Best Californian Restaurants in Fountain Valley

34 restaurants available nearby

1. Lorea

4.6

Exceptional(98)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Huntington Beach

Booked 14 times today

Welcome to Lorea, a gem nestled in Huntington Beach at the Paséa Hotel & Spa, celebrated as a 2024 OpenTable Diners' Choice award winner. Offering an authentic taste of Californian cuisine, Lorea impresses with its coastal inspirations drawn from both land and sea. Diners rave about the "out of this world Baranzino" and the "delicious, shrimp verde in an amazing sauce," highlighting the menu's fresh, creative approach. The oceanfront setting enhances every meal, allowing guests to enjoy "spectacular sunset views" and a "beautiful open air experience" that truly embodies the spirit of California. Whether seated indoors or on the ocean-view patio, Lorea promises a culinary journey that's as breathtaking as its surroundings.

2. Bluegold

4.5

Awesome(1915)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Huntington Beach

Booked 14 times today

Bluegold in Huntington Beach is a culinary gem that pays homage to Californian cuisine with its authentic farm-to-table approach. Celebrated for its panoramic views of the Pacific and a vibrant atmosphere, Bluegold serves up dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delightful to the palate. Guests rave about the "destination soup" clam chowder, praised for its creamy, smoky flavors, and the eggplant meatloaf, a favorite for its rich taste. The restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality shines through in their seafood offerings, like the praised cioppino and pan-roasted sea bass, making every dish a reflection of California's abundant coast and farmlands. With its blend of excellent service, generous portions, and a welcoming ambiance, Bluegold stands out as a top destination for those seeking a true taste of California.

A photo of Leatherby's Cafe Rouge restaurant

3. Leatherby's Cafe Rouge

4.7

Exceptional(1862)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Costa Mesa

Booked 4 times today

Leatherby's Cafe Rouge in Costa Mesa is a gem for those seeking authentic Californian cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Diners rave about the "excellent service" and the "perfectly cooked" dishes, such as the seared halibut and succulent scallops. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability shines through in its seafood selections and farm-fresh vegetables. Guests especially love the artisanal craft cocktails and the carefully curated wine list, making it a popular spot before catching a show at the nearby Segerstrom Center for the Arts. With reviews praising the "beautifully presented" meals and the "outstanding" atmosphere, Leatherby's Cafe Rouge offers a dining experience that's both high-end and deeply rooted in Californian culinary traditions.

A photo of Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar restaurant

4. Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar

4.5

Awesome(1645)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Costa Mesa

Booked 8 times today

Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar in Costa Mesa stands out as a prime destination for exceptional Mexican cuisine. Nestled within the vibrant Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, this AAA Three-Diamond rated eatery crafts authentic Mexican dishes that are both creative and delicious. Diners rave about the "unbelievable food" and "unique cocktails," highlighting menu stars like the Chilean sea bass and the herb-crusted halibut. The atmosphere is described as "beautiful" and "lively," perfect for a night out. Regulars and newcomers alike are impressed, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch Mexican culinary experience in Costa Mesa.

5. Lemon & Thyme

4.8

Exceptional(74)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Costa Mesa

Booked 7 times today

Lemon & Thyme in Costa Mesa excels in delivering an unparalleled Fusion / Eclectic cuisine experience, weaving a rich tapestry of global flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Praised for its "exceptional" dishes, such as the truffle pasta and grilled octopus, Lemon & Thyme has quickly become a beloved gem in the community. Diners consistently laud the restaurant for its creative and delicious offerings, with one customer exclaiming, "the food was outstanding and the service was genuine and timely." The passion and expertise of Chef Jacqueline shine through each dish, ensuring that every meal is not just eaten but celebrated. Whether it's the "perfectly seasoned and grilled" salmon or the innovative beet salad, Lemon & Thyme promises a dining adventure that’s both exquisite and memorable, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional fusion dining experience in Costa Mesa.

A photo of Eat Chow - Costa Mesa restaurant

6. Eat Chow - Costa Mesa

4.8

Exceptional(20)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Costa Mesa

Booked 8 times today

At Eat Chow in Costa Mesa, your search for authentic and high-quality Mexican cuisine ends with their delightfully crafted dishes that consistently impress. Renowned for their "WILDLY good" chilaquiles, which maintain a perfect balance of crispy and saucy chips, and the spicy chorizo hash that has locals raving, Eat Chow stands out in the culinary scene. A diner praised, "The chilaquiles have seriously ruined all other restaurants’ chilaquiles for me because they just don’t stack up to Eat Chow." Whether it's the flavorful spicy chorizo hash or the uniquely crisp yet tender chilaquiles, every dish promises an explosion of authentic Mexican flavors, making Eat Chow a must-visit destination in Costa Mesa.

7. Brightwaters

4.8

Exceptional(8)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Huntington Beach

Booked 7 times today

Brightwaters in Huntington Beach is a culinary haven for seafood enthusiasts, celebrated for its fresh, high-quality offerings. Patrons rave about dishes like the "perfectly cooked halibut" and the "absolutely loved grilled salmon," showcasing the restaurant's commitment to excellence in seafood cuisine. With a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere and a full bar featuring over 250 wine varietals, Brightwaters provides an elevated dining experience without the formality of tablecloths, making it a gem in downtown Huntington Beach. Reviews consistently highlight the fresh ingredients and expert preparation, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and delicious seafood.

A photo of Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens restaurant

8. Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens

4.8

Exceptional(11344)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Corona del Mar

Booked 184 times today

Nestled in the enchanting Corona del Mar within Rogers Gardens, Farmhouse offers a quintessentially American dining experience that celebrates the farm-to-fork philosophy. With its locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, each dish crafted by Chef Rich Mead embodies authenticity and culinary innovation. Guests rave about the "falling apart delicious" Corned Beef and the freshness of the farm-to-table salads, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The outdoor setting enhances the dining experience, making every meal feel special and intimate. Farmhouse is not just recommended for its food; it's the ambiance, described as "magical" and "beautiful," that truly captivates. This gem in Newport Beach is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine American dining experience coupled with scenic beauty.

9. Rise Rooftop Bar

4.8

Exceptional(677)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Anaheim

Booked 22 times today

Rise Rooftop Bar in Anaheim is a must-visit destination for lovers of authentic Tapas and Small Plates. With its stunning views of Disneyland® Resort, this upscale venue offers a culinary adventure featuring California-inspired tapas that have guests raving about their experiences. Patrons consistently praise the delicious food alongside the vibrant atmosphere, with one visitor exclaiming, "The food was fantastic!" and another noting, "Cocktails and food were amazing! That Ahi Tuna Nachos was the best I’ve ever had." The combination of expertly crafted small bites, exceptional service, and a lively ambiance, including weekend live entertainment and spectacular fireworks views, makes Rise Rooftop Bar a top choice for an unforgettable dining experience in Anaheim.

A photo of The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar - Newport Beach restaurant

10. The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar - Newport Beach

4.6

Exceptional(2749)

Price: Very Expensive

• Californian • Newport Beach

Booked 38 times today

The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar in Newport Beach is a gem for anyone seeking authentic Californian cuisine. Known for its "cutting-edge dining experience," this restaurant pairs contemporary regional dishes with a sophisticated ambiance, making it a standout in the culinary world. Patrons rave about the "delicious" and "spectacular" dishes, such as the Charred Spanish Octopus and the Venison sirloin steak, which showcase the quality and creativity of Californian flavors. Multiple reviews highlight the exceptional service and beautiful harbor views, enhancing the dining experience. The restaurant's dedication to excellence is evident, having earned multiple accolades including 'Restaurant of the Year'. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual outing, The Winery promises a memorable Californian dining adventure.

‘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

J
Judy
Orange County •16 reviews
4.0
Dined 2 days ago
The food seems to get better and better, and it was good to start with. The caramelized brussels sprouts are delicious! Fish dishes and filet mignon are outstanding. The chef went above and beyond to cook our filet to perfection and bring it himself to our table! Desserts are creative but not always memorable, except the affogato, perfect finish to a good meal.
More info
Silver Trumpet Restaurant & BarPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Costa Mesa
•
4.5
J
Jamesvip
Orange County •39 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Tried this restaurant on a whim. So glad we did. The food and service were fantastic. We cant wait to go back. Highly recommend the artichoke, octopus crude and the airline chicken. All amazing. The service was friendly and prompt. Do not hesitate to try Lemon & Thyme!
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Lemon & ThymePrice: Moderate• American• Costa Mesa
•
4.8
R
Rebecca
Los Angeles •62 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Delicious food and a wonderful discovery for us. Would love to dine at sunset. We had the pork chop and the tarragon salad with salmon. Truly delicious all the way round.
More info
BluegoldPrice: Expensive• Californian• Huntington Beach
•
4.5
R
Ryan
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Brought my parents and grandmother who were visiting from out of town. The service was incredible as always. The food was absolutely perfect. My family kept raving about how delicious everything tasted, especially the scallops and carrot cake. The atmosphere is great, no better place in HB to watch the sunset than at Lorea.
More info
LoreaPrice: Expensive• Californian• Huntington Beach
•
4.6
P
Pearlvip
Los Angeles •10 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Our server, Michael was exceptional. Great cocktails and dining experience.
More info
Leatherby's Cafe RougePrice: Expensive• Californian• Costa Mesa
•
4.7

Best Californian Restaurants in Fountain Valley

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34 restaurants available nearby

1. Lorea

2. Bluegold

3. Leatherby's Cafe Rouge

4. Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar

5. Lemon & Thyme

6. Eat Chow - Costa Mesa

7. Brightwaters

8. Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens

9. Rise Rooftop Bar

10. The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar - Newport Beach

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