Best Authentic Restaurants in San Juan Capistrano

32 restaurants available nearby

A photo of El Adobe de Capistrano restaurant

1. El Adobe de Capistrano

4.7

Exceptional(1032)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano

Booked 10 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.

2. Ciao Pasta

4.8

Exceptional(1263)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • San Juan Capistrano

Booked 11 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 KAHANI - The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel restaurant

3. KAHANI - The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

4.6

Exceptional(161)

Price: Expensive

• Indian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 6 times today

Join Chef Sanjay’s culinary journey from New Delhi to Dana Point and enjoy a contemporary approach to Indian regional specialties that places creative artistry, quality of ingredients, and respect for authentic flavors and ingredients at the forefront of cooking. KAHANI, which means "story" in Hindi, is open from Tuesday through Saturday; 5-9 p.m.

A photo of Luciana's Ristorante restaurant

4. Luciana's Ristorante

4.6

Exceptional(3390)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 34 times today

Located in a historical home in the resort town of Dana Point, California, Luciana's Ristorante has been serving the Orange County community for over 40 years. The decor is reminiscent of a cozy European-style inn, establishing it as one of Orange County's most romantic restaurants. Awarded the Southern California Restaurant Writers gold medal since 1996, three stars from the California Restaurant Writers, Zagat's Survey "America’s 1,000 Top Italian Restaurants 2008" and an Award of Excellence for its wine list, Luciana's has been setting the standard for classic as well as innovative Italian cuisine. Whether visiting our cozy restaurant or our Bed and Breakfast and Cooking School in Tuscany, Italy, you are sure to experience the best and freshest combination of the old and new worlds.

5. Tastes of Greece

4.7

Exceptional(405)

Price: Expensive

• Greek • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel

Our family-friendly yet intimate and quaint European style restaurant offers an array of freshly prepared creative and traditional Greek delicacies can be tasted only if one were to visit Greece.A place to dine and experience true Greek hospitality, come in to enjoy an out of the ordinary getaway.The cuisine is so vast; it can satisfy almost any palate or diet including low carb, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options available at all times. The family recipes we prepare always begin with fresh products purchased daily from local vendors and Greek distributors in order to create the authentic flavors enjoyed only in a Greek home.Join us for a memorable experience!Yia mas!

A photo of Jack's Restaurant/Bar restaurant

6. Jack's Restaurant/Bar

4.8

Exceptional(1056)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 14 times today

Jack's Restaurant/Bar is a beloved Italian joint in Dana Point. The authenticity of its Italian cuisine is consistently praised in reviews, with phrases like 'authentic, delicious Italian food' and 'excellent food & service in the old New York style'. The restaurant's commitment to quality and service is clear, with many reviewers highlighting the 'excellent service' and 'delicious food'.

7. AVEO Table + Bar

4.4

Awesome(437)

Price: Moderate

• Unspecified • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Find yourself whisked away to an oceanview dining experience reminiscent of a coastal fishing town south of the border. Featuring fresh, local ingredients from the season's bounty, the AVEO kitchen takes inspiration from Latin America's rich culinary history and generations-old traditions. An approachable menu showcases local seafood, prime filets, savory sandwiches, and fresh salads, while also introducing Latin staples such as fried potatoes - patatas bravas - pan al horno, and ceviches. At the expansive bar, explore the vivid list of bebidas, including refreshing palomas and margaritas, as well as a signature twist on the authentic Rum & Coke. Salud!

A photo of Casanova Ristorante restaurant

8. Casanova Ristorante

4.4

Awesome(18)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 2 times today

At Casanova Ristorante, we pride ourselves on being a culinary gem, dedicated to celebrating the rich flavors and traditions of Venetian and North Italian cuisine. From savory pasta dishes to succulent seafood delights, each dish is prepared with the finest ingredients and expert culinary skill, ensuring a memorable dining experience with every bite.Complementing our cuisine is a thoughtfully curated wine list. From bold reds to crisp whites and everything in between, our wine selection offers something for every palate. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply seeking the ideal pairing, our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you, ensuring a delightful culinary experience from start to finish.

