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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Laguna Beach

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58 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of 230 Forest Avenue restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2918)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 37 times today
230 Forest Avenue is a neighborhood gem in Laguna Beach. With its modern bistro and martini bar vibe, it's a favorite spot for locals. Reviewers rave about the consistently great food, excellent service, and laid-back atmosphere. The Executive Chef is even recognized as one of the top chefs in the OC. It's described as a place where the food is so stunning it competes with the artwork on the walls, creating a thoroughly satisfying 'artistic' experience.
A photo of Lumberyard restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3298)
Price: Moderate
• American • Laguna Beach
Booked 46 times today
In 1912, at the bend of Forest Avenue, 23 year old Joe Jahraus opened the Laguna Lumber Company, he and his father(cigar maker, first postmaster and real estate agent) built the beautiful French Normandy building that is here today. Prior to the lumberyard opening, building supplies needed to be dragged in by mule or floated in on the tides, and therefore, Laguna Beach had less than three hundred permanent residences. After the lumberyard opened, the area began to grow at unprecedented rates, transforming it from a tent town into a thriving city. Laguna Lumber operated for seventy three years, sixty two of them in this location and its' architecture, influenced by Joe's tour abroad in World War I, is one of the most significant influences on the town's aesthetic. Half timbers, mud walls and shingled roofs grace many of the downtown storefronts and homes throughout the city because of this landmark. Today, 384 Forest is home to Lumberyard - a contemporary American restaurant.
A photo of Brussels Bistro - Laguna Beach restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1328)
Price: Moderate
• Belgian • Laguna Beach
Booked 20 times today
Since 2004, Brussels Bistro has brought the best in Belgium flavors to the heart of Laguna Beach. Relax on the terrace with a premium Belgian beer or dine underground in our casual-urban setting. Offering Belgian cuisine with a French flair, our Executive Chef, Thomas Crijns has created a superb menu of authentic dishes ranging from Beef Bourguignon to Steamed Mussels. Complimenting our wide variety of imported Belgian beers are mouthwatering hors d’oeuvres including Cheese Croquettes and our world-famous Belgian Fries. Join us on Friday and Saturday nights when the Bistro transforms into one of the hottest nightclubs in town.
A photo of Alessa by Chef Pirozzi restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1619)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Laguna Beach
Booked 20 times today
Bustling pizzeria just steps from the beach that serves thin-crust pies & pasta amid a rustic dining room.NOTE: This is not affiliated with Cucina Alessa in Newport Beach or Huntington Beach.
A photo of Tango restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(115)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas / Small Plates • Laguna Beach
Booked 8 times today
Tango Laguna embarks on a culinary voyage blending global flavors with local dedication. Our menu boasts tapas, sandwiches, and main courses meticulously prepared with care and precision. Each dish, influenced by worldwide inspirations, is paired thoughtfully with wines and cocktails, complemented by bites enhancing the dining experience.Featuring premium meats, artisan cheeses, and fusion small plates sourced globally, our commitment to quality defines every meal, offering a unique culinary journey exclusive to Tango in Laguna Beach, CA.Join us for weekend brunch, a delightful twist on classic favorites paired with cocktails in a coastal ambiance. Wednesdays bring the International Wine Experience, presenting a curated wine selection paired with small plates celebrating diverse culinary traditions, transporting your palate worldwide from Laguna Beach.
A photo of Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4554)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 74 times today
Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort is a local gem, as described by one reviewer. Its location right on the ocean, paired with an excellent menu and top-notch service, makes it a favorite among locals. Reviewers rave about the delicious food, beautiful ambiance, and attentive service. The place has been described as luxurious, perfect for a special occasion, and even as a favorite spot for brunch. The restaurant's unique and creative twist on classic seafood dishes is noteworthy and worth a visit.
A photo of The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2119)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Laguna Beach
Booked 23 times today
Located in the oceanfront resort, Montage Laguna Beach, The Loft features stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean – the perfect backdrop for enjoying market-fresh, creative American cuisine with friendly, informed, and professional service. Innovative signature dishes reflect California regional cuisine with strong influences from the Americas; other favorites also include roasted meats and seafood.
A photo of Starfish Laguna Beach restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2323)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Asian • Laguna Beach
Booked 49 times today
Thank you for thinking of Starfish Laguna! Indoor & Patio Dining are available! Reservations are strongly encouraged, and available via phone at 949.715.9200.Lunch: Daily from 11a - 3pOpium Hour: Everyday 3p - 6p (dine-in only)Dinner: Daily from 3p - 9pWe offer our full menu for takeout and delivery, with delivery offered in partnership with Doordash or through our website. To place a pickup order, please call 949.715.8205. We look forward to seeing you soon!
A photo of Marché Moderne restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5623)
Price: Expensive
• French • Newport Beach
Booked 39 times today
Marché Moderne, located in Newport Beach, is a neighborhood gem, with many reviewers raving about its exceptional French cuisine. The restaurant's owners, Florent and Amelia Marneau, have crafted a menu that caters to a wide variety of tastes, from vegetarians to meat-eaters. With its oceanfront setting, stunning exhibition kitchen, and a cozy outdoor patio, it's an unparalleled dining experience. One reviewer even said, 'It's not a surprise that the couple sitting next to us had been coming back for 20+ years.'
A photo of Miki Sushi & Sake restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(86)
Price: Expensive
• Sushi • Laguna Beach
Booked 15 times today
Honoring Chef Miki Izumisawa, the female, award-winning sushi artist, originally trained by the one and only Nobu Matsuhisa. Miki was inspired by nature to create unique nigiri, cut rolls and hand rolls that blur the line between art and fusion sushi. Miki's recipes transform elements of the natural world with names such as Lava Flow, Moon and Sun, Feather in the Sky, and Prairie. Before her passing, Miki carefully coached outstanding female-only sushi chefs to execute her masterpieces. Her legacy continues in this romantic styled coastal, intimate sushi bar and cozy 18 window seats with views of Laguna's main beach. Owners Chris Olsen and Greg Washer are longtime locals who appreciate what Miki did for this community with an outstanding Japanese experience pushing the boundaries of tradition. Reservations recommended!

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Laguna Beach

Discover the charm of Laguna Beach's neighborhood gems with our curated list of local favorite eateries. These establishments are celebrated for their unique blend of excellent cuisine, warm ambiance, and top-tier service, making them true standouts in South Orange County. Each restaurant offers a distinctive dining experience, from seaside spots with breathtaking views to cozy bistros that showcase culinary creativity. The dining scene in Laguna Beach is diverse, offering everything from sophisticated seafood dishes to artisan pizzas and fine wines, ensuring a memorable meal for every palate. Whether you're seeking a special spot for a romantic evening or a casual hangout with friends, these neighborhood gems provide perfect settings with consistently high-quality food and a welcoming atmosphere. Join the locals in appreciating these culinary treasures that make dining in Laguna Beach truly special.

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