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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Laguna Beach

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21 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Larsen at Hotel Laguna restaurant
1. Larsen at Hotel Laguna
4.5
Awesome(1520)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Laguna Beach
Booked 44 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 Lumberyard restaurant
2. Lumberyard
4.7
Exceptional(3240)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Laguna Beach
Booked 20 times today
Lumberyard in Laguna Beach is a beacon for steak aficionados, offering a dining experience that marries a rich historical ambiance with expertly crafted cuisine. Known for its eclectic and robust menu, the standout has definitely been the steak selections. Diners rave about the perfectly cooked steaks, with one guest highlighting, "Great spot! We had excellent service and my steak was perfect!" Lumberyard's commitment to quality is evident in every succulent bite, making it a favored destination before catching a show at the nearby Laguna Playhouse. The seamless blend of a cozy setting, attentive service, and exceptional steak dishes ensures a memorable meal every time. Whether it's the flank steak or another expertly grilled masterpiece, Lumberyard promises a steak that's not just a meal, but an experience.
A photo of The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach restaurant
3. The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach
4.7
Exceptional(2055)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Laguna Beach
Booked 33 times today
At The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach, contemporary American cuisine reaches new heights, delivering not only on flavor but also on an extraordinary dining experience. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Laguna Beach, this restaurant is celebrated for its innovative dishes that encapsulate the essence of California and the broader American culinary landscape. Guests rave about the "colorful and tasty-yumi food" and the "coffee crusted steak and the scallops," highlighting the creative twists on classic favorites. The Loft's setting, with its stunning ocean views, complements its culinary prowess, making every meal a visual and palatable feast. With accolades like "one of the best dining experiences we have ever had," it's clear that The Loft is a hallmark of fine contemporary American dining. Whether it's the exceptional service, the ambiance, or the exquisite food, The Loft promises a memorable gastronomic journey that's both authentic and innovative.
A photo of The Drake in Laguna restaurant
4. The Drake in Laguna
4.9
Exceptional(1467)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Laguna Beach
Booked 13 times today
At The Drake in Laguna Beach, seafood lovers are in for a sublime dining experience that combines freshness with culinary flair. Known for its "exquisite" and "perfectly cooked" seafood dishes, such as the praised Halibut and Shrimp Curry, The Drake ensures every plate is a testament to the quality and authenticity of its ingredients. Guests rave about the "tender tuna tartare" and the "best salmon I have ever had," highlighting the skilled preparation and flavorful execution. Pairing their meals with live music, diners enjoy an "amazing" atmosphere that complements the sophisticated seafood offerings. Whether it’s the vibrant Salmon, flaky Sea Bass, or the savory Shrimp Curry, The Drake's commitment to excellence makes it a must-visit for seafood connoisseurs in Laguna Beach.
A photo of Terra Laguna Beach restaurant
5. Terra Laguna Beach
4.1
Excellent(928)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Laguna Beach
Terra Laguna Beach is a culinary gem nestled in the artistic setting of Laguna Beach, renowned for its commitment to quality and authenticity in American cuisine. Offering a menu that celebrates ethically sourced ingredients and farm stand-fresh produce, this restaurant ensures every dish is a masterpiece of flavor and freshness. Guests often rave about the experience, with one patron noting, "The food and drinks were delicious. They even have a couple of vegan options, I tried the Ratatouille and it was excellent" and another exclaiming, "The Lamb shank was fabulous, all our meals were wonderful." The unique blend of a vibrant atmosphere, surrounded by live music and art, along with an impeccable service makes Terra Laguna Beach a must-visit. Whether you're there for a special event or a casual meal, their commitment to a delightful dining experience shines through every detail.
A photo of Harvest restaurant
6. Harvest
4.7
Exceptional(2423)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Laguna Beach
Booked 27 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.
A photo of Pelican Grill restaurant
7. Pelican Grill
4.7
Exceptional(3263)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Newport Beach
Booked 26 times today
Pelican Grill in Newport Beach exemplifies the quintessence of Californian cuisine with its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a menu that radiates the state's vibrant flavors. Nestled at the scenic Pelican Hill Golf Club, it offers a spectacular dining experience with stunning ocean and golf course views. Critics and patrons alike rave about its innovative seafood and steak dishes, with one reviewer declaring the Chilean sea bass as "among the best" they've ever had, praising its "unique citrus flavors under a perfectly seared and seasoned fish" (David, restaurant review). The ambiance, described as stylish yet relaxed, complements the exceptional food and service, making every meal a memorable Californian dining adventure. Whether it's the sunlit balcony or the chef-led Tasting Table, Pelican Grill is a celebration of all things California.
