17 Local Restaurants to Eat at in San Clemente

Where to Eat in San Clemente

If you’re looking for some of the best restaurants in San Clemente, you have found the right blog post. 😉 Whether you’re looking for a healthy place to eat that doesn’t use seed oils, a casual lunch place or an upscale dinner spot for date night, there are countless options in this small beach town to enjoy! I hope you find a spot you love and go back to time and time again.

1. Cafe Mimosa

Cafe Mimosa is a super cute brunch and breakfast spot in San Clemente. It’s located right on the Main Street downtown and has a cute outdoor patio. The owner also own Antoine’s which is another spot that offers brunch and lunch in San Clemente.

2. Moulin

an omelette with salad and bread on a plate, a coffee in a red to go cup and a chocolate croissant on a red table outside

Moulin is one of my favorite spots in San Clemente. They are a French cafe with fresh pastries, breakfast and lunch options. It’s like you’re in Paris but it’s Orange County (haha). I would recommend the Le Croissandwich, any of the L’Omelelette’s and definitely a pastry. They have multiple cafes in and around Orange County.

3. West Toast Cafe

West Toast is a healthy cafe located right on the beach trail in San Clemente. They offer breakfast and lunch options. It’s the perfect spot if you want to do a beach walk and are looking for somewhere casual to eat with a view in San Clemente (it’s literally steps from the sand). They have a really good acai bowl too. 🙂

4. Coastal Cowboy CA Eats

fish tacos overfilled with coleslaw and jalapeño and cilantro on top

Coastal Cowboy is a casual lunch spot downtown. They have a seed oil free menu for those of you looking to avoid things like canola and other seed oils. They have brunch (on the weekends) and a lunch menu with gluten free options as well. I got the Seaside Baja Tacos with grilled shrimp, which were really good but super spicy.

5. Active Culture

two flour tortillas filled with avocado, green onions, cabbage, potatoes and a white cream sauce on top with chips and salsa on the side

I’ve lived in San Clemente for almost 10 years and Active Culture never disappoints. If you’re looking for a healthy lunch or breakfast option, this is the spot. They have vegetarian, gluten free and dairy free options. The shakes and acai bowls are delicious and I really enjoy their potato tacos. They also have frozen yogurt which is fun for a quick and healthy dessert.

6. Board and Brew

a turkey sandwich in a plastic bowl with white paper held up against a teal blue wall

Board and Brew is a sandwich spot with multiple locations across the coast of Southern California. The California Delight is really good and make sure you get their secret sauce. They homemake it. It’s a unique take on a sauce for a sandwich, but it totally makes it. It’s a great and casual spot if you’re wanting a fast lunch in San Clemente.

7. Pronto Cucina Italiana

caprese sald on a white plate with basil and a drizzle of olive oil on top

If you are looking for an authentic Italian restaurant in San Clemente, go here. The family who owns it is originally from Sicily and everything is so fresh and takes me right back to Italy. They have a market right next door with wine, cheeses, desserts and more. You can never go wrong with the caprese and they also have a really good tiramisu (my fave).

8. The Cellar

charcuterie board with olives, prosciutto, almonds, pickled cucumbers, cheese and a drizzle of balsamic on a woodn cutting board

The Cellar is a wine bar in San Clemente. They have live music, a large variety of good wine and the most unique and intentionally made charcuterie boards you will find. They have a really yummy brunch menu and great coffee. Oh and their chocolate chip cookies are one of the absolute best. This is one of my favorite restaurants in San Clemente for sure.

9. Vine

ravioli with goat cheese and basil on top inside of a white bowl

Vine is such a great restaurant in downtown San Clemente. The owners are great, the staff is always friendly, the food is delicious and consistent and they have some of the best cocktails in San Clemente. If you’re looking for something refreshing and light, the Love Potion #9 is my fave. Get the ravioli, get the duck wings, honestly get anything here, you really can’t go wrong!

10. Fisherman’s Restaurant

a brunette girl smiling sitting outside a restaurant in San Clemente near the pier

If you’re wanting a restaurant with a view, Fisherman’s is a great choice. It’s located right on the pier in San Clemente. They have a big menu with a lot of options. It’s a great spot to grab some oysters and watch some surfers surf right near the pier.

11. Seasurf Fish Co

two fish tacos with pice de Gallo and cilantro on top

Seasurf Fish Co has a few locations around Orange County. It’s a causal restaurant in San Clemente with great seafood. They have a good sized outdoor patio right on Camino Real downtown. They always have oysters and they also have a happy hour menu too. It’s convenient if you’re wanting a quick but light lunch or dinner.

12. Rare Society

salmon tar tar with sliced radishes on top of a yellow sauce

Rare Society is definitely more of an upscale dining experience for San Clemente. If you’re looking for a spot to get a nice steak, seafood and some fresh oysters, this is a good choice. They also have a really good Caesar salad. 🙂 Would be a great spot for a fancy date night or birthday if you’re looking for something where you can dress up a bit more without leaving San Clemente.

13. Nick’s

a grilled chicken burger with a lettuce bun, tomatoes and cheese with french fries in the background

One of the best restaurants in San Clemente is Nick’s. They have great food, great drinks and a friendly staff. It’s a great spot for date night but you can also just hop in for a quick dinner if you can grab a spot at the bar. I recommend making a reservation if it’s a weekend as they are always packed.

14. South of Nick’s

taquitos with guacamole and cilantro on top

South of Nick’s is an upscale Mexican restaurant in San Clemente. They are owned by the same people as Nick’s. The atmosphere is fun and a great spot for date night. The taquitos are a great choice and the enchiladas are also really good. Just like Nick’s, the service is always great and the food is consistent.

15. Gibroni’s

a chicago style square pizza with mushrooms and onions on half and the other half with peso and red sauce

Gibroni’s is a Detroit Style pizza and Sports Bar in San Clemente. The crust is thick and airy and the pies come in squares. They aren’t huge, but they are really filling so I recommend sharing. If you’re looking for a place to watch a sports game with good food and a fun crowd, this is a great spot.

16. Kiaans Fine Indian Cuisine

If you’re looking for authentic Indian food, then this hidden gem in Talega is for you. They have a good sized menu and the naan is really good here (if you’re a big naan fan like myself). It’s great if you want to grab it to go or dine in as they also have live music.

17. 9 Style Sushi

yellowtail sashimi on a plate with sliced jalapeño and chopped onions on top

If you’re looking for sushi in San Clemente, this is the spot. It’s small but so worth the wait if there is one. Everything I have had there is fresh and delicious. I love the yellowtail carpaccio. Great for date night that is kind of casual but high quality when it comes to the food.

What are the Best Restaurants in San Clemente, CA?

San Clemente may be a small town, but the food options here are incredible. There are always new restaurants opening in San Clemente so I will be sure to update this as often as I can with any new and good spots to try! Enjoy and happy eating.