Orange County and Catalina Island Restaurants

Much like L.A., restaurants in Orange County are generally casual, and you’ll rarely see men in jackets and ties. However, at top resort hotel dining rooms, many guests choose to dress up.

Of course, there’s also a swath of casual places along the beachfronts—seafood takeout, taquerias, burger joints—that won’t mind if you wear flip-flops. Reservations are recommended for the nicest restaurants.

Many places don’t serve past 11 pm, and locals tend to eat early. Remember that according to California law, smoking is prohibited in all enclosed areas.

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  • 1. Bear Flag Fish Co.

    $

    Expect long lines in summer at this indoor--outdoor dining spot serving up the freshest local fish (swordfish, sea bass, halibut, and tuna) and a wide range of creative seafood dishes (the Hawaiian-style poke salad with ahi tuna is a local favorite). Order at the counter, which doubles as a seafood market, and sit inside or outside on a grand patio. This is one of the few restaurants in Southern California with its own fishing boat, so there's a good chance some line-caught local fish will be on the menu. Oysters are a great choice, and the fish tacos topped with the homemade hot sauce are not to be missed. This restaurant is so popular that it opened two other locations at Crystal Cove and Huntington Beach.

    3421 Via Lido, Newport Beach, California, 92663, USA
    949-673–3474

    Known For

    • Fresh catches thanks to restaurant fishing boat
    • Fish tacos with homemade hot sauce
    • Craft beers
  • 2. Descanso Beach Club

    $$

    Set on an expansive deck overlooking the water and a few boats, Descanso Beach Club serves a wide range of favorites: grilled burgers, street tacos, clam chowder, salads, and layered nachos, along with the island's sweet signature cocktail, Buffalo Milk---a mix of fruit liqueurs, vodka, and whipped cream. Firepits and chic beach cabanas add to the scene, as does the sound of happy and terrified screams from the zipliners in the canyon above the beach. There is a shop to purchase beach items, and a stand to rent kayaks and snorkel equipment.

    1 Descanso Ave., Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510–7410

    Known For

    • Tropical beach vibe
    • Scenic views
    • Chic cabana rentals
  • 3. Eric's on the Pier

    $$

    Grab a stool at this little snack bar on the Green Pleasure Pier for people-watching while drinking a draft beer and munching on a burrito, fish-and-chips, or signature buffalo burger.

    4 Green Pier, Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510–2550

    Known For

    • Comfort foods
    • Quick eats
    • Beachside location

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No dinner
  • 4. Las Brisas

    $$$$

    Located in what used to be the Victor Hugo Inn, Las Brisas is now a Laguna Beach landmark restaurant. Sit on the expansive patio to take in the spectacular coastline views while enjoying signature margaritas and coastal Mexican cuisine with a California twist. Look for the lobster Benedict for breakfast and brunch and the whole grilled fish served with black beans, rice, salsa, and freshly made corn tortillas for dinner.

    361 Cliff Dr., Laguna Beach, California, 92651, USA
    949-497–5434

    Known For

    • Fresh seafood
    • Panoramic coastal views
    • Reservations a must
  • 5. Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant

    $$

    Cordelia Knott's fried chicken and boysenberry pies drew crowds so big in the 1930s, that Knott's Berry Farm built a park to keep the hungry customers occupied while they waited. The Western-theme restaurant serves crispy home-style fried chicken, along with handmade biscuits, mashed potatoes, gravy, and Mrs. Knott's signature chilled cherry-rhubarb compote. The adjacent Marketplace has a grab-and-go counter to order and take home Knott's fried-chicken dinners.

    8039 Beach Blvd., California, 90620, USA
    714-220–5200

    Known For

    • Famous fried chicken
    • Long waits especially on weekends
    • Pies and desserts
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  • 6. Napa Rose

    $$$$

    Done up in a handsome Craftsman style, the upscale dinner venue Napa Rose prepares rich seasonal cuisine paired with an extensive wine list. For a look into the open kitchen, sit at the counter and watch the chefs as they whip up signature dishes such as warm duck confit salad, sautéed diver scallops, and beef filet mignon. There's also a few kid-friendly dishes. The handsome lounge offers an appealing menu of appetizers, entrees, drinks, and desserts too. 

    1600 Disneyland Dr., California, 92802, USA
    714-781-4636

    Known For

    • Upscale food and wine
    • Kid-friendly options
    • Gorgeous dining room and lounge

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Reservations essential
  • 7. Selanne Steak Tavern

    $$$$

    Located inside a historic 1934 home along Pacific Coast Highway, and named after one of the owners---Hockey Hall of Famer and six-time Olympian Teemu Selanne---Selanne Steak Tavern serves modern steak-house fare paired with stellar Napa Valley wines. There is a cozy Carrara-topped tavern-style bar where bartenders make artisanal cocktails and martinis, and a formal fine-dining experience upstairs. Other dining areas include a bistro-style wine room and outdoor dining terrace with beautiful Moroccan light fixtures creating a dramatic evening setting. Entrees include succulent hormone-free steaks and chops. Filet mignons are served sizzling in an 8- and 12-ounce presentation. Other meaty highlights include an 8-ounce Wagyu flat iron steak, 14-ounce Prime Rib Eye, and signature 32-ounce Lord Stanley cut. All are served with seasonal marrow butter and a variety of side sauces. The chefs use the well-stocked on-site herb garden in a variety of dishes and for garnish. Save room for Monkey Bread made with brioche and walnut streusel, toffee sauce, banana compote, and rum raisin ice cream. 

