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Best Californian Restaurants in San Clemente

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14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Clemente restaurant
1. Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Clemente
4.8
Exceptional(118)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • San Clemente
Booked 8 times today
Rancho Capistrano Winery in San Clemente is a gem for those seeking authentic Californian cuisine paired with exceptional wines. Nestled in the scenic coastal town, this restaurant stands out for its delicious, locally-inspired dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Patrons rave about the quality and creativity of the menu, noting favorites like the "lemon cream tortellini with shrimp" and the "best steaks ever." The warm, rustic ambiance, coupled with friendly, attentive service, makes every dining experience memorable. As one guest highlighted, "The food is delicious, and the drinks are even better!" making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors in search of genuine Californian dining.
A photo of Riviera restaurant
2. Riviera
4.5
Awesome(185)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • San Clemente
Nestled within the charming San Clemente Inn, Riviera has quickly become a beacon of Californian cuisine since its opening in Spring 2022. Celebrated for its dedication to farm-to-table dining, Riviera sources its ingredients responsibly, ensuring each dish not only supports local producers but bursts with freshness and flavor. Patrons rave about the "deliciously prepared catch of the day" and the "eclectic drinks" that perfectly complement each meal. The ambiance is described as "very chill but elegant," ideal for any occasion from casual brunches to celebratory dinners. With its commitment to quality, creativity, and community, Riviera stands out as a must-visit destination for authentic Californian fare in San Clemente.
A photo of Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano restaurant
3. Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano
4.7
Exceptional(408)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 19 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 Lantern’s Edge restaurant
4. Lantern’s Edge
4.4
Awesome(372)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 6 times today
The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs in Dana Point is a true gem for steak enthusiasts. Renowned for its unique blend of traditional and contemporary steakhouse elements, this restaurant offers premium cuts that are always perfectly prepared. Patrons rave about the quality, with one reviewer exclaiming, "The food is outstanding. Beautiful presentation and tasty!" Another guest highlighted, "Justin helped make this special occasion dinner a very delicious experience!" With its breathtaking ocean views and a vibrant atmosphere enhanced by live music, The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs not only promises a visual feast but also delivers culinary excellence that keeps diners coming back for more.
A photo of Truly Pizza restaurant
5. Truly Pizza
4.8
Exceptional(339)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 68 times today
Truly Pizza, nestled in the vibrant Lantern District of Dana Point, is celebrated for its artisanal pizzas that fuse traditional techniques with innovative flavors. Patrons rave about the "light, chewy, fluffy" crust and the unique toppings that make each pizza a culinary delight. The restaurant's outdoor setting, complete with cozy blankets and heaters, adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions. As one reviewer exclaimed, it's the "best pizza in Orange County," highlighting standout choices like the La Foresta and Smoky Vodka pizzas. The warm, inviting ambiance and attentive service at Truly Pizza ensure an unforgettable dining experience, consistently praised as "fabulous" by satisfied guests.
A photo of Harvest restaurant
6. Harvest
4.7
Exceptional(2410)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 29 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 Coastal Kitchen restaurant
7. Coastal Kitchen
4.8
Exceptional(4844)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 90 times today
At Coastal Kitchen in Dana Point, the seafood cuisine is celebrated for its freshness and quality. This beloved eatery, nestled in the heart of Monarch Beach, specializes in crafting dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the ocean. The menu, praised for its variety and authenticity, features standout items such as the "delicious" grouper and the "amazing" crab cake salad, with one diner exclaiming it’s a "10+." Patrons consistently rave about the "excellent dining experience" and the seafood's impeccable preparation. With its charming coastal ambiance and a commitment to excellence, Coastal Kitchen is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers seeking a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Wind & Sea Restaurant restaurant
8. Wind & Sea Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1829)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 29 times today
