The 29 best cheap eats in San Juan Capistrano

I wanted to like this place. With all the hype. Everything thing I tried was just mid tier. The brisket was okay at best. The pork spare rib was really tender. The char siu was tender but lacked flavor. Cheddar jalapeno sausage was average. The brisket beans and mac & cheese were nothing special. Hot cucumber was overly salty. The people work there are great! The wait on a Saturday was just over an hour.

Smoked out Sundays done RIGHT! We hit up Heritage Barbecue in San Juan Capistrano to feast on BBQ. 🥩 Juicy brisket, massive dino ribs, tender pulled pork, spicy hot sausages, loaded nachos and fall-off-the-bone spare ribs — we feasted like true Texans... but in SoCal style. 🤠🍖 If you're a BBQ lover, this spot needs to be on your bucket list. Only downside was the almost 2 hours line.

Fantastic bbq that is tender and falls off the bone! Slow cooked in their smokers and has great flavor! Get there early because the line gets long! We got there about 15 min before they opened and waited an hour and a half but it was worth the wait. The owner is really nice, service is excellent and food is amazing. Definitely coming back.

A week ago we finally had a chance to try out @heritagebarbecue in @sanjuancapistrano (one of my SoCal favorite cities), and it was deliciously worth the almost 2 hour wait. On this visit we wanted to try out their Pulled pork and Brisket Sando, pulled pork Bahn Mi, Brisket beans, Pollo Asado, Elote, pickles, pickled cucumbers, and not pictured their amazing flour tortillas which won last years @kcrwgoodfood and @gustavo_arellano great tortilla tournament. Also while waiting in line I enjoyed an ice cold beer! Always check their business hours to see what time they open, and I highly recommended you get there an hour early before they open, and make it a day there, lots of things to see, do, and enjoy. #foodie #whatchefsliketoeat #bbq #heritagebbq #michelinbibgourmand #foodporn #bbqporn #sandwiches #pulledpork #brisket #polloasado #delicious #sanjuancapistrano #california

The food is great 😊 we ordered beef rib pulled pork, spareribs all three were fantastic, soft all of the bone juicy 🤤 We ordered the macaroni and cheese, brisket, beans, and a corn my total was 167$ Not including the three beers, lemonade, and mango seltzer and a water bottle. We waited in line for about an hour and 10 minutes just to order and maybe like 10/15 to receive your platter We did get there around 1 and they were already sold out of their beef, brisket and some other items

Fantastic staff and clearly passionate about what they do. Exceptional BBQ craftsmanship behind the windows which is awesome. The flavors are outstanding and everything is made with such care. I highly recommend stopping by if you are in the area. My only regret is not being here through the weekend to try their specials.

Best bbq anywhere, we had the brisket, pork ribs, spicy cucumbers, and rib tips beans. Waited 1 hour in line to order but absolutely worth it. We'll organized and friendly staff, parking can be difficult.

Wow this is a really neat spot for a good meal and amazing tea service. The staff were super friendly and helpful and added to the great experience. The tea experiences are very nice with a huge selection of teas to choose from and plenty of caffeine free options which was great. The scone is amazing and the finger sandwiches were really tasty. For the tea experience it actually fills you up more than expected. Lovely atmosphere and very cool vibe for a date, family time or just solo relaxing. I recommend reservations and the quiche Lorraine.

From the hostess to the waitress to the person who cleaned our table….. I have nothing but good things to say to about them. The grounds are so beautiful and whimsical. No matter where you look you find something unique about this restaurant. We came on Monday for lunch. Leslie was our server and she was magnificent!!! The food was amazing! I could sit here for hours and hours. You can shop all of the robust teas and they make a few items fresh daily. Items such as the baked buttermilk scones and early California cream. I had the triple crown (chef kiss💋). When they say it is “Fresh Atlantic salmon, season and grilled to protection” they are not kidding! It was fresh seasoned and grilled to protection. There is parking available.

Oh my goodness the drive in was beautiful, the grounds are so pretty and really set the stage for this perfect, magical big tea house. The hostess was so sweet. I love how we were asked out seating preference not just told where we were going to sit. Our server was very knowledgeable of the menu and selections / suggestions. I appreciated the time she took with us. The food was so delicate delicious. Above what I anticipated from the reviews. Love the seasonal menu options. I loved all the hidden little photo opportunities. I rate this a five star all around! Happy 13th Birthday to my sweet girl.

Wonderful tea house! So pretty and with a beautiful little garden. We did the tea experience, and comes with a LOT of food. Favorite by far was the currant scones and the jalapeno corn soup, which apparently isn't served too often but it's amazing! They take their time bringing out the courses so u don't feel rushed and, can enjoy your company. I had the peach apricot tea which I recommend if you want something light and fruity for summer. Our server Brigitte was lovely. Very kind, friendly, always had a smile, attentive, and made our experience all the more pleasurable. Will definitely be back to visit again the next time I'm in California to visit family.

Beautiful setting for a special lunch! High tea options were excellent if a bit pricey. Be prepared to spend $50 or more per person no matter what you order. I would not recommend this place for children under 10 years old. Service was excellent 👌

Love the vibe and cozy environment! Perfect spot for birthdays, small gatherings, or casual meetings. The tea tastes amazing, and the small bites are delicious, not super filling, but just enough to enjoy with friends.

Can’t be the only one who saw this place trending on TikTok and had to check it out 💅✨ We made the trip and went all in with their tea sets — since we came from a bit far, we didn’t want to miss the full experience. Each set came with: 🥐 A selection of pastries 🥗 A small salad 🍾 Two drinks (you can choose champagne or juice) 🍵 And of course, tea! My friend went with a Japanese tea, and I chose their popular Peach Apricot blend — so good and lightly sweet 🍑🍵 The whole vibe is cozy, charming, and just felt like we were in a storybook cottage. Definitely worth the visit if you love tea, cute moments, and a little escape from the usual

I do remember how tasty the food was here during a reception from a wedding that I was photographing. I loved how this venue had an outdoor and indoor area with the roof retracting!

This was a nice Mexican Restaurant. Great Margaritas, tasty Watermelon Margaritas. Table side Guacamole was delicious it was made to order mild or hot whatever is your preference. The Shrimp Cocktail was delicious! Lobster tacos were also very filling and a good size if you are looking for a nice filling lunch meal. This was great place can’t wait to go back and try more dishes!

We had the great pleasure of hosting our daughter’s wedding at the El Adobe this year! From the very first meeting with our event coordinator, Daniel, I knew we were in the right place. In addition to delicious food, experienced and efficient servers and bartenders, the attitude was always positive, always “yes” to making our dream for this wedding coming true. I couldn’t be more grateful and recommend the El Adobe highly for any event, thank you to everyone and especially our family favorite Daniel!

Been a staple in south Orange County for decades. Food is amazing if you can make it i. For happy hour or taco Tuesday it’s a must. Servers are all friendly. They also have ado up pleat private dinning rooms and a great facility for big events like weddings and special celebrations.

El Adobe is a favorite in our family. I eat here 2-3x a month sometimes more with family and friends! Christian is our favorite waiter and is like family! Every meal is special because the entire staff works so hard to make the food taste so good, the service is amazing and we always love to sit in the bar area because we love the team, big fireplace and patio! Highly recommend for authentic food, exceptional service and a cozy atmosphere. Even held graduation and birthday parties here! They always go above and beyond!

I love the El Adobe Mexican restaurant so much and that's where my parents were married on August 18th, 1990 and it's refreshing their old memories of their love and romance. The mariachi band was truly amazing, especially for the successful wedding of my wonderful sister Marina and husband Wesley.

Fantastic setting in an historic building, with good food and friendly service. We especially happy we could eat outside on the street side, covered patio with our dog. A + for being DOG -friendly.

Trevor’s at the Tracks is a true gem in the heart of San Juan Capistrano. The location is unbeatable—set right next to the train station, making it a perfect spot for people watching and soaking in the charming energy of the town. We sat outside on the patio and enjoyed watching the trains roll in and out while people came and went. It added a lively, nostalgic atmosphere to our meal. We ordered the Mac & Cheese with Chicken Parmesan and the Spicy Pasta. Both dishes were absolutely delicious. The Mac & Cheese is rich and decadent—definitely a comfort food indulgence, and more than my mom could finish. The Spicy Pasta brought the perfect amount of heat without being overwhelming. Loved the fresh mushrooms, tomatoes and spinach in the dish. The service was top-notch. Friendly, attentive staff made us feel welcome from the moment we sat down. Trevor’s is clearly set up to accommodate everything from casual lunches to larger gatherings, and the ambiance is versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you're a local or just visiting San Juan Capistrano, Trevor’s at the Tracks is a must-visit spot.

