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Top picks in Laguna Beach

Date spots for dinner

Made for those who want to ensure their evening meal is served in a setting designed for romantic connection.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Yuzu Laguna Beach image 1
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Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant combines indoor and outdoor seating with a beautiful interior design and an ocean view vibe. The atmosphere stays chill yet lively, attracting a younger crowd and encouraging easy conversation with well-managed noise levels. Music plays in the background, enhancing the welcoming and energetic environment.

Offers a cozy atmosphere ideal for date nights. Serves fresh sushi that suits both romantic dinners and casual outings with friends.

Quality sushi stands out for dinner here. The spot suits a casual dinner vibe, though strong cleaning scents sometimes interrupt the meal.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here for dinner is super fresh and high quality."

"This is a perfect spot for date night and the best sushi."

Good to know

1

Free street parking is available after 7pm.

2

Paid metered parking is required before 7pm.

3

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

02
Tango image 1
Restaurant

Intimate Argentine tapas bar with Spanish eclectic decor and sidewalk seating creates a charming, European vibe. Live music and expertly crafted cocktails add to the phenomenal atmosphere. Space feels cozy yet well-designed, inviting relaxed gatherings.

Memorial vibe suits a date night with steak and Chimichurri on the menu. Small plates like patatas bravas and apple pie dessert add variety for sharing.

Offers a mix of drinks and tapas ideal for a casual or romantic dinner. Fits well for a date night or gathering with friends and family.

People are saying

"It's a memorial place for date night with amazing food and atmosphere."

"The bartender crafted the most beautiful, balanced cocktails I've ever had."

"The food and drinks at these dinner spots were phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available until 6 pm with discounted drinks.

2

The menu includes gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options.

3

Street parking is available on Forest and in small lots downtown.

03
Piatti image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant Italian restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a charming patio featuring a fountain and protective umbrellas. Warm, inviting atmosphere suits intimate dinners and social gatherings, enhanced by attentive service. Design blends beautiful renovation with a welcoming vibe that feels authentic and refreshing.

Cozy ambiance sets a relaxed tone for couples. Ideal for birthday dinners or casual date nights.

Dinner here features friendly staff who offer great cocktail and menu recommendations. The atmosphere suits special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays with attentive service.

People are saying

"The homemade Italian food, especially the Bolognese, is rich and comforting."

"The service for dinner spots is friendly and attentive."

"The authentic homemade pasta makes this a great spot for a date."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure seating, especially during peak hours.

2

Parking can be challenging; arriving early is advisable to find a spot.

3

The restaurant offers a happy hour with great pricing on food and drinks.

04
GU Ramen Taps & Tapas image 1
Japanese restaurant

Rustic Japanese restaurant offers cozy, low-key vibe with comfortable bar seating and an open window for street views. Atmosphere stays casual and chill with old school music enhancing the experience. Popular spot for casual dinners and business lunches, known for phenomenal ramen and vegetarian and vegan options.

Offers a trendy and reasonably priced setting suitable for casual dinners or meetups. Small plates like gu fries and gu sliders complement the main dishes, creating a relaxed vibe for couples.

Trendy and reasonably priced spot suits business lunches, casual dinners, or meetups with friends. Offers a nice atmosphere for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"This ramen is the best I have ever tasted."

"You'll love these dinner spots for the crispy calamari and cheesy fries."

"I loved the ramen broth; it was flavorful and not too salty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

2

Parking can be challenging; expect to circle around for a spot.

3

Prices are affordable, making it a great choice for casual dining.

05
Q Terrace Restaurant and Bar image 1

Rooftop setting offers breathtaking ocean views and sunset vistas with fire pits enhancing the space. Atmosphere stays calm and refined, blending stylish coziness with live music performances. Crowd includes those seeking classy dining and relaxed socializing, often accompanied by crafted cocktails.

Atmosphere suits both date nights and family dinners with a comfortable, inviting vibe.

Upstairs Terrace offers a beautiful spot for dinner with an amazing ocean view. The atmosphere suits both dates and family dinners with a perfect sunset ambiance.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really, really good."

"The server's recommendations for dinner spots were brilliant."

"Kevin's drink and food suggestions made for an excellent date."

Good to know

1

Street parking is readily available just outside the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the terrace.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties or special occasions.

06
The Drake in Laguna Beach image 1
American restaurant

Intimate setting with live jazz music creates a sophisticated, clubby atmosphere. Small, exquisitely designed space offers a chef's table experience overlooking food preparation. Crowd enjoys classy decor and a vibrant bar, with an outdoor patio on a sloped floor adding unique character.

Offers a wonderful night out ideal for couples or groups. Creates a great date night atmosphere for celebrating special occasions.

Cocktails, appetizers, dinner, and dessert all come out excellent. Live music adds a perfect musical dinner vibe, making it a top choice for birthday dinners.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fantastic."

"The live jazz music creates a classy, chic vibe for date spots."

"The live music makes this a classy spot for dinner."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for live jazz performances to secure a table.

2

A $10 cover charge is included on jazz nights.

3

Live music occurs seven nights a week, with louder performances on weekends.

07
Broadway by Amar Santana image 1

Open kitchen buzzes with activity and features local artwork including a textured portrait made of screws. Atmosphere is loud and chaotic, with tables placed very close together, making conversation difficult. Bar seats at the Chef's Table offer a comfortable view of the kitchen action.

Great for special evenings and impressing a date with a delicious meal. Many plan to return for another celebration.

