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Best Southern American Restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

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39 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Luxe Restaurant and Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(627)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 4 times today
Luxe Restaurant & Bar in Dana Point is a hidden gem renowned for its exceptional Italian cuisine. The menu boasts a delightful array of classic Italian dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring every bite is a culinary delight. Guests rave about the "outstanding meatballs" and the delectable house-made lobster ravioli, which a diner described as "absolutely amazing." The ambiance is enhanced by live music, creating a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere, perfect for any occasion. With its attentive service and authentic flavors, Luxe offers a dining experience that effortlessly transports you to the heart of Italy, making it a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts.
A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Dana Point restaurant
4.4
Awesome(6429)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 71 times today
Chart House Restaurant in Dana Point is a beacon of exceptional American cuisine, offering a dining experience that perfectly marries classic American flavors with a touch of coastal sophistication. Renowned for its breathtaking views of the harbor and the Pacific Ocean, this establishment is “truly majestic,” as one reviewer notes, providing a backdrop that enhances every meal. From “great steak and wine” to the “out of this world” filet with blue cheese butter, guests consistently praise the delectable menu offerings. The service at Chart House is celebrated as “outstanding,” with attentive staff ensuring a memorable dining adventure. Perfect for any special occasion or a cozy dinner date, Chart House stands as a testament to quality American dining.
A photo of Coastal Kitchen restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4994)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 96 times today
Coastal Kitchen in Dana Point is renowned for its exceptional Seafood cuisine, offering a menu that is both "delicious" and "fresh." Diners rave about the perfectly cooked salmon, which boasts a "mild crunch from the sear," and the crab cakes, praised for being "crispy and loaded with crab." The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity shines through every dish, with seafood selections like the halibut receiving high accolades for their exquisite flavor. The ambiance, complemented by a friendly and attentive staff, ensures a memorable dining experience. Coastal Kitchen is truly a gem for seafood lovers seeking an unforgettable meal.
A photo of CRAFT HOUSE Dana Point restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1514)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 20 times today
CRAFT HOUSE Dana Point stands out as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine, proudly sourcing the freshest local ingredients to craft a menu that celebrates the heart of American flavors. Located in the picturesque Dana Point, this restaurant offers more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Diners rave about the "outstanding" service and "creative, hand-crafted" dishes that consistently deliver a "first-rate" dining experience. With an impressive American whiskey selection, including the coveted Pappy van Winkle collection, CRAFT HOUSE perfectly blends authenticity with innovation. Whether you're a local or a visitor, it's a must-visit for any lover of true American dining.
A photo of Salt Creek Grille Orange County restaurant
4.3
Awesome(370)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 49 times today
Salt Creek Grille Orange County is a barbecue haven that beautifully marries authenticity with a California coastal twist. Situated along the Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point, this newly remodeled gem is winning hearts with its “perfectly cooked rib eyes” and “absolutely beautiful” lamb rack. Patrons rave about the “wonderful and perfectly cooked” barbecue offerings that keep them coming back for more. The ambiance, described as a “great dining experience,” complements the flavorful, wood-fired barbecue dishes. Whether you're a barbecue enthusiast or a casual diner, Salt Creek Grille promises an exceptional culinary journey, making it a must-visit in Dana Point.
A photo of The Tea House on Los Rios restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2807)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 65 times today
Nestled in the historic heart of San Juan Capistrano, The Tea House on Los Rios is a charming haven for authentic American cuisine, offering a "magical experience" that seamlessly blends tradition with modern flair. Set in a beautifully restored 1911 cottage, this restaurant is celebrated for its "scrumptious menu" featuring the finest scones, tea sandwiches, and luscious homemade preserves. Guests rave about the "exemplary service" and the "delightful" array of teas, making it a perfect spot for both special occasions and casual outings. The Tea House on Los Rios promises a taste of American elegance in a picturesque setting, leaving diners eager to return.
A photo of Bloom Restaurant + Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(860)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 37 times today
Bloom Restaurant + Bar in San Juan Capistrano is a haven for fish lovers, offering an exceptional seafood experience that's both authentic and refined. Diners rave about the "perfectly cooked" salmon and the "to die for" sea bass, underlining the restaurant's commitment to quality and freshness. The seafood ceviche is praised for its "amazing flavors," making it a standout dish that shouldn't be missed. Located across from the historic Mission, Bloom not only provides a beautiful setting but also a culinary journey through expertly crafted fish dishes. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Bloom promises a delightful and memorable dining experience.
