Marbella Farmers Market

by Dina Scaglione

When our world feels a bit upside down, it’s nice to know there are constants we can rely on. Since 1993, Marbella Farmers Market in San Juan Capistrano has remained a tried and true, go-to staple, offering fresh groceries and tasty, ready-made meals. From farm to table produce to made-to-order sushi and gourmet items, you’ll find just what you’re looking for at this local favorite in the Marbella Plaza.

As you walk through the doors, you’re immediately struck by a plethora of delicious cuisine and wonderful aromas. For foodies like myself, Marbella Farmers Market is a feast for the eyes, with a massive gourmet deli featuring Boar’s Head meats and specialty cheeses alongside signature sandwiches and fanciful paninis. Nearly two dozen unique salads, including bow tie with sun-dried tomatoes and Asian chicken are made fresh daily. Indulge in a king-sized salad bar featuring literally dozens of savory side dishes and accoutrement. Gluten free and organic options are also in abundance to accommodate nearly any diet or nutritional needs. The butcher shop highlights a variety of prime meat, poultry, fish and sausages, from marinated chicken to wagyu beef. To satiate your sweet tooth, the colorful bakery offers a substantial variety of tempting cookies, amazing cakes and freshly baked breads.

In a cooking rut? Pick up one of Marbella Farmers Market’s convenient heat-and-serve meals, including poached salmon made with dill and white wine, Tuscany herbed chicken, or seared pepper-crusted ahi – all house-made daily. Party platters include signature wraps, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, crudité and fruit and cheese options. Wine connoisseurs, craft beer aficionados and those who fancy an occasional glass must check out the impressive array of options. If you need a quick hostess or housewarming gift, Marbella offers cards, baskets and other unique pieces to appropriately celebrate that special person or event.

Whether you’re an amateur chef looking for the finest ingredients, grabbing a quick cup of Joe, or feeding a famished family, Marbella Farmers Market has just what you are craving — open Monday through Sunday, from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Marbella Farmers Market
31109 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano
949.248.1067 • FarmersMarket92675.com

Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli

by Dina Scaglione

Every once in a while, you get a hankering for something different, yet familiar — a craving that only a good deli sandwich will satisfy. The next time your belly nudges, be sure to hit up Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli in San Clemente for a delicious, piled-high masterpiece.

Billy’s tagline: “a cut above the rest,” aptly describes its commitment to offering only the finest product selection to its loyal following. Established in 1990, Billy’s is a local fave, long-admired for its reliably authentic deli offerings and full-service butcher shop, purveying high quality meats including black angus steak, fresh seafood and a generous selection of spices, marinades and dry rubs. To complete your meal, check out Billy’s side dishes, such as the classic potato salad and a Mediterranean Greek, loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese and bell peppers.

The sandwich makers at Billy’s are skilled artisans, building handcrafted deli-style sandwiches with generous portions of meat, cheeses and veggies. To say these sandwiches are huge is an understatement. Along with Boar’s Head products, Billy’s also offers an array of its own roasted and smoked roast beef, pulled pork, shredded chicken, and meatballs along with 30+ entrées and side selections that deliver a one-stop shopping experience. With such an endless variety of made-to-order sandwiches, it’s difficult to choose just one.

The popular Turkey Avo is overflowing with roasted turkey, provolone cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato, pickle, red onion, mayo, yellow mustard, and served on soft squaw bread. The Poor Boy is your classic sub, heaving with ham, mortadella, salami, provolone, mayo, deli mustard, lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, pepperoncinis and Italian dressing on a French roll. And, yes,  even in beachy South Orange County, you can find a good Ruben — it’s at Billy’s. The Best Ruben Ever features corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, 1,000 island dressing, generously layered between two slices of grilled rye. “Now, That’s a Meatball” is your traditional Italian staple, made with hand-made meatballs and served hot with tangy marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese and pepperoncinis — on a warm, French roll. Delizioso!

The next time you’re hosting an event, consider Billy’s catering menu which offers a selection of crowd pleasers for any size gathering. Walk in and peruse the vast deli and specialty items or order online. Billy’s is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (5 p.m. on Sundays — closed Mondays).