Dinner lasts about 2.5 hours with the cook and food runner chatting throughout. Desserts and cocktails stand out as the most memorable parts of the meal.

People are saying

"The beet salad was outstanding and packed with flavor."

"The Dinner Spots here have amazing dishes like the raviolo and pork chop."

"The branzino and filet mignon make this a great spot for date nights."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy Hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking can be challenging on weekends; consider arriving early or using rideshare.

08
Harvest image 1
American restaurant

Dining room offers 360-degree views of a beautiful canyon setting, creating a relaxing and quiet atmosphere. Large outdoor patio features live music with heaters and blankets, enhancing the experience. Signature cocktails use high-quality liquors and homemade syrups, complementing the overall vibe.

Perfect for celebrating special moments with a partner, featuring tender braised short rib and a pork chop recommended by servers. The wrapped dates stand out as a unique dish to share.

Dinner here offers a great menu with options that satisfy. The setting is quiet and cozy, ideal for intimate dinners near the coast.

People are saying

"The views here are absolutely beautiful and amazing."

"The food at these dinner spots is flavorful and perfectly prepared."

"The food here is delicious, especially the short rib."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on busy weekends.

2

Valet parking is the only option available at Harvest.

3

Harvest offers nightly specials that change regularly.

09
Pinafini image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open concept dining room with stunning ocean views and natural light creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Spacious bar and motorized retracting roof patio add to the modern, airy vibe. Guests enjoy a beautifully designed interior paired with a lively yet relaxed energy.

Offers a relaxed setting for date drinking and family dinners. Suitable for small parties and casual outings.

Dinner offers a fantastic meal suitable for family and friends. The spot works well for small parties and casual date nights.

People are saying

"I thought the food was beautiful, fresh, and delicious."

"The dinner spots here are delicious and fresh."

"The food at these date spots is delicious and artfully presented."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases.

10
Montage Laguna Beach image 1

Resort hotel offers breathtaking ocean views and a serene coastal atmosphere with a mix of quiet luxury and warm, busy energy in the afternoons. Amenities include world-class spa facilities featuring indoor and outdoor pools with spectacular views. The setting attracts those seeking pure luxury and a relaxing, elegant getaway.

Outdoor dining offers a casual, inviting spot for dates or lunches. Couples can enjoy spa massages and celebrate special occasions in a relaxed setting.

Dinner happens on a rooftop bar with views of the ocean. Kids get a gift bucket to pick a treat and play with during the meal. Pop-up dinners like the Ecology Center offer unique dining experiences.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are stunning and breathtaking."

"The service at dinner spots was exceptional and attentive."

"The staff here makes every detail feel cared for."

Good to know

1

Weddings and private events can cause noise disruptions from 7 PM to 11 PM.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers in the lounge.

3

The main pool is currently under construction and is closed.

11
Surf & Sand Laguna Beach image 1

Resort hotel sits directly on the ocean with private beach access and stunning sea views from rooms and restaurant. Atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing, enhanced by the sound of waves and exclusive spa amenities like an outdoor whirlpool. Guests enjoy comfortable rooms with ocean breezes and a tranquil setting ideal for unwinding.

Celebrations like honeymoons and engagements happen here often. Rooms can be customized with rose petals, champagne, and candles. Poolside service stays efficient even during busy hours.

Dinner offers a fantastic dining experience with excellent food and drinks. The setting suits special occasions like anniversaries during sunset.

People are saying

"I loved the ocean views from the porch each morning."

"The beds here are super comfortable."

"Jacob made our anniversary celebration worth every second."

Good to know

1

The hotel is undergoing renovations, which may affect guest experience.

2

The pool, spa, and gym are currently closed due to construction.

3

The hotel is not ADA compliant, making it unsuitable for wheelchair users.

12
230 Forest Avenue image 1

Outdoor patio offers a calm and soothing atmosphere with laid back California chic style. Live music plays softly, allowing easy conversation without raising voices. Unique indoor artwork and romantic low lighting create a cozy, upscale yet casual vibe.

Sticky, sweet bacon wrapped dates stand out as a popular appetizer, though preparation varies. Toasted garlic salmon and a Paloma cocktail also appear frequently on date menus.

Dinner features fresh seafood with fish noted as the best in town. Meals include appetizers, dinner, and dessert served in a setting suitable before attending a play.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here serve amazing pasta and crispy rice."

"I loved sitting outside on the patio, it was so cozy."

"The scallops and crรจme brรปlรฉe here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Booking a reservation is a good idea due to limited tables.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy times like weekends and holidays.

3

The restaurant is upscale but doesn't require formal attire.

13
Selanne Steak Tavern image 1

Steakhouse housed in a historic 1934 home with elegant interior and dim lighting creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere that can be loud near the bar. Private rooms and rooftop dining offer intimate settings for special occasions. The vibe blends luxurious decor with a modern, clean feel near the ocean.

Offers a wonderful setting for date night with options for drinks. The spicy Pear Martini stands out as a notable choice for a date.

Dinner here offers memorable celebrations with family and special occasions. The meals deliver incredible flavors that stand out for events like birthdays and Thanksgiving.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked perfectly and tastes divine."

"The meat here is divine, truly wonderful for Date Spots."

"The filet was cooked perfectly and the desserts were outstanding."

Good to know

1

Valet parking and metered street parking options are available.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Expect higher prices for premium cuts, with some dishes exceeding $40.

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Laguna Beach, California

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