First visit, this is a great, very different location, with a train stopping literally next door. The “Pretty Bird Chicken Sandwich” ($24) was very good, served with very good fries and spicy ketchup. The food was served hot, in a very reasonable time. The “English Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake ($14), was just OK. I’ve had this dessert in England and this was a poor try at it, although it did taste OK. The service was good, paid city parking lot ($2 / hr), but the total experience was quite dear, not someplace to visit regularly. Recommended.

It's an awesome old train station that has been turned into a beautiful restaurant. Great outdoor and indoor seating. They have love entertainment too in the patio. The Ahi tuna nachos were amazing. Also just across the train tracks is the oldest neighborhood in California, with great art stores. Great place to walk after a great meal.

Such a quaint area and ambiance. I recommend it as a cool experience to all. The flatbread I had was yummy. My friend has the short rib Bahn mi. I had the spicy Sicilian flatbread and it was great, the only comment I have is that one side of it was darkened crispy crust and the other side was perfectly cooked. Other than that it was a great experience.

The food was absolutely amazing here! We tried the karate chip chicken salad and a chicken sandwich, along with the tropical cobbler for desserts. There was a moderate to long wait probably because it was a Labor Day weekend, but it was absolutely worth it! They were even kind enough to serve a patty for our dog! Adding to the ambiance was the live music that just made the experience even better. We'll certainly be visiting this place again!

Brought my dad on a walk around the area, I've been here before with my friend and brought him the next day. He liked the live music and we went here almost everyday for the vibes, food wasn't too bad- selectively I'd go for the flatbread (really liked the chicken pesto&bbq chicken) and service was great. Dad labs the taco beer 3 days in a row! So this is our go to now Everytime he comes back to Cali, my parents likes this place. Worth the buck for the atmosphere and overall experience.

First time here and everything we ate was delicious… kiddos loved the food which is always a win win!! Jasmine was our waitress and she was kind, attentive and informative!!! We definitely will be back!

Ciao Pasta Trattoria in San Juan Capistrano has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and friendly service. The calamato olives with bread were a delicious surprise, bold, briny, and super flavorful. I ordered the salmon salad; while the greens were fresh and well-dressed, the salmon was unfortunately overcooked and a bit dry. That said, the overall experience was enjoyable, and I’d definitely come back to try more from the menu.

We came in for lunch on Saturday afternoon. There was no wait and we got seated in the patio, which was perfect with the weather and ambiance. We ordered fried calamari for appetizer, a salmon salad, and brasato di manzo as the main course. We received some bread and olive oil for free. The food tasted good, typical Italian restaurant, but didn't blow my mind. The service was attentive and friendly.

Absolutely love this place! We’ve been coming here almost every weekend, and it never disappoints. The service is consistently top-notch — the staff is attentive, friendly, and really makes you feel at home. The waiters are fantastic and know the menu and wine list inside and out. The owner is incredibly warm and welcoming, always taking the time to greet us and make sure everything is perfect. It’s clear he’s passionate about what he does, and it shows in every detail. The food? Amazing. Everything is fresh, flavorful, and authentic — real Italian comfort with a touch of elegance. Their Italian wine list is impressive, with great pairings for every dish. The atmosphere is cozy yet lively — perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. This has become our go-to spot in San Juan Capistrano, and we honestly can’t recommend it enough!

This was a truly 5 star experience. From the moment we entered to when we left everything was amazing. First off the atmosphere is amazing. There was plenty of space it was easy to talk and it was a beautiful setting. I recommend sitting outside if you can! Next is the amazing service. Truly the waitress we had was one of the best I’ve ever had in my life. She was so nice to everyone and truly made our experience so amazing. I don’t know her name but we went on 6/24/25 at around 1pm. Lastly was the amazing food. So many options! You will find something you love! The food came out fast and tasted delicious!

Wow! Walked by a dozen times but finally came in and was happily surprised. Solid Boston North End Italian quality with minimal pretension. Ambiance was above average and took full advantage of the old mission architecture. Burrata Caprese had incredible soft but not gooey burrata and perfect herbs. Chicken Parm had great cheese and great side pasta. We will be back often! A definite Italian gem in South OC!

Ciao Pasta Trattoria instantly became one of my favorite spots in Orange County, not just because of their incredible short rib pasta (easily one of the best I’ve ever had), but because of the outstanding service from Wilfred. From the moment we sat down, Wilfred was attentive in a way that felt genuine, not overbearing. When we asked for “just two more minutes” to decide, he returned exactly two minutes later. He noticed when our drinks were running low and offered refills before we even had to ask. What impressed me most was how he remembered my partner’s dietary requirements and, when it came to dessert, thoughtfully pointed out every option she could enjoy. It’s rare to find food and service equally top-notch, but Ciao Pasta Trattoria delivered both. Thank you, Wilfred, for making our night memorable, we’ll definitely be back.

The Diavolo thin crust pizza with sausage & salami was very good. Spicy & well done which is my preference. The small salad with freshly made with greens, tomatoes, & blue cheese. A small dish of olive oil with spices & fresh bread was also provided. Service was attentive. The outside area is a nice ambiance. Very close to the train station & a variety of other restaurants, & a gelato shop.

Amazing food service, menu at at Vine Restaurant & Bar in San Clemente Nestled in the heart of San Clemente, Vine Restaurant & Bar truly lives up to its reputation as a gem for wine country cuisine. From the moment we stepped in, the casual fine dining atmosphere—with its rustic wine bar, open kitchen, and hints of the on-site garden—set the perfect tone for a memorable night out. We were seated promptly, and the evening unfolded into one of those rare meals where every course exceeded expectations. To kick things off, we ordered a couple of cocktails from their inventive menu: the Love Potion Number 9 and the Featuted Martini. Both were amazing—vibrant, perfectly balanced, and with flavors that danced on the palate. The Love Potion Number 9 had a fruity allure with just the right herbal twist, while the Future Martini brought a bold, futuristic edge with its crisp botanicals and smooth finish. They were the ideal aperitifs to whet our appetite. We started with the heirloom tomato salad as an appetizer, and it was nothing short of incredible. The tomatoes were bursting with summer-fresh flavor, perfectly complemented by a light vinaigrette and just the right touch of herbs—simple, vibrant, and utterly refreshing. It set a high bar, and the kitchen didn't disappoint. For the main event, we indulged in the featured halibut steak, a thick-cut beauty that arrived buttery and flawlessly seared. Each bite was amazing—tender, flaky, and packed with that clean ocean essence, elevated by a subtle seasoning that let the fish shine. It was delicious in the most melt-in-your-mouth way, easily one of the best seafood dishes we've had in ages. Portions were generous without being overwhelming, and the accompanying sides (though we didn't specify) felt thoughtfully paired to enhance the star of the plate. We capped off the meal with the crème brûlée for dessert, and it was unbelievable—creamy custard beneath a shatteringly perfect caramelized top, with hints of vanilla that lingered beautifully. It's the kind of classic done so right that you savor every spoonful. What truly elevated the experience, though, was the service. The staff was amazing—attentive without hovering, knowledgeable, and genuinely warm. A special shoutout to manager Gabe, who stopped by our table several times to check in and ensure we were having an awesome time. His personal touch made us feel like valued regulars, not just diners, and it's clear why so many rave about the team's consistency here. Vine isn't just a restaurant; it's a full sensory escape with worldly flavors and an impressive wine list to boot. If you're in San Clemente, make a reservation—this spot deserves a spot on your must-try list. We'll be back soon for more of that halibut magic (and those cocktails). Five stars all around!

This is kinda what you imagine dining in OC is like. Chill vibes, perfect weather, great food, good times. The wine list is a bit weak bc I remember having a tough time pairing the options with the entrees. Not a complaint, just an observation. All dishes were excellent with depth, creativity, and deliciousness. From my experience, if you have a group, go to the patio and dates can go either inside or outside but inside gets pretty crowded. Now you know!

This is the place my wife and I head to when we want to get out for a great dinner in San Clemente. And we are never disappointed with the food, drinks or the vibe. The big guy standing out near the kitchen is the owner and is super involved, shaking real love and care for the dining experience. The staff is always amazing as well. Super welcoming and always professional. We go to Vine for an evening out that feels like home.

Here’s the deal. We live in San clemente and sample every single place. For the vine count on excellent cuisine but weak drinks. Even the beef stroganoff (see attached pic) is really good. But if you order a margarita or any common well drink don’t count on the alcohol. It won’t be there. If there is a goofing female at the bar you will see the he is devoting his attention there and not to your drinks. Cheers

Cannot say enough positive about this restaurant. Our waitress (Sam) gave us all the specials, was extremely attentive, and a fantastic server. The food was incredible! The price was very fair for the portions we received and quality of the food. Would certainly return.

My wife and I visited San Clemente for the first time in many year to see our adult son who had recently relocated to the area. All three of us were impressed by the incredible service, fabulous food and lively atmosphere. Many thanks to Megan, our engaging and efficient server for delivering a memorable experience.

