230 Forest Avenue

Mark Norton

The food and service here is excellent! I think the only thing I didn't care for was how much vodka pomegranate granita was actually on the oyster. It was very over powering in flavor but otherwise it was really good. I loved sitting outside and the location was nice. If I'm ever on the West Coast again I'll be sure to add this place into my trip.

Jordan Gary

This is the patio in Laguna if you want to see and be seen, ideally while pretending you just “happened” to stop by after the beach and didn’t strategically pick your outfit for it. The trees offer shade, which is nice, because otherwise you’d melt into your chair like a wax figurine. We came for “drinks and a snack” but accidentally ordered enough food to qualify as dinner for a mid-sized family. The Bacon Wrapped Dates were sticky, sweet, and impossible to eat without looking like you’re auditioning for a barbecue sauce commercial. The Spicy Tuna grazing plate comes with three pieces, but they’ll make it four if you’re with a group—because apparently they understand math and diplomacy. Also, the rice was so crispy it could probably survive re-entry from space. The Wagyu Sirloin Carpaccio was paper-thin and amazing, with truffle aioli that makes everything taste better in the same way a cheat code makes video games easier. For drinks, the Ruby Rickey was light and refreshing (i.e., you could drink several before realizing it), and the Mission Fig Margarita was the perfect choice for a hot afternoon. The servers and bussers were friendly, efficient, and had that uncanny ability to refill your water without you noticing—possibly magic. Five stars. Would come back in a heartbeat… assuming I can find a beach outfit worthy of that patio again.

Timothy Buckley

Prime rib dip sandwich was delicious and so was the wedge salad, they changed the salad a little since I last went but it still hit. Server offered bread than seen at the end he charged me for it... don't mind paying just felt he was being deceitful in the way he offered it. Was kinda sketchy..

Liz Montana

Delicious food. Lots of options for people who enjoy seafood or American food. The Maui onion soup was amazing. Sea bass, lamb chops and wine was very good. We would come back again.

Jessica Mendez

I ventured into this establishment for happy hour, but ended up staying for dinner due to the incredible food options. For me, the highlight of the meal was the lamb - it was absolutely delicious. I also sampled the scallops and risotto, both of which were amazing. They had great drink options. Despite the elegant interior of the restaurant, I decided to sit outside and enjoyed some fresh air while I ate. Overall, I would recommend a visit to this restaurant!

Jan Hefner

We chose this restaurant for dinner before attending a play at The Laguna Playhouse. Great location, just a six minute drive to the theatre. It's definitely a popular spot with a great atmosphere. There was live music nearby, which we enjoyed while talking without having to raise our voices. We sat outside on a coolish evening and started with a very good glass of Malbec. My friend ordered the Lamb Chops on the Grazing menu, and I had the Chicken Milanese. We shared a side of yummy Grilled Cauliflower. All dishes were wonderful. I'm not really a fan of lamb, but these were very tasty and served with a side salad and tzataki. And even though they were on the Grazing menu, they were sufficient for a full meal. My chicken breasts were thin, lightly breaded and sautéed and served on a bed of potato puree with a side salad. We skipped dessert, but I'm sure they would have been equally phenomenal. Our waiter, Jorge, was excellent and answered questions thoroughly. He was always present but never hovered. This was an all-around excellent dining experience.

Rachel

I'd seriously run don't walk to this restaurant! Their House Made Ricotta appetizer is truly unbelievable. Had the Fish & Chips which was also amazing. Seriously one of the best meals I've ever had! Sad I live out of state.

Heidi

This place gets everything right. The hostess and our server were both very friendly and helpful. The drinks were creative and tasted good. The food was amazing. The atmosphere is nice too. When I ordered a salmon dish (the candied salmon salad) the server asked if I was ok with it being cooked medium rare. That's the first time I've had that question for salmon and I actually love my salmon cooked like that and it came out absolutely perfect. There were 6 of us and everyone loved their food.

Ashley Boaz

Best food I've had so far on our visit! Service, ambiance, delectable... it's a can't miss!

Rafael Leon

good food and service. Maybe, this place could include more cocktails/beers in the menu. There is not too much tables, so, book a reservation is a good idea.

