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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel

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63 restaurants available nearby

A photo of OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo restaurant
1. OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo
4.7
Exceptional(1582)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 14 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 Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook restaurant
2. Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook
4.7
Exceptional(1716)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Laguna Beach
Booked 35 times today
At Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook in Laguna Beach, the essence of a true Steakhouse shines through with their exceptional steaks and meticulous service. Patrons rave about the "excellent ambiance" and the "perfectly cooked" meats, with one guest highlighting that even a "slightly overcooked" filet mignon was "still good" due to its superior quality and tenderness. This gem sets the bar high with its commitment to "quality and value," ensuring every dish from the aged ribeye to the innovative sides meets the highest standards. The picturesque ocean views and "wonderful service" complement the dining experience, making Sapphire a must-visit destination for Steakhouse enthusiasts looking for authenticity and excellence by the beautiful shores of Laguna Beach.
A photo of Harvest restaurant
3. Harvest
4.7
Exceptional(2410)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • Laguna Beach
Booked 16 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 King's Fish House - Laguna Hills restaurant
4. King's Fish House - Laguna Hills
4.7
Exceptional(4811)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 56 times today
King's Fish House in Laguna Hills, established in 1997, has become a beacon for seafood lovers seeking authenticity and quality. Located conveniently near the Laguna Hills Mall, it offers a vibrant selection of fresh oysters, seasonal catches, and live shellfish that keep the menu exciting and dynamic. Patrons rave about the "EXCELLENT jumbo shrimp and oysters" and the memorable "macadamia nut halibut," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to freshness and flavor. Reviews frequently commend King's for its "outstanding" service and atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for both special occasions and casual dining. Whether it's the welcoming staff or the meticulously prepared seafood, King's Fish House is celebrated for delivering a consistently delightful dining experience, underscored by glowing testimonials like, "Always delicious" and "the best seafood experience."
A photo of Selanne Steak Tavern restaurant
5. Selanne Steak Tavern
4.7
Exceptional(2764)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • Laguna Beach
Booked 12 times today
Selanne Steak Tavern in Laguna Beach, owned by hockey legend Teemu Selanne, is a beacon of American cuisine, offering a sublime blend of upscale casual dining and traditional steakhouse vibes. Patrons rave about the "absolute best steaks in Orange County," with dishes like the New York steak and Wagyu filet receiving particular praise for their succulent flavors. The restaurant's ability to craft tender, perfectly cooked steaks, complemented by an extensive wine list and craft cocktails, truly sets it apart. Diners consistently laud the "fantastic" food and service, describing their dining experience as "perfect in every way." Whether it's the mouthwatering sea bass or the rich, creamy mac & cheese, Selanne Steak Tavern delivers a quintessentially American dining experience that's both authentic and exceptional.
A photo of The Tea House on Los Rios restaurant
6. The Tea House on Los Rios
4.8
Exceptional(2665)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 27 times today
Nestled in the historic heart of San Juan Capistrano, The Tea House on Los Rios serves as a quintessential American dining experience with a twist of charming British flair. This venue stands out not only for its picturesque setting in a restored 1911 cottage but also for its commitment to quality and authenticity in every dish served. Patrons rave about the "delicious and beautifully plated" food, highlighting American classics like the brunch menu's mimosas and Bloody Marys. With glowing reviews, such as it being the "best traditional tea service around" and a "perfect spot to enjoy a good English tea experience," this restaurant merges American dining excellence with the elegance of high tea, making every visit unforgettable. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful day out, The Tea House on Los Rios promises an exceptional experience in the heart of Orange County.
A photo of The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach restaurant
7. The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach
4.7
Exceptional(2043)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Laguna Beach
Booked 23 times today
At The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach, contemporary American cuisine reaches new heights, delivering not only on flavor but also on an extraordinary dining experience. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Laguna Beach, this restaurant is celebrated for its innovative dishes that encapsulate the essence of California and the broader American culinary landscape. Guests rave about the "colorful and tasty-yumi food" and the "coffee crusted steak and the scallops," highlighting the creative twists on classic favorites. The Loft's setting, with its stunning ocean views, complements its culinary prowess, making every meal a visual and palatable feast. With accolades like "one of the best dining experiences we have ever had," it's clear that The Loft is a hallmark of fine contemporary American dining. Whether it's the exceptional service, the ambiance, or the exquisite food, The Loft promises a memorable gastronomic journey that's both authentic and innovative.
A photo of Driftwood Kitchen restaurant
8. Driftwood Kitchen
4.5
Awesome(1299)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Laguna Beach
Booked 38 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 The Drake in Laguna restaurant
9. The Drake in Laguna
4.9
Exceptional(1462)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • Laguna Beach
Booked 35 times today
At The Drake in Laguna Beach, seafood lovers are in for a sublime dining experience that combines freshness with culinary flair. Known for its "exquisite" and "perfectly cooked" seafood dishes, such as the praised Halibut and Shrimp Curry, The Drake ensures every plate is a testament to the quality and authenticity of its ingredients. Guests rave about the "tender tuna tartare" and the "best salmon I have ever had," highlighting the skilled preparation and flavorful execution. Pairing their meals with live music, diners enjoy an "amazing" atmosphere that complements the sophisticated seafood offerings. Whether it’s the vibrant Salmon, flaky Sea Bass, or the savory Shrimp Curry, The Drake's commitment to excellence makes it a must-visit for seafood connoisseurs in Laguna Beach.
A photo of Larsen at Hotel Laguna restaurant
10. Larsen at Hotel Laguna
4.5
Awesome(1513)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Laguna Beach
Booked 39 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.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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