El Adobe de Capistrano

El Adobe de Capistrano invites you to stay awhile.

Relax, let the attentive staff take care of you, and enjoy a break from the daily grind with a classic margarita, glass of wine, or your favorite beverage. Wood paneled ceilings, iron railings, and tall, airy windows create a warm, gracious ambience that captures the essence of old world hospitality.

Those familiar with the local area need no introduction to the restaurant’s rich history. El Adobe was a favorite spot of former President Richard Nixon during his administration. It’s said that the Mexican dishes prepared exclusively for him by the chef inspired the restaurant’s transition from continental to Mexican cuisine. Located in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, one block from the Mission and Los Rios Historic District, El Adobe has been recognized as a California State Historical Landmark. The walls forming its cocktail lounge were once part of the original Miguel Yorba Adobe.

Chef Carlos Gutierrez sources only fresh, top quality ingredients, which is evident in his dishes. We started our lunch with light and crispy chips and El Adobe’s irresistible salsa and addictive guacamole. The house guacamole was prepared tableside with whole avocadoes spiced to our liking – mild, medium, or hot – then swirled with a fork and topped with queso fresco. We also sampled the Ceviche, beautifully seasoned to allow its natural ocean flavors to shine through. 

Main course portions are generous and come with tortillas, rice, and either pinto, black, or charro beans, a delicious vegetarian option made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. The Fajitas are a customer favorite, served sizzling on a cast iron skillet in a savory marinade that highlights the meat’s flavor and tenderness. The tasty Carne Asada, 8 ounces of mesquite grilled Top Sirloin, came drizzled with zesty Argentinian chimichurri sauce, a colorful assortment of crisp, steamed vegetables, and fluffy Mexican rice.

For dessert, the Sweet Plantains in bourbon caramel sauce was the height of decadence. The Caramel Churros, always a big hit with kids, were a sweet, crunchy treat filled with creamy caramel, coated in cinnamon sugar and served with a scoop of ice cream. 

Along with its extensive menu, El Adobe features catering and banquet options that can be customized to meet your individual needs. Multiple private dining rooms and an inviting covered courtyard make it a preferred venue for special events and weddings.

31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano
(949) 493-1163 | ElAdobeDeCapistrano.com