We made a reservation for the covered outdoor patio since we had our small dog. Were seated right away and ordered Sea Bass and chef daily market fresh fish- John Dory, which I never had before. Both tasted excellent and fresh, especially the John Dory fish. We also took the special appetizer of the day- Bone Marrow, which was very good as well since I like it in general. If you have not had it, the texture is something you have to get used to. We concluded the dinner with Crème Brûlée, it was on the house since it was a birthday celebration. Thanks Vine! Will definitely come back for the next special occasion.

Raspberry Margarita tasted like Medicine for me so it’s a no🤢 But food that we order was good and have a great amount of serving too. Calamari is tasty especially the sauce. It Goes well together. The Miso cod was also delicious if you prefer your fish in a sweet glaze. Salmon is also good as it is basic. And then our entree took a little longer to be serve for whatever reason. Order there sundae if you have a sweet tooth. It’s a huge serving and its good for sharing.

This is a great place to eat after your whale watching trip! We were seated right away and the hostess was very nice. They seated us on an outdoor patio that was somewhat enclosed but quite cold since we went in late December so we actually asked to move tables to be warmer. Our server was awesome and super charismatic! 5 stars for the service for sure. We felt the food was a little overpriced for the portion sizes. But everything we got was great quality and delicious! I'd recommend going here.

Great location, right at the harbor end, with a second floor for even better views. Fish & chips, flaky fresh fish, lightly battered and fried, delicious! Fries though were average. The steamed clams were good, mussels were not as fresh. The scallops were huge and pretty tasty, but the clams were all overcooked and became quite tough!

Awesome food and service. I have dined here many times. The cocktails drinks are great too. Try the Sunday brunch buffet if you are seafood lover. Can't go wrong with that. Eat your meal, sit back, enjoy the views of the harbor and watch the Catalina express ferry load/unload passengers!

The ousters were on the small side, but they were good. The kids liked the coconut shrimp and the mussels. The mussels had a basil based sauce. It wasn't thrilling nor was it bad. My wife had the burger and enjoyed it. The kids also liked the kids burger and Mac and cheese. My friend didn't like the fish and chips. I had the blackened tuna. I didn't like that the shishito peppers, which were nicely charred, were then covered in the sauce. That made no sense. The sauce was decent. In all, I don't know if I would recommend the place, but I wouldn't not recommend it either. It was okay to good.

Our favorite happy hour spot - luckily very close to our home :) The views at sunset are so calming The oysters are always great and happy hour prices are the best I’ve seen out here (I do miss New York City dollar oyster options) Coconut shrimp is solid Wings with buffalo sauce are a bit on the hot side but nice and meaty and they do have a bbq option Ahi poke dish was solid as well Drink options are great at only $6 a pop, nice and tall. Just had one yesterday, vodka, basil, grapefruit and st germain - nice and grapefruity as we don’t like anything too sweet.

Food is tasty, cocktails are good, but mostly you go here for location. We used to frequent their brunch pre-covid. This last trip though was a little disappointing. We had a great view and could even hear some of the nearby concert. Our server was kind and polite. With that said, the extra charges were kind of crazy. An extra dollar for a couple berries in a vodka soda, uh okay. Then I ordered my salmon with no potatoes just veggies. Somehow that turned my $31 meal into a $35 meal. $4 for no potatoes? First off, I didn't say extra veggies and if that's what the server thought I meant a "hey sure but there's an upcharge for that" would have cleared that right up. Didn't really have the time or energy to complain about $5, but still kind of excessive. Overall still good, just be wary of any special requests.

Absolutely incredible food and atmosphere. We had the fajitas for two people and the experience was superb. Come hungry and come ready to enjoy a true family experience. The staff are incredibly kind, which makes Ricardo’s place an unforgettable place to enjoy a meal ❤️

The service is nice. The ambience is nice. But the food is definitely not authentic Mexican. It’s gross Americanized Mexican. I hope more restaurants that are Mexican stay Mexican and not get washed up with American flavorings. Red enchilada sauce taste like canned tomato. Cheese is straight from the bag. Plates are big but low on all flavor.

Everybody was super nice. The happy hour margaritaswere great. Totally surprised by the tacos. They had so much meat. We had the carnitas and shredded beef. Very very good. Can't beat this winning combination. Great food, drinks,service and ambiance. We are definitely coming back.

Food was fresh and flavorful. Luis our server was Amazing. Our new favorite spot. Everyone was smiling and welcoming, just good vibes . Will 100% be coming back.

We tried this Mexican restaurant this past weekend. It was a great restaurant with a large menu. The service was fast, and the servers were super friendly. We tried their ceviche de camarón and a burrito. The portions were large, and the prices were very affordable. They have complimentary chips and salsa. Although the food was good, it missed some zestiness for us. It was good, but I've had better. I will still go back to try other dishes before I give my final verdict.

I have been trying Mexican cuisine since last 8 years. One the best hidden authentic spot for Mexican food.

My father lived out here for 30 years and this was one of his favorite places. Everything was delicious as I remembered it. Service fantastic and now they have outdoor seating! Pillar of this community.

If you’re staying at the Waldorf this is a great option in terms of portions and quality though it costs more. My favorite from the breakfast menu was the tropical fruit bowl with a huge portion of cut fruits and berries. The pancakes and waffle were fresh and filling. The $48 weekend brunch has a good selection including an omelette bar. Lunch options are around $30 each

I had a lovely experience having dinner at Aveo earlier in July (2025). The food was great, and I was very impressed by our server Marlyn - who was just so kind & lovely. Truly a wonderful experience all around! 😊

The food is nothing special, but I love coming here for the beautiful view and relaxing atmosphere. The view from the outdoor seating is absolutely the highlight.

We had an amazing dinner at this beautiful restaurant with breathtaking ocean views! The food was absolutely delicious, and the atmosphere was perfect for a relaxing evening. Special thanks to Alina, the hostess — she greeted us with such warmth and professionalism. Her positive energy and friendly attitude made our first impression unforgettable. Highly recommend this place!

I had the pleasure of enjoying a delicious breakfast here. The service was highly attentive, and they offer both à la carte and buffet options. The ambiance is relaxing, with beautiful views, and you can choose between indoor and outdoor seating for a perfect dining experience.

My husband and I ate at AVEO twice while we were staying at the Waldorf Astoria. We sat on the terrace both times and really enjoyed taking in the beautiful resort grounds. The food at AVEO is unique and delicious and the waitstaff was very nice. We loved the Pan al Horno which was kind of a bread charcutier board. It comes with fairly minimal items, but the bread is fantastic! We ordered it both times we went. We also ordered the Mexican Mac and Cheese which was also really good. Their mixed drinks fabulous and they also have a decent beer selection if that is more your thing. If you are staying at the Waldorf Astoria, definitely check out AVEO!

Good foods and lovely ambiance. Over a few days I tried the surf and turf, macaroni, roasted chicken, and a cauliflower dish. All were delicious I actually think the appetizers and side dishes stole the show. Service was top notch. I didn’t need reservations on either visit fyi. Never had chance to try breakfast or lunch. Not a fan of buffets in general, but place looked packed for their breakfast buffet every day I was there.

To die for!!! As a French native, I’m usually wary of trying French restaurants… but L’Hirondelle is leagues above the rest on so many levels. First and foremost, the ambiance is lovely, quaint, and cozy. You slip right into a space that feels elevated while still remaining warm and inviting. The next thing I have to mention is the staff. We had the pleasure of being served by Josh, the owner’s son in law, who was such a delight! He made us feel right at home and was very kind and attentive. We would come back just for the wonderful service. Lastly, the food. WOW. If I could give more than five stars, I would. We had the pâté/cheese/fruit plate to start and an order of the escargot…which turned into two orders simply because of how out-of-this-world delicious and authenticity French they are. I won’t be ashamed to admit, we contemplated on a third order! We had the duck breast and petrol sole for mains, also delicious. For dessert, a perfectly crafted and visually pleasing crême brûlée. Chef’s kiss! We will definitely be coming back again and again. Thank you, L’Hirondelle!

Forest time at a French restaurant and it makes me want to visit the country. The staff was friendly, the tables were cozy and made it easy to visit with other like they do in Europe, at least that is what I was told. The French soup and petite rack of lamb from this place would be my last meal.

Terrific spot with charming atmosphere and very tasty food. Everything was terrific! Family owned spot with a real love for their work and guests. Can't wait to return!

A most wonderful dining experience! We have been coming here for many years and it has consistently served delicious dishes, provided fantastic service, and offered a fabulous wine selection. Do not miss the Pate, Cheese, and Fruit board. My favorite meal is the Duck Salad. It is always hard to decide whether to sit indoors or outdoors since both settings are uniquely beautiful and comfortable. Ali is the most gracious and knowledgeable host and the staff is superb. I make the trip from Los Angeles to Capistrano several times a year with friends or family just to enjoy this excellent restaurant. Leave room for dessert!

