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Best Authentic Restaurants in San Juan Capistrano

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32 restaurants available nearby

A photo of El Adobe de Capistrano restaurant
1. El Adobe de Capistrano
4.7
Exceptional(1044)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 56 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.
A photo of Ciao Pasta restaurant
2. Ciao Pasta
4.8
Exceptional(1271)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 38 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(168)
Price: Expensive
• Indian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 10 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 Tastes of Greece restaurant
4. Tastes of Greece
4.8
Exceptional(406)
Price: Expensive
• Greek • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 1 time today
Tastes of Greece – Authentic Greek Cuisine in Laguna Niguel, CAIndulge in fresh, homestyle Greek dishes at Tastes of Greece, a family-owned gem in the heart of Laguna Niguel. Our menu features traditional favorites like moussaka, souvlaki, lamb gyros, spanakopita, and fresh seafood, crafted with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with charming indoor dining and relaxing outdoor seating, perfect for families, date nights, or gatherings. Pair your meal with a curated selection of fine Greek wines and end on a sweet note with our delicious baklava.Conveniently located in Crown Valley Plaza, we are dedicated to serving memorable meals with exceptional hospitality. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a casual lunch, or reserving a table for dinner, experience the finest Greek dining in Orange County. Reserve your table today and savor the flavors of Greece without leaving Laguna Niguel.
A photo of Luciana's Ristorante restaurant
5. Luciana's Ristorante
4.6
Exceptional(3416)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 51 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.
A photo of Jack's Restaurant/Bar restaurant
6. Jack's Restaurant/Bar
4.7
Exceptional(1070)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 16 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'.
A photo of AVEO Table + Bar restaurant
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(20)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 7 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(250)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Clemente
Booked 35 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.
A photo of Rebel Omakase restaurant
10. Rebel Omakase
4.9
Exceptional(228)
Price: Very Expensive
• Sushi • Laguna Beach
Booked 2 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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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Ram
    Alabama •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Fabulous experience. Service was amazing. Food was excellent and the presentation was delectable. Plenty of sumptuous choices on the menu. We had warm pakoras topped with whipped yoghurt for an appetizer. Delicious! For the main course, we had the curry sampler with Afghani Chicken. Although it said served two, there was plenty for 4 seniors with leftovers to take home! Overall a wonderful dinner at a great location with great ambiance!! Would highly recommended it. Definitely pricey but well worth the extra touches.
    More info
    KAHANI - The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna NiguelPrice: Expensive• Indian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.6
  • Patrick
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Its my favorite restaurant. The staff is kind and attentive. The ambiance is what traditional Mexican restaurants WANT to be. The food is superb without being pretentious or over the top. If I'm in the area and have time, I'm going.
    More info
    El Adobe de CapistranoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• San Juan Capistrano
    •
    4.7
  • JohnVIP
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •34 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Excellent food, ambiance, and atmosphere. What a wonderful evening.
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    Ciao PastaPrice: Moderate• Italian• San Juan Capistrano
    •
    4.8
  • RobinVIP
    San Diego •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    My husband and I visited Luciana at her B&B in Italy in 1995 and have always wanted to go to her restaurant in Dana Point. Fast forward 30 years and we went for dinner finally on 12/23/2024! Our experience was amazing. We loved the coziness of the restaurant. Our waiter, Francisco (sp?) was super friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. Two of us had the Surf and Turf which was a filet minion and lobster for the unbelievable price of $50! The dish was plated beautifully and the steak cooked perfectly. All was excellent. The third diner with us had Lobster Ravioli and he was very pleased. Two of us had a nice red wine from Italy. The wine list is vast and many selections are priced reasonably. We ended with the Italian flourless chocolate cake. It was a fun and very enjoyable evening. We will be back and sooner than 30 years!
    More info
    Luciana's RistorantePrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.6
  • AndrewVIP
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 7 Dec 2024
    Just amazing Greek food. Place is very underrated. Very big menu of Greek food and a real Greek style experience.
    More info
    Tastes of GreecePrice: Expensive• Greek• Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
    •
    4.8

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.

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