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Best Italian Restaurants in San Juan Capistrano

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17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Ciao Pasta restaurant
1. Ciao Pasta
4.8
Exceptional(1276)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 26 times today
Ciao Pasta, nestled in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, offers a vegetarian and vegan experience that is both authentic and delightful. Celebrated for its rich flavors and commitment to quality, the restaurant's menu is a testament to the vibrant traditions of Southern Italy. Guests rave about the "amazing food" that is consistently "delicious and fresh," making Ciao Pasta a standout destination for plant-based dining. The restaurant's cozy, inviting atmosphere is perfect for enjoying their extensive array of vegetarian and vegan dishes, all crafted with the finest ingredients. For those seeking a true taste of Italy, Ciao Pasta is a must-visit!
A photo of Truly Pizza restaurant
2. Truly Pizza
4.8
Exceptional(379)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 100 times today
Nestled in the heart of Dana Point's Lantern District, Truly Pizza redefines Contemporary Italian cuisine with its artisanal approach to pizza-making. This neighborhood gem offers a "warm and lovely patio" dining experience, enhanced by the "best pizza in Orange County," as raved by diners. The quality of ingredients is evident in every bite, from the thin, crispy crust to the outstanding cheese and sauce. Guests are treated to a vibrant atmosphere complemented by a rooftop wine experience. The service is consistently praised as "friendly and efficient," ensuring each visit feels like a special occasion. Truly Pizza is a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional Contemporary Italian dining.
A photo of Luciana's Ristorante restaurant
3. Luciana's Ristorante
4.6
Exceptional(3419)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 43 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 Jack's Restaurant/Bar restaurant
4. Jack's Restaurant/Bar
4.8
Exceptional(1079)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 19 times today
Jack's Restaurant/Bar in Dana Point is a gem for seafood lovers, offering a delightful variety of fresh and flavorful dishes. Renowned for its authentic Italian and seafood specialties, diners rave about the exquisite preparation and taste. One guest highlighted the "halibut which melted in our mouths," while another recommended the "sea bass" as a must-try. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with impeccable service, ensures a memorable dining experience. As one review puts it, Jack's is "consistently great in every aspect," making it a top choice for those seeking high-quality seafood in a cozy, family-friendly environment.
A photo of Stella's restaurant
5. Stella's
4.5
Awesome(1286)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 9 times today
Stella's in Dana Point is a culinary treasure for seafood enthusiasts, offering a taste of the Mediterranean with an Italian twist. Diners rave about the "unbelievable" seafood dishes, like the Lobster Ravioli and Cioppino, which are praised for their perfect balance of flavors. The fresh, high-quality ingredients ensure each bite is a delightful experience reminiscent of dining by the Mediterranean Sea. Guests appreciate the attentive service and inviting atmosphere, with live saxophone music adding to the charm. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night out, Stella's promises a seafood experience that will leave you craving more.
A photo of Luxe Restaurant and Bar restaurant
6. Luxe Restaurant and Bar
4.9
Exceptional(619)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 16 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 Casanova Ristorante restaurant
7. Casanova Ristorante
4.4
Awesome(22)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 7 times today
Casanova Ristorante, nestled in the heart of Dana Point's Monarch Beach, is a standout destination for seafood enthusiasts, offering a true taste of Venetian and North Italian culinary artistry. Known for its "outstanding" pesto pasta with scallops and "best vongole around," the restaurant consistently delivers top-tier, authentic seafood dishes that transport diners straight to the Italian coast. The ambiance complements the exquisite cuisine, with a classic trattoria feel that invites relaxation and enjoyment. Whether savoring calamari or indulging in shrimp arrabbiata, guests are treated to a memorable dining experience, making Casanova Ristorante a must-visit for seafood lovers.
A photo of Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar restaurant
8. Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar
4.7
Exceptional(70)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 9 times today
Nestled in the heart of Laguna Niguel, Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar is a gem of Contemporary Italian cuisine that delights locals and visitors alike. This family-owned restaurant is renowned for its "fantastic fresh Italian pasta dishes" and a menu that showcases the authenticity and creativity of Italian flavors. Patrons rave about the "delicious food, great service, good music and really fantastic ambiance" that Bricco offers. With homemade pasta and a variety of scrumptious dishes, including their "outstanding" Chicago style vegetarian pizza and decadent butter cake, every meal feels like a taste of Italy. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday, further enhancing this charming dining experience.
