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Must-Try Restaurants in Orange County, California (Locals Swear By These Spots)

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From legendary taco shops and authentic steakhouse eateries to waterfront seafood restaurants and unforgettable date-night destinations, this curated guide features the best places to eat across Orange County. Whether you're visiting Disneyland, plan...
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Newport Beach

Upscale coastal dining meets classic California luxury. Newport Beach is known for waterfront restaurants, yacht-lined harbors, fresh seafood, trendy brunch spots, and polished date-night destinations. Expect beautiful views, stylish crowds, and some...

 
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Grab a seat at the bar to have your food and margaritas with a view of the Pacific Ocean
Javier's Restaurant - Newport Beach
 
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upscale gastropub, book on Resy to secure your spot!
Royal Hen
 
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Husband wife duo who have curated a menu to please everyone at the table
Fable & Spirit
 
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every item is crafted over an open fire kitchen
Arc Butcher & Baker
 
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Harbor front dining and beautiful views with delicious food and drinks.
Shorebird
 
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local favorite for fresh seafood
Bear Flag Fish Co.
 
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An OC institution, classic seafood
The Crab Cooker
 
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Legendary steakhouse and local favorite. Prime rib is a must!
A Restaurant
 
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Ocean 48 is an award-winning fine dining restaurant nestled in the heart of Newport Beach that features world-class steaks and seafood and an expansive wine list. From USDA Prime steaks and Australian Wagyu to premium seafood and more
Ocean 48
 
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blend contemporary regional cuisine with a vibrant, upscale vibe—delivering fine dining without the fuss
The Winery - Newport Beach
 
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The obvious, the food and drinks are of course outstanding! The shocking part, the space features a gallery wall highlighting several hand-picked local artists and a unique Bocci light installation
JOEY Newport Beach
 
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Enjoy a menu of seafood and caviar specialties, along with a selection of signature salads and classics. Dine in a year-round skylit garden with heritage olive trees, sparkling chandeliers, a cascading center fountain and panoramic views of the Calif...
RH Ocean Grill at RH Newport Beach
 
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In addition to our exceptional steaks, SET is also home to some of the finest sushi in Newport Beach. From fresh sashimi to innovative rolls, our sushi selection brings a perfect balance of tradition and creativity to every dish.
SET Steak & Sushi
 
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the celebration cake is the best cake I’ve ever had
SusieCakes- Newport Beach

Huntington Beach

"Surf City USA" delivers a laid-back beach-town atmosphere with a lively restaurant scene. From casual fish tacos and beach bars to waterfront patios and craft breweries, Huntington Beach is all about ocean views, surf culture, and fun, energetic din...

 
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The most delicious filet mignon with the most beautiful view. Recommend getting a reservation for sunset.
Lōrea
 
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the chips and salsa are so addicting, I love the service and staff here
Mario's Mexican Food & Cantina
 
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Rooftop views of the Pacific Ocean with modern California cuisine
Jolie & The Belle
 
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One of Main Street’s most beloved restaurants. Freshest sushi around
Sushi On Fire
 
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Oceanfront dining on PCH, upscale dining with a relaxed atmosphere, focusing on farm-to-table ethos
Bluegold
 
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offers guests a refined, yet relaxed dining experience on PCH specializes in modern American cuisine with seasonal, regional influences
Watertable | New American Restaurant
 
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the best place for breakfast on Main Street
Sugar Shack Cafe
 
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my favorite taco Tuesday in HB, must be seated in the Cantina
Don Jose Mexican Restaurant

Laguna Beach

Orange County's most scenic and artistic beach town. Laguna is famous for dramatic coves, galleries, boutique shopping, and restaurants with incredible ocean views. The dining scene ranges from relaxed coastal cafés to refined chef-driven restaurants...

