Las Brisas Awards

Las Brisas Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant: Housed in a historic building that sits on a picturesque cliff overlooking the crescent-shaped cove of Main Beach, Las Brisas is a true Laguna Beach landmark. The menu is anchored by Mexican-inspired seafood fare.

Food & Drinks: Start dinner with white shrimp and crab ceviche or tuna poke with avocado, mango, almonds and cilantro. You’ll find taco options and land-based entrées like grilled lamb chops, but your best bets are the fresh seafood dishes. Try the seared sea scallops, served with cauliflower purée, tomatillo, green olives and a sparkling wine beurre blanc. Some pass up the restaurant interior altogether for the relaxing outdoor patio, which presents margaritas and lighter fare like skillet nachos and chicken tinga tacos. Drinks are strong and made with freshly squeezed juices and premium liquors. If you’re an early riser, don’t miss the breakfast buffet. A multi-course plated weekend brunch is also available, and includes free-flowing mimosas. While you can choose to end a meal with a berry and vanilla ice cream tostada or a coconut flan, you should always complete the experience with a stop to smell the roses in the adjacent garden, and then climb the small hill to a cliff-side gazebo with scenic shoreline views.