Leesa Yim

Everything was executed nicely. The staff were friendly and the food was delicious. What more can one ask for? We started with a couple of drinks and they were well made, not too watered down, an interesting combo of taste. We ordered a couple of salads, again well executed and dressed. The mains were delicious, generous portions and well cooked proteins. We had lemon pot de creme for dessert and it was very good, covered in blueberry compote of some sort with whipped cream, it was such a nice way to finish the meal. They had ample outdoor dining with attentive staff. The staff do not wear masks. Would recommend and will visit again to try their other dishes. Update 9/2022: still very good. They had kung pao calamari, which was lightly fried and all components had good flavors and texture. Their special fish was cooked nicely, not over cooked like many places. I had the candied salmon salad, the greens weren't overly dressed, just right. And the salmon was also well cooked to my liking (medium rare). This is becoming one of our favorite restaurants in LB.

Sleiman

The food was so good it made me angry! Dog friendly, incredible food, good atmosphere. Come here if you want to enjoy yourself. The crab Mac and cheese and the muscles were top notch. I hope you don’t get as angry as I did by how good everything was.

Really good experience with delicious food and awesome service! I can highly recommend the toasted garlic salmon, kung pao calamari, bacon wrapped dates and their chocolate croissant bread pudding. Truly scrumptious Beautiful presentation, perfectly cooked and cozy outdoor seating! Would eat here again in a heartbeat 💗

This place is seriously unreal! My gf and I were in Laguna Beach for the afternoon and decided to stop in for lunch. Firstly, they seated us inside with nice cold a/c as the sun was baking me. They were playing great music like Dave Matthews Band, Blues Traveler, Lumineers, U2, etc. We ordered the Kung Pao calamari and the fish & chips and we shared both. The presentation and quality of food was the best we found on our entire vacation. They were extremely detail oriented, but just two examples were they had to put some tables together for a larger party and made sure to place the chairs so no one was sitting behind me. Also, since we had some leftovers, they provided a box, but also a seperate container for the cole slaw so that it wouldn't get anything soggy. These little details are what make a good restaurant great. Seriously, the best food we have found in California so far. Do not sleep on 230 Forest. Next time I'm in the area I look forward to trying something new and delicious. Whatever ya'll are doing keep doing it. This place is a true gem!!!!!!!!! 100% satisfaction from us. One Love

I wish I could give this place more than 5 stars. The dining experience we had here was divine. The food was such high quality and so skillfully prepared that every bite was a delight. We were so impressed by the talent of the chef/ kitchen team. This food made us feel warm and happy inside. Not kidding. Plus the service was really nice and helped make sure we were comfortable, satisfied, etc. Highly recommend!

230 Forest Avenue is one of Laguna Beach’s true gems. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between lively and relaxed, making it a great spot for everything from a casual drink to a full dinner. Their Aperol Spritz is exceptional—perfectly balanced, refreshing, and exactly what you want while enjoying the Laguna vibe. It’s one of the best versions of this classic cocktail I’ve had. And the Parker House rolls are absolutely unforgettable. Warm, soft, buttery, and served with the most delicious accompaniments—they’re the kind of thing you keep thinking about after you leave. Honestly, they’re reason enough to come back. The service is friendly and polished, and the whole experience feels quintessentially Laguna Beach. Whether you’re stopping in for drinks or staying for dinner, 230 Forest never disappoints.

I love the food and drinks here. Sitting outside and people watching is great! I always get the spicy tuna crispy rice, a cucumber martini, and sometimes the profiteroles if I have help with me. It's a great spot if you are having a solo date or coming with a crew!

Ian Strack

This place is seriously unreal! My gf and I were in Laguna Beach for the afternoon and decided to stop in for lunch. Firstly, they seated us inside with nice cold a/c as the sun was baking me. They were playing great music like Dave Matthews Band, Blues Traveler, Lumineers, U2, etc. We ordered the Kung Pao calamari and the fish & chips and we shared both. The presentation and quality of food was the best we found on our entire vacation. They were extremely detail oriented, but just two examples were they had to put some tables together for a larger party and made sure to place the chairs so no one was sitting behind me. Also, since we had some leftovers, they provided a box, but also a seperate container for the cole slaw so that it wouldn't get anything soggy. These little details are what make a good restaurant great. Seriously, the best food we have found in California so far. Do not sleep on 230 Forest. Next time I'm in the area I look forward to trying something new and delicious. Whatever ya'll are doing keep doing it. This place is a true gem!!!!!!!!! 100% satisfaction from us. One Love

lindsey

Really good experience with delicious food and awesome service! I can highly recommend the toasted garlic salmon, kung pao calamari, bacon wrapped dates and their chocolate croissant bread pudding. Truly scrumptious Beautiful presentation, perfectly cooked and cozy outdoor seating! Would eat here again in a heartbeat 💗

Great restaurant with beautiful presentation. In fact, the presentation was even better than the food, which was still good at 4/5 stars. Nice atmosphere and service. The restrooms need more frequent attention; not the level of cleanliness expected at a place like this.