Great place to dine, nice food (tarragon chicken is top notch) , and very attentive and responsive staff. Whenever I'll be driving back from San Diego, or just happen to be in the area, I'll certainly grab a seat and a plate here.

L’Hirondelle Restaurant is pure charm in every sense! The moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by an elegant, European-inspired atmosphere that feels timeless. The food is outstanding—beautifully prepared, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with a fine selection of wines. The service is warm, attentive, and makes the whole dining experience feel special. Whether it’s a romantic date night, a family celebration, or just treating yourself, L’Hirondelle delivers sophistication and unforgettable flavor. Truly a gem worth discovering! 🌟

Owner is super engaged very proud of his beer, wine, and food, as he should be. It's a romantic eclectic environment which was nice for my wife. If I didn't know where I was it could have been a side street by the river Seine. Their escargo, French onion, and warm spinach and bacon salad were as good as any I've tasted outside Paris.

My enduring lack of fandom for this establishment is a testament to its unwavering commitment to mediocrity. It's truly a marvel how a place can consistently underwhelm on every front – food quality, service, and ambiance – and still have customers. I can only assume the locals frequent it out of some deeply ingrained, masochistic habit, perhaps a nostalgic yearning for "the good old days" when the original owners apparently sprinkled magic fairy dust (and actual flavor) into their dishes. Speaking of dishes, my "Oriental Chicken Salad" was an artistic masterpiece of disappointment. For a mere $17, I was presented with what I can only describe as a deconstructed dream: a generous mountain of shredded iceberg lettuce (clearly a connoisseur's choice), a couple of canned mandarin orange slices (for that authentic, straight-from-the-can zing), and a triumphant handful of peanuts, boldly substituted for the advertised cashews. Because who needs cashews when you can have… peanuts? It was truly a culinary rebellion against the very concept of value. My daughter, ever the optimist, bravely ventured into the realm of waffles. Her plate arrived bearing four desolate waffle sections, flopped with all the enthusiasm of a damp dish rag. No fanfare, no fruit, no whipped cream – just a stark, minimalist statement of "here are some waffles. Now eat them." It was a profound lesson in the art of doing the absolute bare minimum. Despite the restaurant being only half-filled, our service was a masterclass in controlled chaos – simultaneously inattentive and rushed. One can only hope that no member of our family ever, under any circumstances, suggests a return visit. I'd rather eat my own underwear, and I'm fairly certain it would offer more flavor and better value.

Drove down the Ortega Highway to San Juan Capistrano with friends. Came here due to the number of reviews on Google. Over thousand with a score of 4.5 . Service did not disappoint from the moment we arrived. Place was busy with customers. All the staff was friendly and engaging. Our drinks were constantly topped off. Our waitress was accomadating. Always making sure our choices were to our likening. The amount of food you get and price was on point. Outside patio you are allowed to have your pet sit by your side. Mollies does not disappoint. It's great experience from beginning to end. You won't be disappointed with your choice!

First visit, it’s not in the greatest location, slightly shabby. But friendly staff, opened the door for us, and quickly greeted us at our table. I had a tuna melt with fries. Served hot (the filling was steaming), fries hot, all good. Looks like it might be really good for breakfast, I’ll be back. Recommended.

I’ve been to Mollies a dozen times and its a hit or miss on the service and food. The last 2 times we were there it was a big miss. It wasn’t busy at all but the service was very slow, it took 15 minutes to take our order and 0ver 30 minutes for our food to come out. We go there for lunch as we work around the corner. The food is pretty good but the second time for slow service we’re done going back.

I ordered Roast Beef sandwich Is this look like sandwich? Test so bad.

1st time here, and we will be back. Food, service and friendly ambiance 10/10. Our waitress was so kind and down to earth. Felt like we were having a meal at a family members home.

This place was great! Food was delicious, prices were reasonable and the customer service was top notch. Everyone was friendly, service was fast even on a Saturday morning. Would definitely visit again.

The Hidden House Coffee is such a cute hidden gem! The cozy vibe pairs perfectly with their delicious selection of pastries—both sweet and savory. I loved my iced maple brown sugar coffee (so smooth and flavorful), and the cinnamon rolls were amazing. The jalapeño ball was a tasty surprise definitely worth trying. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a chill spot with great coffee and treats!

This is an excellent coffee shop with plenty of options for a variety of tastes from regions around the world. The strawberry matcha was particularly good, and service was kind and fast. There can be a bit of a line/crowd at times, but it makes sense when you factor in the quality of the drink you’re getting. Plenty of seating when we were there, including outside seating. This isn’t a cafe where I’d get work done on a laptop, but a fantastic place to spend time with friends!

First. Time. Here. San juan capioHidden coffee. There's line but the wait is worth it. Delicious fresh coffee and vegan chocolate chip cookies for me. And the just walk outside and enjoy everything there.

Tucked away in the historic town of San Juan Capistrano, Hidden House Coffee offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. I had a latte during my visit, and it was fragrant and smooth. With inviting outdoor seating, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a peaceful moment.

I was in the area to go to the beach and looking for a delicious cup of coffee and we found it also they had a delicious stuffed bagels that was super good too I totally recommend this spot also the surrounding area has a lot of little cute shops to walk around and enjoy your coffee or drink

Favorite coffee shop in the area! Super friendly staff and delicious cold brew and iced matcha, especially their seasonal drinks. Home made granola is also delicious. If it’s your first time visiting, the line forms straight back from the register and goes out the front door… it does not curl inside. You’ll figure out what this means when you visit!

My friend shared with me that this is a wonderful place with some big trees overshadowing the cafe. I was surprised because I normally don’t associate too many cafes with tall trees especially in the Orange County area. As soon as I saw Hidden House Coffee, the rationale for the name clicked in my head. It is indeed a “hidden” house! It’s incredibly lovely inside with some seating right next to where the barista works. More seating is found outside in the patio. There’s a wide range of people groups and ages. There was a musician playing his saxophone outside of the house. I was told there is normally a long line for such places like this. My friend and I were lucky to have stood in line for the non-rush hours of this place. My friend got a sparkling expresso tonic and I got a chai latte (iced). The coffee tonic, according to my friend, is the best here because the blending of the sparkling water and expresso is done just right without it being too overpowering in flavor. For me, the chai latte, was delicious. It did not taste artificially syrupy, and drinking our drinks in the cafe was a treat! I got to pay for the space to hang and eat. God bless you all! Service was kind and quick - I know things can get busy when there’s a lot of people, so thank you for the genuine effort you put into providing good sustenance for everyone!

I recently had a delightful lunch at Sol Agave, a spot I discovered thanks to a great recommendation. The restaurant's interior was a welcome escape from the midday heat, with fans and AC creating a comfortable atmosphere. The decor was a cool blend of modern and Western Mexican styles, and the ambient lighting and minimal noise made for a very pleasant dining experience. I ordered the Grilled Salmon Salad, which I requested blackened. The dish was a real treat—a generous portion of fresh greens and sweet berries, complemented by the perfectly cooked salmon. The entire salad was delicious and didn't disappoint. I enjoyed a Corona NA with my meal, a complimentary bowl of chips & some unique fig based salsa & red salsa was included, and the service throughout was attentive and friendly. As a bonus, Sol Agave is conveniently located with free parking, making it a perfect stop if you're ever in the area doing some shopping. I highly recommend it!

Very good Mexican restaurant that is super popular. It's a huge restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, with an old school vibe. You definitely need a reservation for dinner. I really enjoyed the food and the margaritas were good as well.

5-star service and operations -- with a great attention to customer satisfaction -- for example, without us asking, they put a small rack at the side of our table so that my wife could hang her bag (instead of sitting on the floor). Thank you Enrique! Highlights of our meal were the chips & salsa, theTacos del Mar, and the spongy delicious Tres Leches cake.

Simply Amazing! The starting by all the great drinks, especially the margarita tasting flight! The food was perfect! We enjoyed every meal! The staff was super friendly! They were able to accommodate us without reservations in a busy night! So if you go there you have to try the butter cake! 🎂 I want to come back there just because of this cake!

I went to Sol Agave yesterday with my girlfriend for lunch, and it was hands down one of the best restaurants we’ve been to. The place looks amazing and has a great atmosphere. Our server, Marcos, was exactly what I look for in a server, friendly, professional, gave great recommendations, and never rushed us into ordering. The food was spectacular. We had the mixed ceviche, shrimp tacos, and the taquiza plate, and finished with churros for dessert. Everything was not only beautifully presented but also tasted incredible. We’re definitely going back, this place is a must-try!

A friend and I were at an event in the area, and randomly stopped by to have an early dinner at this restaurant. What a great experience! Professional and friendly staff, great service, and the food was delicious. I had the chile relleno plate (two chiles - one with carnitas, and one with cheese, served with rice and beans) and my friend had the carnitas special. Everything was fresh and cooked perfectly. The meat was very good quality and tender. Portions were generous. It was reasonably priced, too. We look forward to going there again.

