Best Southwest American Restaurants in San Clemente

26 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Parlor, Woodfire Kitchen & Cocktails restaurant

1. Parlor, Woodfire Kitchen & Cocktails

4.6

Exceptional(147)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • San Clemente

Booked 30 times today

At Parlor, Woodfire Kitchen & Cocktails in San Clemente, the art of Pizzeria cuisine is taken to new heights, embodying both quality and authenticity. Utilizing local almond and white oak to fire their pizzas, Parlor crafts its dishes from scratch daily, ensuring freshness and flavor. Their hand-crushed tomato sauce and finely sourced cheeses, coupled with a sourdough that is cold fermented with a 30-year-old starter, set their pizzas apart. Glowing reviews highlight the exceptional experience, with one guest exclaiming, "My guy said he felt like we were in Italy," underscoring the authentic taste. The vibrant atmosphere and meticulous attention to detail make Parlor a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch Pizzeria experience in San Clemente.

A photo of Vine Restaurant & Bar restaurant

2. Vine Restaurant & Bar

4.9

Exceptional(3040)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • San Clemente

Booked 47 times today

Welcome to Vine Restaurant & Bar in the beautiful San Clemente, where seafood aficionados rejoice over the freshest, most flavorful dishes. Renowned for its seasonal menu that emphasizes quality and authenticity, Vine delivers an exceptional seafood experience. Diners rave about the "amazing" halibut and the Branzino fish, skillfully prepared to highlight its natural flavors. The "delicious" pea ravioli and "best ever" Belgian chocolate cheesecake paired with an Espresso Martini round out a meal that's both memorable and exquisite. Perfect for any occasion, from casual date nights to special celebrations, Vine Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best seafood cuisine.

A photo of Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Clemente restaurant

3. Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Clemente

4.7

Exceptional(121)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • San Clemente

Booked 8 times today

Rancho Capistrano Winery in San Clemente is a gem for those seeking authentic Californian cuisine paired with exceptional wines. Nestled in the scenic coastal town, this restaurant stands out for its delicious, locally-inspired dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Patrons rave about the quality and creativity of the menu, noting favorites like the "lemon cream tortellini with shrimp" and the "best steaks ever." The warm, rustic ambiance, coupled with friendly, attentive service, makes every dining experience memorable. As one guest highlighted, "The food is delicious, and the drinks are even better!" making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors in search of genuine Californian dining.

4. Fig 313

4.7

Exceptional(823)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Clemente

Booked 8 times today

At Fig 313 in the charming seaside town of San Clemente, the essence of American cuisine is elevated to new heights. Nestled in a historical building, the restaurant offers a menu that brilliantly showcases the richness of American culinary traditions. Diners rave about the "amazing Fig burger" and the "delicious Brie and fig flatbread," each dish crafted with a commitment to quality and authenticity. The glowing reviews highlight not just the food but also the "beautiful patio" and "excellent service," making Fig 313 a standout in American dining. Whether it's the "mouth-watering Wagyu Burger" or the "perfectly cooked short ribs," each meal is a testament to Fig 313's dedication to delivering the best of American cuisine in a setting that's both historical and warmly inviting.

5. Gema

4.3

Awesome(242)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Clemente

Booked 7 times today

Gema in San Clemente stands out as a premier destination for exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service with a genuine Mexican flair. Praised for its "excellent, original high-end Mexican cocktails," Gema showcases an extensive selection of over 100 small batch Mezcals, available in flights or for bottle purchase. Patrons have celebrated the "outstanding" craft cocktail program, which features seasonal variations, house-made syrups, and freshly juiced citrus. The atmosphere is described as "easy going" and "fun," perfectly complementing the sophisticated and "inventive Mexican food" that completes any evening with a touch of luxury. With its top-notch service and vibrant scene, Gema offers a "unique and delicious" experience that locals and visitors alike are eager to revisit.

6. Riviera

4.5

Awesome(186)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • San Clemente

Nestled within the charming San Clemente Inn, Riviera has quickly become a beacon of Californian cuisine since its opening in Spring 2022. Celebrated for its dedication to farm-to-table dining, Riviera sources its ingredients responsibly, ensuring each dish not only supports local producers but bursts with freshness and flavor. Patrons rave about the "deliciously prepared catch of the day" and the "eclectic drinks" that perfectly complement each meal. The ambiance is described as "very chill but elegant," ideal for any occasion from casual brunches to celebratory dinners. With its commitment to quality, creativity, and community, Riviera stands out as a must-visit destination for authentic Californian fare in San Clemente.

