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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

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45 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Luxe Restaurant and Bar restaurant
1. Luxe Restaurant and Bar
4.9
Exceptional(620)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 2 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
2. Chart House Restaurant - Dana Point
4.4
Awesome(6400)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 50 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
3. Coastal Kitchen
4.8
Exceptional(4938)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 85 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. CRAFT HOUSE Dana Point
4.8
Exceptional(1503)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 6 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
5. Salt Creek Grille Orange County
4.2
Awesome(350)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 38 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
6. The Tea House on Los Rios
4.8
Exceptional(2771)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 68 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
7. Bloom Restaurant + Bar
4.8
Exceptional(837)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 30 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
8. Harvest
4.7
Exceptional(2446)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • Laguna Beach
Booked 41 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 Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
9. Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(345)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 10 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.
A photo of The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach restaurant
10. The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach
4.7
Exceptional(2071)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Laguna Beach
Booked 22 times today
Located in the picturesque Montage Laguna Beach, The Loft offers an exceptional American dining experience with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Celebrated for its creative take on American cuisine, the restaurant brilliantly combines California regional influences with classic American flavors. Guests rave about the "coffee crusted New York strip," describing it as "perfection" and a "unique and tantalizing experience." The service at The Loft is consistently praised as "stellar," with attentive staff making every visit memorable. Whether it's a special celebration or a casual outing, The Loft promises an unforgettable dining adventure that captures the essence of authentic American cuisine.
‘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.

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