111 Avenida Del Mar  |  San Clemente  |  949.498.5924

BillysSanClemente.com

Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen

by Dina Scaglione

South Orange County has long been known for its wide variety of south of the border specialty restaurants, from traditional favorites to jazzy fusions. If you’re looking for an authentic Mexican food experience with an intriguing twist, Bueno Bueno may just be the place for you. Ideally situated in the heart of historic downtown, near the train station and the Mission, Bueno Bueno imbues a distinct Spanish charm, espousing the warmth of San Juan Capistrano, bringing a balance of new moments blended with traditional tastes.

It’s not often that you’ll find light, healthy or vegetarian items on a Mexican food menu, but the old world meets new world offerings at Bueno Bueno to deliver plenty of great-tasting and satisfying options. The Capistrano bowl, for example, is loaded with Mexican rice, black beans, iceberg lettuce, sweet corn, queso fresco, roasted pepitas, radishes, pico de gallo, avocado and glazed with a light, zesty cilantro dressing. The delectable Enchiladas de la Casa begin with homemade corn tortillas, rolled with queso fresco and topped with a tangy red sauce, served with beans and rice — with the option to add protein if you desire. The Chile Reyeno, playfully named after Chef Rey Pinedo, features a vibrant green pasillo pepper, slightly spicy and infused with authentic smoky flavors, overstuffed with rice and queso fresco, and topped with grilled shrimp. If tacos are your jam, then try one of the house specialties, teeming with carne asada, beer-battered shrimp or fried calamari. The Tinga de Pollo taco, accompanied with savory chipotle caramelized onions and crunchy cabbage, is definitely not to be missed.

Dine al fresco on the patio or sit safely and socially distanced in the expansive dining area. Adult beverages include beer and wine from Mexico and interesting, hand-crafted cocktails. Bueno Bueno serves tequila, of course — or as they call it — “soup of the day.” The name says it all; Bueno Bueno is doubly good!

Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen
26762 Verdugo St
San Juan Capistrano
949.388.4588
BuenoBuenoKitchen.com

Food Delivery, Takeout and Curbside in San Clemente, Orange County

Many thanks to Susie Lantz, Membership Director of the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce for sharing the following list of restaurants and food & beverage businesses, most of whom are offering Food Delivery, Takeout and Curbside in San Clemente, Orange County!

Active Culture – Natural Café & Yogurt   »  111 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 276-4625   »  View Menu

Antoine’s Café   »  218 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-1763   »  View Menu

Avila’s El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant   »  204 Ave. Del Mar, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-5000   »  View Menu

BallPark Pizza San Clemente   »  831 Via Suerte, 101, SC 92673   »  (949) 218-0991   »  View Menu

Barnoa Wine Bar & Bistro   »  831 Via Suerte, #106, SC 92673   »  (949) 388-4378   »  View Menu

Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli   »  111 Ave. Del Mar, 1A, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-5924   »  View Menu

Blaze Pizza   »  225 W Avenida Vista Hermosa, SC 92672   »
(949) 612-2748  »  View Menu

Cafe Mimosa   »  243 Avenida Del Mar, SC 92672   »  (949) 481-6780   »  View Menu

Cafe Rio Mexican Grill   »  628 Camino de los Mares, SC 92673   »  (949) 627-4811   »  View Menu

Cassano’s Pizza   »  818 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 388-7611   »  View Menu

Caterina’s Est.   »  1990 614 Avenida Victoria, Ste C, SC 92672   »  (949) 218-7085   »  View Menu

El Jefe Café   »  106 E. Escalones, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-4010   »  View Menu

H.H. Cotton’s American Bar & Grill   »  201 Avenida Del Mar, SC 92672   »  (949) 940-6785   »  View Menu

Italian Cravings   »  105 S. Ola Vista, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-2777   »  View Menu

Jimmy John’s Sandwiches   »  122 South El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 481-6911   »  View Menu

Juice My Heart   »  804 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 481-0700   »  View Menu

La Colombiana   »  1640 N. El Camino Real, A, SC 92672   »  (949) 441-7656   »  View Menu

