Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.
Much like L.A., restaurants in Orange County are generally casual, and you’ll rarely see men in jackets and ties. However, at top resort hotel dining rooms, many guests choose to dress up.Of course, there’s also a swath of casual places along the beachfronts—seafood takeout, taquerias, burger joints—that won’t mind if you wear f
Much like L.A., restaurants in Orange County are generally casual, and you’ll rarely see men in jackets and ties. However, at top resort hotel dining rooms, many guests choose to dress up.Of course, there’s also a swath of casual places along the beachfronts—seafood tak
Much like L.A., restaurants in Orange County are generally casual, and you’ll rarely see men in jackets and ties. Howeve
Much like L.A., restaurants in Orange County are generally casual, and you’ll rarely see men in jackets and ties. However, at top resort hotel dining rooms, many guests choose to dress up.
Of course, there’s also a swath of casual places along the beachfronts—seafood takeout, taquerias, burger joints—that won’t mind if you wear flip-flops. Reservations are recommended for the nicest restaurants.
Many places don’t serve past 11 pm, and locals tend to eat early. Remember that according to California law, smoking is prohibited in all enclosed areas.
Located in what used to be the Victor Hugo Inn, Las Brisas is now a Laguna Beach landmark restaurant. Sit on the expansive patio to take in the spectacular coastline views while enjoying signature margaritas and coastal Mexican cuisine with a California twist. Look for the lobster Benedict for breakfast and brunch and the whole grilled fish served with black beans, rice, salsa, and freshly made corn tortillas for dinner.
361 Cliff Dr., Laguna Beach, California, 92651, USA
Done up in a handsome Craftsman style, the upscale dinner venue Napa Rose prepares rich seasonal cuisine paired with an extensive wine list. For a look into the open kitchen, sit at the counter and watch the chefs as they whip up signature dishes such as warm duck confit salad, sautéed diver scallops, and beef filet mignon. There's also a few kid-friendly dishes. The handsome lounge offers an appealing menu of appetizers, entrees, drinks, and desserts too.
Located inside a historic 1934 home along Pacific Coast Highway, and named after one of the owners---Hockey Hall of Famer and six-time Olympian Teemu Selanne---Selanne Steak Tavern serves modern steak-house fare paired with stellar Napa Valley wines. There is a cozy Carrara-topped tavern-style bar where bartenders make artisanal cocktails and martinis, and a formal fine-dining experience upstairs. Other dining areas include a bistro-style wine room and outdoor dining terrace with beautiful Moroccan light fixtures creating a dramatic evening setting. Entrees include succulent hormone-free steaks and chops. Filet mignons are served sizzling in an 8- and 12-ounce presentation. Other meaty highlights include an 8-ounce Wagyu flat iron steak, 14-ounce Prime Rib Eye, and signature 32-ounce Lord Stanley cut. All are served with seasonal marrow butter and a variety of side sauces. The chefs use the well-stocked on-site herb garden in a variety of dishes and for garnish. Save room for Monkey Bread made with brioche and walnut streusel, toffee sauce, banana compote, and rum raisin ice cream.
1464 S. Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, California, 92651, USA
This intimate French--Swiss bistro adds a touch of old-world elegance to Balboa Island with its white linen and flower-topped tables. Chef Bernard Althaus grows the herbs used in his classic French dishes. Head here for charcuterie, coq au vin, steak au poivre, and a fine glass of Bordeaux. Finish with a caramelized apple tarte tatin with ice cream.The restaurant offers a prix-fixe five-course tasting menu and a la carte items.
217 Marine Ave., Newport Beach, California, 92662, USA
Freshly caught seafood reigns supreme at this homage to surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku; it's also a prime people-watching spot right at the beginning of Huntington Beach Pier. Choose from several fish-of-the-day selections—many topped with Hawaiian ingredients—and shellfish like lobster, king crab, and shrimp. Or try the crispy coconut shrimp or fresh ahi tuna fish tacos. Duke's mai tai is not to be missed. And save room for a slice of the Kimo Original Hula Pie, with chocolate cookie crust, macadamia nut ice cream, hot fudge, toasted macadamia nuts, and whipped cream. Open for lunch, brunch, and dinner. Every Monday they offer a Burger and Beverage special for $19 from 4 to 9 pm. Taco Tuesday special in the Barefoot Bar is two tacos with fresh chips and salsa for $13.
It may be worth hopping the Amtrak to San Juan Capistrano just for the chance to have breakfast or lunch at one of Orange County's most beloved restaurants, located in a historic board-and-batten home dating back to 1881. This café sits practically on the railroad tracks across from the depot—nab a table on the patio and dig into a hearty breakfast featuring seasonal items, such as the smoked bacon scramble with wilted rocket and apple fried potatoes. During the week there is an a la carte breakfast and lunch menu. On weekends, there is a set two-course menu for $45 per person.
31752 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, California, 92675, USA
Please try a broader search, or expore these popular suggestions:
There are no results for {{ strDestName}} Restaurants in the searched map area with the above filters. Please try a different area on the map, or broaden your search with these popular suggestions:
Enter a sight, restaurant, hotel, or other place to find restaurants nearby.
Neighborhoods Some neighborhood filters have sub-neighborhoods that can be selected individually in a dropdown by clicking on the icon to the right of the name.
I want emails from Fodor's Travel with travel information and promotions. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails.
Thank you for your interest!
Look out for our newsletters with travel tips and special offers.
Sign up for Travel Tips & News
By signing up for the newsletter, I agree to the Privacy Policy. You must check the box to subscribe
Thank you for your interest!
Look out for our newsletters with travel tips and special offers.