Laguna Niguel is at the heart of Orange County’s coastline, situated between Newport Beach and San Clemente. The natural beauty of the area is only part of the reason people are flocking to this delightful community. Not only are there plenty of things to do it’s also home to some of the best restaurants in Orange County.
From upscale places to eat dinner to day-making breakfast spots, Laguna Niguel has some of the best food around that’s sure to give your taste buds a treat – no matter what you’re craving.
Continue reading for a few of our favorites or contact the Laguna Niguel real estate specialists at First Team Real Estate with your Laguna Niguel area questions.
Plumeria Cafe by Stacks Pancake House
If you’re looking to start your day off right with a delicious brunch, Plumeria Cafe by Stacks Pancake House is the place to go! This place takes a twist on traditional breakfast foods and includes a taste of Hawaiian staples to really get you in the mindset of living close to the water. Known for their spectacular pancakes, omelets, waffles, breakfast burritos, and famous Stacks Loco Moco, you’ll be in for a treat to begin your day.
Mollie's Country Kitchen
This longstanding breakfast place serves as a more classic breakfast diner with all you’re favorites. From pancakes to omelets to eggs benedict to waffles and plenty of lunch options, you can’t go wrong at Mollie’s Country Kitchen! Not only is the food excellent but the service as well, which makes this breakfast spot one of the best places to eat in Laguna Niguel. Mollie’s Country Kitchen is so great that it’s also known for being packed on the weekends, so if you want to try this fantastic spot, earlier in the day or weekdays are your best bet!
Mangia Bene Cucina
After over 30 years, Mangia Bene Cucina is still one of the best Laguna Niguel restaurants. This Italian restaurant brings the best of Italy to Southern California. Mangia Bene Cucina offers classic pasta dishes like gnocchi, linguini, and ravioli and specialty seafood dishes as well, like Chilean Seabass Piccata and Salmone Paradiso. Located on La Paz Road in the shopping center, this restaurant is the perfect place to sit down for dinner after a long day of shopping or a great place to relax and enjoy the warm weather if you eat on the patio.
Avila's El Ranchito
Avila’s El Ranchito has been a staple in Southern California for decades. First started by Mamá Avila in 1966 when she brought family recipes from Mexico, she began cooking these recipes in her kitchen and things grew to 13 different locations in Orange County and Los Angeles. This spot is also known for being one of the best family restaurants in Laguna Niguel, as a family member is in charge of one of the locations, setting the expectations that each customer is like family.
If that’s not convincing enough to stop by, the food is out of this world. From tacos to bowls and burritos to chicken and shrimp dishes, your tastebuds with certainly have a fiesta!
If you’re looking to enjoy this delicious food in the comfort of your own home, Avila’s El Ranchito is also one of the best takeout restaurants in Laguna Niguel, partly because of the variety of options available. You can choose from regular take-out options or order Party Trays To-Go, which are take-out orders for groups of five people or more, perfect for any family get-together, celebration, or feast.
Acai Republic
For those looking for a quick and healthy meal, Acai Republic is the place to go! With authentic Brazilian acai, your tastebuds will sing from the fresh ingredients. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy smoothies, freshly squeezed juices, and Salgados, which are delicious Brazilian pastries. Plus, Acai Republic has over 10 locations so no matter where you are, you’ll be able to get a healthy and delicious meal or snack.
The Bistro K
The combination of the incredible food and captivating atmosphere makes The Bistro K one of the best places to eat in Laguna Niguel, CA. Known for its traditional Italian food with a modern twist, The Bistro K is the place to be! From Scampi Marchesi and Linguine Frutti DiMare to pan-seared Asian Salmon, three cheese-baked Macaroni, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your craving. Plus, you can enjoy live music Friday and Saturday nights and sit out on the patio to relax in the warm Southern California weather.
Opah Restaurant & Bar
Named after the Opah, also known as the Moonfish, was once thought of to be good luck if caught by fishermen, and often given away as a gesture of goodwill. And, you’ll certainly be lucky if you get to eat here at Opah Restaurant & Bar, as it’s been one of the best restaurants in Laguna Niguel for years. Here, you’ll enjoy upscale seafood and some creative dishes for the more adventurous eater. Plus, you can choose from a variety of alcoholic beverages like specialty cocktails, wine, and beer to complement your meal.
China Moon
This award-winning restaurant is the perfect go-to if you’re craving Chinese food. And, it’s no wonder China Moon is award-winning because Chef John brings over 30 years of experience! And, the owners, Vanissa and Jackson Chen, have been recipients of the Southern California Restaurant Writers Award.
At China Moon, you’ll have a large menu to choose from with classic Chinese cuisines like spring rolls and dumplings to kimchi and rice and noodle dishes. Plus, you can enjoy fresh seafood or vegetables along with a wide selection of chicken and other meats. Also, China Moon offers customizations so any vegetarian or gluten-free customer can still enjoy an incredible meal here.
As you can tell, Laguna Niguel is home to some of the best restaurants around. And, the food scene is just one element of many that make this city a great place to live!
You can learn more about Laguna Niguel and browse Laguna Niguel homes for sale, schedule a meeting, or contact the Laguna Niguel real estate specialists at First Team Real Estate.