Sol Agave is one of our favorite places to enjoy authentic Mexican food as a family! The atmosphere is vibrant yet cozy, making it perfect for gathering together. Every dish is full of flavor, beautifully presented, and made with quality ingredients—you can taste the passion in every bite. The margaritas and cocktails are a must-try, and the staff always goes above and beyond to make us feel welcome. Whether it’s a family night out or a special occasion, Sol Agave never disappoints. Highly recommend for anyone who loves great food, great service, and a true Mexican dining experience!

This is a great place for wine lovers. Their wine list has a great selection of commonly loved varietals but also lesser known/found wine varietals. The best part is you can either order one of their pre-designed wine flights or you can design your own wine flight from their variety of offered wines. They have new world and old world wines from a variety of wine regions all over the world. I also love their boozy ice cream. I ordered a scoop of Carmel Old Fashion ice cream and was so delicious. Dangerously delicious. For those that like wine they do have some cocktails and craft beer options. I haven't tried them but my friends liked their frozen rose and sangria.

Lovely, dare we say romantic venue for happy hour, in SJC. Was our first visit (we finally walked in after passing by so many times) and Kat, staff, and Five Vines did NOT disappoint. We tried and loved the wine flight options -- Vine 5 "Grayden's Rockin Reds" ; and, Vine 1 "Randy's Mischievous Malbecs" (my fave: 2022 Adelante, for its bright blackberry notes and consistent finish). We also recommend the Green Goddess Chopped Salad, Spinach Artichoke Dip n' Chips, and the Dry-Rubbed Salmon Tacos. AND they have an Old-Fashioned 'Float' (w/ an ice cream scoop) for dessert!!

Fantastic food. Fantastic wine. Fantastic service. The cauliflower and honey pizza were our favorites this time. Stephanie and the crew were fantastic. Thank you thank you thank you. See you guys next weekend.

It’s always nice to have a great to have a local wine bar nearby. I came for the bar experience and am not reviewing any food this time, but I hope to be back for dining. The wine collection is very thoughtful and curated and the service was warm, attentive and knowledgeable. It’s clear that a lot of care went into both the wine and overall experience. For the beer lovers, they currently lacked a West Coast IPA on draft, which is expected at a bars like this, especially in its native region. The live music is a plus. Not too loud and adds to the overall cozy vibes. Tonight, they featured a guitarist/singer. One small note for the maître d': A softer lighting ambiance, especially in the dining area, would elevate this establishment to much greater heights. The light fixtures are cleverly made from wine barrels, but the lights themselves could be updated, or at the very least, dimmed more.

A classy and cozy setting with an abundance of tastings followed by a fun selection of some notable varietals. A nice range of dishes to complement our evening appetite. Includes a large sofa area and patio for casual gatherings. Memorable! Next visit soonest!!

The rehearsal dinner that Five Vines put on for my son and daughter in-law was amazing. To begin with, Suzy is a delight to work with. The space is spectacular and the best part was the food. Everyone raved about the short ribs. Suzy and her husband made sure the drinks were flowing and the food was plentiful. We did the buffet and passed appetizers. The passed shrimp were a hit. You could not go wrong working with this wonderful family. Thank you so much for the beautiful memories during my son’s wedding weekend!

I had great time ,food was really good every dish was 👍 great. Dessert were delicious 😋 thank you for the experience 😋 5stars

I loved this place. I recommend steak and egg. Its great price and taste. Other two dishes were also awesome.

Such a beautiful place, but the food was unremarkable. The service was nice. The atmosphere was lovely, but none of us were impressed with the weekend brunch even though the prices were great! We ordered the Dutch Baby which was super flat and not fluffy like a traditional Dutch Baby. And the middle was still raw. The crème on top was the star of the dish, but there was very little. The Duck Hash could have been great, but it was super sweet and then there was a pocket of salt like it hadn’t been mixed well. But the duck was cooked well. The Two Egg breakfast was bland. There was no seasoning. Not even salt. I noticed the next table asked for salt and pepper and they self-seasoned their food. It came on a bed of just dry arugula. The berries were fresh, but all in all just not great food. I probably wouldn’t come back to eat, but the atmosphere was nice.

Perfect spot for a brunch after a morning hike in the headlands. The space is adorned with charming paintings and feels both vibrant and cozy. The Dutch Baby was the best I’ve ever had: fluffy, almost cake-like but moist. The Chèvre tartine was wonderfully delicious too. Will definitely come back and try other items on the menu!

Excellent staff, the sweet smell of bake bread and hot breakfast of your choice under the umbrella enjoying the sunny weather, great food. Every bit was so good.. try the blueberry jam !!

Really fun little breakfast spot in Dana Point. Everything was really good, karina our server, the menu and the food. It was so good that I came back again two days later. Much better than I expected!

We had a great experience overall, the food was absolutely delicious. I tried the chèvre and my wife had the tomate, and both dishes were full of flavor and beautifully prepared. Our waitress was kind, attentive, and very helpful throughout the meal. However, the host at the front door could use some training in hospitality. She seemed disinterested and unwelcoming, which wasn’t a great first impression. Thankfully, the quality of the food and the excellent service once we were seated made up for it. Would definitely come back, but hope for a warmer welcome next time.

The food was good. Nothing amazing, but good. We didn’t get served for a very long time and it was hard to get anyone’s attention, although other tables didn’t seem to have that problem.

Nice restaurant here in San Juan Capistrano, I am assuming that this area is part of downtown. Parking is definitely a challenge. Very limited free parking behind the restaurant. I didn’t see any street parking close by. But there is lots of paid public parking in the area. Some are $10, some are $4 for 2 hours. The restaurant itself has inside and outside seating available. Lots of options for everyone. Staff is super friendly, welcoming, and helpful. Atmosphere is nice and pleasant. Very relaxed and friendly. Food was good. My wife had the chilaquiles, I had the Ellie’s Table Breakfast Combo. It was all delicious, good seasoning, nice and crispy bacon, it all tasted fresh. Definitely a place to come back to. We came from Lake Forest, so this could be our to go breakfast place whenever we come down this area. Definitely recommend to try!

A favorite spot for me and my girlfriends to go have breakfast. We come here on a girls trip every year and we have to hit up ellie's! We typically get the eggs benedict, oatmeal and hot cocoa or a milk steamer

Absolutely love this place—every visit feels like a little slice of heaven! It's easily one of the most charming, well-kept spots around, with a stunning view that never gets old and an atmosphere that radiates warmth and happiness. The staff truly go above and beyond—Kim, Juan, Eva, and Lily made us feel so welcome and cared for, offering service that was nothing short of exceptional. We started with two croissants—almond and chocolate—and both were out-of-this-world delicious. Flaky, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweetness. Not only were they beautifully presented, but they tasted even better than they looked. We also tried the breakfast burrito with gravy, and... wow. Just wow. It was rich, flavorful, and totally unforgettable—honestly life-changing! There’s a kind of magic in the air here. From the food to the people to the overall vibe, it’s clear that this place is something special. I've been here multiple times, but today's visit sealed the deal—this is officially one of my favorite places of all time.

Absolutely phenomenal cinnamon buns , chilaquiles, and breakfast burritos! Friendly counter service, will be back. Edit August 2025: We ordered catering for a baby sprinkle and the food and service was phenomenal. We had everything delivered and we loved all of the recommendations Samantha gave us! Definitely will work with this restaurant again!

Delicious food and not enough stomach room, lol. Bruschetta toast, ham & cheese croissant and lemon poppyseed cake were all very tasty. The signature Kouign Amann was too sweet for my liking, but good to try. The salmon elote summer salad piqued my interest and I’d love to order it next time. Service was great. Overall, loved my experience here and look forward to coming back.

Ellie's Table serves a mean plate of chilaquiles made best with an egg on top. Great service, ambiance and delicious food and a solid selection of baked goods easily make this business a place you can come to over and over.

Ellie Table in San Juan Capistrano is my new favorite breakfast spot. The lattes and pastries are amazing, the quiches and omelets are mouthwatering, and the location is super convenient - right downtown, next to the mission.

Crivello’s is our local Italian spot that my daughter and I love to go to for a girls day! Our server Christy is super friendly, kind and attentive. The food, well I used to be a professional chef and I’m from the east coast and this spot does the trick! Super fresh, tasty, authentic~ we love love love the calamari, bruschetta, chicken parm, octopus, desserts and I don’t know what they do to their house salad but sometimes I just crave that :) …but of course end up getting so much more. It’s delicious!

First visit, will not be back. Although the Ravioli was good, the Bolognese sauce was very good. But the house bread was very dry (with no offer for more), the green salad was offered with Italian dressing only (I asked) and even when I added more, it was pretty much tasteless. The table cheese was not freshly grated (maybe Kraft ?). No other drink was offered after wine was refused.

