50 Best Bars near San Juan Capistrano

“Great place to dance. Lots of energy. Older crowd a bit (like 50s up) but some younger as well. Eveeyone was moving to Monkey Puddle who were superb. Great dance floor with fans (I think one vent for AC directly above middle of the dance fair might be not working well, but there are others available as well as a casual outside area to sit and drink and get fresh air). Copious amounts of free ice water was much appreciated. Cheap well drinks.“

“We came for lunch right after visiting the mission. It was right across the street and we wanted to try a different lunch spot. The food was great. We ordered steak and shrimp and a Shepards pie and calamari as an appetizer. The drinks were great and we enjoyed some music from the patio. Overall a great experience and we will definitely be back. The only odd thing was when our waitress came to take our order, I asked about the drink menu and was asking for recommendations and she seemed confused about my questions. She didn’t offer any suggestions and when I asked about a drink on the menu, she asked if I wanted a shot of grapefruit juice.“

“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!!!“

“We were visiting from Scotland, having previously lived in NYC for many years, and were desperate for a nice Italian meal like we used to get when we lived in the States. We could not have been more impressed with the food and the service, and made sure we got a second visit in before we returned to Scotland - I just wish we could have gone back a third time… and fourth !!!! Highly recommend !!!“

“Fun place, great beer, killer music, and friendly owner. Christian, the owner, is always friendly, plays great music, and will always remember they type of beer you like. Also they have a great selection. By selection, I don't mean only a variety of IPAs. They stock Belgian whits, triples, stouts, porters, lagers, and of course, the obligatory IPAs. Also have a bevy of games as well. If you see me there, open invitation to anyone who is up for a game of chess“

“Fantastic atmosphere. Felt like sitting in the hull of a pirate ship. Best selection of rums I've ever seen (more than 100). All that and surprisingly reasonable prices on expertly crafted drinks!“

“This building was just your average bar, but the service and clientele were phenomenal!! I was in town visiting my son at Camp Pendleton for Thanksgiving. Jess didn't just give suggestions of a place to try and get reservations for Thanksgiving dinner, she called, got reservations set up, and made it happen for us. I instantly felt at home and made life long friends.“

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

“Had a nice evening at Dominicos on the lake this evening. My wife and I had reservations and were fortunate to ask Kory for a patio table which he accommodated. Michael took us to our table and was very kind and professional. Pedro came by with our bread and water and said hello. He is one of the hardest working individuals at the restaurant. Eddie our server came by and took our orders with a bottle of Austin Hope and bread to start. My wife ordered a chicken breast salad and I had the chef's special stroganoff which was amazing. Unfortunately my wife's salad came out 30 minutes after my stroganoff which was a cardinal sin in the restaurant business and we mentioned it was not acceptable. Eddie apologized and we also had Steven, the GM, come by and also apologize and ensure the salad would be out shortly. The salad was delivered, of course after I ate my entree and Steven dropped off and apologetic gift certificate for an appetizer during our next visit. We also ordered an additional beef stroganoff plus an order of meatballs to take home for tomorrow. We undertake things happen and it's certainly nice to see the restaurants busy again but a party of two receiving their entrees 30 minutes apart is not conducive with quality service. I am guessing the chef either misplaced the order or overlooked the obvious and we hope next time we will not have such issues as the restaurant is very good and in a fantastic location. Michael also came back around and stated he was concerned about this mishap and would look into this. As a retired government administrator and former restaurant manager in my college days I expect the simple things like entrees being delivered at the same time to be in sync with quality service and dining. We will be back and see if in fact this was an isolated incident. Good food and ambiance plus. As a writer for Trip Advisor, Yelp and Google I am graceful in my comments and specific in areas needed improvement. Thanks you.“

“Shannon is a sweet & smiling server who made my visit for a quick drink special.“

“Hi from down under (Sydney Australia). We visited Laguna beach in January and loved your town and this venue, plus the brewery down the road. Will definitely be back. Please come and visit us on the northern beaches of Sydney - very similar vibe to LB 🙏“

“Great location! The restaurant was a bit small but they had a nice patio set up. Plenty of umbrellas and heaters. We had a party of nine, but since they weren’t busy when we got there, they were able to accommodate us easily. I think if we were to come at a little bit busier of a time it would be harder for them to accommodate just because of the amount of tables that they have. I would suggest calling ahead if you have a group larger than six.
The menu was good, small, but a variety of options. Their margaritas were good, nothing special.
Service was great, and we didn’t have much wait time on anything. Drinks were refilled quickly and the server offered modifications that made ordering for kids easier. She also quietly and discreetly asked if we wanted dessert. We ended up ordering it, but it was nice that she said it quietly that way my boys didn’t here. It’s tough going out and not getting dessert but when my boys hear the server offering it that’s all they want. It was very kind of her.“

“Stumbled upon 237 in #LagunaBeach after a serendipitous encounter with the owner, who recommended her newly opened restaurant.

