Where to Grab Lunch in Laguna After a Day by the Water
With over 30 beaches and coves to explore and famously sparkling shores, Laguna Beach is one of the most beautiful Orange County cities to spend a day splashing around in the waves. Picturesque cliffs and a relaxed, artistic atmosphere makes it an idyllic destination for a staycation, but even just a quick dip here is enough to relax and rejuvenate your spirit. Like any beach day, we recommend packing a towel, plenty of water and some high-quality SPF, but in Laguna Beach, you can skip the sandwiches and pre-packaged snacks. Instead, treat your taste buds to a meal at one of these 10 Laguna Beach restaurants perfect for a post-beach bite.
Wild Taco
Must Order: Wild Fish of the Day Taco
As its name suggests, this modern taqueria’s tacos are wild-caught and wildly delicious! What allows this Baja-inspired eatery to stand out in a city with taco stands on every street corner? It helps that the local catch is caught and sourced straight from Wild Taco’s sister restaurant, Bear Flag Fish Co., which takes pride in its sustainable fishing practices. This breezy taco tavern on the corner of Ocean Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway is every bit a surfer’s local lunch spot, with nautical-themed decor, beachy textiles, lush greenery and an ocean breeze fresh off the water. Every serious seafood connoisseur knows taste is only one element of crave-worthy fare. Presentation is equally important. Each taco is delivered on its own private platter, open-faced and unfolded, giving all the glory to its toppings, barely contained inside each toasty tortilla. And their skillets? They arrive sizzling hot with a montage of all the goods. But that’s not all. Burritos? Enchiladas? Fajitas? They’re all on the menu, grilled to perfection using a Santa Fe-inspired cooking style. Are you drooling yet?
Mozambique
Must Order: African Mojito and Peri-Peri Prawns
After soaking up the sun, continue your sensory adventure at Mozambique, an ocean-view restaurant with a mouthwatering menu of South African-inspired cuisine. With its enchanting third-story rooftop view, this local gem isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. As you step inside, the scent of South African spices wafts through the air, following you until you are seated on the open-air patio. Place an order for a chilled drink and the restaurant’s masterpiece: peri-peri prawns. Marinated in Mozambique’s iconic peri-peri sauce, these prawns are tangy, spicy and utterly addictive. Other menu highlights include the protein-heavy sampler plate, the steak burger and the Portuguese hot butter pudding. Mozambique makes for a great date night—one where you can watch the brilliant sunset and enjoy live music. Special menu deals include Industry and Locals Night on Mondays, Wine Wednesday and Mozambique’s daily happy hour.
Wigz
Must Order: A Cold IPA and the Laguna Italian
You’ve had your fill of saltwater and sandy shores, and now you’re ready to indulge in something hearty and comforting. A day at the beach is the perfect precursor to a laid-back sandwich rendezvous at Wigz. This new shop greets you with its relaxed, beachy vibes—think wooden accents, table games and the aroma of fresh, toasted bread. The menu offers an array of sando options that cater to every craving, whether you’re a carnivore, vegetarian, cheese lover, heat-seeker or anything in between. Wigz is a veritable time capsule of carefree beach days, best enjoyed with a sandwich in one hand and a refreshing beverage in the other. So, kick back on the patio, brush off the remaining sand on your flip-flops and settle in for pure satisfaction.
6/23
AhbA
Must Order: Strawberry Love Cocktail and Whipped Feta
Your day at the beach wasn’t ordinary, so why should your lunch be? If you’ve spent a Saturday or Sunday on the sand, we recommend heading over to AhbA for some truly delicious afternoon bites. Set inside a welcoming beachside cottage on PCH, this casual community hangout has been bringing LA-inspired dishes and cocktails to locals since 2019. Some menu favorites include the herbaceous whipped feta, the famous AhbA burger and the spicy chicken sammie—and don’t forget to take a look at the list of craft beers, natural wines and Helen’s cocktail program. AhbA originally began with brunch and has since expanded its hours into a dinner program. Swing by for Taco Tuesday and Burger Wednesday for popular weekday specials.
