While we want to believe all restaurants are as great as they claim, that would be naïve. The natural beauty and charm of Laguna Beach can be dissuading, but this is not enough to disguise subpar food. As people led by our stomachs in pursuit for fantastic culinary experiences, we have created a guide to help you decipher which restaurants have both beautiful views and quality food.

1. THE LOFT AT MONTAGE LAGUNA BEACH

The Montage Laguna Beach is a town institution, known for its relaxed yet sophisticated feel. Their level of hospitality is impeccable, and you will simultaneously feel like royalty and family when here. The Loft, their comfortable New American restaurant, is no exception to this standard. Chef de Cuisine Michael Campbell serves creative and quality fare that reflects the light and refreshing tastes that define Southern Californian cuisine. Accompanied by gorgeous panoramic views, you will be in wonder of their beautifully designed resort and mosaic pool, which sprawls out into views of the coastline and ocean. Going to Montage is a bit pricey, but they provide an unparalleled, all-encompassing experience that makes it worth every penny.

2. MOZAMBIQUE

Mozambique takes bold South African flavors and spirit and blends that with the charming vibes and fresh flavors of Southern California to create this energetic and distinctive experience right in the heart of Laguna Beach. Our advice? Order something with their signature Peri-Peri Sauce, which we want poured over everything. Then wash it down with a delicious cocktail, like their unique African Mojito, and take in the beautiful view from their rooftop veranda. If this isn’t enough to convince you, Mozambique has live music Tuesday to Sunday and provides complimentary transportation to guests within a three-mile radius. They have given you literally every reason to go here and not a single excuse to stay in.

3. THE DECK

As the only restaurant in Laguna Beach located right on the sand, this restaurant takes the definition of oceanfront views to the next level. The Deck is loved by both locals and tourists because of its classic and comfortable beach atmosphere. On a casual Friday afternoon, we saw dates, families, groups of friends, and coworkers looking to wind down after work. While you get treated to that million-dollar view, you will pay very reasonable prices to enjoy excellent food and drinks. The food here is focused on fresh seafood, and if you know what’s good for you, you will order at least a dozen of their daily catch oysters for your table.

Pro Tip: There is direct beach access from The Deck, which means you can also order food to-go and head right down to eat on the sand, or have a fun beach day and then go up to The Deck for drinks and bites during Happy Hour.

4. SKYLOFT

Come to Skyloft with a group of friends or coworkers and walk straight up to the rooftop for the fun vibes, stunning views, and buzzing music, but stay for the even better food and drink options that have a distinctly southern-inspired charm attached to them. We loved the decadent and hearty Fried Chicken Stack with a side of their Loaded Crawfish & Peppers Mac n’ Cheese. As for drinks, head straight to their outstanding cocktail list and order one; we’d recommend either the Georgia Peach Cobbler or Bourbon Mimosa. Did we mention that their Happy Hour deals are also fantastic, including knocking $3 off their cocktails? Go ahead, order multiple and apologize to your liver later. Skyloft also has the highest view out of the restaurants on this guide, producing sweeping views of the ocean and the gorgeous landscape behind it.

5. LAS BRISAS

Located in a historical, landmark building that was once the Victor Hugo Inn, Las Brisas overlooks the beach, snugly tucked into Heisler Park. While the outside generates a characteristic charm reminiscent of quaint beach communities, the inside of Las Brisas tells its own story. They have recently renovated the dining room into this modern, sea-inspired airy space. Past the décor, Las Brisas delivers elevated Californian-Mexican fare, with a focus on bringing an excellent sea-to-table experience. With laser attention to detail and quality, this restaurant successfully serves creative and delicious dishes that set it apart from the many Mexican restaurants sprawled throughout Southern California. We especially loved their take on Ahi Tacos, Lobster Carbonara, and Surf and Turf Enchiladas.

Now, it’s your turn to try these highly recommended spots. And if you do, be sure to share your experiences with us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER and INSTAGRAM by tagging us @VisitLaguna and utilizing our citywide hashtag, #MyLagunaBeach.