A photo of Buona Forchetta San Clemente restaurant

9. Buona Forchetta San Clemente

4.8

Exceptional(236)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • San Clemente

Booked 34 times today

Experience a piece of the Buona Forchetta San Diego heritage through authentic Italian recipes that have been handed down through generations. Today, there are five locations around San Diego, with our sixth opening this month in San Clemente, CA. Buona Forchetta’s Italian wood-fired pizzas—with the perfectly soft-yet-crispy crusts—continue to garner awards including San Diego Magazine Best Pizza 2023 Critic’s Choice, Gambero Rosso Best Pizzeria, Gayot Best Italian Restaurant San Diego, OpenTable Diner’s Choice and more. Our handmade pasta dishes bursting with rich flavors, fresh seafood specialities and decadent desserts will all leave you craving more. All Buona Forchetta locations also offer gluten-free Italian options and rotating specials.

10. Rebel Omakase

4.9

Exceptional(223)

Price: Very Expensive

• Sushi • Laguna Beach

Booked 10 times today

PLEASE READ BEFORE BOOKINGWe put all our heart and soul into a creative and unique experience. Our Omakase is a pre-fixed menu based on raw fish and shellfish. All ingredients come from Japan, prepared with Japanese techniques and elements. Our Omakase is a fine dining, intimate experience, prepared in front of our guests to highlight the integrity of our dishes.CANCELLATIONS AND MODIFICATIONS are allowed 72 hours in advance. Less than 72 hours will be charged for the full price of Omakase per guest plus taxTEXT MESSAGE with full information (949) 664-3186DIETARY RESTRICTIONS must be informed in advance, we CANNOT accommodate no shellfish, no gluten, no dairy, or no meat requestsNO outside food or wineTHE SUSHI BAR AND TABLE SERVICE are the same menu; our servers will explain the intricacy of every dishBE ON TIME Service starts in unison at the time of reservation if you are late, you will miss some coursesCHILDREN age 5+ are welcome, but they must order the full menu

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
Jeff
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined today
I have enjoyed many meals here and love their take on Puglia style Italian dishes and the staff is always wonderful.
More info
Ciao PastaPrice: Moderate• Italian• San Juan Capistrano
•
4.8
S
Stuart
Hawaii •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Carnitas and Chili Verde amazing! Always love going to this restaurant when in town
More info
El Adobe de CapistranoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• San Juan Capistrano
•
4.7
K
Katy
Orange County •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
This was my second time here and the food is delicious and the service is awesome. The only thing is I couldn’t get a reservation inside and I thought we were going to be on the enclosed patio next to the door, but we are in a tent like across the street, it was nice. It was just kind of weird. But I would still go back here again!
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Luciana's RistorantePrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
•
4.6
K
Krystal
Los Angeles •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Wonderful dining experience! Would love to go back and try more dishes! Loved the servers recommendations!
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KAHANI - The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna NiguelPrice: Expensive• Indian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
•
4.6
F
Fabio
Miami - Dade •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Sep 8, 2024
The kind of food that makes you smile when you eat it. A gustatory pleasure. Impeccable!
More info
Tastes of GreecePrice: Expensive• Greek• Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
•
4.7

Discover best authentic restaurants in San Juan Capistrano

Discover the charm of San Juan Capistrano's dining scene with our selection of authentic restaurants in South Orange County. This picturesque location boasts an array of dining establishments that offer genuine culinary experiences, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the area. From traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations to innovative cuisine that maintains authentic flavors, each restaurant provides a unique taste of local and international traditions. Food enthusiasts can expect exceptional service, a warm ambiance, and meticulously prepared dishes that highlight the authenticity sought in every bite. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the restaurants in San Juan Capistrano promise an unforgettable dining experience that truly captures the essence of authenticity. Explore the heart of South Orange County's culinary excellence and enjoy a meal that not only satisfies the palate but also tells a story of tradition and passion.

Best Authentic Restaurants in San Juan Capistrano

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32 restaurants available nearby

1. El Adobe de Capistrano

2. Ciao Pasta

3. KAHANI - The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

4. Luciana's Ristorante

5. Tastes of Greece

6. Jack's Restaurant/Bar

7. AVEO Table + Bar

8. Casanova Ristorante

9. Buona Forchetta San Clemente

10. Rebel Omakase

See what locals rave about

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