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Best Californian Restaurants in Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita

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9 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Hannas Prime Steak restaurant
1. Hannas Prime Steak
4.9
Exceptional(3502)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 16 times today
Hanna's Prime Steak, nestled in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita, is a beacon of Californian cuisine excellence. Since its inception in 2005, it has earned a spot among the U.S. top 100 restaurants, a testament to its exceptional culinary offerings and service. Patrons continually praise the "symphony of flavors" found in dishes such as the dry-aged ribeye and the "heavenly" molten chocolate lava cake. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "elegant yet cozy," along with its "impeccable service," creates the perfect backdrop for a quintessential Californian dining experience. Regulars and newcomers alike laud Hanna's, calling it a "consistent" and "phenomenal" choice for anyone looking to savor the best of California's rich culinary heritage.
A photo of Pub Thirty-Two restaurant
2. Pub Thirty-Two
4.4
Awesome(421)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Located in the heart of Mission Viejo, California, Pub Thirty-Two has become a beacon for seafood lovers seeking quality and authenticity. The restaurant’s farm-to-fork philosophy ensures that every seafood dish, from their praised fish and chips to the exquisite seafood gumbo, is crafted from the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients. Patrons consistently rave about the flavorful and well-prepared dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The fish & chips are amazing and the seafood gumbo had large portions, great taste" and another noting the "killer sauce" on their bacon-wrapped shrimp. Pub Thirty-Two's commitment to a seasonal menu not only enhances the dining experience but also supports local agriculture, making each meal a testament to sustainable culinary excellence. Whether it's a lively evening or a cozy dinner, the combination of great food, attentive service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Pub Thirty-Two a must-visit for seafood aficionados.
A photo of Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano restaurant
3. Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(416)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 28 times today
At Mayfield in San Juan Capistrano, the essence of Californian cuisine is celebrated with an innovative twist, integrating flavors from the Levant that elevate each dish. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality, with one customer exclaiming, "The food is so good every time. My partner and I are both Middle Eastern and love the flavor profiles and cuisine here!" This culinary gem artfully combines fresh, local ingredients typical of California with exotic spices and recipes from afar, creating a shared dining experience that's both delightful and unique. The glowing reviews underscore the exceptional service and atmosphere, making Mayfield a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier dining experience in California.
A photo of CUCINA enoteca - Irvine restaurant
4. CUCINA enoteca - Irvine
4.6
Exceptional(2722)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Irvine
Booked 61 times today
CUCINA enoteca in Irvine is a gem for those seeking authentic Californian cuisine with a modern twist. Nestled in the vibrant Irvine Spectrum, this restaurant is celebrated for its use of fresh, local, organic, and sustainable ingredients, ensuring each dish supports local producers and delivers exceptional quality. Patrons rave about the diverse menu, with one guest exclaiming, "The Italian chopped salad and Chicken Milanese were amazing!" The ambiance blends contemporary with rustic, offering a dining experience that is both inviting and stylish. Whether you're indulging in their renowned pastas or savoring the perfectly cooked octopus, CUCINA enoteca promises a delightful culinary journey that highlights the best of Californian flavors.
A photo of OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo restaurant
5. OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo
4.8
Exceptional(1592)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 17 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 O'Neill's Bar & Grill restaurant
6. O'Neill's Bar & Grill
4.9
Exceptional(1116)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 12 times today
Nestled amidst the scenic vistas of Rancho Mission Viejo, O'Neill's Bar & Grill offers an authentic Californian dining experience that's hard to beat. Celebrated for its "amazing food and stellar service" (customer review), this gem in Mission Viejo delights with a diverse menu that captures California's spirit. Whether it’s the "delicious and moist" flour-less chocolate cake or the "best food I have ever had" pork chop, each dish showcases local flavors and freshness. Patrons also rave about the "beautiful view of the golf course and Saddle Back Mountain" from the patio, enhancing the dining atmosphere. With glowing testimonials about both the cuisine and the setting, O'Neill's is a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of Californian hospitality and culinary excellence.
A photo of Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
7. Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(332)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 26 times today
Rancho Capistrano Winery in San Juan Capistrano is a celebrated gem, consistently lauded for its exceptional Winery cuisine and vibrant ambiance. Crowned the 2024 San Juan Capistrano Business of the Year, it's not just the largest winery in Orange County but a beloved culinary haven. With over 40 different wines meticulously crafted from the finest grapes across premier regions like Paso Robles and Northern California, it offers an unparalleled wine experience. Critics and patrons alike rave about its harmonious pairings, such as the "delicious BBQ chicken pizza with their exquisite wines" and "the outstanding macadamia mahi." Truly, Rancho Capistrano Winery provides an authentic and high-quality winery experience, making it a must-visit destination for both wine connoisseurs and casual diners seeking a memorable meal in a charming setting.
A photo of Rancho Capistrano Winery - Ladera Ranch restaurant
8. Rancho Capistrano Winery - Ladera Ranch
4.6
Exceptional(243)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Ladera Ranch
Booked 15 times today
