Best Southwest American Restaurants in Laguna Beach

Price

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Regions

North Orange CountySouth Orange County

Neighborhoods

Aliso Viejo / Laguna NiguelCorona del MarCosta MesaDana Point / Monarch BeachIrvineLaguna Beach

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

93 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Nick's Laguna Beach restaurant

1. Nick's Laguna Beach

4.9

Exceptional(3323)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 121 times today

Nick's Laguna Beach is a shining beacon of Comfort Food excellence, perfectly blending the upscale with the casual to create an unforgettable dining experience. Renowned for its "amazingly comfortable tables" and "wonderfully prepared food," Nick's consistently delivers top-notch quality in every dish. Guests rave about their "fantastic setting" and "warm, professional staff," ensuring every visit is memorable. Highlights like the melt-in-your-mouth meatloaf and irresistible butter cake showcase the authentic flavors and skilled craftsmanship that define their menu. Whether you're a local or visiting, Nick's promises a "great experience as usual," making it a must-visit spot in Laguna Beach.

A photo of South of Nick's - Laguna Beach restaurant

2. South of Nick's - Laguna Beach

4.9

Exceptional(2020)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 98 times today

An essential stop in Orange County for Southern California Mexican Cuisine.South of Nick's Mexican Kitchen Bar features Classic Mexican favorites, prime steaks and seafood with a So Cal twist. Fine Tequilas & Margaritas Our food and drink meets the highest standards of quality, freshness and seasonality and combines both modern-creative and traditional styles of cooking.

A photo of Larsen at Hotel Laguna restaurant

3. Larsen at Hotel Laguna

4.6

Exceptional(1643)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 107 times today

Larsen at Hotel Laguna is a seafood lover's paradise nestled in the heart of Laguna Beach, where the ocean's bounty meets culinary artistry. With its prime beachfront location, this restaurant offers not just a meal but an experience. Diners rave about the "wonderful lobster roll" and the perfectly cooked "halibut-based fish and chips." The swordfish sandwich is another standout, praised for its "delicious and generous" portion. The freshness and local sourcing of ingredients ensure each dish captures the essence of the sea. Whether seated inside or on the patio with "amazing ocean views," Larsen promises an unforgettable seafood dining experience.

4. Driftwood Kitchen

4.6

Exceptional(1431)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 45 times today

Driftwood Kitchen in Laguna Beach offers an exceptional American dining experience that beautifully combines "fantastic seafood" with a breathtaking beachfront view. The establishment, praised for its "excellent service" and "delicious food," serves up a delightful variety of ocean-to-table dishes, including freshly shucked oysters and expertly prepared sea bass. The ambiance is described as "relaxing and refined," providing the perfect backdrop for enjoying the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Guests rave about the "attentive staff" and commend the restaurant for making special occasions truly memorable. Driftwood Kitchen's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a standout destination for American cuisine lovers.

5. 230 Forest Avenue

4.8

Exceptional(2914)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 33 times today

Nestled in the heart of Laguna Beach, 230 Forest Avenue is a beacon of exceptional American cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and culinary artistry. Executive Chef Marc Cohen, renowned as one of The OC's top chefs, crafts dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious, making each meal a feast for the eyes and the palate. Guests rave about the "amazing food" and "top-notch service," with favorites like the "perfectly cooked halibut" and "fluffy, flakey sea bass." This iconic restaurant, with its modern bistro vibe and art gallery charm, promises an unforgettable dining experience that's quintessentially American and undeniably Laguna.

6. Lumberyard

4.7

Exceptional(3294)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 36 times today

Nestled in the heart of Laguna Beach, Lumberyard offers an exceptional Seafood experience that entices both locals and visitors alike. Known for its "impeccably prepared" halibut and "spectacular" tinned razor clams, the restaurant has rightfully gained a reputation for top-tier Seafood. Diners rave about the "best Clam Chowder" they've ever tasted, and the grilled fish sandwiches and fish tacos are highly praised for their fresh flavors. With a menu that showcases a variety of seafood delights, Lumberyard commits to quality and authenticity, ensuring every dish is a delightful culinary journey. Experience the vibrant atmosphere, attentive service, and unforgettable Seafood at Lumberyard!

A photo of The Greeter's Corner Restaurant restaurant

7. The Greeter's Corner Restaurant

3.7

Very Good(2)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 2 times today

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 Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook restaurant

8. Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook

4.7

Exceptional(1887)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 91 times today

Sapphire, Cellar. Craft. Cook in Laguna Beach is a gem for seafood lovers, known for its quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "incredibly fresh seafood" that consistently delights the palate, showcasing the expertise and passion of the culinary team. Guests are often wowed by the creative takes on fresh oysters and the perfectly cooked salmon, which are described as "savory and satisfying." The ambiance complements the dining experience, with outdoor seating offering picturesque ocean views that enhance the enjoyment of each dish. With attentive service and a commitment to excellence, Sapphire is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.

A photo of Javier's Crystal Cove restaurant

9. Javier's Crystal Cove

4.6

Exceptional(637)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Newport Beach

Booked 341 times today

Javier's Crystal Cove is a seafood lover's paradise nestled in the beautiful Newport Beach. Known for its "excellent selection of fresh seafood," this restaurant offers a truly authentic dining experience. Guests rave about the "crab and shrimp enchiladas" and the "super tasty crab quesadilla," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to high-quality ingredients and vibrant flavors. The ocean views create a breathtaking backdrop, enhancing the dining experience. The staff at Javier’s Crystal Cove are praised for their professionalism and attentiveness, ensuring every visit is memorable. With its stunning ambiance and delicious seafood, Javier’s is a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts.

A photo of Selanne Steak Tavern restaurant

10. Selanne Steak Tavern

4.8

Exceptional(2880)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Laguna Beach

Booked 26 times today

Selanne Steak Tavern in Laguna Beach offers an unparalleled American dining experience that stands out for its impeccable quality and authenticity. Nestled in a charming historical home, this upscale casual restaurant delivers what one reviewer called "hands down the best steak house ever," surpassing even renowned names like Ruth Chris and Mastro’s. The menu is a testament to American culinary excellence, featuring the finest steaks, burgers, and small plates, all complemented by an extensive world-class wine list. Guests rave about the "amazing food" and "ultra attentive wait staff," ensuring every visit is memorable. Whether for a special celebration or a delightful evening, Selanne Steak Tavern promises a quintessential American dining adventure.

‘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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