Romantic Restaurants in South Orange County, California

Southern Orange County sits along a strip of picturesque coastline In the warm California sun, nestled between San Diego and Los Angeles. Yet, despite its close proximity to these two large metropolitan areas, Orange County is able to maintain its relaxed vibe. Owing in part to the nearby ocean that tempers the extremes of the summer and winter, the charm of these coastal cities is perfect for romance.

Ti Amo Restaurant

Ti Amo, which is Italian for "I love you," will inspire romance as you as soon as you enter its doors. The restaurant is richly decorated with colorful frescoes, flowing fabrics and romantic, soft lighting. This rustic Italian villa also boasts an atrium with a glass ceiling and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. The menu is designed to complement the lavish environment. Seafood lovers will find a wide selection of dishes inspired by the Mediterranean. The restaurant also features hearty dishes from Northern Italy. To complete your dining experience, choose a selection from the extensive wine list, which offers wines by the glass, bottle or half bottle.

Ti Amo Restaurant
31727 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 499-5350
tiamolagunabeach.com

Iva Lee's

The cornerstone of this cozy restaurant is the Cajun and Creole family recipes that have been passed down from Iva Lee, the owner's grandmother. The menu features authentic and refined New Orleans fare as well as casual, yet elegant, Southern comfort food. If the intimate setting and Southern comfort food are not enough to set the mood, Iva Lee's adds in the siren song of the bayous--live blues music from local artists--every Thursday through Saturday.

Iva Lee's
555 N. El Camino Real, Suite E
San Clemente, CA 92672
(949) 361-2855
ivalees.com

White Horses

Taking its name from the British term for the white caps on the waves, White Horses in San Clemente is a great starting point for a romantic getaway. Located across the street from the pier and majestic sunset walks, White Horses offers a critically acclaimed fine dining menu that features lamb, organic chicken and fresh seafood daily. After enjoying your meal and the full bar, you may not wish to leave. Luckily, you don't have to because White Horse is located in the same building as the Casa Tropicana Bed and Breakfast. This makes it easy to turn your romantic dinner into a romantic weekend.

White Horses
610 Avenida Victoria
San Clemente, CA 92672
(949) 429-1800
whitehorses.us

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Article Written By Diane Hansen

Diane Hansen has a thirst for adventure and loves to share the world through the written word. Currently, she is the feature editor for "TRAVELHOST" magazine and is working on her first novel. She graduated from Cal State San Bernardino in 2002 with a B.A. in business administration with a concentration in marketing. She has been writing freelance since 1996.

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