    1464 S. Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, California, 92651, USA

    Known For

    • Variety of dining settings
    • Prime cuts of meat
    • Monkey Bread dessert
  • 8. The Lobster Trap

    $$$

    Seafood rules at the popular Lobster Trap, because the restaurant's owner has his own boat and fishes for the catch of the day and, in season, spiny lobster. Ceviche is a great starter, always fresh and brightly flavored. Locals (you'll see many at the small counter) come for the relaxed atmosphere, large portions, and happy hour specials (not offered during the summer season) for select $4 pints and other specials. Try the grilled swordfish with mixed veggies and a baked potato. They can prepare it seven different ways including crisp macadamia nut breading. Open daily from 11 am for lunch through late evening. 

    128 Catalina St., Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510–8585

    Known For

    • Locally caught seafood
    • Convivial atmosphere
    • Local hangout

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: no reservations accepted
  • 9. Anaheim White House

    $$$

    The owner and executive chef Bruno Serato is one of the most beloved and famous philanthropists in Anaheim, known as much for his mission to feed America's hungry children as for his fine-dining Italian restaurant where standout dishes include lobster ravioli, Italian gourmet pizza, and his signature steamed salmon "chocolat" served with Belgium white-chocolate mashed potatoes. Grilled hanger steak dazzles with a green chimichurri sauce, and the Angus beef filet mignon is served with a savory Italian porcini sauce. Save room for the Jackie O showstopping dessert platter for four people. 

    887 S. Anaheim Blvd., California, 92805, USA
    714-772–1381

    Known For

    • Classic Mediterranean cuisine
    • Celebratory fine-dining venue
    • Celeb chef

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues.
  • 10. Basilic Restaurant

    $$$$ | Balboa Island

    This intimate French--Swiss bistro adds a touch of old-world elegance to Balboa Island with its white linen and flower-topped tables. Chef Bernard Althaus grows the herbs used in his classic French dishes. Head here for charcuterie, coq au vin, steak au poivre, and a fine glass of Bordeaux. Finish with a caramelized apple tarte tatin with ice cream.The restaurant offers a prix-fixe five-course tasting menu and a la carte items.

    217 Marine Ave., Newport Beach, California, 92662, USA
    949-673–0570

    Known For

    • French classics
    • Fine wine
    • Old-school ambience

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon.
  • 11. Bluewater Grill

    $$$

    Overlooking the entire harbor, this open-to-the-sea-air patio is the preferred spot to dine on freshly caught fish, savory chowders, and all manner of shellfish. Order a swordfish steak, the lobster roll, or the sand dabs if they are on the menu. Save room for homemade Key lime pie or java mud pie. The dining room has an understated nautical vibe. Fishing rods serve as room dividers, and plank floors lend a casual feel inside and out. Vintage black-and-white photos acknowledge the island's famed sportfishing legacy. Happy hour offers craft beers, potent cocktails, and tasty bites like fried calamari and oyster shooters.

    306 Crescent Ave., Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510–3474

    Known For

    • Fresh local fish
    • Handcrafted cocktails
    • Overwater harbor views
  • 12. Bluewater Grill

    $$$

    On the site of an old sportfishing dock, this popular spot offers a variety of seasonal seafood, shellfish, meat, and poultry. There’s a tranquil bay view from either the dining room, which is adorned with early-1900s fishing photos, or the waterfront patio. Favorites include miso-glazed black cod, local rockfish snapper, and all different types of shellfish including oven-baked lobster tail. There's an emphasis on freshness—the menu changes daily—and wines and craft brews are reasonably priced.

    630 Lido Park Dr., Newport Beach, California, 92663, USA
    949-675–3474

    Known For

    • Boat and harbor views
    • Happy hour specials
    • Daily-changing menu of fresh fish
  • 13. Cañadas Grill

    $

    Serving up authentic Mexican cuisine, the family-owned Cañadas Grill is where the locals go. Don't expect fancy decor or tableside service; this humble mom-and-pop shop is tucked into a tiny urban strip mall in an untouristed area, and shows fútbol matches on the corner TV. The menu is huge, filled with everything from the regular suspects to more localized specialties. Whether you want to start the day with a breakfast entree like chilaquiles (fried tortilla pieces covered with eggs and carne asada) or end it with a molcajete (a stone mortar filled with a meat-and-vegetable stew), Cañadas has you covered. The superstar dish is carne en su jugo (beef in its own juice). Wash down your meal with beverages like hibiscus aguas frescas, fresh juice, a michelada, or Mexican bottled sodas.