La Siesta Mexican Restaurant   »  920 N. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-3094   »  View Menu

Las Golondrinas Mexican Food   »  821 Via Suerte, SC 92673   »  (949) 276-7464   »  View Menu

Left Coast Brewing Co.   »  1251 Puerta Del Sol, SC 92673   »  (949) 276-2774   »  View Menu

Llama Llama Wine   »  San Clemente   »  (562) 241-1699   »  View Menu

Los Patios   »  111 W Avenida Palizada, San Clemente, CA 92672   »  (949) 492 – 0162   »  View Menu

Lost Winds Brewing Company   »  924 Calle Negocio, C, SC 92673   »  (949) 244-4288   »  View Menu

Malulu Sushi   »  415 E. Avenida Pico, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-5331   »  View Menu

Mongkut Thai Restaurant   »  212 Ave. Del Mar, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-3871   »  View Menu

Moulin   »  120 W. Avenida Pico, SC 92672   »  (949) 441-7040   »  View Menu

OC Tavern   »  2369 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 542-8877   »  View Menu

Panera Bread   »  101 W. Ave. Vista Hermosa, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-2387   »  View Menu

Pedro’s Tacos   »  2313 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-5904   »  View Menu

Peet’s Coffee & Tea   »  801 Ave. Talega, 2A-101, SC 92673   »  (949) 325-0487   »  View Menu

Pick Up Stix   »  415 Avenida Pico, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-1226   »  View Menu

Pierside Kitchen & Bar   »  610 Avenida Victoria, SC 92672   »  (949) 218-0980   »  View Menu

Rockwell’s Bakery, Cafe & Bar   »  101 W. Ave. Vista Hermosa, 116, SC 92672   »  (949) 799-2020   »  View Menu

Ruby’s Diner   »  101 W. Ave. Vista Hermosa, 600, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-7829   »  View Menu

Sancho’s Tacos   »  1101 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 218-0488   »  View Menu

Shwack Cantina   »  1527 N. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 218-7182   »  View Menu

Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta   »  429 N. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-2540   »  View Menu

Sur Coffee   »  118 S. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  View Menu

Taka-O Japanese Restaurant   »  425 N. El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (949) 498-7111   »  View Menu

Tamarindo   »  110 South El Camino Real, SC 92672   »  (714) 640-9371   »  View Menu

Thai Palace   »  1021 Avenida Pico, A, SC 92672   »  (949) 369-1819   »  View Menu

Thai Paradise   »  3551 Camino Mira Costa, B, SC 92672   »  (949) 489-9914   »  View Menu

The Cellar   »  156 Ave. Del Mar, SC 92672   »  (949) 492-3663   »  View Menu

Zebra House Coffee   »  1001 S. El Camino Real, A, SC 92672   »  (949) 218-6976   »  View Menu

OC Pizza

Get Your Slice of the Pie

by Dina Scaglione

The new OC Pizza in San Juan Capistrano is anything but another pizza joint. Each patron who enters will walk out with far more than a belly full of delicious food. Tasty pizza, salads, pasta, and sandwiches are only part of the experience — every meal is dished up with a large serving of good old-fashioned hospitality.

Owners Michelle and Patrick Peters designed their new eatery with a dual mission. They’ve made it their goal to offer high-quality, great-tasting food that is affordably priced while treating every customer as if they were family.

In September 2019, family-run OC Pizza opened its doors with the intention of differentiating itself from its predecessor. Starting from scratch, they’ve developed all new recipes including house-made sauces and freshly baked bread, along with high quality meats and cheeses. They’ve paid special attention to the small stuff, which has translated into big differences in the final product. Baking fresh bread for sandwiches, making cookies on site, and cooking sausage with a pizza, to infuse a fresh-smoked flavor, are just a few of the ways OC Pizza goes the extra mile to ensure that all guests receive a deliciously warm and positive experience.

