20 Best Restaurants in Lake Elsinore, CA

I've been living in Lake Elsinore, California, for quite a while now, and as a self-proclaimed foodie, I've had my fair share of meals at various restaurants in the area.

With its diverse dining options and unique local spots, Lake Elsinore offers food lovers a true culinary adventure.

From delicious Mexican cuisine to mouth-watering BBQ joints, there's something for everyone in our lovely city.

To help you on your gastronomic journey, I've compiled a list of the 20 best restaurants in Lake Elsinore, California, that you just can't afford to miss.

So, buckle up and get ready to treat your taste buds to some of the most delectable dishes this city has to offer!

The Jazzy Flamingo

Stepping into The Jazzy Flamingo always feels like a homecoming.

This gem tucked away in Lake Elsinore beckons with a warm, inviting glow and an intoxicating blend of good food, drink, and live music.

The ambiance - dim lighting, comfy seating - is effortlessly cozy and romantic, making it a perfect sanctuary for date nights and laid-back evenings with friends.

The fare here is a delightful foray into culinary bliss.

The menu is a brilliant mosaic of classic comfort dishes and innovative plates designed to tantalize every palate.

The steak is superbly succulent, while their tiramisu is an unmissable sweet indulgence.

Their Flamingo Martini, a cheeky spin on the classic cocktail, is an absolute delight and a must-try.

They boast an extensive selection that caters to every conceivable taste, from craft beers to fine wines.

But the real cherry on top? The live music.

A stage for local talents, the Flamingo thrums with the energy of jazz, blues, rock, and indie beats.

Pho' Neighbors

Recently, I decided to try out Pho' Neighbors in Lake Elsinore.

The restaurant was clean and had a quiet, comfortable atmosphere that made it easy for me to relax and enjoy my meal.

I ordered a vermicelli bowl with pork, which turned out to be an excellent choice.

The flavors were spot on, and the ingredients tasted fresh and well-prepared.

I also sampled their house-special crispy noodles, which were quite delicious.

But what truly stood out for me was their pho – the broth was so rich and flavorful that it instantly became my new favorite.

The attentive service at Pho' Neighbors really set it apart from other Vietnamese restaurants I've been to.

Bocadillo Kitchen

Despite being located inside a gas station, Bocadillo Kitchen serves up some of the best sandwiches I've ever had.

I couldn't believe how fresh and flavorful everything was, and the prices were fantastic, too.

I decided to go for the GRB, which came loaded with sliced beef on a ciabatta roll, and the spread added a burst of flavor with every bite.

I have to agree with other patrons who've said this sandwich is easily better than anything you can get from a typical chain sandwich shop.

Not only was the food great, but the gas station itself was a pleasant surprise.

They had a wide variety of drink choices at reasonable prices, and even the restrooms were clean and well-maintained.

I can't wait to go back and try their vegetarian sandwich next time, which I've heard smells and tastes amazing.

Nekko Sushi

I recently dined at Nekko Sushi and couldn't have been happier with my experience.

I decided to try the highly recommended Popcorn Crunch Roll, which was absolutely delicious and had me craving more.

I noticed that the menu also had a great selection of lunch and dinner combinations.

While I didn't have the chance to try their All You Can Eat option, as it wasn't offered, I was more than satisfied with my choices and the quality of the food.

I did observe that the restaurant was bustling, and the parking situation might be a bit challenging during peak hours, but it's totally worth it for the fantastic sushi experience.

One thing I found particularly charming was the chef's counter, where you can watch your sushi being prepared with finesse and passion.

Annie's Cafe Lake Elsinore

One of my favorite places to grab breakfast in Lake Elsinore is Annie's Cafe.

This cheery, no-nonsense eatery is known for its delicious breakfast and hearty lunch dishes like fish 'n' chips and burgers.

I love the fact that they not only serve classic American dishes but also add a touch of British flair.

Their full English breakfast, called "The Winston Churchill," is definitely worth a try as it includes Heinz Baked Beans, and if you're feeling extra hungry, you can make your burger a King Henry.

I usually arrive early because Annie's Cafe tends to get packed, especially during the weekends.

On my last visit, I had the Chicken Fried Steak, and it was everything I hoped for - crispy hash browns, eggs cooked to perfection, and the chicken smothered in country gravy.

Annie's Cafe has a lovely outdoor patio where well-behaved doggies are welcome to join their owners.

One thing to note is that Annie's Cafe closes early, but for me, that just adds to the appeal of the place.

It shows that they don't need to stay open all day to keep running, and it definitely does not disappoint.

So, if you're in or passing through Lake Elsinore, do yourself a favor and stop by Annie's Cafe for a scrumptious meal.

Hana Sushi Canyon Hills

Hana Sushi Canyon Hills offers a fantastic dining experience.

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly host and promptly seated.

The interior is a bit small, but they have plenty of outdoor seating, which I prefer.

The menu offers a wide variety of fusion Japanese dishes, including Hana Special Rolls, sashimi, sushi, and teriyaki.