A photo of 501 Restaurant and Bar restaurant

7. 501 Restaurant and Bar

4.3

Awesome(9)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Clemente

Nestled in the heart of San Clemente, 501 Restaurant and Bar is where locals come to savor the best of our coastal cuisine throughout the day. From indulgent breakfast classics to innovative lunch creations and elegant dinner dishes, each plate is thoughtfully crafted by Chef Aron and his team.Start your culinary journey with our renowned crab cakes or crispy fried brussels sprouts, perfect for sharing as you immerse yourself in the laid-back ambiance of San Clemente. Indulge in our tender boneless short ribs or our signature Scampi Bagatta, a delightful twist on a classic favorite, or opt for our fresh and flavorful Fish Tacos, a true taste of the coast. Our Shore Smash Burger is a must-try, perfectly paired with stunning views and the relaxed vibes of San Clemente living.We take pride in hosting and catering your special events, bringing the flavors of San Clemente to your celebrations, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or intimate gathering with frien

8. Coastal Kitchen

4.8

Exceptional(4898)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 128 times today

At Coastal Kitchen in Dana Point, the seafood cuisine is celebrated for its freshness and quality. This beloved eatery, nestled in the heart of Monarch Beach, specializes in crafting dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the ocean. The menu, praised for its variety and authenticity, features standout items such as the "delicious" grouper and the "amazing" crab cake salad, with one diner exclaiming it’s a "10+." Patrons consistently rave about the "excellent dining experience" and the seafood's impeccable preparation. With its charming coastal ambiance and a commitment to excellence, Coastal Kitchen is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers seeking a memorable dining experience.

A photo of The Tea House on Los Rios restaurant

9. The Tea House on Los Rios

4.8

Exceptional(2723)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano

Booked 51 times today

Nestled in the historic heart of San Juan Capistrano, The Tea House on Los Rios serves as a quintessential American dining experience with a twist of charming British flair. This venue stands out not only for its picturesque setting in a restored 1911 cottage but also for its commitment to quality and authenticity in every dish served. Patrons rave about the "delicious and beautifully plated" food, highlighting American classics like the brunch menu's mimosas and Bloody Marys. With glowing reviews, such as it being the "best traditional tea service around" and a "perfect spot to enjoy a good English tea experience," this restaurant merges American dining excellence with the elegance of high tea, making every visit unforgettable. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful day out, The Tea House on Los Rios promises an exceptional experience in the heart of Orange County.

A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Dana Point restaurant

10. Chart House Restaurant - Dana Point

4.4

Awesome(6362)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 95 times today

Located in the picturesque Dana Point, Chart House Restaurant has been a beacon of culinary excellence for over 50 years, with its stunning views and impeccable service. Guests consistently rave about the quality of the steak, described as "the best Prime Rib in California," ensuring a memorable dining experience that highlights the restaurant's commitment to perfection. One diner eloquently expressed, "the food was phenomenal and the service top-notch." Known for its attention to detail and a menu that perfectly complements local flavors, Chart House stands out not just for its seafood but also for its expertly prepared steaks, making it a must-visit for steak lovers seeking a blend of traditional and innovative dishes.

‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

K
Kelvin
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Everything was absolutely amazing. The service was impeccable, from the greeter when we first walked in, to our waiter who was god sent. The food was delicious, the drinks were awesome. I loved this place. I will definitely be back and soon, already looking forward to my next visit.
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Cha Cha's Latin KitchenPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Brea / La Habra
•
4.7
D
Denise
San Diego •140 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Always a wonderful Christmas Eve dinner experience for the whole family!!! This is our tradition....
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Guadalajara Mexican GrillPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Temecula
•
4.7
P
Priya
Orange County •3 reviews
4.0
Dined 7 days ago
It was our first time, and we enjoyed our experience. We tried the nachos, which were great, loaded with cheese and toppings, as well as a 3-item combo (2 cheese enchiladas and 1 potato taco). The enchiladas and rice were great; the potato filling in the taco and the beans were slightly under seasoned. Service was prompt and attentive (we went on a Saturday, at 5:30). Ambience is nice and we would return again.
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Blind Coyote CantinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Yorba Linda
•
4.4

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in San Clemente

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26 restaurants available nearby

1. Parlor, Woodfire Kitchen & Cocktails

2. Vine Restaurant & Bar

3. Rancho Capistrano Winery - San Clemente

4. Fig 313

5. Gema

6. Riviera

7. 501 Restaurant and Bar

8. Coastal Kitchen

9. The Tea House on Los Rios

10. Chart House Restaurant - Dana Point

See what locals rave about

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