50 Best American Restaurants near Ladera Ranch

“Always a great experience here. Staff is so polite and friendly. Food is amazing and portions always require a to go bag. Highly recommend“

“😁 I love this place! What a fantastic jumping off spot for all of downtown!“

“A treasure trove of an establishment, the staff's commitment to excellence is evident and the bartenders are warm and welcoming. The cultural essence is a highlight, I hope they continue to host more Latin-inspired evenings, the energy is electric and the crowd is fantastic.“

“So much fun! Came here for my birthday and they did everything right- food, ambiance, staff, etc“

“We were visiting friends in San Clemente and had dinner at Vine Restaurant & Bar. The service was outstanding and the food was delish. Great experience“

“We had another fantastic night at Wine Gallery. The food was amazing, just loved the Coq Au Vin and the Scallops. We also got to do a wine tasting with Hartford Court Wines with the owner on site to talk about the winery. Couldn't have been a better evening. Great food and wine, and as always wonderful service from everyone on Chris' team.“

“We had. not been here in years and our recent visit did not disappoint. Our server Cole was excellent. The food was superb. Highly recommended.“

“1/4/26:

Came back the second time with some friends.

1. Pear Favor cocktail: 4/5 - great, well balanced with flavors, sweetness and citrusy. I would prefer some spicy.
2. Cob Salad: 3.5/5 - good but lacked of flavors. The dressing was so bland, needs acidity, salt and pepper. Otherwise, it would be terrific.
3. Burger: 3.5/5 - good but I missed the umami, lacked of the charred smoky flavor.
4. Thai curry dish: 2.5/5 - ok, too sour and abit salty. The acidity overpowered everything else.

The service was good.“

“JACKS was delightful. The restaurant is elegant, the service is superb and the food is outstanding. It was my first time and I was extremely impressed. Jack, the owner, also introduced himself to us, and he is as lovely and delightful as his establishment.“

“If you want a unique dining experience this is the place to go. The wait staff and servers they were all on point very attentive I never had to look around to look for anyone if I raised my head somebody was right at my table to find out what I needed or how they could serve me. Awesome awesome experience wonderful food. I will be back!“

“Ok, so first up it was a bit pricey. But holy cow the burgers were all amazing, the place was clean, staff was wonderful. If you want ridiculously tasty burgers and don't mind paying for it... I'll give this place 5/5 stars for sure.“

“Had a wonderful evening out with my wife at Ironwood Cellars in Laguna Hills. We had reservations for 5:30 p.m. and arrived early. We were greeted by Joe, the manager on duty, who was very kind, professional, and welcoming. Art was our server and is amazingly gifted in customer service professionalism and overall people skills. Yes, showing the love. We started with tequilla drinks from the bar, and we each had a wedge salad. Joe sent us over a wonderful Agnolotti appetizer as well, which was more than kind. The ambiance was positive and upbeat, perfect for the evening. Sergio was also quite attentive in making sure our table was serviced properly. We ordered our entrees with my wife having the halibut dinner, and I had the famous giant meatball dish. Both meals were hot & tasty and presented well. We had a terrific time, and Art surprised us with a complimentary dessert 🍨 with berries. The restaurant is so nice and offers an outdoor patio and bar seating as well. The wine list is extensive, as are the craft beers. Highly recommended.“

“Amazing steaks, the bone in rib ey and filet mignon for my girl was perfect. Barely talked the food was so good haha. Kyle was so gracious and welcoming , it was our first time here. I rarely give full stars but honestly this place and the staff deserve it. Expectations exceeded. Do your self a favor and stop by 🤙“

“Super great food and staff! Our waitress was awesome and the food had great flavor. The fried pickles were perfect. The brisket sandwich had some great flavor combinations! Would absolutely recommend to anyone! The frozen huckleberry lemonade is a must try and the Pineapple Express martini is as well. Love it“

“It was fantastic! Amazing craft cocktails I've never had anything like before. Food was also fantastic. Local fish, local produce, how can you go wrong. Get the Tessie for a drink, amazing cocktail ?“