 
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polished yet relaxed ambiance, served elevated American comfort food
Nick's Laguna Beach
 
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recognized by the MICHELIN Guide for its refined take on classic steakhouse dining
Selanne Steak Tavern
 
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casual yet upscale dining that highlights fresh coastal cuisine, craft cocktails, and sunset views that the cast of Real Housewives of Orange County cannot get enough of
The Deck
 
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inspired by NYCs theatre district, this restaurant presents an energetic “open kitchen stage”
Broadway by Amar Santana
 
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generous portions, inviting decor, and daily 3-6pm happy hour
Starfish Laguna Beach
 
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the best view with an exquisite menu
Splashes Restaurant
 
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viral on TikTok for a reason, it is worth the wait everytime
South Swell Hand Dipped Ice Cream
 
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the best gelato in Laguna, located in the cutest shopping area
Gelato Paradiso
 
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celebrating 100 years for a reason! Such delicious ice creams
The Original Rainbow Cone

Costa Mesa

Often considered Orange County's culinary capital, Costa Mesa offers the county's most diverse food scene. Trendy chef-owned restaurants, international cuisine, craft cocktail bars, and innovative concepts make it a favorite for food lovers seeking s...

 
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I prefer to enjoy my cocktails while sitting outside
VERDE RESTAURANT - Costa Mesa, California
 
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vibrant flavors of Mexico cooked into each breakfast and brunch plate
PRADERA BRUNCH
 
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incredible Mexican food that you’ll be sure to return for, the salsa bar is so inviting too
La Laguna Mex Grill
 
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incredibly fresh ingredients that make the most delicious Italian dishes
Filomena's Italian Kitchen & Market
 
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the food is so fresh and tasty, the staff is so happy to be there and serve you
Tacos Madre Mexican Cocina
 
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doughnuts are handmade every hour
Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee
 
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casual seafood spot with a standout lobster roll
Hook & Anchor
 
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Modern Mexican food either delicious birria tacos and margaritas
Playa Mesa

Long Beach

A diverse waterfront city with one of Southern California's most exciting food scenes. Long Beach blends global flavors, trendy neighborhoods, seafood spots, breweries, and vibrant nightlife. It's more urban, eclectic, and locally driven than many Or...

 
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be prepared to wait on line, the food is that good!
Lazy Dough
 
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enjoy the finest qualities of meats while dining in “smart casual attire”
555 East American Steakhouse
 
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Located right outside the aquarium at Seashell Park, our menu offers a number of items for the shrimp lover in all of us
BUBBA GUMP SHRIMP CO.
 
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Parkers' Lighthouse is known for its mesquite grilled fresh seafood, spectacular views and its award-winning wine list. The restaurant's extensive menu features innovative Southern California seafood dishes, as well as creative sushi and sashimi. Exp...
PARKERS' LIGHTHOUSE
 
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best breakfast in OC, if you can get a table, get a Raquel's special
ROSCOE'S HOUSE OF CHICKEN AND WAFFLES, Long Beach
 
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Established in 1993, King’s Fish House is Long Beach’s choice for seafood. King’s Fish House features a large selection of fresh oysters, seasonal catches, sushi and live shellfish, including lobster and crab, on a menu that changes daily.
KING'S FISH HOUSE LONG BEACH
 
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Fuego has evolved into a modern Latin-inspired lounge and bar experience. It is a renovated waterfront destination where guests gather for handcrafted cocktails, small bites and shared dishes.
FUEGO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
 
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Celebrating over 35 years of award winning classic & modern Italian cuisine! Owner Terry Antonelli believes in a warm and elegant approach to fine dining. Chef Walter Cotta shops at local farmer's and produce markets throughout the week to insure...
L'OPERA RISTORANTE, Long Beach
 
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These plates are gorgeous and decidedly Southern, but not without a twist or two
The Attic – Long Beach - a MICHELIN Guide Restaurant

Seal Beach

A charming small-town beach community that feels worlds away from the busier coastal cities nearby. Main Street is lined with independent restaurants, cafés, and local favorites, creating a relaxed, walkable dining experience with a classic Californi...

 
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Seal Beach Award-winning restaurant and bar with sweeping ocean views and stunning sunsets, just steps from the historic Seal Beach Pier in Downtown.
THE HANGOUT RESTAURANT & BEACH BAR, Seal Beach
 
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your seaside destination for tasty food and signature cocktails
THE BEACH HOUSE SEAL BEACH
 
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Spaghettini has come to be regarded as one of the premiere restaurant and entertainment venues in the country. Spaghettini is also home to the legendary Sunday Brunch.
SPAGHETTINI ITALIAN GRILL AND LOUNGE, Seal Beach
 
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Taco Surf on Main Street in Seal Beach was voted by the community for 3 years in a row, " Best mexican food." Just steps away from the beach and beautiful Seal Beach pier. Taco Surf offers homemade Mexican food at affordable prices.
TACO SURF, Seal Beach
 
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Restaurant Koi is a family-owned Japanese Restaurant in Seal Beach, California. Koi has been making authentic sushi and Japanese cuisine under the same ownership for over thirty years.
KOI JAPANESE CUISINE

Anaheim

The heart of Orange County tourism and home to much more than theme parks, although I am including where is best to eat in the park. Anaheim offers everything from iconic food halls and breweries to upscale dining, making it one of the county's most ...

