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Best Southern American Restaurants in Lake Forest

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60 restaurants available nearby

A photo of King's Fish House - Laguna Hills restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4985)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 69 times today
King's Fish House in Laguna Hills is a true gem for lovers of authentic American cuisine, particularly seafood fans. Renowned for its "fresh oysters and seasonal catches," this establishment has been delighting patrons since 1997 with a menu that changes daily to reflect the freshest offerings. Diners rave about the "perfectly cooked and delicious" dishes, from the crispy fried shrimp to the flavorful sand dabs. The warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by an attentive staff, ensures every visit is a memorable experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, King's Fish House consistently delivers excellence in American seafood dining.
A photo of Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2923)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 24 times today
Ironwood, Cellar. Craft. Cook. in Laguna Hills is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, offering a menu crafted with the highest quality seasonal ingredients. Diners rave about their seafood dishes, with one guest exclaiming the halibut was the "best he ever had," while another praised the blue crab baked oysters as "oh so good." The restaurant’s commitment to freshness and authenticity ensures that each seafood dish is prepared meticulously, bringing out flavors that are both vibrant and true to the sea. With an inviting ambiance and stellar service, Ironwood promises an extraordinary dining experience for seafood lovers.
A photo of BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Laguna Hills restaurant
4.4
Awesome(194)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 14 times today
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse in Laguna Hills is a barbecue lover's dream destination. Known for its mouthwatering pork ribs, guests rave about the "excellent food" that never fails to impress. The quality of their barbecue stands out, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The restaurant's ambiance, combined with attentive service, makes each visit memorable. As one satisfied diner noted, "BJ’s never disappoints!" Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a barbecue feast, BJ's delivers with authenticity and flair. It's the perfect spot to savor top-notch barbecue while enjoying a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to return again and again.
A photo of Dave & Buster's - Irvine restaurant
3.9
Excellent(137)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Irvine
Booked 11 times today
Each Dave & Buster’s has more state-of-the-art games than ever, more mouth-watering menu items and the most innovative drinks anywhere. From wings to steaks, we’ve got whatever suits your appetite and our premium bar assures we’re stocked to satisfy! Plus, you can watch your game on one of our massive HDTVs with epic stadium sound.
A photo of OPAH Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1621)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 16 times today
Opah Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo offers an exceptional American dining experience that truly stands out in the heart of Aliso Viejo. Renowned for its consistently great service and high-quality cuisine, this local gem impresses with its diverse menu and meticulous preparation, especially their seafood selections. Regulars rave about the "amazing hazelnut encrusted halibut" and the "delicious bacon-wrapped dates," showcasing authentic American flavors with a gourmet twist. The inviting atmosphere, enhanced by a cozy outdoor patio, makes Opah a favorite spot for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. With glowing reviews praising the "phenomenal service" and "excellent experience on all points," Opah is a must-visit for anyone seeking stellar American cuisine.
A photo of Urban Grill & Wine Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(734)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 3 times today
Urban Grill & Wine Bar in Foothill Ranch is a must-visit for authentic American cuisine enthusiasts. This neighborhood gem has been celebrated for its "outstanding and fresh" dishes and "exceptional service," making it a favorite for both locals and newcomers. The menu boasts classic American staples like Prime steaks and Alaskan king crab legs, perfectly paired with a top-notch wine list that even connoisseurs rave about. Guests appreciate the warm, friendly atmosphere and the "super yummy cobblers" that end their meals on a sweet note. Whether for a casual night out or a special celebration, Urban Grill delivers an incomparable dining experience.
A photo of Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(11718)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Corona del Mar
Booked 193 times today
Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens in Corona del Mar offers an unparalleled Californian culinary experience that truly shines with its fresh, locally sourced, farm-to-fork cuisine. Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of a lush garden center, the restaurant provides a romantic and unique dining ambiance, capturing the essence of Californian flavor. Diners rave about the "absolutely delicious" food and the "fresh and flavorful" dishes, which are expertly crafted by Chef Rich Mead. The seasonal ingredients paired with exclusive wines and craft cocktails make every visit a memorable one. Whether for a special occasion or a casual lunch, Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens promises an authentic taste of California.
