Best Southwest American Restaurants in Laguna Beach

91 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Larsen at Hotel Laguna restaurant

1. Larsen at Hotel Laguna

4.5

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 34 times today

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean in Laguna Beach, Larsen at Hotel Laguna epitomizes the best of Contemporary American cuisine. Diners rave about the "exceptional service, breathtaking views, and delectable dishes," making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. The restaurant's culinary prowess shines with dishes like the praised halibut fish and chips and creatively boozy craft cocktails. Each plate showcases fresh, local ingredients, capturing the essence of modern West Coast flavors. Patrons consistently highlight the "great value" and "top-notch food," with one noting it's "pricey but worth it occasionally," underscoring Larsen's commitment to quality and excellence in every aspect of dining. Whether enjoying a romantic sunset dinner or a lively brunch, Larsen at Hotel Laguna delivers a memorable experience that beautifully marries gourmet food with an idyllic setting.

2. Driftwood Kitchen

4.5

Awesome(1305)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 35 times today

Driftwood Kitchen in Laguna Beach truly encapsulates the essence of Californian cuisine with its splendid ocean-to-table offerings. Executive Chef Rainer Schwarz masterfully presents a diverse selection of seafood, ensuring each dish highlights the natural bounty of the Pacific. Diners rave about the "eclectic seafood dishes" and the "outstanding" ocean views, making every meal a delightful experience. Praised as "possibly the best on beach restaurant in central Laguna Beach," Driftwood Kitchen is celebrated for its "amazing sauce" on the Chilean Sea Bass and the perfectly cooked Ses Bass. With its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and a menu that satisfies both seafood lovers and landlubbers, Driftwood Kitchen stands out as a premier destination for authentic Californian dining.

3. 230 Forest Avenue

4.9

Exceptional(2843)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 17 times today

At the heart of Laguna Beach, 230 Forest Avenue stands out as a beacon of superb American cuisine. Executive Chef Marc Cohen crafts dishes that are both visually impressive and tantalizing to the taste buds, creating a unique dining experience that blends modern bistro vibes with a martini bar's energy. Patrons rave about the "flashy-to-the-eye" fusion appetizers and entrees, with the Prime Rib sandwich and Fish & Chips hailed as "as good as you'll find!" Frequent diners consistently praise the restaurant for its "always exceptional" food and service, noting menu favorites like the macadamia nut encrusted halibut with mango salsa. The combination of vibrant atmosphere, artistic presentation, and high-quality American dishes makes 230 Forest Avenue a must-visit culinary gem in Laguna Beach.

4. Lumberyard

4.7

Exceptional(3240)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 25 times today

Lumberyard in Laguna Beach is a beacon for steak aficionados, offering a dining experience that marries a rich historical ambiance with expertly crafted cuisine. Known for its eclectic and robust menu, the standout has definitely been the steak selections. Diners rave about the perfectly cooked steaks, with one guest highlighting, "Great spot! We had excellent service and my steak was perfect!" Lumberyard's commitment to quality is evident in every succulent bite, making it a favored destination before catching a show at the nearby Laguna Playhouse. The seamless blend of a cozy setting, attentive service, and exceptional steak dishes ensures a memorable meal every time. Whether it's the flank steak or another expertly grilled masterpiece, Lumberyard promises a steak that's not just a meal, but an experience.

5. Skyloft OC

4.5

Awesome(898)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 17 times today

Skyloft OC in Laguna Beach offers an authentic American dining experience that truly stands out. Known for its Specialty Smokehouse BBQ, the restaurant has received rave reviews for dishes like its tender pulled pork sandwiches and a BBQ platter that is both delicious and generous. Guests have highlighted the "outstanding BBQ sauce" and the "perfectly cooked" meats that exemplify the best of American cuisine. Additionally, Skyloft OC's rooftop dining provides an unrivaled view of the ocean, enhancing the dining experience with a beautiful backdrop. This perfect blend of flavor and scenery makes Skyloft OC a must-visit for anyone craving genuine American dishes in a spectacular setting.

6. Bodega Laguna

4.3

Awesome(70)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 10 times today

Dive into the vibrant flavors of the sea at Bodega Laguna, a gem nestled in the heart of Laguna Beach renowned for its exceptional seafood. This restaurant showcases a delightful fusion of Mexican cuisine with a special emphasis on mariscos (seafood), crafted under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Angel Velazquez. Patrons rave about the freshness and quality, with reviews highlighting dishes like the "Halibut Ceviche" and "Seafood Nachos" as absolute must-tries. The atmosphere is described as "chill" and "inviting," perfect for enjoying standout seafood creations. As one satisfied diner put it, "The fish is all wild caught and super fresh," ensuring every bite is a testament to the authentic and high-quality seafood offerings at Bodega Laguna. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this spot is a culinary beacon for seafood lovers in Laguna Beach.

