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Best Authentic Restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

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30 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Jack's Restaurant/Bar restaurant
1. Jack's Restaurant/Bar
4.7
Exceptional(1070)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 18 times today
Jack's Restaurant/Bar is a beloved Italian joint in Dana Point. The authenticity of its Italian cuisine is consistently praised in reviews, with phrases like 'authentic, delicious Italian food' and 'excellent food & service in the old New York style'. The restaurant's commitment to quality and service is clear, with many reviewers highlighting the 'excellent service' and 'delicious food'.
A photo of Luciana's Ristorante restaurant
2. Luciana's Ristorante
4.6
Exceptional(3416)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 46 times today
Located in a historical home in the resort town of Dana Point, California, Luciana's Ristorante has been serving the Orange County community for over 40 years. The decor is reminiscent of a cozy European-style inn, establishing it as one of Orange County's most romantic restaurants. Awarded the Southern California Restaurant Writers gold medal since 1996, three stars from the California Restaurant Writers, Zagat's Survey "America’s 1,000 Top Italian Restaurants 2008" and an Award of Excellence for its wine list, Luciana's has been setting the standard for classic as well as innovative Italian cuisine. Whether visiting our cozy restaurant or our Bed and Breakfast and Cooking School in Tuscany, Italy, you are sure to experience the best and freshest combination of the old and new worlds.
A photo of KAHANI - The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel restaurant
3. KAHANI - The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
4.6
Exceptional(168)
Price: Expensive
• Indian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 10 times today
Join Chef Sanjay’s culinary journey from New Delhi to Dana Point and enjoy a contemporary approach to Indian regional specialties that places creative artistry, quality of ingredients, and respect for authentic flavors and ingredients at the forefront of cooking. KAHANI, which means "story" in Hindi, is open from Tuesday through Saturday; 5-9 p.m.
A photo of Starfish Laguna Beach restaurant
4. Starfish Laguna Beach
4.8
Exceptional(2205)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Asian • Laguna Beach
Booked 57 times today
Thank you for thinking of Starfish Laguna! Indoor & Patio Dining are available! Reservations are strongly encouraged, and available via phone at 949.715.9200.Lunch: Daily from 11a - 3pOpium Hour: Everyday 3p - 6p (dine-in only)Dinner: Daily from 3p - 9pWe offer our full menu for takeout and delivery, with delivery offered in partnership with Doordash or through our website. To place a pickup order, please call 949.715.8205. We look forward to seeing you soon!
A photo of El Adobe de Capistrano restaurant
5. El Adobe de Capistrano
4.7
Exceptional(1044)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 57 times today
Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine in a historic setting at El Adobe de Capistrano. This landmark features a wedding chapel, stained-glass windows and additional beautiful architectural details. Its kitchen has a mesquite-burning grill where chefs prepare deliciously flavored seafood and steak dishes. Soups, salads and appetizers are also on the menu, including tasty desserts.Owners Tony Moiso and Gilbert Aguirre have kept the atmosphere and traditions of the El Adobe de Capistrano going. This establishment still prepares the dishes that President Nixon and his wife enjoyed while visiting during his administration. It has a full bar that serves various drinks, a lounge area for socializing and a patio in the front. El Adobe de Capistrano offers private rooms for banquets and other events. The Palenque features a retracting roof, making it ideal for hosting an event under the night sky. It offers brunch and has a Happy Hour.
A photo of Tastes of Greece restaurant
6. Tastes of Greece
4.8
Exceptional(406)
Price: Expensive
• Greek • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 1 time today
Tastes of Greece – Authentic Greek Cuisine in Laguna Niguel, CAIndulge in fresh, homestyle Greek dishes at Tastes of Greece, a family-owned gem in the heart of Laguna Niguel. Our menu features traditional favorites like moussaka, souvlaki, lamb gyros, spanakopita, and fresh seafood, crafted with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with charming indoor dining and relaxing outdoor seating, perfect for families, date nights, or gatherings. Pair your meal with a curated selection of fine Greek wines and end on a sweet note with our delicious baklava.Conveniently located in Crown Valley Plaza, we are dedicated to serving memorable meals with exceptional hospitality. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a casual lunch, or reserving a table for dinner, experience the finest Greek dining in Orange County. Reserve your table today and savor the flavors of Greece without leaving Laguna Niguel.
A photo of Ciao Pasta restaurant
7. Ciao Pasta
4.8
Exceptional(1271)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 37 times today
Ciao Pasta offers the most authentic flavors of southern Italy in a historic setting reminiscent of the old world. Located in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, we take pride in bringing the rich flavors and traditions of Italy right to your table. Our menu features a delightful array of dishes, from handmade pasta and artisanal pizzas to fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables, all crafted with the finest ingredients.At Ciao Pasta, we believe that great food is best enjoyed in good company. Our cozy atmosphere is perfect for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or casual nights out with friends. With a selection of carefully curated wines and house-made desserts, we invite you to indulge in the taste of Italy.Happy hour at Ciao Pasta includes discounted house wine and beer, where guests are free to indulge in the beverages as they share affordable appetizers and select entrees. Join us for a culinary journey that celebrates the passion and culture of Italian dining. Buon Appetito!
A photo of AVEO Table + Bar restaurant
8. AVEO Table + Bar
4.4
Awesome(437)
Price: Moderate
