Favorite Places to Eat in Orange County (From a Local Mom Who’s Texted This List Too Many Times)
I’m not a foodie, per se. We’re not trying new restaurants every week or chasing the latest pop-up. But after living in Orange County and typing out these same restaurant recs in text messages to visiting friends again and again… it’s finally time to give them a permanent spot on the internet.
These are our go-to spots. Some are perfect with kids. Some we save for date nights. And all of them are places I’d happily eat at again and again.
✨ Favorite Sit-Down Spots (Great for Date Nights or Special Outings)
Nick’s (Laguna Beach, San Clemente, and soon Newport Beach!)
If I could only eat one meal in Orange County for the rest of my life, it might be the fried chicken sandwich from Nick’s. It’s probably the most affordable thing on their menu—but don’t let that fool you. Get it with a side of fries and a few sides of their honey mustard (yes, multiple). Dip the whole sandwich in the sauce. Trust me.
Other favorites:
- Prime rib sandwich (I always sneak bites from my husband’s plate)
- Seabass – surprisingly great
- Asparagus fries – fun and different
- Skip the bistro plate
CdM Restaurant (Corona Del Mar)
A slightly fancier spot that’s worth the reservation wait if you want a night out. The vibe is chic, the service is great, and the food is consistently delicious. Pro tip: order the cacio e pepe pasta as an appetizer to share. You won’t regret it.
Malibu Farm (Lido Marina Village, Newport Beach):
This spot is such a gem — fresh, feel-good food and the dreamiest harbor views. The green smoothie with coconut milk is my go-to, but everything on the menu feels light and delicious. It’s perfect for a girls’ brunch or a laid-back day date. Plus, enjoy window shopping (or actual shopping) at Lido Village (The Real Real, LoveShackFancy, Jenni Kayne, Sugar Paper LA, and Amber Interiors all within 2 minutes of each other).
🥗 Fast Casual Favorites (Kid-Friendly, Easy, Always Good)
Mendocino Farms
This is my fast-casual comfort zone. The Modern Caesar Salad (add chicken) is my go-to, but if you’re dining in, the sandwiches really shine.
Top recs:
- Not So Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Pork Belly Banh Mi
- Any of the steak sandwiches
- Guava Lemonade (seasonal right now and so yummy)
Mendocino Farms
Modern Ceasar
Flower Child Enchiladas
Flower Child
A light and healthy-ish spot with a good kids menu and cheerful vibes. The enchiladas are the star of the menu—creamy, flavorful, and still feel light enough to leave you feeling good after.
🌊 Restaurants + a Beach Walk? Yes, Please.
The Beachcomber or Shake Shack (Crystal Cove)
Both are great options for grabbing a bite before or after a beach walk. The Beachcomber is more of a full-service spot with ocean views, while Shake Shack gives you quick, reliable burgers with sand-between-your-toes energy.
Sessions West Coast Deli (Newport Beach)
A short walk from the beach and totally worth it. I love grabbing the Summer Zephyr (add chicken, pictured below) and eating it while walking along the coast. The vibe is very California-casual with a great menu of creative sandwiches.
🥟 Places That Deserve the Hype
Din Tai Fung (South Coast Plaza)
This one’s famous for a reason. Try to grab a reservation, or get a buzzer and explore the mall while you wait.
Don’t skip:
- Pork Soup Dumplings
- Cucumber salad
- Chocolate dumplings for dessert (sounds weird, tastes amazing)
👩👧👦 Hidden Gems and Local Finds
Krave Kobe Burger in Lake Forest
This place surprised us. The burgers were fine—but the chicken tenders? Next-level. Hand-battered in panko and made to order from fresh (not frozen!) chicken. I’d go back just for those.
Bottega Angelina (Laguna Niguel)
Perfect for a girls’ night or a sunny lunch. Their pizzas are fantastic, and the ambiance is dreamy. After your meal, wander through the Italian market inside for chocolate, fresh pasta, or a scoop of gelato. Bonus: the outdoor patio has stunning views.
If you’re planning a visit or just looking to mix things up from your usual spots, I hope this list gives you a few new favorites. And if I missed your favorite OC restaurant, let me know—I’m not a foodie, but I’m always happy to try something new… especially if it comes with a good dipping sauce.
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