A photo of Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(10583)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Newport Beach
Booked 84 times today
Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, beautifully blending classic dishes with a breathtaking beachfront setting. Nestled in Newport Beach, this gem has been honored as one of OpenTable's "Top 100 Restaurants" for 2023 in the U.S., solidifying its status as a culinary standout. Diners rave about the "absolutely amazing" food and "incredible" service, often highlighting the Pesto Chicken Pasta and beignets as must-try items. With its unpretentious charm and spectacular views of the Pacific, Beachcomber offers a quintessentially American dining experience where every meal feels like a celebration. Perfect for special occasions or a casual beachside bite!
A photo of Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1812)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Laguna Beach
Booked 27 times today
Sapphire, Cellar. Craft. Cook in Laguna Beach is a gem for seafood lovers, known for its quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "incredibly fresh seafood" that consistently delights the palate, showcasing the expertise and passion of the culinary team. Guests are often wowed by the creative takes on fresh oysters and the perfectly cooked salmon, which are described as "savory and satisfying." The ambiance complements the dining experience, with outdoor seating offering picturesque ocean views that enhance the enjoyment of each dish. With attentive service and a commitment to excellence, Sapphire is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
A photo of Five Crowns restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(6618)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Corona del Mar
Booked 29 times today
Nestled in the picturesque locale of Corona del Mar, Five Crowns offers an unparalleled Steakhouse experience that has enchanted diners since 1965. Renowned for its exceptional prime rib, many guests exclaim it as "the best they ever had," making it a must-try for steak lovers. With an ambiance beautifully reminiscent of an English country inn, the restaurant is "consistently excellent," boasting not only delightful cuisine but also top-tier service. The annual holiday carolers and exquisite decor add to the festive charm, making every dining occasion feel special. Five Crowns is truly a culinary gem that promises a memorable and authentic Steakhouse experience.
‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • GarciaVIP
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Beto was exceptional! Great service, great good. Definitely will be returning.
    More info
    Julep BreaPrice: Expensive• American• Brea / La Habra
    4.8
  • Tracy
    Orange County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    This is one of our favorite gems! The food is always outstanding and the best flavors. We had the french toast with fresh whipped cream (for the table) and everyone wanted the whole thing to themselves. The waffle had a great texture and the syrup was like icing on the cake! The bacon scramble and the wild mushroom scramble were both excellent. The biscuit and gravy was scrumptious (ask for extra gravy because it is so good) The eggs benedict did not disappoint either. The surprise trophy went to the Huevos Rancheros which was an amazing blend of flavors that you won't forget! The menu is loaded with dishes and can be overwhelming, but anything you choose is just delicious. We will be back again and again. Love this place!
    More info
    Tupelo Junction CafePrice: Expensive• Southern• Newport Beach
    4.8
  • Clifton
    Orange County •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 4, 2025
    So much...so good! Great food and bar for watching sports.
    More info
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - IrvinePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Irvine
    4.3
  • KenyaVIP
    Los Angeles •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 3, 2025
    Located in Downtown Disney, Jazz Kitchen brings bold Creole flavors to life. The highlight of our meal was undoubtedly the shrimp and grits—the shrimp were perfectly seasoned, tender, and paired with creamy, buttery grits that practically melted in your mouth. The savory, slightly spicy sauce elevated the dish to something unforgettable. The salmon Caesar salad was fresh and satisfying, with perfectly grilled salmon and a tangy dressing. The crab & shrimp remoulade roll offered a refreshing, zesty bite, balancing the heartier flavors. To top it off, the staff brought out beignets for the birthday girl—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and a sweet end to the meal. Jazz Kitchen’s Creole offerings, especially the shrimp and grits, are a must-try for anyone visiting Downtown Disney!
    More info
    Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & PatioPrice: Moderate• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Anaheim
    4.4
  • TenYears
    Orange County •6 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Mar 3, 2025
    The Sampler plate was perfect to try their different meats and sides. The Ribs were tasty where I didn't need to add any BBQ sauce (that's very unlike me). The Mac & Cheese was delicious and flavorful. The sweet potato casserole was wonderful and could have doubled as a dessert dish. Can't wait to come back to try their Smoked Dinosaur Beef Rib!
    More info
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - OrangePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Orange
    4.3
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