“It was my first time here, and the food is delicious. Love the simple & quaint decor. Definitely will be back!“

“good service food it's so delicious 😋 atmosphere everything is incredible“

“The Chili Fries, and the Stand Burger is the Best.“

“Great atmosphere with great service. Loved how an entire team look out for you from the greeting to the end.“

“great NY vibe with good food“

“Aurelia (Manager) & Manny provided amazing customer service that exceeded any I have received at a restaurant in a very long time! I had an issue with my order and they went above and beyond to speak with their team, circle back to me, and address the issue. The food was delicious, as well. I will return here!“

“Excellent everything!!!!!“

“This is a true classic. Five of us visited Snooty Fox on a Saturday morning and were greeted by a dining room packed with locals. We were lucky to find the only empty table and settled right in.
Their coffee tastes like something brewed at home decades ago—simple, comforting, and without any fancy alternatives.
The menu, however, offers plenty of choices: melted cheese, runny yolks, hearty portions, and dishes that feel like they were just brought out of a family kitchen. The decor is humble and nostalgic, adding to the old-school charm.

During our meal, people kept coming in, and soon there were one or two groups waiting by the door. Still, tables turn over quickly, so the wait isn’t too long. It’s clear this place is well-loved by locals. A warm, traditional spot that delivers exactly the kind of comfort food you hope for.“

“Súper recomendado muy sabroso 😋 y muy amables todos 💕🙏“

“The Lumberyard located in beautiful downtown Laguna Beach is a great place to have lunch or dinner. There is a new $16 lunch menu and I decided to try the fish tacos. There was a choice between salmon or halibut for the tacos which included shredded cabbage with a pink cream sauce and a side of black bean and corn salad. I chose the halibut for my taco and it was cooked perfectly. It was a generous portion of fish in each of the tacos so it could easily be split with a friend. The service was excellent. Our orders were taken within about five minutes of sitting down and the food came out quickly after we ordered. I would recommend the Lumberyard if you are visiting Laguna Beach. You will need to have reservations during the Art Festivals or when there is a play at the Playhouse.“

“When you taste them, you'll know he qualities they possess that you can't resist“

“Lovely experience Charming All around and great food 💕“

“Had a wonderful dinner with my family, including 19 month old daughter. The restaurant was super accomodating with the baby and the food was incredible. We had the rotisserie chicken, I always say if the chicken at a restaurant is good then they know what they're doing. The filet was great too, all the sides and even the seared salmon from the kids menu was cooked to perfection. Salmon skin perfectly cooked with a solid crisp and was not overcooked, really easy to overcook salmon. Wine list was fantastic. Pretty extensive between old and new world. We had the Goldeneye Pinot Noir; a favorite...thanks for a great dinner.“

“Solid lunch spot after spending enough time at tj maxx. I always get the grilled steak or Caesar wrap, and urban plates has been very consistent with their food quality. Erika and Luis were incredibly kind and patience. Would come back when I'm in the area!“

“Breezy Experience #breezy #goodfood #filipinofusion #brunch #familybusiness“

“Great wines and knowledgable plus friendly staff!“

“What A Dish provided the catering for my niece’s baby shower, and I honestly cannot say enough wonderful things about them. From start to finish, their care, attention to detail, and genuine concern for making the day perfect were evident.

They listened closely to my niece’s wishes and delivered above and beyond. Every dish was absolutely amazing — fresh, beautifully presented, and delicious. They arrived on time, set everything up flawlessly, and even cleaned up afterward. Without us even asking, they left one of their team members to help serve guests, which was such a thoughtful and unexpected touch.

I want to give a special shout-out to Tim, who was truly a godsend. His kindness, professionalism, and warm presence made the entire event feel even more special. He went out of his way to ensure everything ran smoothly, and our family can’t thank him enough.

If you’re considering catering for any event, look no further. What A Dish exceeded every expectation. We will absolutely be using them again!“

“Great food, especially for the price in Laguna.

