New American Restaurants near Laguna Niguel, CA

“Seen this place for years and never stopped in. Been several times over the last year or so and it’s much more lively than you’d be lead to believe by appearances.

Happy hour is a great deal. Dog friendly patio is a plus but tight so leave the yappy dogs at home.

Had a number of different servers/assistants and they’ve all been super lovely.

Food is very consistent and delicious. Just has that good, locally owned je ne sais quoi.

Good lil haunt & will be frequenting“

“Seats are comfy and theater is large so it can accommodate a lot of people. Large parking area.“

“California Pizza Kitchen consistently delivers an excellent dining experience. The customer service was prompt, genuinely friendly, and very attentive without being intrusive. The food, as always, was flavorful, fresh, and prepared to a high standard, reflecting the quality the brand is known for. We truly enjoyed the atmosphere as well—it was welcoming, comfortable, and perfect for a relaxed meal. Give it a try—you won’t regret it. Highly recommended.“

“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!“

“Solid burger restaurant that is on the higher price range and quality. You order at the counter and they give you a ringer to pickup your order. The food is good and ingredients are fresh. Everything is clean and there is indoor and outdoor seating. Staff are friendly and helpful.“

“Best comfort food ever! The thing I miss about living in California the most is the spaghetti grilled cheese at Burnt Crumbs. It will change your life. I would order three at a time and eat half a sandwich each day for lunch. If you guys wanna franchise in Detroit let me know lol 💯 💯 🔥 🔥“

“Great food, service and atmosphere.“

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

“Bar Jane may or may not fit in with the rest of downtown San Clemente, but if you’re pondering this question, you soon realize that it’s beside the point. The cocktails here are fantastic, and if that’s an unexpected surprise, then just roll with it and change your expectations to fit the facts. Ethan has served us at each of our visits and has always taken great care of us with drink suggestions and overall service. My understanding is that they share a kitchen with The Cellar next door, but we’ve only ever ordered drinks at Jane. I just wish I lived closer.“

“UPDATE: I have raised to 4 stars because the service has slowly improved over the last few months. Thank you for taking note of customer input and acting on it. As of now 11Aug22, solid service, good food. Taco Tuesday is great. I will continue my regular visits and hope to give 5 stars soon.Old: The last several times we have been to TJ's we have had no service. We are coming off the course hot and thirsty, we seat ourselves and no one comes by for 15-20 mins. No water, no welcome, nothing. If you can get served the food is solid. We have enjoyed breakfast here before and it was really good. When its 90 degrees and golfers are coming off a round on the course, offer them some water would ya? I HATE giving low reviews, but until this situation is fixed it will stay this way.Edit: The director of food and drink responded almost immediately so I raised my review by a star (From 2 to 3). I will go back sometime in the next couple weeks (Anonymously of course), if the problems have been resolved, I will edit this review further.“

“The food isn’t as wonderful as it use to be but it’s still very good. I’m sure they are doing the best they can under the circumstances!“

“Stopped by Yard House for a cold beer after a warm Southern California afternoon, and it turned out to be the perfect place to unwind. Known for having one of the largest draft beer selections in the U.S., the restaurant features an impressive wall of taps with hundreds of beers ranging from local craft brews to international favourites.

With so many choices on the menu, I decided to go for the Sullivan’s Maltings Irish Red Ale. It had a beautiful deep amber-red colour with a balanced profile - slightly hoppy, malty, and very easy to drink. A refreshing choice that paired perfectly with the lively atmosphere.

What really stands out at Yard House is the vibe. The long bar lined with endless beer taps, multiple big-screen TVs showing live sports, and the energetic crowd create a casual and fun environment. Whether you’re catching a game, meeting friends, or simply enjoying a drink after work, it’s an easy place to spend a few hours.

And for the truly thirsty beer lovers, there is always the legendary Half Yard option - a giant yard-long glass that makes the experience even more memorable. I was happy with my Irish Red this time, but perhaps the next visit will be the day I take on the whole yard! 🍺🍻“

“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“

“Fine dining, excellent service, amazing food“

“We didnt have a reservation but got lucky we only had to wait 10 ish minutes and they called us. We really love the pizzas here and get the mushroom pizza with the spicy pepperoni (its both called something different on the menu but thats essentially what it is) and love to pair it off with nice wine selections.
It is mostly high top seating which isnt my favorite but its fine. It is sort of cramped in there but had space enough to get by tables. Its also kind of loud in there but from general speaking noise.“

“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.“

“My fiancee and I are die hard fans and come here as often as we are able. The sandwiches are simple fresh classics that truly feel homemade. They have options for every taste. The roasted vegetable is so good that even as a man who doesn't eat a lot of vegetables, I would have it again and again. They also have a very diverse selection of drink options, including hard to find sodas. The staff couldn't be friendlier. Thanks Dad 👍“

