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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Lake Forest

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76 restaurants available nearby

A photo of King's Fish House - Laguna Hills restaurant
1. King's Fish House - Laguna Hills
4.6
Exceptional(4945)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 74 times today
King's Fish House in Laguna Hills is a true gem for lovers of authentic American cuisine, particularly seafood fans. Renowned for its "fresh oysters and seasonal catches," this establishment has been delighting patrons since 1997 with a menu that changes daily to reflect the freshest offerings. Diners rave about the "perfectly cooked and delicious" dishes, from the crispy fried shrimp to the flavorful sand dabs. The warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by an attentive staff, ensures every visit is a memorable experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, King's Fish House consistently delivers excellence in American seafood dining.
A photo of Javier's Irvine Spectrum restaurant
2. Javier's Irvine Spectrum
4.6
Exceptional(128)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Irvine
Booked 117 times today
Javier's Irvine Spectrum serves original Mexican cuisine. Opened in 2004 and located close to the 405 and 5 freeways, the restaurant offers numerous entrees and combo meals. Javier's Irvine Spectrum selects and serves only the freshest ingredients, including sustainable and in-season seafood, natural chicken and center-cut #1 prime Angus beef. Every dish is prepared fresh to order, and guests may sit in the spacious main dining room, on the intimate patio, at the bar or in a private dining area.The dining room is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday until 11:00 p.m. Javier's Irvine Spectrum's full bar is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Reservations are accepted.
A photo of Puesto Los Olivos restaurant
3. Puesto Los Olivos
4.6
Exceptional(1798)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Irvine
Booked 49 times today
Puesto Los Olivos in Irvine sets the bar high for Cocktail Bar cuisine with its exquisite and innovative offerings. Known for its vibrant bar program, the restaurant serves handcrafted cocktails that "showcase the best of Mexico City," featuring fresh ingredients and housemade Micheladas. Diners rave about the "beautiful and refreshing" cocktails, with the Puesto Perfect Margarita being a standout. The bar also offers unique tequilas, mezcals, and rare Baja craft beers, making it a true haven for cocktail aficionados. The ambiance complements the drink experience, providing a lively and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying their renowned drinks.
A photo of Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook restaurant
4. Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook
4.7
Exceptional(2910)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 21 times today
Ironwood, Cellar. Craft. Cook. in Laguna Hills is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, offering a menu crafted with the highest quality seasonal ingredients. Diners rave about their seafood dishes, with one guest exclaiming the halibut was the "best he ever had," while another praised the blue crab baked oysters as "oh so good." The restaurant’s commitment to freshness and authenticity ensures that each seafood dish is prepared meticulously, bringing out flavors that are both vibrant and true to the sea. With an inviting ambiance and stellar service, Ironwood promises an extraordinary dining experience for seafood lovers.
A photo of Morena's Mexican Cuisine - Lake Forest restaurant
5. Morena's Mexican Cuisine - Lake Forest
new
5.0
Exceptional(2)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Lake Forest
Morena’s Mexican Cuisine is owned and operated by the Rosales family. They opened their first location in Rancho Mission Viejo in 2019. Since then have plans to open several more locations in Orange County and the Inland Empire.We offer our customers authentic Mexican food made with the freshest ingredients. We never use pre-made sauces, mixes, or frozen ingredients in our food.All of our cocktails are made with fresh ingredients like freshly muddled blackberries, organic agave and fresh lime juice.Lunch Specials: Our lunch menu also features tacos, burritos, huevos rancheros, chile relleno and more. All dishes are $12.99 from 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
A photo of BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Laguna Hills restaurant
6. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - Laguna Hills
4.4
Awesome(190)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 14 times today
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse in Laguna Hills is a barbecue lover's dream destination. Known for its mouthwatering pork ribs, guests rave about the "excellent food" that never fails to impress. The quality of their barbecue stands out, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The restaurant's ambiance, combined with attentive service, makes each visit memorable. As one satisfied diner noted, "BJ’s never disappoints!" Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a barbecue feast, BJ's delivers with authenticity and flair. It's the perfect spot to savor top-notch barbecue while enjoying a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to return again and again.
A photo of Del Frisco's Grille - Irvine restaurant
7. Del Frisco's Grille - Irvine
4.5
Awesome(2290)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Irvine
Del Frisco's Grille in Irvine offers an exceptional American dining experience, perfectly blending modern elegance with classic bar and grill charm. Known for its "excellent food, drinks, dessert, and service," this vibrant spot serves a tempting menu featuring prime steaks, fresh seafood, and innovative twists on American comfort cuisine. With rave reviews highlighting its "super attentive and helpful" staff and "impeccable food," Del Frisco's Grille stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic American flavors. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, guests consistently praise the restaurant's inviting atmosphere and "amazing dining experience."
A photo of Hacienda on the Lake restaurant
8. Hacienda on the Lake
4.5
Awesome(145)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 6 times today
Hacienda on the Lake, nestled in the picturesque setting of Mission Viejo, presents a culinary delight with its authentic Regional Mexican (Baja Med) cuisine. Renowned for its vibrant dishes, this restaurant offers a taste of Mexico with a unique Baja Med twist, combining fresh ingredients and innovative flavors. Diners rave about the "fantastic atmosphere" and "great food and service," making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors. The lakeside view enhances the dining experience, while the menu’s standout dishes, like the Hacienda Enchiladas, reflect the quality and authenticity that Baja Med cuisine is known for. "Highly recommended" for anyone seeking an exceptional Mexican dining experience.
A photo of Urban Grill & Wine Bar restaurant
9. Urban Grill & Wine Bar
4.5
Awesome(731)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 3 times today
Urban Grill & Wine Bar in Foothill Ranch is a must-visit for authentic American cuisine enthusiasts. This neighborhood gem has been celebrated for its "outstanding and fresh" dishes and "exceptional service," making it a favorite for both locals and newcomers. The menu boasts classic American staples like Prime steaks and Alaskan king crab legs, perfectly paired with a top-notch wine list that even connoisseurs rave about. Guests appreciate the warm, friendly atmosphere and the "super yummy cobblers" that end their meals on a sweet note. Whether for a casual night out or a special celebration, Urban Grill delivers an incomparable dining experience.
A photo of OPAH Restaurant & Bar restaurant
10. OPAH Restaurant & Bar
4.8
Exceptional(1612)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 12 times today
Opah Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo offers an exceptional American dining experience that truly stands out in the heart of Aliso Viejo. Renowned for its consistently great service and high-quality cuisine, this local gem impresses with its diverse menu and meticulous preparation, especially their seafood selections. Regulars rave about the "amazing hazelnut encrusted halibut" and the "delicious bacon-wrapped dates," showcasing authentic American flavors with a gourmet twist. The inviting atmosphere, enhanced by a cozy outdoor patio, makes Opah a favorite spot for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. With glowing reviews praising the "phenomenal service" and "excellent experience on all points," Opah is a must-visit for anyone seeking stellar American cuisine.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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