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Best Historic Restaurants in Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita

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12 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse restaurant
1. Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse
4.5
Awesome(953)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 37 times today
Trabuco Oaks Steak House is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after a long day in the canyon or if you just want to get away from the hustle of the city crowds. The rustic BBQ restaurant gently reminds everyone as they walk in that casual is the norm here by displaying cut ties from the ceiling. Enjoy a steak like the top sirloin, New York strip or porterhouse cooked to perfection. Trabuco Oaks understands that not everyone wants steak, so it offers entrŽes like the mesquite grilled chicken, Italian spaghetti or an order of fish and fries.Finish off the meal at Trabuco Oaks with a delicious dessert such as a hot fudge sundae or the famous hot cherry Gizmo, which is a cherry filling wrapped in a flour tortilla that has been deep fried and topped with ice cream, hot cherry sauce and whipped cream.
A photo of The Tea House on Los Rios restaurant
2. The Tea House on Los Rios
4.7
Exceptional(3050)
Price: Expensive
• Afternoon Tea • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 60 times today
Set in a beautifully restored 1911 cottage complete with a wrap-around veranda and lush gardens, The Tea House on Los Rios offers Orange County's premier high tea experience. Known for our famous scones, delicious tea sandwiches, and loose-leaf teas, we also feature a full luncheon menu and a weekend brunch menu, complete with mimosas and Bloody Marys. Join us for an unforgettable experience on Historic Los Rios Street in San Juan Capistrano. Take the train and making a day of it!
A photo of El Adobe de Capistrano restaurant
3. El Adobe de Capistrano
4.7
Exceptional(1135)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 33 times today
Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine in a historic setting at El Adobe de Capistrano. This landmark features a wedding chapel, stained-glass windows and additional beautiful architectural details. Its kitchen has a mesquite-burning grill where chefs prepare deliciously flavored seafood and steak dishes. Soups, salads and appetizers are also on the menu, including tasty desserts.Owners Tony Moiso and Gilbert Aguirre have kept the atmosphere and traditions of the El Adobe de Capistrano going. This establishment still prepares the dishes that President Nixon and his wife enjoyed while visiting during his administration. It has a full bar that serves various drinks, a lounge area for socializing and a patio in the front. El Adobe de Capistrano offers private rooms for banquets and other events. The Palenque features a retracting roof, making it ideal for hosting an event under the night sky. It offers brunch and has a Happy Hour.
A photo of Rosewood Social restaurant
4. Rosewood Social
4.7
Exceptional(239)
Price: Expensive
• Southeast Asian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 23 times today
Located on the rooftop of the historic Franciscan Plaza in San Juan Capistrano, Rosewood Social combines the unique flavors of the traditional American steakhouse with soulful Southeast Asian cuisine. Enjoy delicious food with a signature cocktail or a glass of wine on a terrace overlooking Mission San Juan at sunset. Join us for a relaxing and truly memorable dining and drinking experience!
A photo of Ciao Pasta restaurant
5. Ciao Pasta
4.8
Exceptional(1328)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 35 times today
Ciao Pasta offers the most authentic flavors of southern Italy in a historic setting reminiscent of the old world. Located in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, we take pride in bringing the rich flavors and traditions of Italy right to your table. Our menu features a delightful array of dishes, from handmade pasta and artisanal pizzas to fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables, all crafted with the finest ingredients.At Ciao Pasta, we believe that great food is best enjoyed in good company. Our cozy atmosphere is perfect for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or casual nights out with friends. With a selection of carefully curated wines and house-made desserts, we invite you to indulge in the taste of Italy.Happy hour at Ciao Pasta includes discounted house wine and beer, where guests are free to indulge in the beverages as they share affordable appetizers and select entrees. Join us for a culinary journey that celebrates the passion and culture of Italian dining. Buon Appetito!
A photo of Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano restaurant
6. Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(483)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 19 times today
**We are walk in only for Brunch. Reservations & walk ins available for Dinner**Mayfield combines modern Californian cooking with flavors from the Levant region, an area spanning the Middle East, Mediterranean and North Africa. Made to be shared, our food is designed to be experienced and enjoyed together.Please include any humans, big or small, in your guest count so we can make sure we have enough space at the table for you all.
