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Best Italian Restaurants in San Juan Capistrano

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17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Ciao Pasta restaurant
1. Ciao Pasta
4.8
Exceptional(1284)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 23 times today
Ciao Pasta, nestled in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, offers a vegetarian and vegan experience that is both authentic and delightful. Celebrated for its rich flavors and commitment to quality, the restaurant's menu is a testament to the vibrant traditions of Southern Italy. Guests rave about the "amazing food" that is consistently "delicious and fresh," making Ciao Pasta a standout destination for plant-based dining. The restaurant's cozy, inviting atmosphere is perfect for enjoying their extensive array of vegetarian and vegan dishes, all crafted with the finest ingredients. For those seeking a true taste of Italy, Ciao Pasta is a must-visit!
A photo of Truly Pizza restaurant
2. Truly Pizza
4.8
Exceptional(424)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 87 times today
Nestled in the heart of Dana Point's Lantern District, Truly Pizza redefines Contemporary Italian cuisine with its artisanal approach to pizza-making. This neighborhood gem offers a "warm and lovely patio" dining experience, enhanced by the "best pizza in Orange County," as raved by diners. The quality of ingredients is evident in every bite, from the thin, crispy crust to the outstanding cheese and sauce. Guests are treated to a vibrant atmosphere complemented by a rooftop wine experience. The service is consistently praised as "friendly and efficient," ensuring each visit feels like a special occasion. Truly Pizza is a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional Contemporary Italian dining.
A photo of Luciana's Ristorante restaurant
3. Luciana's Ristorante
4.6
Exceptional(3451)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 37 times today
Located in a historical home in the resort town of Dana Point, California, Luciana's Ristorante has been serving the Orange County community for over 40 years. The decor is reminiscent of a cozy European-style inn, establishing it as one of Orange County's most romantic restaurants. Awarded the Southern California Restaurant Writers gold medal since 1996, three stars from the California Restaurant Writers, Zagat's Survey "America’s 1,000 Top Italian Restaurants 2008" and an Award of Excellence for its wine list, Luciana's has been setting the standard for classic as well as innovative Italian cuisine. Whether visiting our cozy restaurant or our Bed and Breakfast and Cooking School in Tuscany, Italy, you are sure to experience the best and freshest combination of the old and new worlds.
A photo of Luxe Restaurant and Bar restaurant
4. Luxe Restaurant and Bar
4.8
Exceptional(627)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 4 times today
Luxe Restaurant & Bar in Dana Point is a hidden gem renowned for its exceptional Italian cuisine. The menu boasts a delightful array of classic Italian dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring every bite is a culinary delight. Guests rave about the "outstanding meatballs" and the delectable house-made lobster ravioli, which a diner described as "absolutely amazing." The ambiance is enhanced by live music, creating a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere, perfect for any occasion. With its attentive service and authentic flavors, Luxe offers a dining experience that effortlessly transports you to the heart of Italy, making it a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts.
A photo of Casanova Ristorante restaurant
5. Casanova Ristorante
4.5
Awesome(27)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 7 times today
Casanova Ristorante, nestled in the heart of Dana Point's Monarch Beach, is a standout destination for seafood enthusiasts, offering a true taste of Venetian and North Italian culinary artistry. Known for its "outstanding" pesto pasta with scallops and "best vongole around," the restaurant consistently delivers top-tier, authentic seafood dishes that transport diners straight to the Italian coast. The ambiance complements the exquisite cuisine, with a classic trattoria feel that invites relaxation and enjoyment. Whether savoring calamari or indulging in shrimp arrabbiata, guests are treated to a memorable dining experience, making Casanova Ristorante a must-visit for seafood lovers.
A photo of Jack's Restaurant/Bar restaurant
6. Jack's Restaurant/Bar
4.8
Exceptional(1091)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 16 times today
Jack's Restaurant/Bar in Dana Point is a gem for seafood lovers, offering a delightful variety of fresh and flavorful dishes. Renowned for its authentic Italian and seafood specialties, diners rave about the exquisite preparation and taste. One guest highlighted the "halibut which melted in our mouths," while another recommended the "sea bass" as a must-try. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with impeccable service, ensures a memorable dining experience. As one review puts it, Jack's is "consistently great in every aspect," making it a top choice for those seeking high-quality seafood in a cozy, family-friendly environment.
A photo of Stella's restaurant
7. Stella's
4.5
Awesome(1294)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 10 times today
Stella's in Dana Point is a culinary treasure for seafood enthusiasts, offering a taste of the Mediterranean with an Italian twist. Diners rave about the "unbelievable" seafood dishes, like the Lobster Ravioli and Cioppino, which are praised for their perfect balance of flavors. The fresh, high-quality ingredients ensure each bite is a delightful experience reminiscent of dining by the Mediterranean Sea. Guests appreciate the attentive service and inviting atmosphere, with live saxophone music adding to the charm. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night out, Stella's promises a seafood experience that will leave you craving more.
A photo of Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar restaurant
8. Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar
4.8
Exceptional(74)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 3 times today
Nestled in the heart of Laguna Niguel, Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar is a gem of Contemporary Italian cuisine that delights locals and visitors alike. This family-owned restaurant is renowned for its "fantastic fresh Italian pasta dishes" and a menu that showcases the authenticity and creativity of Italian flavors. Patrons rave about the "delicious food, great service, good music and really fantastic ambiance" that Bricco offers. With homemade pasta and a variety of scrumptious dishes, including their "outstanding" Chicago style vegetarian pizza and decadent butter cake, every meal feels like a taste of Italy. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday, further enhancing this charming dining experience.
A photo of 501 Restaurant and Bar restaurant
9. 501 Restaurant and Bar
4.3
Awesome(9)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • San Clemente
Nestled in the heart of San Clemente, 501 Restaurant and Bar is where locals come to savor the best of our coastal cuisine throughout the day. From indulgent breakfast classics to innovative lunch creations and elegant dinner dishes, each plate is thoughtfully crafted by Chef Aron and his team.Start your culinary journey with our renowned crab cakes or crispy fried brussels sprouts, perfect for sharing as you immerse yourself in the laid-back ambiance of San Clemente. Indulge in our tender boneless short ribs or our signature Scampi Bagatta, a delightful twist on a classic favorite, or opt for our fresh and flavorful Fish Tacos, a true taste of the coast. Our Shore Smash Burger is a must-try, perfectly paired with stunning views and the relaxed vibes of San Clemente living.We take pride in hosting and catering your special events, bringing the flavors of San Clemente to your celebrations, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or intimate gathering with frien
A photo of Domenico's on the Lake restaurant
10. Domenico's on the Lake
4.8
Exceptional(1233)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita
Booked 24 times today
Domenico's on the Lake is a seafood lover's paradise nestled in the picturesque setting of Lake Mission Viejo. Renowned for its exceptional seafood dishes, the restaurant delights patrons with its "incredible" offerings like shrimp scampi paired with angel hair pasta and succulent lobster tails. Diners rave about the flavorful cioppino, brimming with fresh, tender seafood, making every bite a delightful experience. The commitment to quality and taste is evident in each dish, ensuring a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying. With stunning views and a top-notch service team, Domenico's on the Lake promises an upscale, authentic seafood feast.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jesse
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The food was fantastic! Very fresh tasting. Great service! Ambience was perfect. Nice live piano music, not too loud. Restaurant is set up nice. Seating is spaced out nicely. Would highly recommend for a date night. Apparently they also have a daily happy hour…will have to come back to try?! Really liked the convenient parking structure that wasn’t overcrowded on a Saturday night.
    More info
    Luxe Restaurant and BarPrice: Moderate• American• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.8
  • My
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This place changed our pizza experience. I fear that no other pizza place will compare to it. We got the champion cheese and honestly best cheese pizza ever (probably why it won 1st place). I usually would eat the pizza crust but this one was flaky and amazing. The flaky salt on the crust was a great touch compared to other crust toppings out there. Definitely will come back to try the other pizzas on the menu.
    More info
    Truly PizzaPrice: Moderate• Pizzeria• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.8
  • Bryan
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great customer service would recommend to anyone trying to eat some Italian food
    More info
    Ciao PastaPrice: Moderate• Italian• San Juan Capistrano
    •
    4.8
  • OpenTable DinerVIP
    Orange County •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We always enjoy Jacks! Such a special treat. We’re are always treated like family, great service, fantastic food, intimate atmosphere. You just cant go wrong here.
    More info
    Jack's Restaurant/BarPrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.8
  • jarie
    Los Angeles •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Absolutely delicious! We had a very discerning out of state guest with us and brought her here - everyone loved it. There are a number of good Italian restaurants in the DP/SC area, but Luciani's is the one that most reminds me of actually being in Italy! Every dish is delicious and the service is top notch
    More info
    Luciana's RistorantePrice: Expensive• Italian• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.6

Discover best Italian restaurants in San Juan Capistrano

Discover the charm of Italian dining in San Juan Capistrano, South Orange County with a selection of restaurants that capture the essence of Italian cuisine. These establishments pride themselves on using authentic recipes and fresh ingredients, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of Italy. From wood-fired pizzas to exquisite pasta dishes like Lobster Ravioli and Pappardelle si porcini e truffle, each menu offers a taste of Italy right in the heart of Orange County. Diners can expect a delightful dining experience with a combination of welcoming ambiance, excellent service, and a selection of wines that perfectly complement the flavors of the dishes. The dining scene in San Juan Capistrano is vibrant and diverse, providing locals and visitors alike with a true taste of Italian gastronomy. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner spot or a cozy place for a family meal, these Italian restaurants in San Juan Capistrano offer a genuine slice of Italy with every dish served.

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