DOWNTOWN / MIDTOWN
Active Culture 1006 S . Coast Hwy . 949-715-5188 A vegetarian and vegan haven , Active Culture ’ s menu is made up of meatless choices with fresh ingredients for a light meal . The cafe serves bowls , salads , wraps , shakes , smoothies and 10 flavors of self-serve frozen yogurt , which is perfect for enjoying on the patio .
Adolfo ’ s 998 S . Coast Hwy ., Ste . A 949-497-2023 Adolfo ’ s has set the standard for fast , casual and affordable Mexican food since 1985 . Also on the menu are burgers and French fries . The surf crowd tends to file in around lunchtime , kicking back with a horchata or beer at the counter or on the patio .
Adonis Mediterranean Grill 202 Park Ave . 949-715-4581 Gyros rotating on a spit give this little shop the savory scent that draws in people from the beach or shopping on Coast Highway . The simple menu consists of Mediterranean dishes like the gyro or chicken wrap and veggie plate . Adonis is perfect for a grab-and-go , quick meal before taking in the downtown sights ; also enjoy the small outdoor eating area for a relaxing lunch .
Alessá Laguna 234 Forest Ave . 949-497-8222 pirozziculinary . com A part of award-winning chef Alessandro Pirozzi ’ s culinary collection ( which also includes Mare Culinary Lounge and Pirozzi Catering of Orange County ), Alessá Laguna ’ s inviting atmosphere and artfully crafted Italian food have made it a downtown staple . The restaurant serves breakfast , lunch and dinner ; be sure to try one of chef Alessandro ’ s homemade pasta dishes , which can also be made with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta upon request ( extra charge for gluten-free ).
Anastasia Cafe 460 Ocean Ave . 949-497-8903 anastasiaboutique . com This stylish little cafe adjacent to Anastasia Boutique has a hearty selection of breakfast and lunch options including omelets , pancakes , waffles , sandwiches , salads , pastas , pizzas , soups and freshsqueezed juices . Large windows provide a cheery indoor atmosphere , and the dogfriendly patio is great for sunny mornings and afternoons .
Avila ’ s El Ranchito 1305 S . Coast Hwy . 949-376-7040 avilaselranchito . com Avila ’ s El Ranchito has been a staple for more than 40 years . The casual Mexican restaurant also offers classic dishes like fajitas , tamales and enchiladas . Have a seat inside around the bar or enjoy one of the restaurant ’ s famous Cadillac margaritas outside on the spacious patio .
Banzai Bowls 1100 S . Coast Hwy . 949-715-8989 With all natural fruit juices and no added sugar , ice or fillers , a Banzai Bowls smoothie is one of the healthiest snacks in town . Try a smoothie featuring ingredients like fresh fruit and soy milk , or indulge in an acai bowl loaded with toppings for a guilt-free meal .
BJ ’ s Restaurant & Brewhouse 280 S . Coast Hwy . 949-494-3802 bjsrestaurants . com This casual restaurant offers
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