The Best Places to Eat and Drink in San Juan Capistrano
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The best places to eat and drink in San Juan Capistrano, according to the experts: James Beard Awards, Michelin Guide, and Los Angeles Times have all weighed in, and their honors are what rank this list. Heritage Barbecue comes out on top.
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Rank 1. Heritage Barbecue
Central Texas Barbecue
The smoke from California white oak drifts into the parking lot long before you reach the door, which is by design and also a warning to arrive early. Heritage is a Texas barbecue shop in San Juan Capistrano where the line forms fast and brisket runs out faster. The chef earned a James Beard nomination and a Michelin Bib Gourmand, and the trays of charred, glistening meat make both feel self-explanatory. Save room for the banana pudding.
The awards
- James Beard Awards James Beard Awards: 2025 · Nominee · Best Chef: California · Daniel Castillo
- Michelin Guide Michelin Guide: Bib Gourmand
- Los Angeles Times Los Angeles Times: The 101 Best Restaurants in California
- James Beard Awards 2025 · Nominee · Best Chef: California · Daniel Castillo
- Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand
- Los Angeles Times The 101 Best Restaurants in California
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Rank 2. Mayfield
Modern Mediterranean
Shakshuka and a Negroni sounds like a contradiction until you sit down at Mayfield, a modern Mediterranean restaurant in San Juan Capistrano where Levantine and North African flavors run alongside classic California instincts. The menu moves from Turkish eggs with labneh at brunch to za'atar fried chicken at dinner, with a harissa-aioli burger at happy hour for anyone who needs convincing. The cocktail list keeps pace.
The awards
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Rank 2. Shootz
Hawaiian
The awards