A Beach Lover's Guide to Savoring Coastal Dining Gems in SoCal

If you love the ocean and great food, Southern California has an array of dining choices that will excite your taste buds. From cozy pizzerias to classy seafood spots, each restaurant offers its distinct personality and dishes. After spending several delightful days indulging in some of the best coastal dinners in Southern California, I want to share my culinary adventures with you. Let’s explore the vibrant flavors of SoCal's seaside dining!

Gina’s Pizzeria

I kicked off my coastal culinary journey at Gina’s Pizzeria, a charming spot just a stone's throw from the beach. Their vegan cheese pepperoni pizza was nothing short of amazing. As a pizza lover always seeking dairy-free options, I found the flavor combination delightful, and the crust was crisp to perfection.

The atmosphere was casual and welcoming, ideal for unwinding after a day on the sand. My husband tried their spaghetti and meatballs. With its inviting vibe and tasty offerings, Gina’s Pizzeria is a top pick for coastal dining in SoCal.

Dukes Huntington Beach

Next on my list was Dukes Huntington Beach, where the sand meets exquisite dining. Eager to satisfy my curiosity, I ordered the mushroom ravioli, which was made vegan upon request. The creamy texture and rich flavors made each bite even more enjoyable.

Additionally, my husband tried their seafood hotpot. It featured a flavorful broth with an assortment of seafood, though it was more broth than soup. Keep this in mind to manage your expectations. The service was decent, yet the menu descriptions could have been clearer. Nevertheless, the stunning ocean views from Dukes solidified it as a delightful stop on my culinary path.

Mozambique

My next visit was to Mozambique, where I started with a mouthwatering mushroom soup that was rich and earthy. It set an excellent tone for the meal to follow. For the main dishes, my husband ordered a steak sandwich and I the penne pasta. The steak sandwich was hearty and fulfilling, while the vegan penne surpassed my expectations.

To complement the meal, my husband couldn’t resist a refreshing mojito, which was perfect for soaking in the coastal atmosphere. During their happy hour, I found the margaritas to be a great deal as well—almost half off!

Next Day’s Happy Hour at Mozambique

The adventure didn’t stop there! We returned to Mozambique the next day for happy hour. This time, I ordered a smaller pasta portion, and it was just as enjoyable. The highlight for my husband was the burger with fries, drenched in cheese and seasoned with peri peri spice. It was a heavenly treat! If you are looking to enjoy outdoor dining with a spectacular view, Mozambique is a definite must.

Coyote Grill

For a more laid-back atmosphere, we visited Coyote Grill. The beachy vibe was palpable, making it a perfect spot to unwind. My husband ordered steak fajitas served with fresh salad, while I chose chicken fajitas. He also enjoyed bacon-wrapped jalapeños that added a nice kick to his meal.

Keep in mind that this restaurant is not vegan-friendly due to shared fryers. However, the satisfying flavors of both fajitas and the salad made for a fulfilling dining experience.

Las Brisas

Continuing our exploration, we made our way to Las Brisas, renowned for its breathtaking views. We began with guacamole, though it wasn’t prepared tableside as the menu suggested. Following that, I enjoyed chicken tacos, and my husband enjoyed the rockfish tacos.

The tacos were flavorful and went well with crispy chips. While the meal was solid, it wasn't necessarily groundbreaking. The view, paired with a relaxed atmosphere, truly enhanced the overall dining experience.

O Fine Japanese

Craving something different, we headed to O Fine Japanese. This restaurant impressed me with its variety. The grilled chicken ramen was incredible! This spot stands out as a refreshing change from typical beach fare, making it perfect for a casual dinner or romantic evening by the coast.

Ice Cream and Desserts

No culinary journey is complete without dessert. We swung by Chantilly Ice Cream in Laguna Beach, thrilled to discover vegan options like Oreo and cookie dough. Each scoop was delightful, but the cookie dough stood out for its rich flavor. It was unexpected, but prices were cash-only, so come prepared!

A Sweet Finale at Paradise Gelato

To finish my dessert journey, we stopped by Paradise Gelato. I opted for a mixed cup featuring forest fruit, mango, raspberry, and lemon. Each flavor harmoniously complemented the others, creating a sweet finale that made my taste buds dance with joy!

A Culinary Adventure Awaits

Southern California is rich with unforgettable coastal dining experiences. Whether you seek the comforting tastes of Gina’s Pizzeria or the upscale offerings at O Fine Japanese, there is truly something for everyone. Whether you pop into a casual place like Coyote Grill or relish a romantic dinner by the water, the coastal dining scene in SoCal promises to create lasting memories.

If you're planning a beach escape or simply looking for where to eat by the beach in SoCal, I hope my journey inspires you to uncover these delicious coastal gems. With picturesque views and exceptional food, the seaside dining scene is a treasure waiting to be explored!