A photo of Harvest restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2470)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Laguna Beach
Booked 32 times today
Harvest in Laguna Beach is a shining example of exceptional Contemporary American cuisine, where farm-to-table freshness meets culinary artistry. Executive Chef Kyle St. John crafts each dish with ingredients harvested from the restaurant's own half-acre Harvest Farm, making every bite a testament to quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "incredibly fresh options" and "beautiful presentation" of the dishes, highlighting the chef's ability to infuse traditional American flavors with a contemporary twist. The stunning views of Aliso Canyon and the friendly, attentive service further elevate the dining experience, making Harvest a must-visit for anyone seeking remarkable Contemporary American fare.
A photo of Rosewood Social restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(180)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 24 times today
Rosewood Social, perched atop the historic Franciscan Plaza in San Juan Capistrano, is a culinary gem that seamlessly marries American cuisine with Asian influences, a delightful surprise for those seeking authentic American flavors with a twist. Diners rave about the "exceptional flavor" and "beautiful presentation" of dishes like the ribeye and wagyu dumplings, which are cooked to perfection. The rooftop setting offers breathtaking views, enhancing the dining experience. Guests praise the "impeccable service" and "relaxing atmosphere," making it an ideal spot for a memorable meal. Rosewood Social is a must-visit for anyone eager to explore inventive American cuisine in a stunning locale.
A photo of Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(351)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 17 times today
Rancho Capistrano Winery in San Juan Capistrano is a delightful gem that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike, winning the 2024 San Juan Capistrano Business of the Year! Renowned for its exceptional Winery cuisine, the restaurant offers over 40 distinct wines crafted from the finest grapes of premier regions like Paso Robles and Northern California. Guests rave about the "delicious wine selection" and the "perfectly paired signature dishes." The ambiance, described as "vibrant" and "relaxing," is enhanced by a beautiful outdoor patio, making it a perfect spot for any occasion. Rancho Capistrano Winery is truly an unforgettable dining 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
  • DeborahVIP
    Los Angeles •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    This was our first time dining here and we enjoyed our experience. This is a cute and quaint restaurant with friendly staff, located on a quiet street in Newport Beach. Parking is on the street or in a nearby lot. We made reservations but decided to sit at the bar. The bartender was eager and enthusiastic to answer our menu questions. The fried green tomatoes as an appetizer are delicious. For dinner we had the ribs, super delicious, the meat fell off the bone. We also enjoyed the grilled Jidori chicken wrap, it was yummy too. The southern flair menu is unique with many options. This place is now on our repeat list.
    More info
    Tupelo Junction CafePrice: Expensive• Southern• Newport Beach
    4.8
  • Lauren
    Orange County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Dinner was great! Service was amazing! We had a reservation so we were seated right away.
    More info
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - OrangePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Orange
    4.2
  • david
    Las Vegas •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Enjoyed Valentine's Day lunch. It appeared they were short on staff, but management stepped in than that. Everything was perfect.!
    More info
    Julep BreaPrice: Expensive• American• Brea / La Habra
    4.9
  • Maliyah
    Orange County •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    First impression wasn’t giving bc we were told to wait with a reservation but once we were seated ? AMAZING. Service was top notch, the manager came and checked on us our server was elite. When we told her we don’t eat pork she let us know the fries were fried in shared grease and helped us to find another option. The calamari was absolutely delicious and the biggest portion I’ve seen served for such a great price. We were skeptical about the cuisine being that we have roots in Louisiana but wow the flavor was amazing and the wine was very tasty but effective.
    More info
    Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & PatioPrice: Moderate• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Anaheim
    4.5
  • LarryVIP
    Orange County •70 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 9, 2025
    Since discovering their smoked Prime Rib dinner (Fri-Sun), our frequency of visits has increased only to learn that this favorite may soon be going away. Maybe if they could get the word out they could sell more. Table tents, e-mail, menu inserts, server upsell. Also, we were delighted to have been given a $20 bounce back coupon good on our next visit. Unfortunately, it seems the coupon had already expired Jan 31.
    More info
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - IrvinePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Irvine
    4.4
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