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Best Californian Restaurants in Laguna Beach

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34 restaurants available nearby

A photo of 230 Forest Avenue restaurant
1. 230 Forest Avenue
4.9
Exceptional(2846)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 59 times today
At the heart of Laguna Beach, 230 Forest Avenue stands out as a beacon of superb American cuisine. Executive Chef Marc Cohen crafts dishes that are both visually impressive and tantalizing to the taste buds, creating a unique dining experience that blends modern bistro vibes with a martini bar's energy. Patrons rave about the "flashy-to-the-eye" fusion appetizers and entrees, with the Prime Rib sandwich and Fish & Chips hailed as "as good as you'll find!" Frequent diners consistently praise the restaurant for its "always exceptional" food and service, noting menu favorites like the macadamia nut encrusted halibut with mango salsa. The combination of vibrant atmosphere, artistic presentation, and high-quality American dishes makes 230 Forest Avenue a must-visit culinary gem in Laguna Beach.
A photo of Larsen at Hotel Laguna restaurant
2. Larsen at Hotel Laguna
4.5
Awesome(1526)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 55 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 Skyloft OC restaurant
3. Skyloft OC
4.6
Exceptional(900)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 34 times today
Skyloft OC in Laguna Beach offers an authentic American dining experience that truly stands out. Known for its Specialty Smokehouse BBQ, the restaurant has received rave reviews for dishes like its tender pulled pork sandwiches and a BBQ platter that is both delicious and generous. Guests have highlighted the "outstanding BBQ sauce" and the "perfectly cooked" meats that exemplify the best of American cuisine. Additionally, Skyloft OC's rooftop dining provides an unrivaled view of the ocean, enhancing the dining experience with a beautiful backdrop. This perfect blend of flavor and scenery makes Skyloft OC a must-visit for anyone craving genuine American dishes in a spectacular setting.
A photo of Driftwood Kitchen restaurant
4. Driftwood Kitchen
4.5
Awesome(1311)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 57 times today
Driftwood Kitchen in Laguna Beach truly encapsulates the essence of Californian cuisine with its splendid ocean-to-table offerings. Executive Chef Rainer Schwarz masterfully presents a diverse selection of seafood, ensuring each dish highlights the natural bounty of the Pacific. Diners rave about the "eclectic seafood dishes" and the "outstanding" ocean views, making every meal a delightful experience. Praised as "possibly the best on beach restaurant in central Laguna Beach," Driftwood Kitchen is celebrated for its "amazing sauce" on the Chilean Sea Bass and the perfectly cooked Ses Bass. With its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and a menu that satisfies both seafood lovers and landlubbers, Driftwood Kitchen stands out as a premier destination for authentic Californian dining.
A photo of Las Brisas restaurant
5. Las Brisas
4.3
Awesome(12143)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 150 times today
Las Brisas, a Laguna Beach icon, blends timeless charm with classic Southern California cuisine, offering fresh, chef-curated dishes and world-class hospitality. Start your day with our Weekday Breakfast or unwind during our Weekday Happy Hour with bites like Tuna Poke and a Las Brisas Margarita. On weekends, savor our luxurious 4-course Brunch while enjoying breathtaking ocean views. Whether dining in our elegant rooms or relaxing on the outdoor patio, Las Brisas provides a historic coastal setting perfect for any occasion.
A photo of Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove restaurant
6. Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
4.8
Exceptional(10456)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Newport Beach
Booked 71 times today
At the Beachcomber Cafe in Crystal Cove, Newport Beach, diners are not only treated to "world-class" oceanfront views but also to some of the finest seafood cuisine that has earned it a spot among the "Top 100 Restaurants" for 2023 by OpenTable. Guests rave about the "scrumptious brioche lobster rolls" and the "Chilean bass dinner" which are just highlights of a menu teeming with fresh, flavorful options. Whether it's enjoying a breakfast with "beignets as an appetizer" or a "wonderful late afternoon dinner," the consistently good food combined with the unbeatable beachside setting ensures every meal is memorable. The Beachcomber Cafe is a true gem for seafood lovers seeking an authentic and delightful dining experience by the sea.
A photo of Harvest restaurant
7. Harvest
4.7
Exceptional(2428)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 32 times today
Nestled in the picturesque backdrop of Aliso Canyon in Laguna Beach, Harvest epitomizes the essence of Farm-to-table cuisine with a unique Californian twist. Esteemed Executive Chef Kyle St. John crafts seasonal menus that highlight the freshest ingredients directly from the restaurant's own Harvest Farm, ensuring each dish bursts with local flavors and fresh simplicity. Diners consistently rave about the "amazing food and service in a beautiful setting," and praise the "wonderful staff." The restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality shines through in their "out of this world" short ribs and the highly recommended cinnamon bread and pasta. With its stunning views and innovative dishes, Harvest offers an authentic farm-to-table experience that is both memorable and deeply satisfying.
A photo of Pelican Grill restaurant
8. Pelican Grill
4.7
Exceptional(3269)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Newport Beach