A photo of Bloom Restaurant + Bar restaurant
7. Bloom Restaurant + Bar
4.8
Exceptional(927)
Price: Moderate
• American • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 36 times today
Orange County-based restaurateur Russ Bendel and partners are bringing a sister restaurant to his thriving wine country concepts to the San Juan Capistrano dining scene.Bloom is an all-encompassing dining experience, featuring craft cocktails, an extensive wine list, and craft beer selections. Located directly across from the Mission of San Juan on the corner of Old Mission Road and Camino Capistrano. Check out our website for more information: www.BloomSanJuanCapistrano.comDon't forget to follow us on instagram to stay up to date about Bloom: BloomRestaurantAndBar
A photo of Tavern at the Mission restaurant
8. Tavern at the Mission
4.6
Exceptional(688)
Price: Expensive
• American • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 24 times today
Renowned Orange County restaurateur David Wilhelm, along with longtime partner Gregg Solomon, purchased this iconic location in the heart of charming downtown San Juan Capistrano overlooking the Jewel of the California missions. The menu features many of his signature classic comfort foods such as his Famous Buttermilk Fried Chicken, French 75's Onion Soup, and Whiskey Shrimp Dijon, featured at his Tavern House Kitchen+Bar in Newport Beach. Chef Wilhelm is a longtime South County resident, well known for the many concepts he has created over the years including Kachina, Sorrento Grille, French 75, Savannah Chophouse and Jimmy's Famous American Tavern. Tavern at the Mission has a large, tree covered, pet friendly patio with beautiful mission views. The interiors have been beautifully renovated with a chandelier lit dining room and a warm central fireplace. Our' Tumbleweed Bar' is designed as an homage to San Juan Capistrano's Equestrian and Vaqueros history.
A photo of The Station restaurant
9. The Station
4.4
Awesome(12)
Price: Moderate
• American • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 7 times today
The Station, San Juan Capistrano CAWelcome to The Station in San Juan Capistrano!Step Aboard a one-of-a- kind dining experience where history meets hospitality. Nestled in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, our restaurant, bar and live music venue invite you to dine inside a beautiful Train Car, sip craft cocktails, and enjoy live entertainment in a warm vibrant setting. Whether you're here for a delicious meal, a night of great music, or simply to unwind with friends. The Station is your destination for unforgettable moments. All aboard for great food, great drinks, and amazing vibes!
A photo of Wine Tasting at Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano restaurant
10. Wine Tasting at Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(5)
Price: Expensive
• Winery • San Juan Capistrano
Named Southern California's Best Winery by OC Register and Voted 2024 San Juan Capistrano Business of the Year!Savor the delights of our wine, chocolate, and cheese tastings every weekend at our award-winning enchanting downtown San Juan Capistrano venue, nestled between the historic train station and the renowned Mission San Juan Capistrano. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance and indulge in a delightful dining experience at our acclaimed restaurant afterward. With over 40 Best of San Juan Capistrano awards to our name, your culinary journey promises to be unforgettable.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • LindaVIP
    Orange County •77 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    El Adobe is our go-to so when my American born brother was visiting from New Zealand, his request was for good Mexican food. Needless to say there are several choices for "Fancy Mexican" but he was looking for good authentic Mexican food. We understood the assignment and brought him to El Adobe. He was not disappointed in the least. We all enjoyed our meals! We each ordered the 2 item combo plates. My husband ordered 2 chicken tacos and my brother and I both ordered a cheese enchilada and chili relleno. So good. Only suggestion is, even with new offerings added to their drink menu, their margaritas fall VERY short from hitting the mark. Too much syrup, not enough tequila, not served icy cold. They have a great full bar, but it would truly elevate this historic restaurant to top drawer if their bartenders were afforded a mixology class on the art of tequila! Personal opinion.
    More info
    El Adobe de CapistranoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• San Juan Capistrano
    •
    4.7
  • CharleneVIP
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Ciao Pasta is a favorite to bring out of town visitors to! Consistently great food and service! Love the outdoor patio with the backdrop of the historic SJC mission right across the street! Can’t beat it!
    More info
    Ciao PastaPrice: Moderate• Italian• San Juan Capistrano
    •
    4.8
  • Kristy
    Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    This a great place for a special occasion such as Mother’s Day, bridal shower, birthday, or just an outing with the girls. The place is beautiful and the experience is magical.
    More info
    The Tea House on Los RiosPrice: Expensive• Afternoon Tea• San Juan Capistrano
    •
    4.7
  • LisaVIP
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Exceeded expectations, will be back to enjoy outdoor bar and nice to know large parties may be accommodated inside, service stellar to boot!
    More info
    Rosewood SocialPrice: Expensive• Southeast Asian• San Juan Capistrano
    •
    4.7
  • Marla
    1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Excellent as always! Great food, great service and fun!
    More info
    Trabuco Oaks SteakhousePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
    •
    4.5

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