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Best Italian Restaurants in Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel

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28 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mangia Bene Cucina restaurant
1. Mangia Bene Cucina
4.7
Exceptional(671)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 12 times today
Located in the scenic area of Laguna Niguel, CA, Mangia Bene Cucina has established itself as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine since 1991. Guests rave about the "fabulous dinners" and the "best garlic bread ever," highlighting the authenticity and quality of the dishes served. Reviewers consistently mention the "friendly service" and the welcoming atmosphere, making every dining experience memorable. One patron exclaimed, "Everything was delicious and plentiful," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to both quality and quantity. With its vibrant and festive ambiance, Mangia Bene Cucina stands out as a culinary gem where tradition meets modern flair, ensuring that every visit is "always amazing." Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, this restaurant promises a top-tier Italian dining experience.
A photo of Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar restaurant
2. Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar
4.8
Exceptional(65)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 6 times today
Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar, nestled in the vibrant neighborhoods of Aliso Viejo and Laguna Niguel, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine that resonates with authenticity and culinary excellence. Patrons rave about the homemade pasta and pizzas, exclaiming, "The pasta is the best I've ever had" and the pizza "can't be beat." The dedication to quality is evident as everything on the menu is made fresh, capturing the essence of true Italian flavors in every dish. The restaurant offers a unique charm with its modern yet vintage vibe, enhanced by live music on weekends. As one diner put it, "This place is special," not just for its food but for the overall dining experience that makes every visitor feel like part of the family. Whether it's the warmly lit patio or the cozy indoor seating, Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar ensures a memorable meal that keeps guests returning.
A photo of Alessa by Chef Pirozzi restaurant
3. Alessa by Chef Pirozzi
4.5
Awesome(1567)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Laguna Beach
Booked 21 times today
Alessa by Chef Pirozzi in Laguna Beach is a gem for those seeking authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Located just steps from the beach, the bustling pizzeria is renowned for its thin-crust pizzas and exquisite pasta dishes, such as the highly praised Linguine Marechiaro and the Caccio e Pepe, which one reviewer recalls as "spectacular" and reminiscent of their travels in Italy. Customers consistently rave about the "delicious and real ingredients" and the variety that pleases both adults and children alike. With its rustic dining ambiance and attentive service, Alessa stands out as a top choice for Italian dining in Orange County. Whether it's a family dinner or a romantic date night, Alessa by Chef Pirozzi promises a delightful dining experience with dishes that transport you straight to Italy.
A photo of Ciao Pasta restaurant
4. Ciao Pasta
4.8
Exceptional(1270)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 21 times today
Ciao Pasta, nestled in the historic heart of San Juan Capistrano, California, stands out as a gem for vegetarian and vegan cuisine lovers seeking authentic Southern Italian flavors. With a commitment to using the finest quality ingredients, the restaurant offers a range of exquisite vegetarian options that are crafted following old family recipes. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one guest mentioning, "We had the short rib pasta and the house Ciao pasta, and they were delicious!" The combination of a welcoming atmosphere and consistently praised dishes makes Ciao Pasta a must-visit for those who cherish plant-based Italian fare. The glowing reviews and the owner's deep roots in Italian culinary traditions underscore a dining experience that is both genuine and delightful.
A photo of Rumari restaurant
5. Rumari
4.7
Exceptional(206)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Laguna Beach
Booked 14 times today
Nestled in the heart of Laguna Beach, Rumari offers a captivating blend of Greek cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, making it a local gem. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the Greek dishes, with one reviewer exclaiming, "Wonderful food. We had the Souvlakia (beef) and the Greek Lamb Chops. They were fabulous." The restaurant consistently delivers not just great food but also an engaging atmosphere and attentive service. Many visitors note that the Greek influences on the menu stand out, providing a delightful culinary experience. As one satisfied diner mentioned, "We were curious as to how they would mix Italian and Greek cuisine, and we were pleasantly surprised." This makes Rumari a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Greek flavors combined with the charm of Laguna Beach.
A photo of Salerno by Chef Pirozzi restaurant
6. Salerno by Chef Pirozzi
4.5
Awesome(945)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Laguna Beach
Booked 2 times today
Salerno by Chef Pirozzi serves authentic italian cuisine, owned and operated by Certified Italian Chef Alessandro Pirozzi. It's menu consists of freshly homemade pastas such as Fettucini Alfredo, Black Ink Spaghetti & Clams, and Mamma's Meatballs, as well as authentic piattis Veal Parmigiana and Chilean Seabass.Salerno by Chef Pirozzi serves a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages to complement each meal. This includes a wide selection of beers, wines, and now proudly offering a full bar! It is open during the dinner hour daily except Monday.
A photo of Villa Roma Restaurant restaurant
7. Villa Roma Restaurant
4.5
Awesome(177)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 2 times today
Villa Roma Restaurant in Laguna Hills stands out as a premier Steakhouse offering a delightful fusion of Argentine and Italian flavors. Diners rave about the authenticity and quality of the steaks, with glowing reviews highlighting the "perfectly cooked" meats and "real Argentine flavors." One patron celebrated the Mixto, which includes an array of meats like sweetbread and blood sausage, calling the experience "wonderful." The cozy, unpretentious setting complements the high-quality food, making Villa Roma a favorite for both locals and visitors. Whether it's the Argentinian steak or the Italian-inspired dishes, every meal here promises a five-star experience, making it a must-visit for steak lovers.
A photo of Truly Pizza restaurant
8. Truly Pizza
4.8
Exceptional(362)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 56 times today
Truly Pizza, nestled in the vibrant Lantern District of Dana Point, is celebrated for its artisanal pizzas that fuse traditional techniques with innovative flavors. Patrons rave about the "light, chewy, fluffy" crust and the unique toppings that make each pizza a culinary delight. The restaurant's outdoor setting, complete with cozy blankets and heaters, adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions. As one reviewer exclaimed, it's the "best pizza in Orange County," highlighting standout choices like the La Foresta and Smoky Vodka pizzas. The warm, inviting ambiance and attentive service at Truly Pizza ensure an unforgettable dining experience, consistently praised as "fabulous" by satisfied guests.
A photo of Luciana's Ristorante restaurant
9. Luciana's Ristorante
4.6
Exceptional(3409)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 21 times today
Located in a historical home in the resort town of Dana Point, California, Luciana's Ristorante has been serving the Orange County community for over 40 years. The decor is reminiscent of a cozy European-style inn, establishing it as one of Orange County's most romantic restaurants. Awarded the Southern California Restaurant Writers gold medal since 1996, three stars from the California Restaurant Writers, Zagat's Survey "America’s 1,000 Top Italian Restaurants 2008" and an Award of Excellence for its wine list, Luciana's has been setting the standard for classic as well as innovative Italian cuisine. Whether visiting our cozy restaurant or our Bed and Breakfast and Cooking School in Tuscany, Italy, you are sure to experience the best and freshest combination of the old and new worlds.
A photo of Modo Mio - Newport Coast restaurant
10. Modo Mio - Newport Coast
4.7
Exceptional(3018)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Newport Beach
Booked 42 times today
Dining at Modo Mio is a delight, thanks to the efforts of owners Phil and Linda Crowley and their talented staff. From the moment diners are greeted, as they enter the Newport Coast, California location, they are enveloped into a haven of warmth and hospitality. The Modo Hospitality Group is dedicated to creating and serving superb Northern Italian specialties, to their devoted clientele, in an ambiance that is both inviting and relaxing. You truly are family at Modo Mio.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • KirkVIP
    Los Angeles •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Mangia Bene is always excellent! Been coming 2x/month at least for thirty years: business meals, family celebrations, meetings with friends, and solo meals. Chris Karas is a wonderful owner, and all the managers are responsive and professional.
    More info
    Mangia Bene CucinaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
    •
    4.7
  • Rashed
    Washington, D.C. Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent food and service. Karen was a wonderful server and made the evening that much better.
    More info
    Bricco Cucina and Wine BarPrice: Moderate• Italian• Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
    •
    4.8
  • Mary
    Greater Boston •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Very nice dinner in a comfortable quaint atmosphere. The birthday singers were excellent!! I like dining at and supporting these local restaurants that have been around for years.
    More info
    RumariPrice: Expensive• Italian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.7
  • kathleenVIP
    California Central Coast •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    6 oh my girlfriend‘s and had lunch at Ciao Pasta yesterday before going to the Capistrano Nights at the Mission. We selected this restaurant because we had gone last year and everything about it was outstanding. They seated on the patio immediately although we were early for our reservation. Every member of the weight staff greeted us provided a friendly atmosphere made sure we were all comfortable and felt welcomed. We had a lasagna, spaghetti and a salmon salad. The bread is amazing melts in your mouth and truly delicious. I was in Italy recently and I can tell you this experience at Ciao Pasta was as authentic, delicious and truly satisfying as if we were dining on a Piazza anywhere in Italy. Bravo, Ciao Pasta, we will return soon.
    More info
    Ciao PastaPrice: Moderate• Italian• San Juan Capistrano
    •
    4.8
  • Matt
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Date night - dinner & theatre 12/17/24 Our first time at Alessa My wife and I had a terrific dinner at Alessa tonight. We look forward to our next dinner & theatre night out, but maybe look forward to dinner even more. Last but not least, Luis was wonderful!
    More info
    Alessa by Chef PirozziPrice: Moderate• Italian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.5

Discover best Italian restaurants in Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel

Discover the charm of Italian dining in South Orange County, particularly in the Aliso Viejo and Laguna Niguel areas, where a diverse array of Italian restaurants awaits your reservation. These establishments cater to a variety of tastes, offering everything from traditional Italian dishes to innovative culinary twists that highlight fresh, local ingredients. Patrons can expect a delightful dining experience that often includes handcrafted pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a selection of fine wines that perfectly complement the rich flavors of Italy. Each restaurant in this region is committed to providing an authentic Italian atmosphere, ensuring that every meal is not just eaten but celebrated. The dining scene here is vibrant and well-regarded, often praised for its quality service and inviting ambiance, making it a prime destination for both locals and visitors looking to savor exceptional Italian cuisine. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual meet-up with friends, the Italian restaurants in Aliso Viejo and Laguna Niguel offer a warm welcome and a genuine taste of Italy. This culinary journey will not only satisfy your palate but also create memorable dining experiences that keep you coming back for more.

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