Crivello’s Italian Bistro is hands down the best place for amazing Italian food! Every dish we’ve tried has been absolutely perfect—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the staff is always kind and attentive. Highly recommend Crivello’s if you’re looking for authentic Italian cuisine paired with outstanding service!

**Five Star Review for Crivello’s Italian Bistro** My wife and I recently had the pleasure of dining at Crivello’s Italian Bistro in San Juan Capistrano, and it was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Our server, Christy, truly made the afternoon special with her professionalism and extensive knowledge of the menu. Her descriptions of the dishes were so vivid and enticing, I could almost taste them before they arrived. We started with the fried calamari appetizer, which was perfectly crispy and delicious. The veal piccata we ordered was tender and flavorful, complemented beautifully by a fresh Caesar salad. The baked artichoke was another highlight, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. To top it all off, we indulged in a fantastic carrot cake for dessert, paired with a rich, aromatic espresso. The ambience of Crivello’s is equally impressive, with charming music and casually-quaint scenery that enhanced our dining experience. I cannot recommend Crivello’s Italian Bistro enough – it’s a gem in San Juan Capistrano that delivers both outstanding food and exceptional service. Thank you, Christy, for making our late afternoon unforgettable!

A snug Italian restaurant with a wide array of pasta options. The Linguine Frutti de Mare was hearty and delicious. I also enjoyed the cozy ambiance and attentive service.

I went with some friends on our way to pageant of the masters. A small unassuming place with very delicious Italian authentic food. The service was spectacular and so was the chianti. We ordered the calamari before or dinner and I enjoyed the beef ravioli with pesto sauce and it was delicious.

the food was amazing! service all of it! it’s so hard to find a good alfredo sauce but this place knows how to make it well! fresh pasta was soooo good everything here was absolutely amazing don’t skip on dessert either!

Good place to go to eat, even if you are not a golfer. First visit, we sat inside, but there is a large outdoor dining area. I had the Western BBQ Bacon Burger. It was good, plenty of bacon and tasty BBQ sauce. We also had the Butter Toffee Cake for dessert, very good. Table service was a little lacking, but wouldn’t keep me from a second visit. Prices are reasonable. Recommended.

A terrible restaurant! The food is overpriced and tastes awful! The servers completely ignore customers’ needs. The waitress name is Jockie ! Old and rude! I strongly do NOT recommend coming here. Very disappointing!

Nice ambiance on the golf course...a bit slow to be acknowledged, good during and couldve ordered another drink, but wasnt offered.

We come here on Fridays to enjoy the music, and so, our decision is based on what kind of music the live band is playing. if the band is playing danceable music, then we are on. There's a good variety of choice on food and beverage. The atmosphere is very festive, especially with people dancing and having fun. Also, we play golf at the golf course so we would drop by the bar after a game to have a drink. It's always nice to have a place to relax after a game. Glad that we have this wonderful place to go to for golf, food and dance music!

Good food, reasonable prices, wonderful atmosphere, outside porch with beautiful views. Outstanding wait staff. Check out music on weekends.

Great breakfast! Order the "Golden Bear!" You get 3 eggs, French toast, and bacon! I'm bringing my office sales agents here from Coast Realtors. com

We always love the food! The outdoor patio is great and has live entertainment and is dog friendly. If you go inside, you'll find big screens with all major sports and a great bar. All NFL and college games are played on Sundays and Saturdays. All around great venue!

We ordered takeout but we sat inside while waiting for our order. The atmosphere and vibe was really nice. Had a cozy, home library feel and aesthetic. The owner is also super friendly and welcoming. We took our pizza to go but it was delicious. We got a large that was half Hawaiian and half BBQ chicken. And a small personal Amore pizza. They do not skimp on the toppings or cheese. These pizzas were full loaded. Crust was also delicious. Not thinking but not thick and doughy either. Nice a crispy. Will definitely return.

5 Stars Pizza Amore Café is absolutely amazing! The pizza was fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection — you can really taste the quality in every bite. The owner was incredibly welcoming and made the whole experience even better with their kindness and attention to detail. You can tell they truly care about their customers. If you’re looking for great pizza and even better service, this is the place to go. I’ll definitely be coming back!

My favorite pizza place in South OC! The customer service is top tier along with the food quality. The pizza toppings are generous and super clean. You don’t feel bad after eating a large pizza, highly recommend! It’s not easy finding halal pizza options in the area so this is our go to. For my halal eaters, this is a great spot! Th

I will definitely be returning here. I ordered a medium and did a half and half pizza. The crust was crunchy without being overdone. The quality of the cheese, sauce and toppings were all fantastic. The service was also exceptional. The gentleman who took my order was helpful and very friendly. I have only positive things to say about my experience here.

The food was awesome!! I loved the vibe and the lightening😍 We got the Amore Supreme, BBQ chicken pizza , meat lovers pizza etc. It was so delicious!! The foods are Halal and it’s great for the muslims who want to try and eat meat and chicken in restaurants. The service was excellent they kept making sure if we needed anything and they were super nice!! 👍

As soon as you walk in your eyes are delighted with beautiful star like fairly lights on the ceiling. It’s also decorated like a library. Truly charming. The waiter was very nice and the pizza was delicious! Will definitely be going back!

I recently tried Pizza Amore for the first time, and it was amazing! I ordered takeout, and from the moment I stepped through the door, I felt welcomed and excited for my pizza. I got the San Juan Ranch pizza—it was fresh, warm, and flavorful. The staff was friendly, and I loved the cozy atmosphere, especially the lights on the ceiling. It would be a great spot for a date night or a family dinner!

Delicious food! What can I say but you won't regret it. Every time I come to California, it never fails. We gotta stop here.

A friend was showing me around San Juan Capistrano and this place is a hidden gem for good tacos. Each taco is about $4-5 unless you get street tacos (smaller) $2-$3. This has existed for about a decade according to my friend TB. She says it was cheaper back then, but inflation and the development of the San Juan Capistrano area has really increased the prices. The two tacos I got today: (1) El pastor - the spicy marinated meat lit a fire in my stomach in the good way (2) Carne asada - the meat was generously provided I was asked whether I wanted cilantro and onions with my tacos and I said a resounding yes! I was incredibly full with just two tacos. It’s a filling meal. TB and I came around 10-11 am which is a bit early for lunch hahaha but this place opens at 6 am! We still had to stand in line for 10 min. That’s how much of a consistent presence of customers and service is provided. There are a lot of people working to prepare the food for you, so I’ve been so blessed. You’ll be provided a receipt and a number. In a sense, it reminded me of a pastrami sandwich store I visited in NYC except this time it’s for tacos in Southern California. Hone in on your Spanish so that you’ll be able to recognize your number when they call it out too! There’s much to look around and explore just within the restaurant. I was so tempted to order a juice and pastries, but God knew I wouldn’t be able to handle everything. I can’t wait to come again another day. There are tables outside that you can sit to chat with friends, which is what TB and I did. God bless you all!

El Campeon is a true gem for those seeking authentic Mexican food. The team is fantastic, providing friendly and attentive service that enhances the dining experience. The menu boasts a wide variety of options, all prepared with great care and bursting with flavor. Every dish I tried was delicious and left me wanting more. Whether you're craving tacos, burritos, or something more unique, El Campeon delivers an exceptional culinary experience that truly captures the essence of Mexican cuisine. Highly recommended!

25 plus years of coming here, when back in town.. I have to come here for real Mexican food. The juices are amazing, I always get banana. I love going taco crazy here, I’ve tried them all!!! You feel like you’re south of the border when you come here.

I discovered this place while on road trip on the hwy 5. Right off the high away and delicious food. Very traditional feel and they had a lot of things to offer from delicious Mexican food, fruit smoothies, they even have a bakery. The chicken mole was delicious. Sweet and flavorful. Beef barbacoa can feed two people easily. The plate had a lot of meat

This place it's been here for a while. And they know "Mexican Food" I would like to say "comforting food " because you will definitely feel comfortable after trying some of their great varieties of not just food but delicious drinks "aguas frescas" and delicious sweet bread "pan dulce" specially the "Churro Doughnut"

First visit. This is a very authentic Mexican restaurant. My only complaint was that I didn’t think much of the “salad” (see photo) and pico de gallo was not available. But the carnitas burrito was very good, no fat or gristle. Good flavor and plenty big. Recommended.

Not just some burger place. Menu in In-N-Out Burger chain is simple, yet it's very much working. Meals here were tasty and prepared quickly. Interior of the restaurant is very small, crowded with just few customers and not that clean. But the tables outside looked much better. I appreciate people working at this place. Everybody was nice and they were trying to maintain the place and keep it clean. There is a toilet outside of the building, you will learn the door code at the cash desk when placing your order.

Thank god they had a working, clean, well stocked bathroom. This is pretty much a drive-thru place. There are literally like 4 individual seats inside, so not a place for families to dine-in. The staff were all very nice. I would come back for a "to-go" meal.