Located in the picturesque Dana Point Harbor, Wind & Sea Restaurant epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its fresh, vibrant flavors and stunning waterfront views. Guests rave about the "beautiful view" and "terrific food quality," highlighting dishes like the "scallops and macadamia crusted mahi mahi," which are consistently described as "delicious and moist." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in their daily fresh fish selections and locally-sourced ingredients. The ambiance is quintessentially Californian—relaxed and welcoming—making it a perfect spot for enjoying a "full dinner under the stars" or a "world famous Mai Tai" during their Hawaiian Happy Hour. Whether it's for a family gathering or a romantic dinner, Wind & Sea delivers a memorable dining experience that captures the spirit and flavor of California.
A photo of Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
9. Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano
4.7
Exceptional(325)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 13 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 O'Neill's Bar & Grill restaurant
10. O'Neill's Bar & Grill
4.7
Exceptional(1114)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 7 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Alice
    Orange County •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We are all pleasantly surprised that the Beachcomber wasn’t just beach food.. The cocktails were yummly and the food was delicious. We had the ahi nachos, lobster rolls & artichoke as appetizers. Main dishes included cioppino, short rib, ahi over zucchini spaghetti and shrimp linguine. The best was their dessert.. The brownie that had a huge toasted marshmallow on top.. So good and the beignets we also tasty. Potions for all foods were healthy. We will return during the day to enjoy the scenery.. Hearing the waves were just as great and relaxing.
    More info
    Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal CovePrice: Moderate• Californian• Newport Beach
    •
    4.8
  • Holly
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Just. WOW. Some of the best pizza we’ve had outside of Italy. And the cherry on top is the ambiance. Such a warm and lovely patio. I can’t wait to make the drive back from LA to eat here again soon.
    More info
    Truly PizzaPrice: Moderate• Pizzeria• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.8
  • Liannevip
    New York City •102 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Two Thirty Forest is always terrific! The food, the service, the ambience all of it! We’ve been going there for over 20 years! We’ve never been disappointed
    More info
    230 Forest AvenuePrice: Moderate• Californian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.9
  • Nolavip
    San Diego •8 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We had a reservation for brunch, and it was delicious! The sparkling wine and Riesling were especially good, as were the fig bruschetta and fried cauliflower. The pesto burrata chicken sandwich was a bit wet (the pesto and burrata really just oozed through the sourdough onto my hands), but the lemon truffle fries were really good. Also liked the crab cake and filet Benedict’s, and the sausage in the ranch breakfast was really good. Our mains were quite slow in coming out, but it gave us a chance to digest after the appetizers, so I wasn’t really that upset!
    More info
    Rancho Capistrano Winery - San ClementePrice: Moderate• American• San Clemente
    •
    4.8
  • Ronald
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 28, 2024
    We didn’t even know the place existed until we ordered several dinners thru Door Dash. We decided we had to go to the restaurant to see where it was and what was it like. We were pleasantly surprised. It’s located in the San Clemente Inn that in the 70s was where the Nixon support and news groups would stay. The decor of the restaurant hasn’t changed, and it’s neat to see the “retro” 70s surroundings. The service was excellent. I had the salmon and my wife the filet mignon. Both were excellent. The menu is limited but adequate, and they are working on expanding the wine selection. We were surprised that the restaurant was almost empty on Sunday night. That reflects the lack of publicity since we have lived in San Clemente for 35 years, and even if it has only been open for two years, we and our friends didn’t know it existed. Maybe consider it “ a diamond in the rough”. Great place and easy parking. Worth a try.
    More info
    RivieraPrice: Moderate• American• San Clemente
    •
    4.5

Discover best Californian restaurants in San Clemente

Discover the vibrant dining scene in San Clemente, South Orange County, where the essence of Californian cuisine comes to life. Nestled in this picturesque locale, a variety of restaurants offer a unique Californian culinary experience, emphasizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and innovative dishes that cater to a range of palates. Each establishment prides itself on creating a welcoming atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the laid-back, coastal vibe of San Clemente. Patrons can expect expertly crafted menus that highlight the best of California’s seasonal produce and a wine selection that features some of the finest local vintages. The dining scene here is characterized by its dedication to quality and authenticity, ensuring a memorable gastronomic journey for every visitor. Whether you’re seeking a casual dining spot or a more sophisticated culinary affair, San Clemente’s Californian restaurants promise an enchanting blend of flavors and experiences. This area’s commitment to exceptional dining is evident in every meal served, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

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