Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge

Ordered the Ranchero Steak and Potatoes. Medium temp. was what I requested and I got a well cooked not very tasty steak. The potato was what looked to me a microwaved baked potato with the most basic cheddar cheese crusted on top. Really disappointing. They had low beer inventory which was lame too, service was turtle paced. Rather annoying place to go to. Skip it, there are better places out in town.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 1

Service: 1

Great place to people watch and grab a drink.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 3

Service: 5

The food is always really great but the service is not great. Takes forever to be greeted, get drinks, order your food, and then get your food. So do I recommend the food yes, but only go if you have plenty of time to wait and don't mind a very loud environment.

Amazing food and spectacular craft cocktails. Try the Gin drinks they look beautiful and taste delicious 😋 cute photo spot too

A Perfect Thanksgiving at Ysidora — Truly a Special Place

My family celebrated Thanksgiving at Ysidora and I can say without hesitation: it was one of the most memorable holiday meals we’ve ever had. I am genuinely thankful for this restaurant and the incredible people who make it such a special place.

From the moment we arrived, Jeff—the best server I have ever had—made us feel like friends and family. He had a bottle of wine chilling before we even sat down, greeted us with genuine warmth, and took care of every detail. We had a vegetarian in our group who wanted to order off-menu, and Jeff worked with the kitchen to put together a beautiful entrée complete with all the traditional Thanksgiving sides—mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans. That alone says everything about the level of care here. And it didn’t stop there; Jeff made us feel welcomed, relaxed, and truly at home all night. He is an asset to Ysidora, and we were so happy to see him back after some time away.

Executive Chef Adrián Hernández is a force of nature—in talent, hospitality, and style. His cooking reflects his passion, heritage, and artistry, which shines through in every dish. The turkey was excellent, the potato soup with bacon was out of this world, and the pecan pie was so delicious it converted someone at our table who doesn’t even like pecan pie! Despite the Thanksgiving rush, Chef Adrián took the time to step out of the kitchen to greet our table. That gesture made us feel like VIPs. And his new custom chef’s coat? Sharp, vibrant, and full of personality—just like his food.

Management at Ysidora is equally amazing. Taylor, one of the managers, radiates positive energy. She’s become a friend and brings a contagious, happy presence that instantly elevates the entire restaurant. Patricia, the restaurant manager, stopped by as well—her calm, organized leadership was evident everywhere. Even on a busy holiday, the restaurant felt warm, smooth, unhurried, and welcoming. Our table (220) was perfect, and we never felt rushed for a moment.

Behind the bar, Russell was working hard and crafting excellent drinks as always. It’s always great to see him. And even though he wasn’t our server yesterday, Elliott still made a point to say hello—and even came over with fresh ground pepper the moment he noticed we needed some. That’s the kind of thoughtful service that defines Ysidora.

Every single person we interacted with contributed to a truly perfect day. Ysidora isn’t just my favorite restaurant—it’s a place filled with my favorite people. Their warmth, professionalism, and heart made our Thanksgiving unforgettable.

Thank you, Jeff, Chef Adrián, Taylor, Patricia, Russell, and Elliott. We are grateful for each of you. What a special meal, what a special place. We can’t wait to come back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Celebrated my birthday here last year and decided to do it again this year everything is amazing and wonderful. The staff couldn't be more knowledgeable and friendly, but you'll keep coming back for the food and the ambience is wonderful. Love this place

There is a real difference hanging here compared to other hot spots in San Juan Capistrano. Different vibe with live music

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Friendly front office receptionist & attentive valet parking attendants. This hotel is beautiful!

I personally am very picky with giving 5 stars to restaurants, but this is definitely a 5 star. Thanks to Zenthya the host for being awesome and recommending is this place! Great food and atmosphere and all the staff have been very attentive and kind. Recommend if you want a nice fancy atmosphere and good vibes. I personally liked it more at night than day but both days are great. The only hard part could be the parking!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Food was very disappointing. Chicken paella came out in a plate! Cubes of chicken breast mixed with rice. Couldn't believe it. Seabass was bland with small pieces of corn and beans. Overpriced drinks. Will not go back. Vibe is good with live music.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 2

Service: 3

The place is so beautiful and the food is incredible. I love that the Chef combines authentic Spanish with Mexican. Everything we had was so good, Especially the Croquettas.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We really enjoyed the atmosphere of this restaurant. It is set in a beautiful hotel and where we ate on the outside patio, was gorgeous with the fountain and lighting. With that being said since it is at a hotel, it is kind of strange having people walk past you in general hotel attire such as swimming suits and pajamas when you’re paying $50 for chicken. We did not know when we made our reservations that this was a hotel restaurant, if we did this would have been part of our decision to go here for our anniversary dinner. The food was very good however, I will say that my chicken was dry and tough, but the mashed potatoes made up for it. It is a little on the pricey side not going to lie. The staff is very kind. I will say that our waitress was here and there though. Also valet is $15 and literally they don’t take your car anywhere. I was actually 1/2 way parked when a man came up to me at the window of our car and he explained it’s only valet. He parked it where I was already so…. Also, they don’t have any signs out saying it’s only valet so it was pretty confusing parking and having somebody come up to you without a tag or signage and then only to park in the same spot or two parking spots away from where you just were parking. Personally, I don’t like to have our car valeted if there is a choice - especially with traveling, I tend to keep multiple purses based off of our planned activities in our backseat. They were nice though, so I’ll give them that. Dessert was really good. It was also very pretty. I will say this restaurant does take pride in how their dishes look and you can definitely taste the flavors. I just wish it was in an area where it was not part of a hotel if it’s going to be that expensive. Average is about $70 w/ no cocktails pp which we don’t mind, but we would like for the atmosphere to reflect this luxury. Definitely would go again, but maybe Uber and only go for drinks and hors d’oeuvres

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

Very nice restaurant, great atmosphere, but I felt the menu could have more options, especially more fish options. Other than that, I would come back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 4

Very Upscale. As if having the finest Manhattan or London luxury lobby experience in diwn town SJC. Sun filled outdoor patios likewise evacuate and nice furnished.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Enjoyed midday lunch at Ysidora, a lightly seared tuna sandwich layered with roasted red and yellow peppers, paired with a citrus-kissed salad. A quiet moment of flavour before heading to the beach.