• Unspecified • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Find yourself whisked away to an oceanview dining experience reminiscent of a coastal fishing town south of the border. Featuring fresh, local ingredients from the season's bounty, the AVEO kitchen takes inspiration from Latin America's rich culinary history and generations-old traditions. An approachable menu showcases local seafood, prime filets, savory sandwiches, and fresh salads, while also introducing Latin staples such as fried potatoes - patatas bravas - pan al horno, and ceviches. At the expansive bar, explore the vivid list of bebidas, including refreshing palomas and margaritas, as well as a signature twist on the authentic Rum & Coke. Salud!
A photo of Casanova Ristorante restaurant
9. Casanova Ristorante
4.4
Awesome(20)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 7 times today
At Casanova Ristorante, we pride ourselves on being a culinary gem, dedicated to celebrating the rich flavors and traditions of Venetian and North Italian cuisine. From savory pasta dishes to succulent seafood delights, each dish is prepared with the finest ingredients and expert culinary skill, ensuring a memorable dining experience with every bite.Complementing our cuisine is a thoughtfully curated wine list. From bold reds to crisp whites and everything in between, our wine selection offers something for every palate. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply seeking the ideal pairing, our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you, ensuring a delightful culinary experience from start to finish.
A photo of Sylvester's Italian Chophouse restaurant
10. Sylvester's Italian Chophouse
4.3
Awesome(53)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • San Clemente
Booked 6 times today
Welcome to Sylvester’s Italian Chophouse. Located near the water in a beautiful 1932 historic building in the seaside community of San Clemente California. We share a culinary interest, respect and appreciation for traditional Italian and French foods. The goal of keeping it simple with good breads, pizza, pasta and a variety of steaks, all paired with outstanding wines. Our kitchen is comprised of a team that has cooked at top restaurants around the world. With experience in both fine and casual dining, we landed in the middle, on what San Clemente does best, “causally sophisticated”. We are so happy to have you and your family with us!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Morgan
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Always the best food and service. They have a reoccurring special ossobuco and Is one of the best items on the menu!
    More info
    Jack's Restaurant/BarPrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.7
  • Ram
    Alabama •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Fabulous experience. Service was amazing. Food was excellent and the presentation was delectable. Plenty of sumptuous choices on the menu. We had warm pakoras topped with whipped yoghurt for an appetizer. Delicious! For the main course, we had the curry sampler with Afghani Chicken. Although it said served two, there was plenty for 4 seniors with leftovers to take home! Overall a wonderful dinner at a great location with great ambiance!! Would highly recommended it. Definitely pricey but well worth the extra touches.
    More info
    KAHANI - The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna NiguelPrice: Expensive• Indian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.6
  • LindaVIP
    Orange County •69 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We love Starfish! Having said that, the last time we were there the food, which usually is great, wasn’t. Tonight, they were BACK!!! Every dish and cocktail we ordered was over the top yummy!! The edamame was garlicky and spicy and fresh and super tasty. We also ordered the calamari, the Bah Mi sliders, the lettuce wraps, the Korean tacos, pot stickers and the satay beef skewers. Each dish was 8 thumbs up!!! (There were 4 of us). The place was super busy too but our server was spot on!
    More info
    Starfish Laguna BeachPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Asian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.8
  • RobinVIP
    San Diego •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    My husband and I visited Luciana at her B&B in Italy in 1995 and have always wanted to go to her restaurant in Dana Point. Fast forward 30 years and we went for dinner finally on 12/23/2024! Our experience was amazing. We loved the coziness of the restaurant. Our waiter, Francisco (sp?) was super friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. Two of us had the Surf and Turf which was a filet minion and lobster for the unbelievable price of $50! The dish was plated beautifully and the steak cooked perfectly. All was excellent. The third diner with us had Lobster Ravioli and he was very pleased. Two of us had a nice red wine from Italy. The wine list is vast and many selections are priced reasonably. We ended with the Italian flourless chocolate cake. It was a fun and very enjoyable evening. We will be back and sooner than 30 years!
    More info
    Luciana's RistorantePrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.6
  • AndrewVIP
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 7 Dec 2024
    Just amazing Greek food. Place is very underrated. Very big menu of Greek food and a real Greek style experience.
    More info
    Tastes of GreecePrice: Expensive• Greek• Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
    •
    4.8

Discover best authentic restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Discover the essence of authenticity in Dana Point/Monarch Beach's dining scene, a gem in South Orange County known for its exceptional culinary offerings. Whether you're seeking traditional flavors or innovative cuisine, this area is a hub for restaurants that prioritize genuine, high-quality dining experiences. Each establishment in this locale strives to provide not only authentic dishes but also impeccable service and a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a memorable meal from start to finish. Dining in Dana Point/Monarch Beach showcases a diverse array of restaurants that cater to connoisseurs of authenticity. These venues often feature locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing the freshness and regional character of their culinary creations. The ambiance of these restaurants is carefully curated to complement their gastronomic offerings, creating an environment that is both inviting and genuine. Ideal for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike, the restaurants in Dana Point/Monarch Beach promise an authentic dining experience that reflects the unique charm of South Orange County. Whether you're planning a special occasion or a casual outing, the area's dining scene offers a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences that are sure to satisfy any palate seeking authenticity.

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