A photo of 501 Restaurant and Bar restaurant
9. 501 Restaurant and Bar
4.3
Awesome(9)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • San Clemente
Nestled in the heart of San Clemente, 501 Restaurant and Bar is where locals come to savor the best of our coastal cuisine throughout the day. From indulgent breakfast classics to innovative lunch creations and elegant dinner dishes, each plate is thoughtfully crafted by Chef Aron and his team.Start your culinary journey with our renowned crab cakes or crispy fried brussels sprouts, perfect for sharing as you immerse yourself in the laid-back ambiance of San Clemente. Indulge in our tender boneless short ribs or our signature Scampi Bagatta, a delightful twist on a classic favorite, or opt for our fresh and flavorful Fish Tacos, a true taste of the coast. Our Shore Smash Burger is a must-try, perfectly paired with stunning views and the relaxed vibes of San Clemente living.We take pride in hosting and catering your special events, bringing the flavors of San Clemente to your celebrations, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or intimate gathering with frien
A photo of Buona Forchetta San Clemente restaurant
10. Buona Forchetta San Clemente
4.8
Exceptional(260)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Clemente
Booked 51 times today
Experience a piece of the Buona Forchetta San Diego heritage through authentic Italian recipes that have been handed down through generations. Today, there are five locations around San Diego, with our sixth opening this month in San Clemente, CA. Buona Forchetta’s Italian wood-fired pizzas—with the perfectly soft-yet-crispy crusts—continue to garner awards including San Diego Magazine Best Pizza 2023 Critic’s Choice, Gambero Rosso Best Pizzeria, Gayot Best Italian Restaurant San Diego, OpenTable Diner’s Choice and more. Our handmade pasta dishes bursting with rich flavors, fresh seafood specialities and decadent desserts will all leave you craving more. All Buona Forchetta locations also offer gluten-free Italian options and rotating specials.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MollieR
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Such delicious pizza (we ordered 3 different kinds)! They were all so good! The design was really lovely, the service was great. We will definitely go again!
    More info
    Truly PizzaPrice: Moderate• Pizzeria• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.8
  • Bill
    Los Angeles •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    It is no surprise that Jack's is still going strong after all these years...attentive service, good food and ambience, and Jack is quite the statesman and orchestrator of it all.
    More info
    Jack's Restaurant/BarPrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.8
  • Stefan
    San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    You can’t beat Luciano’s for atmosphere, and when you can find a good Italian restaurant with veal parmigiana on the menu, you go for it! It’s what we might have called back in New Jersey “a classy joint!”
    More info
    Luciana's RistorantePrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.6
  • Jeffrey
    New Jersey •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We found our new "home table" a high top in the small bar area. It was perfect, the greeting, the service and the two specials. We had a wonderful evening and the bar was quiet so we could talk and enjoy ourselves.
    More info
    Ciao PastaPrice: Moderate• Italian• San Juan Capistrano
    •
    4.8
  • Marie
    Orange County •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 3 Jan 2025
    We went to Stella's last night for Happy Hour. It's a beautiful restaurant but not fussy. Happy Hour is served only at the bar or at 3 tall tables so seating is sort of limited for the Happy Hour but we sat at one of the taller tables and it was great. The HH menu is extensive. There are about 23 items listed for whatever mood you might be in--seafood, salad, pastas, etc. We ordered the carpaccio, penne Bolognese, crab cakes and the scallops. Everything was delicious! Our server was friendly and knowledgeable. We all ordered drinks and they, too, were perfectly crafted. We were very impressed and will definitely be back.
    More info
    Stella'sPrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.5

Discover best Italian restaurants in San Juan Capistrano

Discover the charm of Italian dining in San Juan Capistrano, South Orange County with a selection of restaurants that capture the essence of Italian cuisine. These establishments pride themselves on using authentic recipes and fresh ingredients, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of Italy. From wood-fired pizzas to exquisite pasta dishes like Lobster Ravioli and Pappardelle si porcini e truffle, each menu offers a taste of Italy right in the heart of Orange County. Diners can expect a delightful dining experience with a combination of welcoming ambiance, excellent service, and a selection of wines that perfectly complement the flavors of the dishes. The dining scene in San Juan Capistrano is vibrant and diverse, providing locals and visitors alike with a true taste of Italian gastronomy. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner spot or a cozy place for a family meal, these Italian restaurants in San Juan Capistrano offer a genuine slice of Italy with every dish served.

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