In addition to the ubiquitous Italian staples we all love, OC Pizza offers inspired creations such as its 3 Cheese White Pizza with olive oil, ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan and an enticing Chicken Alfredo Pizza topped with chicken, artichoke, mushrooms and roasted garlic. The Pesto Pizza is my personal fave, adorned with chunks of chicken, tomatoes, spinach, parmesan and garlic. The tasty Grinder sandwich features pepperoni, salami, ham and mozzarella, warmed on freshly baked bread with a soft, crunchy texture. Generally, salads offered at pizza places are hardly worth mentioning, but OC Pizza carries the flavors of its homemade sauces throughout its dressings, to complete the culinary experience.

OC Pizza is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., so swing by for take-out or come in and stay a while. Family-friendly and casual, kids can enjoy the build-your-own pizza option while you sip an IPA beer or a glass of wine. Be sure to inquire about kid’s build your pizza parties and if you order online, look for the ‘secret menu.’ At OC Pizza, you may enter a stranger, but Michelle and Patrick will make sure you leave with new friends.

OC Pizza | 32341 Camino Capistrano | San Juan Capistrano | 949.429.8888 | OCpizzaSJ.com

Rancho Capistrano Winery

By Dina Scaglione

At last, Rancho Capistrano Winery has launched its long-awaited, second location in downtown San Clemente on Avenida Del Mar. Since the doors opened on October 9, it’s been humming with activity and the chatter of local cork dorks enjoying the unique selection of proprietary wines and delicious California cuisine.

The first location in San Juan Capistrano opened in 2014 and hails as Orange County’s largest winery with more than 40 vintages, cultivated from grapes grown in the best wine-making regions globally. In a few short years, Rancho Capistrano has amassed 20 Best of San Juan awards, including best restaurant, best dinner, best lunch, best healthy options, and best ambiance. Once you step inside the inviting atmosphere of the new San Clemente location, and experience the enchanting menu, you’ll understand why.

Rancho Capistrano Winery embodies a welcoming spirit that says: grab a seat, make yourself at home, sip and taste (I recommend the very sippable Mourvedre). The abundance of mouth-watering appetizers are the perfect intermingling of wine-friendly apps and unique treats. The Fig Bruschetta made with a schmear of light gorgonzola, topped with a chewy fig compote and arugula, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze is a must. For starters, the Ranch Wedge is a close cousin to the wedge salad we all know and love; the inclusion of pickled onions and red heirloom tomatoes gives this salad a wonderful tang and sweetness. As far as entrees, few things shout So Cal dining like locally caught fresh fish. The local Corvina Sea Bass is elegantly seasoned, topped with a cilantro jalapeño vinaigrette, accompanied with seasonal vegetables and cilantro-lime rice.

Chef Adrian De La Torre features a full and diverse menu, adjusted seasonally and prepared to accommodate every palette, from the steak-loving carnivore to the health-conscious vegan. Gluten-free options are also available. Wine lovers… why not experience Rancho Capistrano’s wine anytime by joining their wine club? Join 1500 local members and have wine conveniently delivered right to your doorstep.

Both dog and family friendly, Rancho Capistrano’s Happy Hour is offered Monday through Friday, from 3 to 6 p.m.; dinner is served Monday through Sunday from 3 to 9 p.m. Rancho Capistrano also serves lunch daily, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations are suggested and can be made on the website. The Sunday Brunch, offered from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., is the perfect way to cap off the weekend.

124 Avenida Del Mar
San Clemente
949.276.2197
RanchoCapWinery.com

Bistro Provincia

Fusion Cuisine & Bar

By Dina Scaglione

When you envision the landscape of Dana Point restaurants, you might conjure up images of California cuisine, seafood eateries and lively pubs. Bistro Provincia offers a departure from the Dana Point dining scene you may be accustomed to, serving up an elegant, yet exotic culinary experience that’s difficult to put in the proverbial box.

Unique and flavorful best describes Bistro Provincia’s fusion cuisine, inspired by Executive Chef Manuel ‘Manny’ Diaz, who brings a multi-ethnic bistro-type flair, cultivated from years of cooking alongside French chefs in Los Angeles. Chef Manny’s wife and co-owner, Veronica, greets guests with a genuine warmth and charm, adding to the many ingredients that have made Bistro Provincia a go-to spot in the quaint Lantern District area of Dana Point.

