San Clemente, CA: Eat Your Way Through Town

By Dani

San Clemente is one of those tiny coastal towns that still feels like a tiny coastal town. We just got a Target earlier this year, and most people still shop in the small businesses scattered around town instead.

Even though I've only lived here for a few years, San Clemente feels like home.

(The San Clemente Pier after sunset. Photo by my Hubs.)

I realized that I've written about some of my favorite places to eat in San Clemente before, so here's what your day would look like, were you come see me (which you totally should).

Breakfast at Cafe Mimosa. Now, granted, this breakfast might ruin your appetite for the rest of our food tour, but it's SO worth it. Just as the name implies, they have incredible mimosas in every flavor, and gourmet breakfast options that aren't too unusual to be comforting, but still not boring in the least.

Lunch at Pizza Port. Granted, you should only go to Pizza Port if you are willing to drink some beer with your pizza. So, if you're not a "drink in the middle of the day" type, A) why are you coming to see me and B) maybe save Pizza Port for later. But you do have to eat here at some point in your stay, because holy cow, the pizza and beer are unparalleled.

Drinks at San Clemente Wine Company. Stop in for a flight of pre-selected wines (I like letting the Somm surprise me) or just get a glass of whatever suits you. SC Wine Company's big wooden tables and cozy interior make it the perfect place to unwind after a long day at the beach or walking around San Clemente's charming downtown. They also have specialty beer for the non-winos, and cheese plates if you're feeling a little munchy. Best of all, it's right across the street from....

Dinner at Nick's. (Bonus! No corkage fee! Bring that bottle over from the wine company and you are set.) I really don't know what to say about Nick's, other than if you think roasted chicken or spare-ribs sound a little on the tame side, you have to try Nick's version. It's not so much that the food is ground-breaking, it's just good in a wholesome, oh-right-this-is-what-chicken-should-taste-like way. Also, if you can eat another bite, get the Butter Cake for dessert. It is as awesome as it sounds.

All of these places are within walking distance of each other, the pier, countless adorable boutiques and shops and of course, the beach. So... who's coming on a San Clemente Food Tour with me?

(Extra credit: On your way back to the airport, stop in to Bruxie. Delish.)