Always a great burger and fries you can always count on them to be consistent. Love that they have someone standing outside to take your order instead of having to talk into a box. The line went pretty fast. My dog got a pup Patty. They make a plain hamburger without any salt. She loved it!

My cousin and I were in the area and we stopped by the In-N-Out in Laguna Niguel, just off the 5 freeway at the Avery Parkway exit on Camino Capistrano. I was surprised to see this smaller location. This location has two (2) lines. There was a young gentleman taking orders on the right lane while orders on the left lane were taken from the speaker. As expected, the lines were normally long - just as you’d find other locations during lunch hour. They had a steady flow of customers going in and out of the restaurant, as well as in the drive thru. The service was great from when we placed our orders, making our payments, and receiving our orders. We ordered 3 cheeseburgers for our party with well-done fries and “Lemon-Up”. We all enjoyed our burgers in their lot. I was impressed with how tidy the trash bins were. There were no red trays in sight and no trash on the floor. Overall, we really enjoyed our lunch from In-N-Out and would happily stop by again the next time I’m in town.

I would only recommend doing drive thru at this location. The reason for the 3 stars is because we ate one site. This is an old In-N-Out with no indoor seating. There a 5 tables outside sandwiched between the tiny parking lot and drive thru line. The freeway traffic noisily passes by just on the other side of the building. No ketchup in the cups, packets only and you have to ask for them, along with napkins from the counter.

I don’t know what’s up with this location but everything was GREAT! The fries were seasoned beautifully, the lemonade tasted different like FRESH squeezed or something I can’t name. It was GREAT! The burger was cooked with so much flavor. 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🥳

Great food and customer service tonight! I had gone to Jack in the Box down the street and had no customer service so walked out and came here which I am glad I did.

First visit, the counter staff is definitely surly. It’s located in a business center and was busy with local people. I had a carne asada burrito, it was just OK, nothing to write home about, prices average. I would suggest that El Molino de Oro (in SJC) is better.

I bought tamales from the refrigerator and they were covered in mold. Theres no dates on that food and they dont rotate it enough. I dont trust this place anymore.

Pretty good food and service. One of the better take out Mexican food places in the area. Prices have gone up, but I’m sure it’s to the cost of everything rising these days. Portions are good and food is seasoned well. Would recommend to friends.

The menu is well laid out. The burrito I had which was carnitas was freaking delicious and I regret sharing it with my wife... will get my own next time. The taco salad was a good option although I wouldn’t call it much of a “taco” other than the shell I suppose... but a healthy option more or less. The clerk was very friendly and the food came out quickly. Very much excited to go back. The guacamole looks incredible but I didn’t actually get any this time... next time for sure.

The food was good and the workers were super friendly and nice but the owner Steve super rude to his workers and yelling at them in-front of customers and I felt very uncomfortable and awkward. I would not spend my money at a place that doesn’t respect and value their workers

Best Steak Taco Salad I've had in a long time! The meat had flavor and everything was simply fresh. It was delicious and totally satisfied my craving! My husband had the beef burrito platter and he enjoyed it very much. I totally recommend this restaurant!

Honestly the best fast food Mexican joint in South O.C better than El Campion! Their carne asada Nachos are always on point. Asada burrito always hits the spot too! My go to place for fast Mexican food!!!

Good burger joint, fantastic onion rings! Fast and friendly service. Easy access off the freeway. Bummer no drive thru.

First time here and I got the Asada fries. They were pretty damn good. $19 bux for the fries but it's enough to feed 2 people for sure. And I just got to love a spot that has Tapatio.

Yummy little hole in the wall. Delicious breakfast burritos. Fresh homemade cookies are delish too

Honestly i've been going here since starting my job.. but the lack of ethic and professionalism with how they handle food is shit now.. Bought a burrito and this is how they wrap it. Management should talk to the cooks and make sure they are handling food with care, it wasn't even busy when i went in

Great spot for breakfast! I ordered a sausage breakfast burrito and loved it. It’s a big, hearty burrito packed with potatoes, meat and eggs — no skimping here. The burrito is served with freshly-made chips perfect with their salsa bar. The staff is super welcoming and accommodating. Tons of indoor seating! Right by the freeway too, easy for a grab-and-go breakfast.

The food was okay. I had a breakfast omelet. The place was dirty, not kept, and none of the chairs matched. I bought a drink, tea. The dispenser was a bucket with a lid. I went to get a drink and the tea was not coming out. The worker said the tea bag was in the way and you have to move it around. First off you don't leave the tea bags in the tea when you're serving it. The place just seemed very old and not well-kept up. The only thing good was to me was the eggs was cooked with butter.

I been eating at this location for more than a decade. Food has always been good. I would recommend the beacon burgers and zucchini fries which are one of my favorites. The price has gone up but it's still a good place to have a burger.

Typical Del Taco. Slightly messy, no immediate availability of some cup lids, no immediate availability of some sauce packs. I tried the “Danny Trejo” Al Pastor Quesadilla. The pork pieces had good flavor, but be aware that it also has small pieces of pineapple. Just OK, won’t buy again. Good service and easy parking.

The container with all of the salsa packets down on the far right side of the main counter had a mass of leaky salsa packets that had dried and was making all the salsa packets to stick together. It looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in days. If that’s representative of their level of attention to cleanliness, then I’ll take a hard pass.

Stopped by the drive thru at lunch today (12:30). They took my order and then there was silence. I drove forward and the girl at the window was rude and said “ we told you to wait” I asked what else did you need? She said your foods not ready. Now we have to park you. There was no one behind me but I parked anyway. Maybe corporate has them under pressure to rush guests through, IDK but it makes for a bad experience. I’m sorry I’m inconveniencing you by ordering food I’m sorry I can just go to the Del Taco on PCH.

Derrick, Ruby and the chef Ishmael are a great team! They are welcoming and always giving great service. It's the type of people you want in this industry! Keep it up! Patrick.

That is a 5$ rice and bean burrito with a lighter for size reference. And they charge for 1oz of salsa?! Will never eat del taco again. The worst roach coach is better than this

The lady's where very nice. Clean place. When it comes to the food though.. hmmmm.. the tortillas were COLD.. like my heart. And they said it was because of the vegetables.. But I think it's because they're understaffed.. Wich I understand.. But then one bite into my chicken burrito and I understood that it was indeed a lettuce burrito. Don't judge me.. I was hungry.

Whenever I go to Del Taco I always go Drive thru but I went in this time & Food was good but while leaving, I was waiting for my husband to come out from restroom. I saw the lady with black shirt sweeping & serving with no washing hand and no gloves. Another black shirt neither had gloves but long nails with beautiful paints. Service was worst. I hope leader will take action to these because it’s about food safety.

Eddie is the best manager!! He took care of my order when my app wasn’t working correctly. I was very appreciative of his efforts! Now I can go enjoy my delicious burger and fries!

Date: 2/26/2024 Time of day - Afternoon Order - Double Sourdough Star Cheeseburger Combo Menu price - $13.99 Receipt price - $13.99 Tax - $1.08 Paid $15.07 Good service from the cashier Wait time - less than 3 minutes The burgers were made to order and it was absolutely delicious. 2 beef patties with cheese on sourdough buns. To include lettuce, tomato and bacon. It also comes with grilled onions but I passed. Good presentation. It was well wrapped. French fries were fresh. Hot and nicely salted. Ketchup packets are easy available next to the sugar packets and coffee lids. Dining room was nice and quiet. Restaurant was clean. Restrooms were clean. Parking lot clean. Plenty of parking. Across from an In-N-Out and next to a Target shopping center with a Chick-Fil-A. There’s a Del Taco and a McDonald’s on the other side. Next to the 5 freeway. Will definitely come back #youruberdriveronbreak

Got the southwest chicken sandwich and it was very saucy, the regular fries are good the criscut fries were oily.

No joke here. My girl and I purchased two Santa Fe chicken sandwiches from here last night and started taking bites into this while already on the freeway and we turned around and drive back to the store to let them know. We showed them the chicken (see pics in this post) and musically laughed at us and were sarcastic. Manager just wanted to give us our money back and didn’t offer anything more. The cook came to the window and was sarcastic. Servicing raw chicken can really hurt people. Stay away from this store.

Service is good. Food is also fantastic. It has enough parking spots and seems like it does not get overly crowded. They don't have a public restroom. The restrooms are for customers only and they have a code to unlock. The choices are varied and it's good that they serve all day breakfast I think.

This Carl's Jr. has had a makeover. It has been completely remodeled with new seats and counter. The menu is new and easy to understand with a lot of pictures.

The service is fantastic here they always keep there place cleaned.

