Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Orange County

Best Southern American Restaurants in Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel

Price
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

55 restaurants available nearby

A photo of OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo restaurant
1. OPAH Restaurant & Bar @ Town Center Aliso Viejo
4.8
Exceptional(1596)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 24 times today
Opah Restaurant & Bar in Town Center Aliso Viejo is renowned for serving the finest fresh fish in Orange County, making it a seafood lover's paradise. The expertly curated menu by celebrated Chef Marc A. Cohen features dishes that are both visually stunning and mouthwateringly delicious. Enthusiastic diners rave about their experiences, with one patron exclaiming, "The seafood soup was insanely good!" and another sharing, "The seared Ahi was so good and a very generous portion." Both locals and newcomers are consistently impressed, often highlighting the exceptional service and the quality of dishes like the Cioppino and Day Boat scallops. The ambiance, coupled with a diverse menu and signature martinis, ensures a delightful dining experience for all.
A photo of Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook restaurant
2. Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook
4.8
Exceptional(1742)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Laguna Beach
Booked 63 times today
At Sapphire, Cellar.Craft.Cook in Laguna Beach, the essence of a true Steakhouse shines through with their exceptional steaks and meticulous service. Patrons rave about the "excellent ambiance" and the "perfectly cooked" meats, with one guest highlighting that even a "slightly overcooked" filet mignon was "still good" due to its superior quality and tenderness. This gem sets the bar high with its commitment to "quality and value," ensuring every dish from the aged ribeye to the innovative sides meets the highest standards. The picturesque ocean views and "wonderful service" complement the dining experience, making Sapphire a must-visit destination for Steakhouse enthusiasts looking for authenticity and excellence by the beautiful shores of Laguna Beach.
A photo of Harvest restaurant
3. Harvest
4.7
Exceptional(2428)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Laguna Beach
Booked 30 times today
Nestled in the picturesque backdrop of Aliso Canyon in Laguna Beach, Harvest epitomizes the essence of Farm-to-table cuisine with a unique Californian twist. Esteemed Executive Chef Kyle St. John crafts seasonal menus that highlight the freshest ingredients directly from the restaurant's own Harvest Farm, ensuring each dish bursts with local flavors and fresh simplicity. Diners consistently rave about the "amazing food and service in a beautiful setting," and praise the "wonderful staff." The restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality shines through in their "out of this world" short ribs and the highly recommended cinnamon bread and pasta. With its stunning views and innovative dishes, Harvest offers an authentic farm-to-table experience that is both memorable and deeply satisfying.
A photo of Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort restaurant
4. Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort
4.7
Exceptional(4400)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Laguna Beach
Booked 52 times today
Nestled along the picturesque Southern California coastline in Laguna Beach, Splashes offers an exceptional dining experience that celebrates innovative coastal cuisine. Helmed by renowned Chef Ron Fougeray, the menu blends fresh, local ingredients with creative culinary techniques, delivering vibrant dishes that capture the essence of coastal California. Sommelier-selected wines from the restaurant's award-winning wine program enhance the dining experience with perfect harmony. Indulge in modern elegance in a newly renovated dining room, where the soothing sights and sounds of the ocean create a serene atmosphere. Guests will enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific as they savor contemporary coastal flavors, making every meal a memorable occasion. The team at Splashes invites guests to celebrating the beauty of coastal living with an unforgettable dining experience that reflects the spirit of Laguna Beach.
A photo of King's Fish House - Laguna Hills restaurant
5. King's Fish House - Laguna Hills
4.7
Exceptional(4862)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 91 times today
King's Fish House in Laguna Hills, established in 1997, has become a beacon for seafood lovers seeking authenticity and quality. Located conveniently near the Laguna Hills Mall, it offers a vibrant selection of fresh oysters, seasonal catches, and live shellfish that keep the menu exciting and dynamic. Patrons rave about the "EXCELLENT jumbo shrimp and oysters" and the memorable "macadamia nut halibut," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to freshness and flavor. Reviews frequently commend King's for its "outstanding" service and atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for both special occasions and casual dining. Whether it's the welcoming staff or the meticulously prepared seafood, King's Fish House is celebrated for delivering a consistently delightful dining experience, underscored by glowing testimonials like, "Always delicious" and "the best seafood experience."
A photo of Selanne Steak Tavern restaurant
6. Selanne Steak Tavern