Discover the quintessential Californian dining experience at Rancho Capistrano Winery in Ladera Ranch, where the spirit of California is captured not only in the ambiance but also in every dish served. Nestled in the picturesque setting of Ladera Town Green park, this award-winning venue boasts over 40 "Best of" culinary accolades, ensuring each meal is an artwork of flavors and presentation. Guests rave about the "excellent tasting steaks," "delicious sea bass and carne tacos," and the innovative "bacon and apple flatbread." Coupled with their own selection of over 35 fine wines from the West Coast, Rancho Capistrano Winery offers a dining experience that is both authentic and exceptional. As one reviewer puts it, "The quality of the ingredients they use for each dish is amazing," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the true taste of Californian cuisine.
A photo of Sundried Tomato American Bistro - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
9. Sundried Tomato American Bistro - San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(731)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 13 times today
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of San Juan Capistrano, Sundried Tomato American Bistro offers a delightful Bistro experience that locals and visitors alike rave about. Known for its "fantastic spot" and "consistently wonderful food," this bistro stands out for its commitment to fresh, quality ingredients and a menu that dazzles with every dish. From the juicy lettuce-wrapped hamburgers to the flavorful crab cake salad, each meal is a testament to the culinary prowess that Sundried Tomato prides itself on. Patrons particularly love the intimate, shaded patio setting, making it an ideal locale for a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. With glowing reviews and a reputation for excellent service, Sundried Tomato American Bistro is truly a gem in San Juan Capistrano’s culinary scene.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Kathryn
    San Diego •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The host and the Maître d’ were friendly and helpful when we first sat down the young woman next to us did not seem to know how to keep her screeching, loud voice down in a public place. We moved inside and the rest of the experience was absolutely fantastic. The waiters were helpful, knowledgeable and professional. The food was exceptional, particularly the calamari to start and the main courses of halibut and scallops were outstanding and presented well with different vegetables than you usually see. The martinis we enjoyed were perfectly chilled with tiny bits of ice crystals floating on the top. I requested and got blue cheese stuffed olives, which I love all in all a moderately priced restaurant for Southern California, generous portions, and a wonderful night out. Will be back!
    More info
    230 Forest AvenuePrice: Moderate• Californian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.9
  • DareleneVIP
    Orange County •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our out-of-town guest loved it! Hanna's is always a safe bet if you want delicious food and excellent service. Our server, Kaleb, was great, very helpful with additional information about a couple of menu items. We decided to try the filet mignon chili which was terrific! Corn muffin on the side and the chili had just the right amount of spice to be good for anyone. Shared a raspberry cheesecake for dessert. It was yummy and a good portion for us to share. You'll never be disappointed here!
    More info
    Hannas Prime SteakPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
    •
    4.9
  • RuthVIP
    San Diego •22 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Always a special treat to dine at The Farmhouse! Loved my burger, our table also loved the Jidori Chicken, and the mussels. The Butternut Squash Soup was reportedly meh. Desserts a bit disappointing today (not usually) — can’t recommend the berry sorbet (odd-tasting), and the Vanilla Pot de crème was a bit bland according to the friend who had the soup. Our waiter was like a warm hug, the kind of server you look forward to his check-ins!
    More info
    Farmhouse at Rogers GardensPrice: Expensive• American• Corona del Mar
    •
    4.8
  • Gill
    Birmingham/West Midlands (county) •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Beautiful location beach facing at Crystal Cove. Christmas tree in the sand provided a lovely setting to take photos. Did not realise about the distant parking and shuttle bus so glad we arrived 30 minutes before our reservation time. Food and drink options fantastic, thoroughly enjoyed our meal apart from no asparagus in my risotto, hubbie shared his with me! Servers helpful and refilled water regularly. Well worth the visit, one for the memory books, will recommend:))
    More info
    Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal CovePrice: Moderate• Californian• Newport Beach
    •
    4.8
  • JosephVIP
    Central Kentucky •24 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 21, 2024
    Local hangout. Great food. Small staff. Scotch Egg was perfect.
    More info
    Pub Thirty-TwoPrice: Moderate• Californian• Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
    •
    4.4

Discover best Californian restaurants in Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine in the scenic locales of Mission Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita in South Orange County. Renowned for its innovative and fresh culinary approach, the region offers a diverse array of dining experiences that cater to connoisseurs of fine food. From upscale steakhouses to charming farm-to-table bistros, each restaurant in this area highlights the local abundance and Californian flair in every dish. Diners can expect menus rich in locally-sourced ingredients, offering everything from expertly grilled meats to creatively prepared vegetables and seafood, embodying the farm-to-fork philosophy that is central to Californian cuisine. The dining scene in these parts of Orange County is vibrant and inviting, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true taste of California. With each establishment providing not just meals but memorable dining experiences, visitors are treated to excellent service, beautiful settings, and a commitment to culinary excellence that defines the Californian dining experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these restaurants offer a gateway to exploring the rich flavors and innovative cooking that make Californian cuisine truly unique.

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