Grazie Grazie Pizzeria
Must Order: Bianco Verde
We don’t know about you, but to us, the perfect beach day calls for pizza. But not just any pizza—we’re talking about thin, crispy, beautifully simple Neapolitan pizza. If that’s what you’re craving, then Grazie Grazie Pizzeria is calling your name. With its airy crusts, fresh ingredients and clear dedication to the pizza craft, this pie place is a Laguna Beach newcomer that has swiftly become a local favorite. Indulge in classics, such as the marinara or Margherita, or venture into uncharted territories with the Bianco Verde or the Amatriciana. Each bite will transport you to the cobbled streets of Italy, with the added pleasure of Laguna’s ocean views and some Filo’s Gelato for dessert.
Rye Goods
Must Order: Iced Rabak Hibiscus Tea, Grilled Cheese
It may be tucked a few blocks away in the Laguna Lumberyard Mall, but we swear you’ll smell Rye Goods’ fresh bread baking all the way from the beach. Whether this is the ocean breeze tantalizing us with potential lunch plans or just our imaginations, Rye Goods’ lunch menu has to be one of our favorite spots for a beach-day pick-me-up. The charming and minimal interior allows the baked goods to take center stage, along with the harmonious, aromatic blend of sourdough and fresh espresso wafting about. While any choice on the lunch menu is a win, we can’t get over the grilled cheese, which is a melty and surprising bite of buttery brioche, sharp white cheddar, mint pesto and tangy pickled blueberries.
Bodega Laguna
Must Order: Camarones ala Diabla
Cute and cozy, with a bold, whimsical approach to flavor, Bodega Laguna embraces what they call “Mexicoastal” cuisine. And yes, it tastes as good as it sounds! This vibey Mexican cantina is situated in the heart of downtown Laguna, a block away from the water’s edge. The Laguna tacos are a classic staple, as is the branzino zarandeado. Paired with their cocktail creation of the month, it’s a combo you’ll be dreaming about for weeks on end. What’s the star of the show, you might ask? Probably their Churro Sundae—a sugary sweet treat to round out this five-star dining experience.
4/14
Finney’s Crafthouse
Must Order: A California Craft Draft and Yuzu Buffalo Hot Wings
After a day of beach exploration, it’s time to continue the adventure with a visit to Finney’s Crafthouse. This family-friendly tavern has something for everyone, including beer enthusiasts, snackers, wing lovers, picky kids and everyone else who may be sitting at the table. From light bites like coconut shrimp and the Moroccan salad to heartier plates like Kalua pork tacos and Peggy’s crispy chicken sandwich, the menu is a bounty of flavors that will satisfy all appetites. Pack up your beach bags and cool down in this fun joint, then raise a glass to a day well-spent—preferably a glass of one of Finney’s rotating California drafts. Cheers!
Slice Pizza
Must Order: Top of the World Pizza
Slice Pizza is every bit a hidden gem in Laguna Beach. This trendy pizza joint doesn’t need to be front and center to attract a crowd—the smell of freshly baked dough does that just fine on its own. Each pie is crafted using top-quality ingredients sourced with passion from around the globe. Their flour and tomatoes are imported directly from Italy, and the cheese and milk are handcrafted daily on Wisconsin’s finest dairy farm. Feeling thirsty? Head over to their self-serve beer counter, where guests are free to customize their pours, making it easy to taste, rinse and repeat!
La Sirena Grill
Must Order: Agua Fresca, Avocado Lime Salad With Blackened Fish
Should you find yourself swimming among the waves and start to hear a siren song, don’t worry—it’s most likely La Sirena Grill calling you over for a delicious meal. With two Laguna Beach locations—one on Mermaid Street and one near the Montage Laguna Beach—La Sirena‘s atmosphere is a colorful and lively reflection of their food. Dive into an eco-conscious and sustainable culinary adventure with this eatery’s fresh take on classic Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, taquitos and enchiladas. You can taste La Sirena’s dedication to high-quality and humane ingredients with every bite. Trust us, sipping on their watermelon strawberry agua fresca will ease you right back onto your cozy beach towel in the sand.
Born and raised near the Pacific Coast, Jordan Nishkian is a California girl through and through. She graduated from Cal State Long Beach with a BA in Creative Writing and a BA in Anthropology, and her favorite place to be is curled up in a comfy chair with a book in her hand and a pen in her hair.
