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Best Californian Restaurants in San Juan Capistrano

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23 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano restaurant
1. 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 Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
2. Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(333)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 25 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 Sundried Tomato American Bistro - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
3. Sundried Tomato American Bistro - San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(731)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 12 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.
A photo of Lantern’s Edge restaurant
4. Lantern’s Edge
4.4
Awesome(376)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 22 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(362)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 59 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 Coastal Kitchen restaurant
6. Coastal Kitchen
4.8
Exceptional(4884)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 92 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
7. Wind & Sea Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1838)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 27 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 O'Neill's Bar & Grill restaurant
8. O'Neill's Bar & Grill
4.9
Exceptional(1116)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 11 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 Harpoon Henry's Seafood Restaurant restaurant
9. Harpoon Henry's Seafood Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1482)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 44 times today
At Harpoon Henry's Seafood Restaurant in Dana Point / Monarch Beach, the steak offerings are as spectacular as the harbor views. Known for its commitment to quality and excellence, this beloved dining spot has been serving diners for 46 years, earning accolades such as awards from the Southern California Restaurant Writers Association. Patrons consistently rave about their experiences, with glowing reviews highlighting the "exceptional food" and "attentive service." One standout dish, the petit filet paired with coconut shrimp, is described as a "high class meal for a reasonable cost." Harpoon Henry's ensures each steak is cooked to perfection, making every bite a celebration of refined flavors and culinary expertise. Whether you're seated indoors or on the scenic outdoor patio, the combination of delicious steak, exceptional service, and unforgettable harbor views makes Harpoon Henry's a must-visit for steak lovers.
A photo of Rancho Capistrano Winery - Ladera Ranch restaurant
10. 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.

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Discover best Californian restaurants in San Juan Capistrano

Experience the essence of Californian cuisine in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, South Orange County, with a selection of restaurants that truly embody the local flavors and culinary excellence of the region. These dining establishments are renowned for their commitment to freshness, quality ingredients, and creative culinary approaches, making them must-visit destinations for both locals and tourists. From the intimate and innovative Sundried Tomato American Bistro to the culturally rich offerings at Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge, each venue offers a unique gastronomic experience. San Juan Capistrano's dining scene is diverse, featuring everything from traditional Californian dishes to influences from the Mediterranean and Middle East, all prepared with locally sourced produce. Whether you're looking for an upscale dining experience or a casual yet refined atmosphere, these restaurants cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring a memorable dining experience in South Orange County.

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