Booked 40 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 OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo restaurant
9. OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo
4.8
Exceptional(1596)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 23 times today
Opah Restaurant & Bar in Town Center Aliso Viejo is renowned for serving the finest fresh fish in Orange County, making it a seafood lover's paradise. The expertly curated menu by celebrated Chef Marc A. Cohen features dishes that are both visually stunning and mouthwateringly delicious. Enthusiastic diners rave about their experiences, with one patron exclaiming, "The seafood soup was insanely good!" and another sharing, "The seared Ahi was so good and a very generous portion." Both locals and newcomers are consistently impressed, often highlighting the exceptional service and the quality of dishes like the Cioppino and Day Boat scallops. The ambiance, coupled with a diverse menu and signature martinis, ensures a delightful dining experience for all.
A photo of Lost Pier Cafe restaurant
10. Lost Pier Cafe
(0)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Located right on the sands of Laguna Beach, Lost Pier Cafe offers a delightful seafood experience that is as fresh as it is authentic. Diners rave about the "amazing fish and chips" and the "delicious lobster roll," emphasizing the quality and freshness of the seafood. The cafe's ambiance, with its unbeatable beachfront setting, enhances the dining experience, making every meal feel like a special occasion. One reviewer exclaimed, "Stopped here because of the reviews... absolutely delicious. The fish taco I highly recommend." This cafe doesn't just serve food; it offers a true California coastal experience, complete with stunning views and a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you want to linger longer. Whether you're craving a casual fish taco or a sophisticated Tuna Poke Bowl, Lost Pier Cafe promises a seafood feast that’s worth every penny.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MARICAR
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    The food was great , our server was friendly , present and knowledgeable. The ambience was also soothing . All servers were friendly
    More info
    Driftwood KitchenPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.5
  • Thomas
    Los Angeles •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great view from the deck, food choices are great, prices are good value for what you get and service was good. Great for taking friends or family to visit.
    More info
    Skyloft OCPrice: Moderate• American• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.6
  • ChristieVIP
    Orange County •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Absolutely wonderful experience. Incredibly, I booked the table too late in the evening and we missed the sunset. The staff is just lovely and the portions were extremely generous and I was surprised. I’m very particular about cocktails and I would say this was a nine out of 10, Definitely Craft.
    More info
    Larsen at Hotel LagunaPrice: Expensive• Californian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.5
  • GregoryVIP
    Las Vegas •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Items that bring you to a restaurant are things like ambiance, service, location and food. Las Brisas has them all. The ambiance is romantic, the location, on top of Laguna Beach overlooking the ocean doesn't get any better. The service is stellar and the food is top notch. There's nothing else to say except if you haven't yet been there, you are definitely missing out on a immersive experience that, in my opinion, is second to none. I don't live in California but I do not leave the state without a visit. You should too.
    More info
    Las BrisasPrice: Expensive• Californian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.3
  • DeborahVIP
    Los Angeles •49 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    This was our second time eating lunch there. Service was friendly, efficient and timely. We had the fish taco special, the mussels in leek broth and the Parker house rolls. If you get nothing else, get the rolls! Crispy and buttery on the outside and doughy and soft inside. The fried fish in the tacos were crunchy and the sauce was flavorful and accompanied the fish well. The mussels were cooked just right - still soft and flavorful in a light, savory sauce. The butter cake was the epitome of decadence. Definitely recommend for lunch.
    More info
    230 Forest AvenuePrice: Moderate• Californian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.9

Discover best Californian restaurants in Laguna Beach

Discover the heart of Californian cuisine in the picturesque setting of Laguna Beach, South Orange County. This coastal gem is renowned for its diverse dining scene that celebrates local, fresh, and sustainable ingredients, offering a unique blend of flavors that encapsulate the spirit of California. From organic, farm-to-table experiences to innovative seafood dishes and vibrant bistro vibes, each restaurant provides a distinctive taste of the region's culinary excellence. Patrons can expect menus that frequently refresh with seasonal items, ensuring every visit offers something new and exciting. Alongside delicious dishes, the ambiance in these establishments usually pairs stunning local views with artful decor, enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether you're enjoying a meal amidst the artistic backdrop of the Festival of the Arts or savoring the ocean-to-table fare with panoramic ocean views, Laguna Beach's restaurant scene delivers both quality and creativity. This destination is a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking for an authentic Californian dining experience in a breathtaking locale.

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