    3721 E. Anaheim St., California, 90804, USA
    562-494--4903

    Known For

    • Super-authentic Mexican cuisine
    • Carne en su jugo
    • House-made salsa
  • 14. Catalina Coffee & Cookie Company

    $

    There is no Starbucks on the island, so the Catalina Coffee & Cookie Company is very popular in the morning. While you're grabbing your coffees, lattes, and mochas, you may want to kick-start the day with fresh-baked pastries, a hot breakfast burrito, or one of their custom made-to-order bagel sandwiches. Sit outside at one of the tables in the quaint Metropole Market Place.

    205 Crescent Ave., Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510--2447

    Known For

    • Dark chocolate pistachio bars
    • Bagel sandwiches
    • Popular breakfast spot

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Open daily 6–4.
  • 15. Cedar Creek Inn

    $$$

    Just across the street from Mission San Juan Capistrano, this restaurant has a patio that's perfect for a late lunch or a romantic dinner. The menu is fairly straightforward, with dishes that are tasty and portions that are substantial—try the "Brown Derby" Cobb salad or Cedar Creek burger at lunch, or the prime rib for dinner. There are gluten-free and vegetarian options, plus a variety of beers, specialty cocktails, and wines. 

    26860 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, California, 92675, USA
    949-240–2229

    Known For

    • View of the historic mission
    • Coconut cake
    • Comfortable seating and patio
  • 16. Duke's

    $$$$

    Freshly caught seafood reigns supreme at this homage to surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku; it's also a prime people-watching spot right at the beginning of Huntington Beach Pier. Choose from several fish-of-the-day selections—many topped with Hawaiian ingredients—and shellfish like lobster, king crab, and shrimp. Or try the crispy coconut shrimp or fresh ahi tuna fish tacos. Duke's mai tai is not to be missed. And save room for a slice of the Kimo Original Hula Pie, with chocolate cookie crust, macadamia nut ice cream, hot fudge, toasted macadamia nuts, and whipped cream. Open for lunch, brunch, and dinner. Every Monday they offer a Burger and Beverage special for $19 from 4 to 9 pm. Taco Tuesday special in the Barefoot Bar is two tacos with fresh chips and salsa for $13.

    317 Pacific Coast Hwy., California, 92648, USA
    714-374–6446

    Known For

    • Hawaiian-style decor
    • Gorgeous sunset views
    • Mai tai cocktails
  • 17. Gelato Paradiso

    $

    Each morning this gelato shop makes fresh small batches of artisanal gelatos and dairy-free sorbettos in a variety of appealing flavors. Located in back of the charming Peppertree Lane shopping center, there is a small outdoor patio where people gather to enjoy the authentic Italian gelato after a day at the beach or to cap off an evening.

    448 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, California, 92651, USA
    949-464–9255

    Known For

    • Authentic Italian gelato
    • Fruit flavors
    • Patio gathering spot
  • 18. Gulfstream

    $$$

    Established in 1999, this trendy restaurant has an open kitchen, comfortable booths, and outdoor seating. The patio is a fantastic place to hang out to enjoy a shrimp cocktail and glass of wine. They make heavenly biscuits, shucked oysters, grilled California artichokes, pan-seared ahi tuna burger, New Orleans barbecue shrimp, and a cedar plank-roasted salmon. It gets noisy near the bar area, so come early or retreat onto the patio if you prefer a quieter spot.

    850 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, California, 92660, USA
    949-718–0188

    Known For

    • Oysters on the half shell
    • Local hangout
    • Outdoor patio
  • 19. L'Hirondelle

    $$$

    Locals have romanced at cozy tables for decades at this delightful restaurant directly across from the San Juan Capistrano Mission. Such classic dishes as beef bourguignon and a New York strip in a black-peppercorn-and-brandy sauce are the hallmarks of this French and Belgian restaurant, whose name means "the little swallow." The extensive wine list is matched by an impressive selection of Belgian beers. You can dine in the cozy dining room or on the lovely patio, which is perfect for Sunday brunch. Save room for the Belgian chocolate torte.

    31631 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, California, 92675, USA
    949-661–0425

    Known For

    • Popular Sunday brunch
    • Traditional French and Belgian cuisine
    • Good Belgian beer selection

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon.; brunch only on Sun
  • 20. Nomad Asian Bistro

    $

    Nomad Asian Bistro draws an army of dedicated locals to feast on Chinese halal dishes featuring hand-pulled noodles (at a nominal extra fee, but worth it in every way). Nomad offers a wide range of conventional and inventive options, with abundant vegetarian and gluten-free choices in addition to classics like short ribs and shrimp. Be warned: if you order the sesame flatbread and aren't paying close attention, you'll inhale it all and ruin your appetite. Wash down your meal with a glass of their housemade, fresh-pressed ginger beer. The restaurant's ample size makes it a great option for large parties, and free parking is abundant—a rarity in Long Beach. Patio dining is available.

    6563 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., California, 90803, USA
    562-430--6888

    Known For

    • Delectable house-made noodles
    • Bargain lunch specials
    • Sizzling rice soup that really sizzles

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Reservations recommended on weekend nights

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