Bistro Provincia delivers an interesting blend of Asian, Latin and French dishes, prepared tapas-style and as hearty, large plates. Whether you prefer to dine al fresco, perched at the marble ensconced bar or seated in the rustic dining area, there’s an inviting ambience and range of fare to suit the most discerning guests.

I became an instant fan after sampling the restaurant’s Caribbean Shrimp and Mango Tostaditas, featuring roasted wild shrimp, fresh mango, red onion and a healthy dollop of lime-cilantro aioli served up on crispy blue corn chips. I also highly recommend the Chicken Curry Lumpia with jidori chicken and veggies, rolled and lightly fried atop a tangy coriander-curry dipping sauce. If you want a truly different dish, try the wok sautéed rice noodles and duck entrée, with flat rice noodles and tender ginger-roasted duck, sautéed baby bok choy and sprinkled tangy dried cranberries. Another brilliant blend of flavors is the Lemongrass Jidori Chicken Breast, with aromatic lemongrass accompanied by vegetable Thai curry fried rice and bok choy. Cap off your meal with the Yin-Yang, Bistro Provincia’s signature dessert; a moist, dark chocolate cake topped with a delicate Chantilly butter cream frosting.

Situated in Dana Point’s Park Plaza, tucked between PCH and Golden Lantern, Bistro Provincia is open Tuesday through Sunday for both lunch and dinner. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner from 4 to 9 p.m. (5 to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday). Choose from a wide assortment of adult beverages, including hand crafted cocktails, draft beer and wine. Stop in for Tapas Hour: early tapas from 4 to 6 p.m. or late-night tapas from 8 p.m. until closing.

Bistro Provincia
34091 La Plaza, Dana Point
949.482.1011
BistroProvincia.com

The Lobster Shack

San Clemente

by Dina Scaglione

Once upon a time, a ten-year-old boy from Venice Beach set out on a bonding trip with his father to the East Coast. This innocuous road trip became the stuff dreams are made of, a jaunt that introduced a young boy to lobster rolls, and planted a seed that grew into what is now The Lobster Shack. Most of us can recall those palpable moments that define our life’s calling. Moments frozen in time where we remember every smell, every taste. That’s the impetus for The Lobster Shack, the newest eatery in Old Town San Clemente that adds west coast flair to quintessential east coast fare.

New England transplants will be pleasantly surprised by brioche so light and lobster so sweet, they’ll swear they’re back in Cape Cod. The Lobster Shack’s brioche rolls are baked fresh daily with flour imported from back east to give it a light, airy texture. Fresh fish is flown in daily, mostly from the East Coast; nothing is ever frozen or reheated. Seafood is generously layered, without heavy, fussy dressing to over-complicate the experience. Your choice of chunky lobster, succulent crab or flavorful shrimp is piled high and held together with a light lemon butter aioli sauce. Share the ‘Trio for Two” where you can experience all three savory staples in a marriage of perfection — served with your choice of two sides: Blue Cheese Cole Slaw, New England Baked Beans, or Cape Cod Kettle Chips. Start your meal off with a cup of house-made Clam Chowder or Lobster Bisque, piping hot and richly flavored.

“Think globally and support locally” is owner Dan Naughton’s mission for The Lobster Shack. As a big believer in supporting the local community and preserving our oceans, anything left over at the end of the day is donated to a local food bank that feeds those in need. In his commitment to sustainable cooking methods, Dan abides by the United Nation’s sustainable development plan to reduce his global footprint and only sources from fisheries that adhere to the FAO’s Code of Conduct for Responsible Fishing.

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the Lobster Shack delivers an experience you don’t often find in South OC and gladly one you won’t soon forget. Mention The Local DISH Magazine when you stop in and take $2.00 off your lobster roll.

The Lobster Shack
111 W Avenida Palizada #104, San Clemente
949.503.1119 • TheLobsterShack.us

The Fuel Shack

by Dina Scaglione

“People will forget what you said; people will forget what you did, but they will always remember how you made them feel.” This sums up the experience at The Fuel Shack in San Clemente. From the moment you walk through the door of this recently opened restaurant, you’re immediately greeted with a warm smile and a genuine ‘happy to see you’ hello, as if you’re part of the family.

