A Foodie's Long Weekend in Laguna Beach

A Foodie’s Long Weekend in Laguna Beach

When people read about or hear ‘Laguna Beach’, quintessential connotations and ideas come to mind.

Yes, it is a stunning beach town in Orange County, and yes, it’s worth the visit for that reputation alone. But, there is complex character and novel charms that separate this town from others. I spent an entire weekend here exploring that distinction – showcasing beloved classics and lesser known gems. I walked everywhere from downtown to the Hip District, took the most interesting yoga class of my life, left the coast and went up the canyons for a hike, and of course, indulged on deliciousness in between.

Watch this highlight reel to inspire your next Laguna adventure and below for the essential itinerary details.

Memorable Meals: Where I Eat

1. Nirvana Kitchen + Pantry

A Foodie's Long Weekend in Laguna Beach

This is contemporary California cuisine that concentrates on accentuating high-quality produce, creating a stunning yet simple meal.

Meal Highlights: Pistachio Dijon Crusted Australian Rack of Lamb, Grilled ‘Loup de Mer’ Mediterranean Sea Bass, and Blackened Scallops and Roasted Squash Risotto.


2. Sapphire Laguna

A Foodie's Long Weekend in Laguna Beach

‘Brunching’ is one of my favorite activities, and Sapphire is one of the best places to do it with a drink in one hand and Braised Chile Pork Verde inside a soft corn tortilla in the other.


3. C’est La Vie

A Foodie's Long Weekend in Laguna Beach

Right on Pacific Coast Highway sandwiched between downtown and Main Beach, this is a great spot to pop into for a pastry. I’m partial to macarons, so that’s always my first choice.


4. 242 Café Fusion Sushi

A Foodie's Long Weekend in Laguna Beach

I rave about this is on my Laguna Beach essentials list and almost any platform that allows me to. I adore everything Chef Miki creates and how she manages to remain both innovative and consistent.


21+ Over: Where I Drink

1. McClain Cellars

A Foodie's Long Weekend in Laguna Beach

This began as a passion project for the McClains, but it has quickly grown into a flourishing brand that releases a new bottle in their tasting room every month. They even make their own artisan popcorn now: a terrific pairing for your tasting.

Glass Highlights: 2017 Open Arms Viognier and 2017 Darcella Cabernet Sauvignon


2. Laguna Beach Beer Company

A Foodie's Long Weekend in Laguna Beach

The craft beer is refined and artful without being pretentious, exactly what a perfect pint should be. They have their staples, original experiments, and rotating guest appearances.


I Don’t Just Eat & Drink: Where I Hangout

About the Author

Caitlin Sakdalan

Caitlin Sakdalan

Caitlin Sakdalan is a social media influencer and food writer. Through her passion for food as an experiential connector of people and cultures, coupled with expertise in social and digital, she shares her extensive food knowledge and experiences to thousands of followers daily. Caitlin is one of Dovetale’s “5 best Influencers to watch in 2017,” and her photography is featured on Tasting Table, Yahoo, Huffington Post, and other online outlets. Follow her on Instagram @befatbehappy.

Get Inspired

Explore more of Laguna Beach.