Food is good, but their restroom definitely needs some attention.

Good food, good service, fun atmosphere. Each entree is about two dollars too expensive, therefore the four-star rating. Martinis are kind of unique, and they are good. Not great; not quite write home to mom about. But, solid. Give one (or more) of them a try. For an appetizer, go with the calamari. It's a bit of a twist on the usual, with the Kung Pao flavor adding just that special kick. Onion soup is spectacular; an interesting twist on a classic. Garlic salmon is a good entree.

This place is a favorite of my family so I end up going here a lot but personally I find the food a little heavy handed. The shoestring fries are great and the shrimp appetizer is delicious and could be it's own plate. The staff is generally responsive and quick to make any accommodations you need but the menu could be a bit more expansive. All in all it's a nice experience right in the heart of downtown Laguna. Just give yourself some time to find parking especially on weekends.

Benjamin Manne

Great restaurant with beautiful presentation. In fact, the presentation was even better than the food, which was still good at 4/5 stars. Nice atmosphere and service. The restrooms need more frequent attention; not the level of cleanliness expected at a place like this.

Jai Kyoung Jung

Food is good, but their restroom definitely needs some attention.

Ray Hartjen

Good food, good service, fun atmosphere. Each entree is about two dollars too expensive, therefore the four-star rating. Martinis are kind of unique, and they are good. Not great; not quite write home to mom about. But, solid. Give one (or more) of them a try. For an appetizer, go with the calamari. It's a bit of a twist on the usual, with the Kung Pao flavor adding just that special kick. Onion soup is spectacular; an interesting twist on a classic. Garlic salmon is a good entree.

Terrence K

This place is a favorite of my family so I end up going here a lot but personally I find the food a little heavy handed. The shoestring fries are great and the shrimp appetizer is delicious and could be it's own plate. The staff is generally responsive and quick to make any accommodations you need but the menu could be a bit more expansive. All in all it's a nice experience right in the heart of downtown Laguna. Just give yourself some time to find parking especially on weekends.

Had a pleasant dinner at 230 Forest Avenue. The atmosphere was great, and the wine selection was impressive. The pasta I ordered was tasty, though a bit heavy on the sauce. The service was a little slower than expected, but the food made up for it. I would definitely give it another try.

After reading all the positive reviews, my wife and I had high expectations for an enjoyable dinner at 230 Forest Ave. Restaurant. Unfortunately, the Parker House rolls were the highlight of our meal. It seemed dark and noisy inside the restaurant (which was dominated by a large bar in front) so we decided to sit on the makeshift patio. I started with the fresh mixed greens which were lightly tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. I wanted fresh fish so I ordered the day’s special, a nut-crusted halibut with pineapple salsa. It was a thick cut, and flash fried, so I expected it to be moist and flaky on the inside. Even though this is the peak season for fresh halibut, my fish was dry, tasteless, and obviously frozen. However, the shoestring fries it came with were very good. My wife’s scallops from the regular menu tasted a bit off, as if they had been sitting around for a while. They were served over risotto which was very rich and creamy. Service was good but nothing special. Overall, we felt that we spent way too much for an average dinner.

Alan Feinberg

After reading all the positive reviews, my wife and I had high expectations for an enjoyable dinner at 230 Forest Ave. Restaurant. Unfortunately, the Parker House rolls were the highlight of our meal. It seemed dark and noisy inside the restaurant (which was dominated by a large bar in front) so we decided to sit on the makeshift patio. I started with the fresh mixed greens which were lightly tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. I wanted fresh fish so I ordered the day’s special, a nut-crusted halibut with pineapple salsa. It was a thick cut, and flash fried, so I expected it to be moist and flaky on the inside. Even though this is the peak season for fresh halibut, my fish was dry, tasteless, and obviously frozen. However, the shoestring fries it came with were very good. My wife’s scallops from the regular menu tasted a bit off, as if they had been sitting around for a while. They were served over risotto which was very rich and creamy. Service was good but nothing special. Overall, we felt that we spent way too much for an average dinner.