The Fuel Shack is an eatery where you not only feel welcome, but where unique, fresh-to-order breakfast and lunch is prepared with a tremendous amount of care and creativity. Featured menu items are made using a slow-cooking methodology — an old-school technique that enhances the flavors in each dish, without a fryer, griddle or grill.

Yolanda, The Fuel Shack’s manager, is a retired pediatrician and life-long chef who leverages a wonderful fusion of ingredients from her travels abroad and from time spent as a child cooking in the kitchen with her loving grandma. For those of us who grew up in a home that revolved around family gatherings and intentionally prepared meals, the ‘food is love’ feeling at The Fuel Shack certainly rings true.

Looking to start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast? Then, the Tropical Matcha, a coconut and matcha waffle, generously topped with a medley of tropical fruits, whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate is just the fix. For those wanting something a bit more hearty, don’t pass up the Savory Waffle Sliders: two cornmeal waffles nestled around Oaxacan-style black beans, cheese and the signature Kickin’ Chicken Tinga or veggies — if you prefer a meatless dish. This two-fisted sandwich is finished with your choice of fire-roasted salsa, salsa verde, or chimichurri sauce for that extra kick. No modern breakfast place would be complete without the popular avocado toast on its menu. The Fuel Shacks’ Awesome Avocado features seasoned avocado, micro greens, tomatoes, bacon and a cage-free egg, all loaded generously on a thick slice of Texas toast.

The Fuel Shack aims to wake you up with the aroma of freshly brewed gourmet coffees, your favorite concoction from its espresso bar, house-made cold brew and delicious teas. A beautiful selection of assorted baked items, from moist, oversized muffins to mouth-watering, homemade banana bread topped with a cream cheese frosting, are a definite can’t-miss.

Stop by and fuel up! Open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekends, The Fuel Shack is conveniently located on the corner of Camino de Estrella and Camino Mira Costa, across from the Sprouts shopping center.

The Fuel Shack
360 Camino De Estrella
San Clemente
(949) 388-4015
TheFuelShack.com

Italian Cravings

by Dina Scaglione

With a name like Scaglione, you might think I’d be a snob when it comes to Italian fare. For those of you who also grew up with Pasta Sundays and the aroma of sauce (or gravy as some of you may know it) simmering on the stove, Italian Cravings is a must-visit dining destination. The warm and inviting, yet unassuming, eatery is located just off Avenida Del Mar in downtown San Clemente. Serving up pizzas, pasta and sandwiches, even the most discerning “paisans” will feel right at home.

There’s an old saying amongst Italian cooks, “There is no such thing as too much garlic.”  This adage rings true when it comes to Italian Cravings’ delectable Bruschetta Alla Abruzzo. Toasted slices of garlic bread are accompanied by fresh chopped tomatoes, mozzarella, lotsa garlic, basil and, of course, EVOO. For a savory dish with a bit of a kick, try the Sautéed Shrimp Cajun appetizer, served with a flavorful, zesty sauce.

For pasta dishes, I’d recommend Tony’s Special. This house favorite is a hearty penne pasta served with fresh shrimp, asparagus and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy alfredo sauce. Another dish that won’t disappoint is the Cravings MaMa Mia — mostaccioli pasta with grilled chicken, artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes served with a delicious creamy marinara sauce.

The restaurant’s priced-right “Dinner for Two” special includes: two glasses of beer or wine, two entrées, and two salads or soups for a mere $35. Other weekly specials include Monday evening Spaghetti and Meatballs for only $7.95 and Tortellini Tuesday for only $8.95. On Wednesdays, come in and enjoy $10 bottles of wine or half-off house wine.

Located in the heart of San Clemente, Italian Cravings offers outdoor covered seating, on a pet-friendly patio. Lunch specials are served Monday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include your choice of one entrée plus a fresh salad or soup for just $9.95.

Open 7-days-a-week for lunch and dinner, from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., the aptly named Italian Cravings is sure to satiate both fellow paisans and comfort food aficionados alike. 

Italian Cravings
105 S. Ola Vista  •  San Clemente
(949) 492-2777   •   ItalianCravings.com