A photo of Special Events at Montage Laguna Beach restaurant
8. Special Events at Montage Laguna Beach
4.9
Exceptional(17)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Laguna Beach
Gather with us and enjoy specialty events at Montage Laguna Beach, from holiday celebrations to culinary experiences. Allow us to create unforgettable memories with you and your loved ones along the coast. To learn about our current special events, such as our Friends of the Chef "Taste of France" brunch on Sunday, July 14, 2024, please view the Experiences tab or scroll down below. We look forward to welcoming you soon.
A photo of A+O Restaurant | Bar restaurant
9. A+O Restaurant | Bar
4.5
Awesome(365)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Newport Beach
Booked 21 times today
At A+O Restaurant | Bar, located in the picturesque Newport Beach, seafood lovers are in for a treat. With its prime waterfront setting, this restaurant ensures every dish underscores the freshness and flavor of the ocean. Guests rave about the "perfectly cooked scallops & pork belly" and the "superb sea bass Florentine", highlighting the authentic and high-quality seafood offerings. The restaurant’s ambiance and service complement its cuisine, making every meal a delightful experience. As one guest emphatically recommended, "the seafood pasta is the bomb," confirming A+O's status as a must-visit for genuine and exquisite seafood dishes. Whether it's for a casual meal by the fire pits or a celebratory dinner with live entertainment, A+O promises an unforgettable dining experience with some of the best seafood in Newport Beach.
A photo of The Quiet Woman restaurant
10. The Quiet Woman
4.7
Exceptional(1547)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Corona del Mar
Booked 9 times today
At The Quiet Woman in Corona del Mar, steak aficionados are in for a treat with their perfectly cooked steaks that consistently receive rave reviews. Esteemed for its outstanding cuisine, the restaurant's steaks are highlighted as "perfectly cooked," ensuring each bite is succulently flavorful. Patrons celebrate the quality and service, noting, "the steaks were perfectly cooked," which underscores the culinary precision and care taken with each dish. The Quiet Woman not only promises a delightful dining atmosphere with live music but also a steak experience that is bound to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual dinner, the steak at The Quiet Woman is a top-notch choice in the city.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • johnVIP
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent service, atmosphere and food. The valet service alarm made the experience stress free as Laguna is not easy to find parking.
    More info
    Larsen at Hotel LagunaPrice: Expensive• Californian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.5
  • ChrisVIP
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great food, service, and drinks. Perfect atmosphere for the holiday’s. Good to see people dressed up.
    More info
    The Drake in LagunaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.9
  • CynthiaVIP
    New York City •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Mikey our server for lunch was really wonderful. Very helpful in the ordering for both wine and entrees. Lovely personality! The food was well prepared, a little pricey, but as expected :) View was terrific, we had a central table right at the window and Mikey opened the windows for us upon request so that we could have a simultaneous view and fresh air on this gorgeous day. Lovely lunch!! (Branzino, lobster salad and Cobb shrimp salad all delicious) (Also liked that the valet was free and that I was able to charge my car while dining!) Will definitely be back when next in Laguna (from LA)
    More info
    The Loft at Montage Laguna BeachPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.7
  • Larry
    San Francisco Bay Area •108 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 16, 2024
    Best Burger I’ve ever had. Cobb salad and wild shrimp tacos were excellent. Edgar our server added so much to A great lunch outing.
    More info
    HarvestPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.7
  • JulieVIP
    Orange County •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Aug 30, 2024
    The atmosphere, food and service were lovely. And while slightly overpriced, the venue and experience are the perfect combination with a night at the show. My only real complaint was that my first margarita came with no salt in the rim even though I'd asked specifically. I want it back and the second came back with minimal salt and was very watered down. I didn't end up drinking more than 1/4 of it.
    More info
    Terra Laguna BeachPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.1

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Laguna Beach

Discover the best of contemporary American cuisine in the vibrant dining scene of Laguna Beach, located in the heart of South Orange County, Orange County. This area is renowned for its innovative and expertly crafted dishes that embody the essence of Californian flair. Here, restaurants thrive on delivering exceptional culinary experiences, utilizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that reflect the region's abundant natural resources and commitment to sustainability. Each establishment in Laguna Beach offers a unique ambiance, from stunning ocean views to chic, modern interiors, ensuring a memorable dining experience for every palate. Visitors can expect top-notch service and a diverse menu that includes everything from fresh seafood to inventive plant-based dishes. The dining scene in Laguna Beach is a testament to the area's dedication to excellence and innovation in contemporary American cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

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