Originally Posted by JimStraz
We take the 8 year old everywhere! She enjoys nice lively places. We do not like to eat at chain restaurants or kiddie joints - so we take her to where we like going and it works for her too.
I am honestly not that excited about the choices of restaurants in Laguna. It really seems like there are not a lot of great reliable joints. For instance, Tabu Grill is rated on Zagat's as one of the best food, decor and service in the area and you say that it is just pretty good food.
I am looking for a place that has amazing seafood - in the style of New England clam bakes. Steamed clams, lobster, etc. Any suggestions?
I wouldn't rely on Zagats in the US - it lists the Cheesecake Factory as 2nd Most Popular in LA! Cafe Zoolu has excellent swordfish. Don't know about the clambakes, being on the West Coast, not as popular. The Le Meridien in Newport used to have one on Saturdays I think, but it's a Fairmont now, so don't know if they've carried on that tradition. 230 Forest is fun & has excellent fish dishes. Clae's in the Hotel Laguna specializes in seafood - they used to be wonderful, but I've noticed some mixed reports lately & haven't been there recently myself. Another fun restaurant is Dizz's as Is & Eva's Carribbean (stick with the fish here) are both in S Laguna.
If you want good recommendations, do a search for Laguna on Chowhound.com's California board.