What a find! I just had the best burger of my life! . This place, formerly known as Breeze & Brew, is a culinary gem. If you're in the #California area this #LaborDayWeekend, make sure to experience their incredible food. Highly recommended for any food enthusiast!"

Burger 10/10 would recommend! ❤️

Dietary restrictions: Very accommodating for any food issues.“

“Absolutely wonderful food and service. Never fails!“

“I go to this place at least once or twice a week for the breakfast burrito, but I had never left a review until today. I decided to make one today because the burrito was excellent today. I love this place due to the friendly atmosphere the staff provides and the quality of the food and beverages.“

“Came for lunch with my gran about a month after my grandfather passed. It was my gran's first outing since the funeral and i was worried but our server was this adorable silver haired woman named Rebecca. She had my Gran laughing the whole time. We ordered combos and the suggested jalapeño watermelon margaritas, which were spicy and refreshing. We needed a nap afterwards because we were too stuffed! My gran won't stop asking when we can go back. Thank you South of Nicks for lovely meal, and Thank you Rebecca, for helping a family member feel normal after tragedy. You are in our prayers“

“One of the last great dive bars in the US with a great selection of local craft beers on tap. Awesome bartenders, great live music and an amazing hidden wine store and lounge in the back.“

“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!“

“I can’t believe I have never reviewed this place before. They always have fun bands, great food, drinks and service! Probably the most fun spot to hang out on Del Mar 🌊
TRY THESE:
ASIAN LETTUCE WRAPS
SALMON SALAD
POKE BOWL
BEET SALAD“

“I visited my brother who lives locally. He took me and our other brother here because he loves this place and goes frequently. Being a wine lover, he let me pick our dinner wine. Came across an O’Shaughnessy Cabernet and had to stop right there. I know the product, had the pleasure of drinking this with Luke Russ when he did a wine dinner in northern Illinois a few years back. The owner saw the bottle on our table and introduced himself to us and we talked about Luke. Great moment. Fabulous food! Asparagus fries, halibut, deviled eggs, butter cake…. It was all fabulous! Look forward to returning!“

“Excellent experience! Excellent food! Excellent service! Fantastic little owner owned/operated Northern Italian cuisine restaurant. We will return!“

“Great service, great food!!👏“

“Great place to play and party.“

“pasta , lasagna very friendly polite and helpful waiter“

“Hi I love it miss this place so much good dancing“

“A great place to hangout with friends or the family. Friendly, fun and professional staff. Bar, BBQ Grills, Games, Gym, Lounge, Pool and more. Play some bocce ball, bbq, a friendly game of air hockey or skee-ball. Enjoy a glass of wie, cocktail or a beer from Left Coast Brewing. Indulge in a serving of Blonde Marvel or Trestles IPA. Karaoke was just added to the first Friday of the month events. Great food trucks on the first Friday of each month too. Jog, Walk, Drive or Golf Cart over for a great relaxing and recharging experience.“

“A uniquely delicious experience:
Actually ended up here by accident trying to find dinner at the downstairs tiki pub. Were swept off our feet by an intimate and well tailored japanese fishing/90’s citypop culture vibe, insanely good cocktails and the best sushi I’ve ever had. A bit more expensive, but I’d recommend this over its downstairs neighbor.“

“One of my favorite local dive bars. The crowd is always friendly, and it’s easy to strike up a conversation with people. Liz behind the bar is the best—super welcoming and makes killer margaritas and lemon drops. They also serve pizza from Sonny’s, a local Italian spot, and it’s honestly some of the best bar food around. Definitely worth stopping in if you’re in the area.“

“great NY vibe with good food“

“We ate Sombra Cantina a few times while we were at the Waldorf Astoria. It is an excellent poolside bar and restaurant. I really enjoyed being able to order food and drinks while hanging out at the beautiful Waldorf Astoria pool! The service was great and so was the food! We ordered the Chicken Flautas and the Sombra Nachos. The nacho plate was huge! I highly recommend eating at Sombra Cantina if you are staying at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach!“

“What a fabulous place. Went there to celebrate mutual birthdays with my BFF. I loved everything about this restaurant. Our bartender was fabulous, our meal, Branzino.. delicious, eye appealing, beautiful presentation and enough to split We met the owner who spent ample time with us as we asked questions about his journey opening the location, his background and the concept/vision for the restaurant and we met the GM. I loved the ambiance, open and welcoming and they have a mercado with authentic product. Next time I'm going to the pizza bar with some more birthday girls!“

