly combines California regional influences with classic American flavors. Guests rave about the "coffee crusted New York strip," describing it as "perfection" and a "unique and tantalizing experience." The service at The Loft is consistently praised as "stellar," with attentive staff making every visit memorable. Whether it's a special celebration or a casual outing, The Loft promises an unforgettable dining adventure that captures the essence of authentic American cuisine.

‘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
Dan
Orange County •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
The food is always excellent. The service is great! I’ve tried just about everything on their menu and have never been disappointed.
More info
Smoqued California BarbequePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Orange
•
4.4
E
Eric
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
The food and service was superb!! The best jambalaya I’ve ever had and my guest loved his chicken dinner and cocktail. Also the best beignets I’ve had in California.
More info
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & PatioPrice: Moderate• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Anaheim
•
4.6
B
Brandye
Orange County •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Fun atmosphere. Great food and great service. Big menu to choose from.
More info
Sauced BBQ & Spirits - OrangePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Orange
•
4.2
K
Kristin
Orange County •2 reviews
4.0
Dined on Jan 3, 2025
Good traditional American bbq at a local establishment in Irvine is a treat- one of my faves. Drink menu is special, unique, inventive. Whiskeys are their specialty. My favorite is the Southern Peach Tea cocktail. Delicious! Tri tip and brisket are terrific. Sides are really good too. We love the Brussels sprouts which incorporate their pork belly. The pork belly is taaaaasty! We came here for my birthday and everybody in my family easily found meals they really enjoyed. Fun atmosphere, especially if you like sports, which we do. They had all the football and basketball games playing on tvs on each wall but on silent so you can have conversation and enjoy your food. Staff is really nice, care about the food and drink and customers. They're knowledgeable and helpful.
More info
Sauced BBQ & Spirits - IrvinePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Irvine
•
4.3
J
JoeVIP
Orange County •4 reviews
4.0
Dined on Dec 29, 2024
Excellent food and service at a neighborhood eatery
More info
Tupelo Junction CafePrice: Expensive• Southern• Newport Beach
•
4.8

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Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

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42 restaurants available nearby

1. Luxe Restaurant and Bar

2. Coastal Kitchen

3. Chart House Restaurant - Dana Point

4. CRAFT HOUSE Dana Point

5. Salt Creek Grille Orange County

6. The Tea House on Los Rios

7. Bloom Restaurant + Bar

8. Harvest

9. Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano

10. The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach

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