First time back in months. Stopped going because something wrong on every order. I order thru the app. Today I ordered new Shredded Chicken Cheese Bowl. It does not come with sour cream or cabbage, but they put it in there. Looked disgusting. I asked them to fix and the lady in the kitchen actually argued to everyone that's how it comes. They made a new one still had the cabbage in the melted cheese and bean liquiid. So gross I didn't eat it. It's how this location goes. They blame you for the order being wrong. No mas.

Nasty food, can’t believe I paid all this money for old chicken and gross Mac and cheese

Very easy location and excellent service with restroom inside and clean restaurant five star plus.

I moved a few weeks ago. I had three movers who were planning to skip lunch. I wasn't having it. So I drove to the nearby Pollo Loco and brought back a chicken feast with lots of sides. They enjoyed it and were very appreciative. A vegetarian myself, I had some delicious rice, beans, and guacamole. Hit the spot. For an easy, tasty meal, I've always found Pollo Loco to be a crowd pleaser.

My burrito was carelessly prepared. It was delicious but I had to eat it with a fork because they literally didn’t even wrap it. Such bogus. Won’t be coming back.

The food here is very delicious however the service is not that great.

Bro. No chicken in the Tosda. Double the price now, with a bonus of NO chicken!

This place is disappointing! Used to be good. The skimpy meat had no flavor, the lettuce old, soggy onions and just awful, no fresh cut anything and all hidden so you can no longer see what’s going on your sandwich. No condiments offered either. Jersey Mike’s I’m coming back.

Keith is the best Sandwich Artist ever!! I love salads. He chopped down the tomatoes and cucumbers so the salad is edible and tasty! Thanks Keith!!

The lack of customer service made me walked out of the place after almost 5 minutes of not acknowledgment. Worker was there putting her gloves with such a boring face, I get it, sometimes we all are tired but at least if you work in a job where you have to interact with people then you guys have to do a better job.

Keith made possibly the best sandwich I’ve ever had at a Subway. Laid the ingredients extremely neat and even, good proportions on everything. Really nice guy too. 5 stars!

Horrific experience. Employees were rude they took no pride in their work. they threw something together call it a sandwich, I wouldn't feed it to my dog. The owner-manager is in there sitting on the counter. Other employees leaning over on the counter with their bodies. And then there's sneezing and coughing while making food and they don't even wash their hands again

Worst service and I called afterwards to ask for a supervisor. The franchisee is the one making sandwiches down there now. It used to be a great place to get a quick bite to eat. I can understand if everyone quit on her because the restaurant looked dirty and she was very rude on the phone and in store to my sisters. Took 45 minutes for them to order 4 sandwiches. I so sad our subway closer to home was closed temporarily. Horrible customer service and unwilling to admit fault or make the order correct. My sisters even told her to fix the cheese selection for my sandwich and she just smiled and moved on. Then she burns the footlong cookie. When I told her over the phone I'm looking at the cookie right in front of me and the cookie was a dark brown color rather than a healthy amber of a good chocolate chip cookie, she says that's impossible, like I'm lying. Just absolutely insane for a franchisee not to know how to make a sandwich in their own restaurant. To add insult to injury, she wraps each half of the footlong sandwich in their own wrappers without us asking and wasting so much paper. She gave the excuse that she did it for convenience, but she probably didn't have the long papers. Could have simply said that. I'm absolutely flabbergasted that this woman is making sandwiches. There isn't any love going into them for them to turn out so wrong and gross.

Food is as good as any other Subway. The weird part about this store is that their hours for closing are 8:30 but for some reason, the last two times I have gone in (at 8pm) they have been hesitant to make me a couple of sandwiches. During both instances they have said "oh we are cleaning up." Im like um ok so are you open or not. Last time they said no, this time they hesitated but rolled their eyes and went ahead and made my sandwiches. I have worked customer service before and I know how annoying it is when people come in at the last minute. I would think 30 mins is ample time to get ready to go though. I wouldn't go in any later than 8 because I get the struggle. If this store really wants to stop helping customers at 8 then they should make their closing hours at 8. Very bizarre experience overall. (the girls working were frantic, sweeping and cleaning everything at 8:00pm. Acting like there was 1 min left until closing...weird) I felt very uncomfortable tbh.

First time here and it didn’t disappoint. Burger was cooked medium just as requested and had a great flavor. I do with it had more spice, everyone that has a jalapeno burger misses out on the heat!! The sweet potato fries were cooked just right, many places will over fry them. The cookie butter shake was delicious and worth the extra calories lol. Overall worth your time and your money 🤙🏼

The kids and I stopped in for burgers, and they gave it three thumbs up — and trust me, they’re the burger experts! The food was delicious, definitely worth the wait, which we didn’t mind since it was clear everything was made fresh. The staff was super friendly, and the restaurant was clean and welcoming. We’ll definitely be back when visiting Cali.

The flavor was on point and quality seemed above par the portion of meat in the sandwich could have been better though. The cashier was very friendly and helpful. Not a big fan of places that ask for a tip but do not have service. Most of the tables were filthy same for the chairs and Floors. There were dishes on many of the tables and all the surfaces were sticky. The bathrooms remind me of a public restroom at the beach pretty sad, they even had one of those push down faucets that pop back up after a short period of time. If I was in town I would probably give it another shot because the food was good but I don't know if I would have tried it for the first time if I checked out the dining room and bathroom first.

One of my favorite casual family restaurants to go to with the kids. It's nice and clean. The food is good and I like that there are salad options and always an interesting veggie appetizer like fried brussel sprouts. There's plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. They have a decent rewards program as well.

Cool burger spot that the whole town ended up on a Saturday. Families, kids, locals and tourists. I wanted a solid burger and found it! The line was quite long, but moved quickly. When it came time to order, the young lady at the front was very kind and patient and didn’t make me feel rushed. She let me know about the sauces and encourage me to get a couple extra, which I love because they’re also free. Sweet potato wafflefries are elite so I was a happy camper. Tons of options and the ability to customize. I was checked on during my meal to see how I enjoyed the sauces. It’s a small gesture but made my experience even better.

Fantastic food! The menu is extensive and covers all the basics. I've had a turkey burger, ahi fish sandwich and my favorite the chicken club. The protein is always fresh and plenty. The bun is terrific as is the aoli sauce on the club. They have a good blueberry lemonade to go along with the meal. They offer fries but I've always been content with the sandwich so can't comment on the fries. Someone next to me had a side of broccolini which looked really good so I think I'll have that next time. I've been coming once a week for a couple months and haven't had a bad meal.

I had been thinking about this place foe a few weeks. Final we back and ordered a "build you own". Soooo good. Its really not the toppings but the meat itself is so juicy and delicious. Good back when I can. The service is good. The employees are helpful. The atmosphere is like a sports bar type. TVs everywhere, sometimes you want quietness and peace to enjoy your burger. Its an intimate moment.. lol.

Loved the spicy chicken deluxe and waffle fries from Chick-fil-A. Went through the drive thru and it was fast and convenient. All the staff were very friendly and professional. Remember to order chick-fil-a sauce if you enjoy delicious flavors. Recommend!

Joseph and Jeffrey Are the best! I have celiac and they were so nice and made sure that my order was right and safe for me to eat. Could not ask for more

So I learned something new today. I ordered a pick up and thought that it still had my home base as SC so I went ahead and ordered. when I got to the SC location they hey told me my order was for San Juan… so you’re telling me I have to drive all the way back there and they said yes. They were no help at all. My mistake, them zero help. So my luck, I drove back to San Juan. I could not have asked for two more outstanding employees to help me with my mistake. I had explained to them what had happened, and they felt so bad and knew my order had been sitting there for some time that she offered to make a fresh order for me. Truly so much kindness exuded from the both of them . Zulema & deyvi , you’re gold! And your kindness is authentic… not something that’s continuously rehearsed. As most people know, this is not an ordinary location. It’s better ! Thank you San Quan for going above and beyond. SC can learn from you.

TRAIN YOUR KITCHEN EMPLOYEES BETTER. I have no issues with the person that took my order as he reread the order correctly. This is the SECOND time I’ve order from this place and the order is just straight up incomplete or wrong. BOTH TIMES my grilled chicken club came with no cheese or bacon. Please refer to the picture from your website if you guys have any issues on what the grilled clubbed is is suppose to have. NEVER come here worst Chick-fil-A ever.

So I grabbed 3 kid strip meals as a quick alternative for dinner and I was pleased with the portion of food provided and our fries were just made! Re: customer service-The reps there are totally representative of that saying "customer service w a smile! Thx for a pleasantly yummy experience each time!

There is no inside seating here. Luckily, we were there on a nice summer day. But even at that, it was breezy and we had to fight to keep our bags and paper goods from blowing away.

I had a great experience at this location. Nick, the director of operations, is super nice, and the owner, Chris, is awesome! It's a beautiful location just across the street from the famous Mission of San Juan Capistrano. You've got to check out the Los Rios District; you might even see the sheriffs on horseback riding around town. The food was great, as always. 😋