“My friends and I are staying here, and this evening we stepped out for a stroll by the ocean. We were feeling a bit peckish and wanted to make sure we had an interesting evening. We popped into our hotel lobby—and, as it turns out, there was live music playing! That’s right, folks: apparently, they have music here every single day. The atmosphere is actually very pleasant, and the music itself is excellent. We had a truly wonderful time. We weren't hungry, so we didn't order any food; they simply brought us some water while we sat back and enjoyed the music, along with the magnificent view of the ocean from the hotel balcony. I took a video and attached a photo so you could take a look.“

“Fantastic food, atmosphere, and service

We started with the ahi nachos. Would 100% buy again. The sauce was amazing and they did not go light on the fish or avocado.

For our meals
I got the kalua pig bowl, the meat was leaner than most Hawaiian places but still packed all of the flavor you want.
My husband got the Chili Loco Moco, the chili was the perfect level of spice.“

“Been coming to Rush for years! I love it here and it feels like family. The wings are amazing and I’ve brought my son in here a couple times for lunch and he loved it. The karaoke on Tuesdays and Wednesday is awesome 😎“

“restaurant worth together🥰🥰“

“Nice view and not crowded on normal days. Nice for locals wanting a view without the crowds or parking hassles in Dana Point.

Food: Decent variety of standard bar food

Drinks: Beer and wine offered are mainly mass available - disappointed since there are good local options they could offer; but there's a full bar

Service: My wife and I had outstanding service from Randi; it wasn't busy but she knew the menu well and was friendly & accommodating

Interior: Full bar with sitting area facing away from the ocean; many tables and some front rail seats; view of the ocean is compact due to Doheny trees but still nice; furniture is lower end and dated

Exterior (Location): Great for walking access from Doheny and the harbor

Parking: On site valet is complimentary with purchase, very prompt“

“The best restaurant with mussels in South Cali. Highly recommend!“

“Sean the bartender here makes this place really shine. He's super friendly and knowledgeable about the beer and wine. The selections are top notch and the food options are varied enough that you could try something new before hitting a repeat. Such a great spot to chill after work, can't wait for another visit!

Parking: No problems with parking, there is plenty.“

“Love this place after a paddle around Dana harbor. The Doheny omelet is my go to, and they make great Bloody Mary’s.“

“Amazing venue, Great beers and pizza! A must do if you are in the area!“

“Went to O’Neill’s with a large group of 11, and we were lucky to have Lazz as our server! Not only was he incredibly attentive, but he also made the entire experience so much fun. His knowledge of the menu was excellent. We asked for recommendations, and every suggestion he made was spot on. The food was fantastic! He kept our drinks filled the entire evening and made sure everyone at the table was taken care of. Every single person in our group left happy. We can’t wait to come back!“

“This spot is a hidden gem inside Whole Foods. As a carnivore, I highly recommend their steak and eggs for when they offer breakfast, and the steak and frites for lunch. You really can’t go wrong with any of their food though. They have lots of good beer choices, and it’s a nice and clean ambiance inside.“

“There are very few dining experiences in Southern California where you’re literally on the sand at a property of this caliber. I use this spot strategically — when a client is weighing a significant purchase in the Monarch Beach or Ritz Cove area and I need them to viscerally understand what the lifestyle looks like, this is where I take them. The oceanfront setting is immaculate, the food quality matches the property’s standard, and the whole experience communicates what this coastal market actually delivers at the top tier. I’ve had clients shift from interested to committed after a lunch here. The combination of the Pacific view, the sand, and the resort backdrop closes that gap between looking at a home and wanting to live that life.“

“The food was so delicious.“

“We had brisket 7oz and it was delicious! love the rolls and peanut coleslaw. Our waitress checked with us frequently and provided excellent service. Thank you!“

“Food is excellent, pool games are legit. Good times by all“

“Had a really good experience at GU Ramen Taps & Tapas recently. The ramen was flavorful, the tapas were perfect for sharing, and the drinks selection was solid too. We went during happy hour and the atmosphere was super fun and relaxed, definitely a place we’ll be coming back to.“

“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“

“Always enjoy staying at the Waldorf Astoria. Nice escape, great location, attentive staff. Perfect getaway.“

“Stopped by Goody's Tavern and had a great time. Classic local dive bar vibe with a fun, laid-back crowd and plenty going on depending on the night. The bartenders were friendly and quick, and the drinks were solid without being overpriced.“