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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Laguna Beach

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55 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lumberyard restaurant
1. Lumberyard
4.7
Exceptional(3276)
Price: Moderate
• American • Laguna Beach
Booked 29 times today
In 1912, at the bend of Forest Avenue, 23 year old Joe Jahraus opened the Laguna Lumber Company, he and his father(cigar maker, first postmaster and real estate agent) built the beautiful French Normandy building that is here today. Prior to the lumberyard opening, building supplies needed to be dragged in by mule or floated in on the tides, and therefore, Laguna Beach had less than three hundred permanent residences. After the lumberyard opened, the area began to grow at unprecedented rates, transforming it from a tent town into a thriving city. Laguna Lumber operated for seventy three years, sixty two of them in this location and its' architecture, influenced by Joe's tour abroad in World War I, is one of the most significant influences on the town's aesthetic. Half timbers, mud walls and shingled roofs grace many of the downtown storefronts and homes throughout the city because of this landmark. Today, 384 Forest is home to Lumberyard - a contemporary American restaurant.
A photo of 230 Forest Avenue restaurant
2. 230 Forest Avenue
4.8
Exceptional(2884)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 17 times today
230 Forest Avenue is a neighborhood gem in Laguna Beach. With its modern bistro and martini bar vibe, it's a favorite spot for locals. Reviewers rave about the consistently great food, excellent service, and laid-back atmosphere. The Executive Chef is even recognized as one of the top chefs in the OC. It's described as a place where the food is so stunning it competes with the artwork on the walls, creating a thoroughly satisfying 'artistic' experience.
A photo of Brussels Bistro - Laguna Beach restaurant
3. Brussels Bistro - Laguna Beach
4.8
Exceptional(1301)
Price: Moderate
• Belgian • Laguna Beach
Booked 11 times today
Since 2004, Brussels Bistro has brought the best in Belgium flavors to the heart of Laguna Beach. Relax on the terrace with a premium Belgian beer or dine underground in our casual-urban setting. Offering Belgian cuisine with a French flair, our Executive Chef, Thomas Crijns has created a superb menu of authentic dishes ranging from Beef Bourguignon to Steamed Mussels. Complimenting our wide variety of imported Belgian beers are mouthwatering hors d’oeuvres including Cheese Croquettes and our world-famous Belgian Fries. Join us on Friday and Saturday nights when the Bistro transforms into one of the hottest nightclubs in town.
A photo of Alessa by Chef Pirozzi restaurant
4. Alessa by Chef Pirozzi
4.6
Exceptional(1598)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Laguna Beach
Booked 10 times today
Bustling pizzeria just steps from the beach that serves thin-crust pies & pasta amid a rustic dining room.NOTE: This is not affiliated with Cucina Alessa in Newport Beach or Huntington Beach.
A photo of Nirvana by Chef Lindsay restaurant
5. Nirvana by Chef Lindsay
4.6
Exceptional(1756)
Price: Expensive
• Farm-to-table • Laguna Beach
Booked 5 times today
We are an independent neighborhood restaurant in the heart of Downtown Laguna Beach, between Main Beach & the Historic Festival of Arts, owned by Laguna Beach native, Executive Chef Lindsay Smith. Inspired by Wine Country and California Coastal cuisine, our focus is on serving guests the way Chef Lindsay would feed her own family, in a warm, inviting atmosphere. We source the freshest ingredients, including free-range, organic poultry, sustainable seafood, antibiotic- and hormone-free meats, and seasonal, local produce. We strive to minimize our environmental impact and support the local community. Chef Lindsay, named one of the Top 10 chefs in Orange County and Top 5 in Laguna Beach, is dedicated to quality food, friendly service, and a memorable dining experience.LUNCH: Casual table service, Counter service for Grab & Go (reservations not required) DINNER: Table service (reservations recommended)
A photo of Tango restaurant
6. Tango
4.7
Exceptional(90)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas / Small Plates • Laguna Beach
Booked 8 times today
Tango Laguna embarks on a culinary voyage blending global flavors with local dedication. Our menu boasts tapas, sandwiches, and main courses meticulously prepared with care and precision. Each dish, influenced by worldwide inspirations, is paired thoughtfully with wines and cocktails, complemented by bites enhancing the dining experience.Featuring premium meats, artisan cheeses, and fusion small plates sourced globally, our commitment to quality defines every meal, offering a unique culinary journey exclusive to Tango in Laguna Beach, CA.Join us for weekend brunch, a delightful twist on classic favorites paired with cocktails in a coastal ambiance. Wednesdays bring the International Wine Experience, presenting a curated wine selection paired with small plates celebrating diverse culinary traditions, transporting your palate worldwide from Laguna Beach.
A photo of Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort restaurant
7. Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort
4.7
Exceptional(4468)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 55 times today
Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort is a local gem, as described by one reviewer. Its location right on the ocean, paired with an excellent menu and top-notch service, makes it a favorite among locals. Reviewers rave about the delicious food, beautiful ambiance, and attentive service. The place has been described as luxurious, perfect for a special occasion, and even as a favorite spot for brunch. The restaurant's unique and creative twist on classic seafood dishes is noteworthy and worth a visit.
A photo of The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach restaurant
8. The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach
4.8
Exceptional(2082)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Laguna Beach
Booked 24 times today
Located in the oceanfront resort, Montage Laguna Beach, The Loft features stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean – the perfect backdrop for enjoying market-fresh, creative American cuisine with friendly, informed, and professional service. Innovative signature dishes reflect California regional cuisine with strong influences from the Americas; other favorites also include roasted meats and seafood.
A photo of Starfish Laguna Beach restaurant
9. Starfish Laguna Beach
4.8
Exceptional(2264)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Asian • Laguna Beach
Booked 32 times today
Thank you for thinking of Starfish Laguna! Indoor & Patio Dining are available! Reservations are strongly encouraged, and available via phone at 949.715.9200.Lunch: Daily from 11a - 3pOpium Hour: Everyday 3p - 6p (dine-in only)Dinner: Daily from 3p - 9pWe offer our full menu for takeout and delivery, with delivery offered in partnership with Doordash or through our website. To place a pickup order, please call 949.715.8205. We look forward to seeing you soon!
A photo of Oak- Laguna Beach restaurant
10. Oak- Laguna Beach
4.5
Awesome(1844)
Price: Expensive
• American • Laguna Beach
Booked 11 times today
Oak restaurant, bringing the community a new local flavor of rustic modern, California comfort fare. Bar dedicated to craft cocktails with exotic flavors, wine by the glass, brewed ales, IPA and lagers. fun friends family ….experience Laguna Beach from the inside out.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • LianneVIP
    New York City •105 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    I have been going to Two Thirty Forest for roughly 20 years and it has never disappointed! The tuna I had tonight for dinner was fabulous - this is a great restaurant
    More info
    230 Forest AvenuePrice: Moderate• Californian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.8
  • David
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Nirvana is a pleasant, classy restaurant that has the spirit of Laguna Beach, with gourmet cuisine we haven’t seen anywhere else. The location, near PCH on Broadway, is a nice short walk to Laguna Playhouse, and was convenient for an upscale pre-show dinner. The decor and atmosphere are nice and light, resort-like. All the people are very friendly and helpful, our server Nicole was outstanding. There are so many tasty-sounding dishes, we plan to come back soon. We had soup, a ravioli dish, a vegetable entree and dessert. It was all delicious. This is now one of my favorite restaurants.
    More info
    Nirvana by Chef LindsayPrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.6
  • LaurenVIP
    Orange County •32 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The food is SO good here. The meatballs are to die for. They are a meal in itself. We got the chicken parm as well and that was amazing. So far we haven’t had anything we didn’t like
    More info
    Alessa by Chef PirozziPrice: Moderate• Italian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.6
  • DavidVIP
    Orange County •129 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Wonderful food, service and atmosphere … a hidden gem on forest
    More info
    Brussels Bistro - Laguna BeachPrice: Moderate• Belgian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.8
  • MalindaVIP
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Ally always gives exceptional service! It is the reason why we frequent lumberyard. Food is really good, but the ally’s service is supreme! In addition, the hostess Chelsea is wonderful, kind and she always tries her best to accommodate us. Well done lumberyard!
    More info
    LumberyardPrice: Moderate• American• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.7

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Laguna Beach

Discover the charm of Laguna Beach's neighborhood gems with our curated list of local favorite eateries. These establishments are celebrated for their unique blend of excellent cuisine, warm ambiance, and top-tier service, making them true standouts in South Orange County. Each restaurant offers a distinctive dining experience, from seaside spots with breathtaking views to cozy bistros that showcase culinary creativity. The dining scene in Laguna Beach is diverse, offering everything from sophisticated seafood dishes to artisan pizzas and fine wines, ensuring a memorable meal for every palate. Whether you're seeking a special spot for a romantic evening or a casual hangout with friends, these neighborhood gems provide perfect settings with consistently high-quality food and a welcoming atmosphere. Join the locals in appreciating these culinary treasures that make dining in Laguna Beach truly special.

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