4.7
Exceptional(2784)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Laguna Beach
Booked 20 times today
Selanne Steak Tavern in Laguna Beach, owned by hockey legend Teemu Selanne, is a beacon of American cuisine, offering a sublime blend of upscale casual dining and traditional steakhouse vibes. Patrons rave about the "absolute best steaks in Orange County," with dishes like the New York steak and Wagyu filet receiving particular praise for their succulent flavors. The restaurant's ability to craft tender, perfectly cooked steaks, complemented by an extensive wine list and craft cocktails, truly sets it apart. Diners consistently laud the "fantastic" food and service, describing their dining experience as "perfect in every way." Whether it's the mouthwatering sea bass or the rich, creamy mac & cheese, Selanne Steak Tavern delivers a quintessentially American dining experience that's both authentic and exceptional.
A photo of The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach restaurant
7. The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach
4.8
Exceptional(2058)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Laguna Beach
Booked 28 times today
At The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach, contemporary American cuisine reaches new heights, delivering not only on flavor but also on an extraordinary dining experience. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Laguna Beach, this restaurant is celebrated for its innovative dishes that encapsulate the essence of California and the broader American culinary landscape. Guests rave about the "colorful and tasty-yumi food" and the "coffee crusted steak and the scallops," highlighting the creative twists on classic favorites. The Loft's setting, with its stunning ocean views, complements its culinary prowess, making every meal a visual and palatable feast. With accolades like "one of the best dining experiences we have ever had," it's clear that The Loft is a hallmark of fine contemporary American dining. Whether it's the exceptional service, the ambiance, or the exquisite food, The Loft promises a memorable gastronomic journey that's both authentic and innovative.
A photo of Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook restaurant
8. Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook
4.8
Exceptional(2870)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Laguna Hills / Lake Forest / Foothill Ranch
Booked 51 times today
At Ironwood, Cellar.Craft.Cook in Laguna Hills, the Steakhouse cuisine is a testament to culinary excellence, drawing rave reviews for its high-quality, well-crafted dishes. Diners consistently praise the "perfectly cooked" bone-in ribeye and celebrate the restaurant for its authentic Steakhouse offerings that stand out in the neighborhood. The use of seasonal, scratch-made ingredients enhances each dish, providing a fresh and flavorful experience. Guests are treated with exceptional hospitality, making every dining experience special, as highlighted by one diner who enjoyed a "fantastic meal" complemented by attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere. Ironwood's commitment to quality and consistency makes it a top choice for both locals and visitors looking for an outstanding Steakhouse experience in Laguna Hills.
A photo of The Tea House on Los Rios restaurant
9. The Tea House on Los Rios
4.8
Exceptional(2723)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 49 times today
Nestled in the historic heart of San Juan Capistrano, The Tea House on Los Rios serves as a quintessential American dining experience with a twist of charming British flair. This venue stands out not only for its picturesque setting in a restored 1911 cottage but also for its commitment to quality and authenticity in every dish served. Patrons rave about the "delicious and beautifully plated" food, highlighting American classics like the brunch menu's mimosas and Bloody Marys. With glowing reviews, such as it being the "best traditional tea service around" and a "perfect spot to enjoy a good English tea experience," this restaurant merges American dining excellence with the elegance of high tea, making every visit unforgettable. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful day out, The Tea House on Los Rios promises an exceptional experience in the heart of Orange County.
A photo of The Drake in Laguna restaurant
10. The Drake in Laguna
4.8
Exceptional(1473)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Laguna Beach
Booked 41 times today
At The Drake in Laguna Beach, seafood lovers are in for a sublime dining experience that combines freshness with culinary flair. Known for its "exquisite" and "perfectly cooked" seafood dishes, such as the praised Halibut and Shrimp Curry, The Drake ensures every plate is a testament to the quality and authenticity of its ingredients. Guests rave about the "tender tuna tartare" and the "best salmon I have ever had," highlighting the skilled preparation and flavorful execution. Pairing their meals with live music, diners enjoy an "amazing" atmosphere that complements the sophisticated seafood offerings. Whether it’s the vibrant Salmon, flaky Sea Bass, or the savory Shrimp Curry, The Drake's commitment to excellence makes it a must-visit for seafood connoisseurs in Laguna Beach.
‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Open for Business Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable Australia Level 22, 357 Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo