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Best Authentic Restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

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31 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Jack's Restaurant/Bar restaurant
1. Jack's Restaurant/Bar
4.8
Exceptional(1093)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 8 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(3454)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 23 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(182)
Price: Expensive
• Indian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 5 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(2240)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Asian • Laguna Beach
Booked 35 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 Tastes of Greece restaurant
5. Tastes of Greece
4.7
Exceptional(407)
Price: Expensive
• Greek • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
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 El Adobe de Capistrano restaurant
6. El Adobe de Capistrano
4.8
Exceptional(1077)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 24 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 Ciao Pasta restaurant
7. Ciao Pasta
4.8
Exceptional(1284)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 8 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 Casanova Ristorante restaurant
8. Casanova Ristorante
4.5
Awesome(27)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 3 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 AVEO Table + Bar restaurant
9. 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 Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge (@ the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano) restaurant
10. Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge (@ the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano)
new
4.3
Awesome(589)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 5 times today
Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge is an authentic Spanish restaurant, according to its description and reviews. It pays homage to the Mission's matriarch Ysidora Forster and serves dishes like wood fired grilled seafood, hot and cold tapas, and local meats. The ambience and food are highly praised in the reviews, with one saying 'the food was quite good but not great. We will definitely go back.' This suggests that it's a place that truly delivers on its promise of authentic Spanish flavors.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • debraVIP
    Los Angeles •25 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    we have been coming here for many years- The menu prices have gone up- but the quality of food is outstanding. service was great- Chris is excellent. we had a special request which was honored- for a dish that wasn't on the menu- but used to be. dessert was amazing. new dishes and glasses- and looks like new furniture. this place will always be one of our favorites.
    More info
    Luciana's RistorantePrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.6
  • Jaiden
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Loved coming here!! On a Saturday night the tables were full, it was the day after Valentine’s Day! We had a reservation for two and they sat us at a cute little table in the corner by the front windows. It was nice and felt like our own area! The server was accomodating and answered all of our questions with ease! He even suggested some of their off menu items like the filet mignon pasta - that was our favorite of the night!! We really enjoyed the baked meatball appetizer which comes with 4 meatballs in sauce. I got the Rigatoni Amatriciana and it was very good! Definitely a safe option if you aren’t up for exploring the different pastas. For drinks, we got the blueberry drink (I can’t remember the full name) but it was delicious! We ended the night off with Tiramisu and it was SO good! I would definitely come back here again!
    More info
    Jack's Restaurant/BarPrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.8
  • julieVIP
    Los Angeles •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We love this place! It is always consistent, the food is amazing, and the drinks are top-notch! Ambiance is nice too. Our server, Leslie, was very personable and fun. We only wish there was a location closer to us in San Clemente, but it won't stop us from coming back.
    More info
    Starfish Laguna BeachPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Asian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.8
  • JoshuaVIP
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The food quality is amazing, can easily say this is the best Indian food ever had (Wagyu short ribs WOW)! Also the service is top notch and everything was handled smoothly even on a busy Valentine's Day. The ambiance is good though not amazing, it's more classy than particularly vibey but that makes sense as this has been other restaurant types in the Ritz in the past. But being in the Ritz means the classy vibes totally add to dinner! Pricing is fairly reasonable given how high quality the food is, so maybe just the drinks are a bit much as those were good but not as good as the food. Overall must-do dining experience in the area!
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    KAHANI - The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna NiguelPrice: Expensive• Indian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.6
  • DawnMVIP
    Orange County •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Every Dish I try here is always wonderful! There was even music on this evening! Love this little gem!
    More info
    Tastes of GreecePrice: Expensive• Greek• Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
    •
    4.7

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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