Cedar Creek Inn

Cedar Creek Inn Restaurant Review:

No, this is not a boutique hotel or a B&B. There are actually a couple of Cedar Creek Inn restaurant locations in OC – the other venue is in Brea – and both are friendly, inviting and feature a little light music Wednesdays and on the weekends. The San Juan Capistrano outpost has a view of the Old Mission from its outdoor patio. Inside, you may choose to relax in tapestry-clad booths as a stone fireplace warms your stay. The Ayres family has been cooking Cal-American fare in the kitchens here since 1976, and has created many signature items such as the ahi sandwich with jalapeño tartar sauce, New Zealand rack of lamb with roasted shallot Pinot Noir reduction, and pot roast with braised cabbage and mashed potatoes. The menu also features salads, pastas, seafood, steaks and chops. House-made desserts are ever popular, especially the coconut cake. In-the-know regulars sit in the cozy bar for reasonably priced wines, beers, cocktails and appetizers from 3 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. On Sundays, early risers stop by for brunch offerings like huevos rancheros and crème brûlée french toast.