This Finneys location is particularly enjoyable, being one of the only 'watering holes' in Laguna, comprised of 30% locals every night.

They have great bar tenders overall, however there is high turnover. You'll be lucky if Kelsie is at the bar to serve you. The group of locals that rack it up 6-7 days a week were extremely disappointed to learn that she is temporarily only working 1 day per week. She contributed greatly to building the community here and its unfortunate that I won't be seeing as many locals as a result.“

“I absolutely love this restaurant. The customer service is above and behind. The street tacos are my favorite. It melts in your mouth so good. We have had many things off their menu. Nothing disappoints. The selection is huge and everything you could order will be the best. Enjoy you will certainly be back.“

“It was our first choice for our anniversary dinner! Good decision!!“

“Easter Brunch 2023 was outstanding! So many options for a Starter, Entree and Dessert. Frankly, when our beautiful server came over to see what I wanted, I wanted ALL the starters as I have enjoyed them for years! The Filet Mignon eggs Benedict was perfect. The bottomless, large mimosas were so fun with choices of orange juice, pineapple or watermelon; I tried them all😊 We all passed around our desserts. The Crème Brûlée and Flowerless Chocolate Cake were standouts for sure“

“Wow! Super yum to say the least. It’s always great when the new local restaurant hits it out of the park! My wife & I started with the bacon & meatballs appetizer. She then had the fried green tomatoes & French onion soup while I had the ribeye. Delicious!“

“Food at Splashes is always excellent. The server was knowledgeable and was happy to take the time to talk to us. I had texted the restaurant ahead of time to say that it was my husband's birthday and was told that a treat would be brought at the end of the meal. This didn't materialize, but, oh well, the meal was great!.“

“The staff at Harvest went above and beyond especially our server Wiassiam and Adam (not sure what position). Our family went for my wife and I anniversary, we were greeted at our table with a hand written happy anniversary card and complementary desert. The food was great especially the pork chop and crispy octopus. Before leaving Adam came over the table to chat with the family and gave our son a Harvest stuffed animal (Deer with Harvest scarf). Overall great experience. We will be returning for sure.“

“Always great wine and food here!“

“I like stopping there on bike rides“

“Love the pastries and bought a cake“

“Phenomenal experience every time! If you are not a member of the Rancho Capistrano wine club you are missing out!!!!“

“Wifey and I tried the new hot spot in town today.
We both had their coastal smash burger and we shared fries and chips.
We both agreed the burgers and fries were excellent. YUMMY.
The bbq chips we weren't so thrilled by.
Too Maple-y.
The place is really clean and comfy and the service was great, but I have to say, the choice of music could be better.
If you have to play country music, maybe intersperse the whinging 21st century C&W with some good old Hank or Dolly or Merle or Waylon or Willy or.....“

“We eat at Polly’s Yorba Linda quote often and are always happy with our food and the great service! However, recently we have been very disappointed that Polly’s has discontinued two menu items that we always enjoy! We love your dinner salads and always try to include one with our meals! But, recently you have stopped offering ITALIAN DRESSING, and that was a horrible decision, as far as we are concerned! Couldn’t you at least have some little single serve packets of it available, when someone requests it? The second choice that we are missing is ENGLISH MUFFINS, which used to be offered with the breakfast menu as a bread choice! These were bad decisions, as far as we are concerned, and has made us choose another restaurant on a few occasions, now! Especially, for the Italian dressing!“

“Iris, the owner and the main man in the kitchen are nothing short of awesome. Happy hour rules, food is great, and the best service. Love this place and I encourage everyone to come try at least twice.

By far the best place in MV for beers and a game. Kids will have fun too!“

“I mostly always build my own omelette and its always amazing. Great fast service with a smile😎“

“Amazing stay, gorgeous views and incredible hospitality! Loved it all and highly recommend!“

“This is a wonderful relaxing spot to enjoy good food, beer and wine, kick back around a firepit and watch the beach go by! Live music started just last night and going through the fall, TBA. See you on the sand!“