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Best Californian Restaurants in Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita

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9 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Hannas Prime Steak restaurant
1. Hannas Prime Steak
4.9
Exceptional(3505)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 34 times today
Hanna's Prime Steak, nestled in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita, is a beacon of Californian cuisine excellence. Since its inception in 2005, it has earned a spot among the U.S. top 100 restaurants, a testament to its exceptional culinary offerings and service. Patrons continually praise the "symphony of flavors" found in dishes such as the dry-aged ribeye and the "heavenly" molten chocolate lava cake. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "elegant yet cozy," along with its "impeccable service," creates the perfect backdrop for a quintessential Californian dining experience. Regulars and newcomers alike laud Hanna's, calling it a "consistent" and "phenomenal" choice for anyone looking to savor the best of California's rich culinary heritage.
A photo of Pub Thirty-Two restaurant
2. Pub Thirty-Two
4.4
Awesome(421)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 6 times today
Located in the heart of Mission Viejo, California, Pub Thirty-Two has become a beacon for seafood lovers seeking quality and authenticity. The restaurant’s farm-to-fork philosophy ensures that every seafood dish, from their praised fish and chips to the exquisite seafood gumbo, is crafted from the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients. Patrons consistently rave about the flavorful and well-prepared dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The fish & chips are amazing and the seafood gumbo had large portions, great taste" and another noting the "killer sauce" on their bacon-wrapped shrimp. Pub Thirty-Two's commitment to a seasonal menu not only enhances the dining experience but also supports local agriculture, making each meal a testament to sustainable culinary excellence. Whether it's a lively evening or a cozy dinner, the combination of great food, attentive service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Pub Thirty-Two a must-visit for seafood aficionados.
A photo of Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano restaurant
3. Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(420)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 41 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 CUCINA enoteca - Irvine restaurant
4. CUCINA enoteca - Irvine
4.6
Exceptional(2726)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Irvine
Booked 81 times today
CUCINA enoteca in Irvine is a gem for those seeking authentic Californian cuisine with a modern twist. Nestled in the vibrant Irvine Spectrum, this restaurant is celebrated for its use of fresh, local, organic, and sustainable ingredients, ensuring each dish supports local producers and delivers exceptional quality. Patrons rave about the diverse menu, with one guest exclaiming, "The Italian chopped salad and Chicken Milanese were amazing!" The ambiance blends contemporary with rustic, offering a dining experience that is both inviting and stylish. Whether you're indulging in their renowned pastas or savoring the perfectly cooked octopus, CUCINA enoteca promises a delightful culinary journey that highlights the best of Californian flavors.
A photo of OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo restaurant
5. OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo
4.8
Exceptional(1596)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 17 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 O'Neill's Bar & Grill restaurant
6. O'Neill's Bar & Grill
4.9
Exceptional(1117)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 13 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 Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
7. Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(334)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 37 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 Rancho Capistrano Winery - Ladera Ranch restaurant
8. Rancho Capistrano Winery - Ladera Ranch
4.6
Exceptional(243)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Ladera Ranch
Booked 50 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.
A photo of Sundried Tomato American Bistro - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
9. Sundried Tomato American Bistro - San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(734)
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.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Kevin
    Orange County •30 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Came to Hannah's for my daughter's 16th birthday. It has become almost a family tradition to go on her birthday. Had an amazing meal. Our server was fantastic.Everything came out perfect.Can't wait to come again
    More info
    Hannas Prime SteakPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
    •
    4.9
  • Hanna
    Los Angeles •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food was great as usual. Shared the pate, which was very good. Plenty of pate, grilled whole grain bread, variety of fruits, pickled red onion, pickled green onion slices(first time having this-it was slightly sweet & tasty), & jam. For my entree,I ordered my usual Gorgonzola & Granny Smith apple with grilled chicken. MUCH better than my last visit. My only complaint last visit was the lone thin slice of apple. That’s correct. ONE slice of apple. Perhaps the kitchen supervisor was new(?). Anyway, the salad was great. My friend had the rare grilled tuna sandwich. VERY good. My last visit, my MIL had the same & was also very pleased with her choice. We will continue to be regular patrons. The food & service are great. The brief tour of the garden/nursery is a nice distraction from LA traffic & the hustle of city life.
    More info
    Farmhouse at Rogers GardensPrice: Expensive• American• Corona del Mar
    •
    4.8
  • Richard
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Dining at the Beachcomber is always an outstanding experience. The food is absolutely delicious from the clam chowder to the lobster roll or mahi mahi tacos to the beignets. All the staff are welcoming and friendly. They take the time to make sure everything is what you expected. Beyond that, you can’t find a better ambiance or view than on the beach in Crystal Cove. The Beachcomber is one of my absolute favorite places to dine in Orange County.
    More info
    Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal CovePrice: Moderate• Californian• Newport Beach
    •
    4.8
  • DeborahVIP
    Los Angeles •49 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    This was our second time eating lunch there. Service was friendly, efficient and timely. We had the fish taco special, the mussels in leek broth and the Parker house rolls. If you get nothing else, get the rolls! Crispy and buttery on the outside and doughy and soft inside. The fried fish in the tacos were crunchy and the sauce was flavorful and accompanied the fish well. The mussels were cooked just right - still soft and flavorful in a light, savory sauce. The butter cake was the epitome of decadence. Definitely recommend for lunch.
    More info
    230 Forest AvenuePrice: Moderate• Californian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.9
  • JosephVIP
    Central Kentucky •24 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 21 Nov 2024
    Local hangout. Great food. Small staff. Scotch Egg was perfect.
    More info
    Pub Thirty-TwoPrice: Moderate• Californian• Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
    •
    4.4

Discover best Californian restaurants in Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine in the scenic locales of Mission Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita in South Orange County. Renowned for its innovative and fresh culinary approach, the region offers a diverse array of dining experiences that cater to connoisseurs of fine food. From upscale steakhouses to charming farm-to-table bistros, each restaurant in this area highlights the local abundance and Californian flair in every dish. Diners can expect menus rich in locally-sourced ingredients, offering everything from expertly grilled meats to creatively prepared vegetables and seafood, embodying the farm-to-fork philosophy that is central to Californian cuisine. The dining scene in these parts of Orange County is vibrant and inviting, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true taste of California. With each establishment providing not just meals but memorable dining experiences, visitors are treated to excellent service, beautiful settings, and a commitment to culinary excellence that defines the Californian dining experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these restaurants offer a gateway to exploring the rich flavors and innovative cooking that make Californian cuisine truly unique.

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