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Best Californian Restaurants in Lake Forest

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23 restaurants available nearby

A photo of CUCINA enoteca - Irvine restaurant
1. CUCINA enoteca - Irvine
4.6
Exceptional(2726)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Irvine
Booked 82 times today
CUCINA enoteca in Irvine is a gem for those seeking authentic Californian cuisine with a modern twist. Nestled in the vibrant Irvine Spectrum, this restaurant is celebrated for its use of fresh, local, organic, and sustainable ingredients, ensuring each dish supports local producers and delivers exceptional quality. Patrons rave about the diverse menu, with one guest exclaiming, "The Italian chopped salad and Chicken Milanese were amazing!" The ambiance blends contemporary with rustic, offering a dining experience that is both inviting and stylish. Whether you're indulging in their renowned pastas or savoring the perfectly cooked octopus, CUCINA enoteca promises a delightful culinary journey that highlights the best of Californian flavors.
A photo of OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo restaurant
2. OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo
4.8
Exceptional(1596)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 23 times today
Opah Restaurant & Bar in Town Center Aliso Viejo is renowned for serving the finest fresh fish in Orange County, making it a seafood lover's paradise. The expertly curated menu by celebrated Chef Marc A. Cohen features dishes that are both visually stunning and mouthwateringly delicious. Enthusiastic diners rave about their experiences, with one patron exclaiming, "The seafood soup was insanely good!" and another sharing, "The seared Ahi was so good and a very generous portion." Both locals and newcomers are consistently impressed, often highlighting the exceptional service and the quality of dishes like the Cioppino and Day Boat scallops. The ambiance, coupled with a diverse menu and signature martinis, ensures a delightful dining experience for all.
A photo of Pub Thirty-Two restaurant
3. Pub Thirty-Two
4.4
Awesome(421)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 5 times today
Located in the heart of Mission Viejo, California, Pub Thirty-Two has become a beacon for seafood lovers seeking quality and authenticity. The restaurant’s farm-to-fork philosophy ensures that every seafood dish, from their praised fish and chips to the exquisite seafood gumbo, is crafted from the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients. Patrons consistently rave about the flavorful and well-prepared dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The fish & chips are amazing and the seafood gumbo had large portions, great taste" and another noting the "killer sauce" on their bacon-wrapped shrimp. Pub Thirty-Two's commitment to a seasonal menu not only enhances the dining experience but also supports local agriculture, making each meal a testament to sustainable culinary excellence. Whether it's a lively evening or a cozy dinner, the combination of great food, attentive service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Pub Thirty-Two a must-visit for seafood aficionados.
A photo of 230 Forest Avenue restaurant
4. 230 Forest Avenue
4.9
Exceptional(2846)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 54 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.
A photo of Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove restaurant
5. Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
4.8
Exceptional(10455)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Newport Beach
Booked 66 times today
At the Beachcomber Cafe in Crystal Cove, Newport Beach, diners are not only treated to "world-class" oceanfront views but also to some of the finest seafood cuisine that has earned it a spot among the "Top 100 Restaurants" for 2023 by OpenTable. Guests rave about the "scrumptious brioche lobster rolls" and the "Chilean bass dinner" which are just highlights of a menu teeming with fresh, flavorful options. Whether it's enjoying a breakfast with "beignets as an appetizer" or a "wonderful late afternoon dinner," the consistently good food combined with the unbeatable beachside setting ensures every meal is memorable. The Beachcomber Cafe is a true gem for seafood lovers seeking an authentic and delightful dining experience by the sea.
A photo of Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens restaurant
6. Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens
4.8
Exceptional(11480)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Corona del Mar
Booked 195 times today
Nestled in the enchanting Corona del Mar within Rogers Gardens, Farmhouse offers a quintessentially American dining experience that celebrates the farm-to-fork philosophy. With its locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, each dish crafted by Chef Rich Mead embodies authenticity and culinary innovation. Guests rave about the "falling apart delicious" Corned Beef and the freshness of the farm-to-table salads, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The outdoor setting enhances the dining experience, making every meal feel special and intimate. Farmhouse is not just recommended for its food; it's the ambiance, described as "magical" and "beautiful," that truly captivates. This gem in Newport Beach is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine American dining experience coupled with scenic beauty.
A photo of Las Brisas restaurant
7. Las Brisas
4.3
Awesome(12142)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 131 times today
Las Brisas, a Laguna Beach icon, blends timeless charm with classic Southern California cuisine, offering fresh, chef-curated dishes and world-class hospitality. Start your day with our Weekday Breakfast or unwind during our Weekday Happy Hour with bites like Tuna Poke and a Las Brisas Margarita. On weekends, savor our luxurious 4-course Brunch while enjoying breathtaking ocean views. Whether dining in our elegant rooms or relaxing on the outdoor patio, Las Brisas provides a historic coastal setting perfect for any occasion.
A photo of Larsen at Hotel Laguna restaurant
8. Larsen at Hotel Laguna
4.5
Awesome(1526)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 58 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.
A photo of Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano restaurant
9. Mayfield- San Juan Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(419)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 39 times today
At Mayfield in San Juan Capistrano, the essence of Californian cuisine is celebrated with an innovative twist, integrating flavors from the Levant that elevate each dish. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality, with one customer exclaiming, "The food is so good every time. My partner and I are both Middle Eastern and love the flavor profiles and cuisine here!" This culinary gem artfully combines fresh, local ingredients typical of California with exotic spices and recipes from afar, creating a shared dining experience that's both delightful and unique. The glowing reviews underscore the exceptional service and atmosphere, making Mayfield a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier dining experience in California.
A photo of Harvest restaurant
10. Harvest
4.7
Exceptional(2428)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Laguna Beach
Booked 32 times today
Nestled in the picturesque backdrop of Aliso Canyon in Laguna Beach, Harvest epitomizes the essence of Farm-to-table cuisine with a unique Californian twist. Esteemed Executive Chef Kyle St. John crafts seasonal menus that highlight the freshest ingredients directly from the restaurant's own Harvest Farm, ensuring each dish bursts with local flavors and fresh simplicity. Diners consistently rave about the "amazing food and service in a beautiful setting," and praise the "wonderful staff." The restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality shines through in their "out of this world" short ribs and the highly recommended cinnamon bread and pasta. With its stunning views and innovative dishes, Harvest offers an authentic farm-to-table experience that is both memorable and deeply satisfying.
‘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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