“I love eating at Jack's! A friend once said that it captures the vibe of a local place in New York or Boston, and I agree! The food is excellent and some of their specials are really special, such as the Double Cut Pork Chop Milanese (Thursdays only)! The atmosphere is warm without being overwhelmingly loud, and the staff is professional and welcoming. Jack's presents a good dining experience with confidence, and I always enjoy myself.“

“Loved their chocolate desert!“

“Tyler, our server, was amazing, attentive, and just so cool! Thank you for being so nice by providing such excellent service! Lively spot with the entire bar full on a weekday. Cool live music. Food was prepared deliciously. Clean restaurant and restrooms. Will be coming back😊“

“There was 7 of us in town for a conference and we stumbled upon Hole in the Wall Burger! Burger was delicious the service outstanding and special sauce of the chart’s. Next time I’m in the area I’ll definitely be stopping by and have a burger!“

“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!“

“Each dish is spectacular. Love the calamari ….can be an appetizer to share or eat on your own with a salad. 230:Forest Avenue never disappoints!!!“

“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.“

“A really great experience.
Friendly and knowledgeable servers paying attention to our needs and recommending dishes.
Excellent food with unique tastes....try the brussel sprouts appetizer with maple syrup, pecans, and raisins.
We plan to go back again even though it is 40 miles from home.“

“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!“

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

“Our first visit to Bushfire Kitchen was a great experience. My burger was delicious, and the Thai Bowl was really good as well. We also ordered the sweet potato fries, which were probably the best I’ve ever had — perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, which is hard to pull off since sweet potatoes can get mushy so easily. We’ll definitely be adding this spot into our regular restaurant rotation.“

“This place is AMAZING! The atmosphere is great and the food is even better. The live music was such a wonderful addition to the vibes of the restaurant. The service was top notch. Trevor runs a great place and sets the bar very high for what a restaurant can be. Thank you for a memorable evening!“

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

“Great service, great food!!👏“

“The food was very good and the service was excellent. I'm a glad I gave this place a try!“

“I use to go to RH with my family in the 70's. Atmosphere always transported us to Hawaii. They were famous for BB ribs, drinks, unique salad (with mayo dressing) and even served a bowl of crudite' with celery, salami, etc. every meal. I didn't like the modern re model, however, NOW THIS RE BUILD iS so cool! Just like the 1970's but better!! Dim lit and Hawaiian music set the mood. I was really anxious to try the ribs again. The service was GREAT appetizer excellent but, ribs, BAD! They were not edible. Hard and chewy, like beef jerky. I was so disappointed and all of our party ordered and received the same. I may try again but won't order ribs!!!“

“Excellent everything!!!!!“

“great NY vibe with good food“

“Delicious 🥰familiale belle vague 🌊 beach 🏝️☀️“

“#SuperBowlSundayBrunch 🌷🤙😜🥳😎“

“I was there last Saturday, Feb 21st and The Wight Litening Band was playing. They were amazing! Our Place is wonderful too. Perfect place for a date night, dinner out, girls night out or you just don't feel like cooking and want really good food and a fun atmosphere. I had not been there since the new owner took over. What a great job they have done with the place! We all had a fantastic time and will be back soon.“

“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.“

“Always great wine and food here!“

“Had a client dinner here at The Loft while they were in town evaluating Laguna Beach properties — the setting alone sealed the deal on their interest in the area. The restaurant sits within the Montage resort with sweeping views that are genuinely hard to beat. The menu is thoughtfully put together with quality ingredients and an impressive wine selection. Service was polished and attentive. As someone who regularly brings buyers to Laguna Beach, I find that a meal at The Loft does more for their decision than any property brochure ever could. The atmosphere communicates the lifestyle perfectly.“

“Great wines and knowledgable plus friendly staff!“

“Always good food and great service at this location.“

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

“Great food! Great vibe! Great time!“

“Popped in here for a pizza and a beer. Both were great. Craft brew made by their nearby in house brewery. Nice west coast IPA. Pizza was awesome. Craft made, nice crust, and classic sauce. Good vibes at this place and worth a stop or make it your neighborhood favorite.“

“I love the cool clean freshness of modern architecture and light the restaurant provides; with a decided touch of old ranch atmosphere; you can be left alone to yourself, or join in community. The food is varied, always fresh, healthy, creative modern nouvelle cuisine along with more traditional dishes, the ingredients definitely high quality -California Sunshine. If you really wish to muse, meditate, read, or silently work, the place is surrounded by little nooks and crannies in the midst of nature. You can even lull yourself to a nap, abandoning all care for a few precious minutes. Or else you can sit outside in community, perhaps choosing a more intimate table conversational setting on certain days, resolving the woes or the theories our world is constructed on. All together a complete experience🙏 Thank you.“

“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.“

“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!“