A photo of The Greeter's Corner Restaurant restaurant

7. The Greeter's Corner Restaurant

3.0

Good(1)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Our restaurant takes its name from the famed Greeter, Eiler Larsen and his former use of the corner by the entrance to our restaurant for the greeting passers-by. Greeter’s Corner stands on the threshold of Laguna Beach, a few feet away from Main Beach, the Pacific Ocean, Forest Ave., and Eiler’s foot-prints. We are located in the Isch Building, a 5-arched, white stucco building, which has its roots firmly in Laguna history.

A photo of Javier's Crystal Cove restaurant

8. Javier's Crystal Cove

4.7

Exceptional(174)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Newport Beach

Booked 296 times today

At Javier's Crystal Cove, nestled in the picturesque Newport Beach, California, seafood enthusiasts can savor the authentic and exquisitely prepared dishes that make dining here a truly memorable experience. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its selection of fresh seafood, from the Maine lobster enchiladas to the trio of enchiladas Del Mar featuring shrimp, crab, and lobster, all bursting with flavor. Guests rave about the "amazing flavor and huge scallops" in the aguachile and the "perfectly cooked" Filete Ladrillo. The ocean views and contemporary atmosphere enhance every meal, making Javier's not just a meal but a destination. With glowing reviews praising both the ambiance and the culinary creations, Javier's stands out as a must-visit for seafood lovers in Newport Beach.

A photo of Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook restaurant

9. Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook

4.8

Exceptional(1735)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 48 times today

At Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook in Laguna Beach, the essence of a true Steakhouse shines through with their exceptional steaks and meticulous service. Patrons rave about the "excellent ambiance" and the "perfectly cooked" meats, with one guest highlighting that even a "slightly overcooked" filet mignon was "still good" due to its superior quality and tenderness. This gem sets the bar high with its commitment to "quality and value," ensuring every dish from the aged ribeye to the innovative sides meets the highest standards. The picturesque ocean views and "wonderful service" complement the dining experience, making Sapphire a must-visit destination for Steakhouse enthusiasts looking for authenticity and excellence by the beautiful shores of Laguna Beach.

A photo of Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort restaurant

10. Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort

4.7

Exceptional(4387)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 56 times today

Nestled along the picturesque Southern California coastline in Laguna Beach, Splashes offers an exceptional dining experience that celebrates innovative coastal cuisine. Helmed by renowned Chef Ron Fougeray, the menu blends fresh, local ingredients with creative culinary techniques, delivering vibrant dishes that capture the essence of coastal California. Sommelier-selected wines from the restaurant's award-winning wine program enhance the dining experience with perfect harmony. Indulge in modern elegance in a newly renovated dining room, where the soothing sights and sounds of the ocean create a serene atmosphere. Guests will enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific as they savor contemporary coastal flavors, making every meal a memorable occasion. The team at Splashes invites guests to celebrating the beauty of coastal living with an unforgettable dining experience that reflects the spirit of Laguna Beach.

‘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

P
Priya
Orange County •3 reviews
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
It was our first time, and we enjoyed our experience. We tried the nachos, which were great, loaded with cheese and toppings, as well as a 3-item combo (2 cheese enchiladas and 1 potato taco). The enchiladas and rice were great; the potato filling in the taco and the beans were slightly under seasoned. Service was prompt and attentive (we went on a Saturday, at 5:30). Ambience is nice and we would return again.
More info
Blind Coyote CantinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Yorba Linda
•
4.4
V
Viviana
Orange County •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Delicious food and great music! We had a great time as always.
More info
Cha Cha's Latin KitchenPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Brea / La Habra
•
4.7
D
Donna
Las Vegas •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on 13 Dec 2024
Friends Christmas exchange. Great service… great Margaritas. And great chili verde sauce
More info
Guadalajara Mexican GrillPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Temecula
•
4.8

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Laguna Beach

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91 restaurants available nearby

1. Larsen at Hotel Laguna

2. Driftwood Kitchen

3. 230 Forest Avenue

4. Lumberyard

5. Skyloft OC

6. Bodega Laguna

7. The Greeter's Corner Restaurant

8. Javier's Crystal Cove

9. Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook

10. Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort

See what locals rave about

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