 
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Ruth's Chris Steak House specializes in serving USDA Prime steaks, each seared to perfection, finished with butter and freshly chopped parsley, and served sizzling on a 500-degree plate.
RUTH'S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE, Anaheim - 2041 South Harbor Blvd - Menu, Prices, Restaurant Reviews & Reservations - Tripadvisor
 
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Proudly listed in the MICHELIN Guide California, THE RANCH Restaurant was named Restaurant of the Year for the city of Anaheim, Best Steakhouse by LA Times, Best of Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator for nine consecutive years, and is home to Oran...
THE RANCH RESTAURANT & SALOON, Anaheim - The Colony
 
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Recognized by the Michelin Guide and led by Food Network star and James Beard Award Semi-Finalist Chef Michael Reed, Poppy & Seed is a premier dining destination that redefines California cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Locat...
POPPY & SEED
 
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Blending classic techniques with adventurous Pacific Rim flavors, culinary pioneer Roy Yamaguchi created an entirely new approach to fine dining
ROY'S RESTAURANT
 
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Celebrate the charm, cuisine and spirit of southern Italy at this classic Neapolitan eatery.
NAPLES RISTORANTE E BAR
 
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Embark on a culinary adventure with Louisiana-inspired cuisine as you watch Pirates of the Caribbean boats glide past.
BLUE BAYOU RESTAURANT
 
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Pop in to this Mary Poppins-themed eatery to enjoy a variety of fresh pastries, hearty sandwiches, breakfast favorites, sweet treats and more.
JOLLY HOLIDAY BAKERY CAFE
 
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Savor refined California cuisine, with dishes made from superb ingredients sourced locally and internationally-and exquisite wines from around the world
NAPA ROSE

Belmont Shores/Naples

From waterfront seafood and casual brunch spots to cozy cafés and date-night favorites, this curated list highlights the must-visit restaurants locals love and visitors shouldn't miss. Whether you're craving fresh coastal cuisine, handcrafted cocktai...

 
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One of Belmont Shore's most popular dining destinations, Saint & Second combines elevated comfort food, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you're stopping in for weekend brunch, date night, or dinner with friends, the chef-drive...
Saint & Second
 
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Known for exceptional service and consistently delicious American cuisine, Nick's is a go-to for celebrations, date nights, and upscale casual dining. From handcrafted cocktails to signature comfort-food classics, every detail feels polished without ...
Nick's on 2nd Long Beach
 
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A Long Beach institution serving authentic Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere, generous portions, and flavorful dishes like shawarma, kebabs, and fresh-baked pita have made Open Sesame a neighborhood favorite for years.
Open Sesame
 
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Family-owned and beloved by locals, George's serves classic Greek comfort food in a warm, welcoming setting. Expect hearty portions, fresh ingredients, and Mediterranean flavors that keep guests coming back.
George’s Greek Cafe
 
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Fresh seafood, oysters, ceviche, and a beautiful patio make Roe one of the area's top seafood destinations. Perfect for a relaxed lunch, happy hour, or coastal-inspired dinner after exploring Belmont Shore.
Roe Seafood
 
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A modern Mexican restaurant known for elevated regional dishes, craft cocktails, and a sophisticated atmosphere. Viaje is ideal for date nights and anyone looking for a more refined dining experience along 2nd Street.
Viaje Restaurant
 
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Blending Japanese techniques with Peruvian flavors, Sushi Nikkei offers a unique dining experience you won't find at a typical sushi restaurant. Creative rolls, beautifully presented dishes, and an intimate setting make it a standout.
Sushi Nikkei
 
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Tucked away just off the main strip, Cafe Gazelle feels like a hidden Italian neighborhood gem. Its cozy atmosphere, homemade pastas, and romantic ambiance make it perfect for a quieter dining experience.
Cafe Gazelle