I decided to try their popular Oishi Sashimi Roll, which has tuna and salmon sashimi on top of rolls underneath.

The fish tasted incredibly fresh, and the presentation was stunning.

The Ohana Roll was also delicious, and my friends enjoyed the generous portions of Crunch Rolls they ordered.

Although Hana Sushi Canyon Hills is not an all-you-can-eat sushi restaurant, they do offer happy hour and lunch specials.

The prices might be a bit higher compared to some other sushi places, but I believe the quality of the food and the attentive service definitely makes up for it.

Craft Brewing & Kitchen

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Craft Brewing & Kitchen with a group of friends after a day of zip-lining nearby.

I must say, it was the perfect spot to recharge and unwind.

The moment we entered, the brewery's simple and inviting setting immediately made us feel at home.

The beer selection was fantastic, and I particularly enjoyed the Artesanal beer.

The food options were mouthwatering, and we couldn't resist trying the birria tacos, quesadilla, and even their hot sauce, which was delightfully spicy.

Stadium Pizza Main St.

Last weekend, my family and I decided to have dinner at Stadium Pizza Main St.

It had been a while since our last visit, and we were excited to enjoy their delicious pizzas once again.

As we walked in, I noticed how clean and well-maintained the inside and outside of the pizzeria was.

The large outdoor patio had plenty of shade, and it was a perfect spot for us to sit and enjoy the beautiful weather.

Besides their amazing pizzas, they also serve a wide selection of beers and have a cool soda machine with around 200 choices.

My dad, who loves coming here, swears by their combinations, especially because they add crushed cashews to the sauce, giving it an extra crunch that we all love.

My 11-year-old nephew ate almost the entire small pepperoni pizza by himself, and I managed to finish most of mine too.

The only downside during our visit was the soda machine.

It was the kind where you can flavor your sodas, but it was a little frustrating to operate.

El Agave Restaurant

I recently stopped by El Agave Restaurant in Lake Elsinore, CA, which is nestled in a small shopping center next to Dollar General.

This cozy, no-frills eatery has a diverse menu featuring various Mexican dishes, including Menudo, Mexican Tamales, Tortas, Sopes, Quesadillas, and even Cheeseburgers with Fries.

They also have daily specials and a family cheeseburger meal that I'm excited to try next time!

I decided to order the street tacos, tamales, a Carne Asada burrito, Shrimp and Fish tacos, and, of course, horchata.

The street tacos were amazing - simple yet perfect.

They had just the right amount of meat, lemon wedges, and radish, along with a delicious guacamole sauce that I wish I could take home.

The Carne Asada burrito was equally impressive, with a perfect balance of ingredients that made it one of the best I've had in a while.

As for the tamales, they were fantastic!

The red pork tamales had just the right amount of masa and meat, making them a great value.

I'm already planning to place a large order for my family gatherings.

The Shrimp and Fish tacos were huge and well worth the price, not to mention absolutely delicious.

And let's not forget the horchata - it tasted just like my grandmother used to make it, and I couldn't get enough.

Vincenzo's Olive Tree

When I'm craving delicious Italian cuisine, I always head to Vincenzo's Olive Tree, a cozy Italian trattoria near the mall.

This family-owned gem is tucked away in a strip mall, but its exquisite Sicilian-inspired dishes and welcoming atmosphere make it a local favorite.

The minute you walk in, you're transported to Italy with lovely murals and art adorning the walls.

It may be small, but this trattoria's intimate setting is perfect for a dinner date or family gathering.

The service is always on point, and their menu is simple yet full of mouthwatering options at reasonable prices.

Vincenzo's Olive Tree's minestrone soup and clam chowder are a perfect way to start your meal, especially when paired with a glass of wine or champagne.

For the main course, I highly recommend the linguine and gnocchi, which you can customize with various meats and sauces.

Their Vincenzo's Specialty Penne pasta is another must-try, baked with fresh ricotta, meat sauce, and mozzarella on top.

The portions are generous, and I often end up taking leftovers home.

One of my favorite dishes is the Godfather sandwich with veal cutlet – it's simply divine.

And don't forget to save room for dessert, as their chocolate mousse cake is to die for.

While Vincenzo's Olive Tree tends to be quite busy, the wait is well worth it for the exceptional food and attentive service.

This little slice of Italy has won my heart, and I'm sure it will do the same for you.

Felix's BBQ With Soul

One of the best things about living in this area is having the opportunity to dine at Felix's BBQ With Soul, a hidden gem that I stumbled upon a few months ago.

The first thing that caught my attention was the inviting atmosphere, with its warm lighting and cozy décor.

As soon as I walked in, I felt at home and couldn't wait to try their soul food.

I am a big fan of chicken and waffles, so I decided to give their version a try.

With a perfect balance of sweet and savory, the dish was an absolute delight!

The chicken was perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, while the waffles were fluffy and drizzled with just the right amount of syrup.

It's a combination that I will never get tired of!

One of the highlights of my visit was the live music.

I was lucky enough to catch a performance by a local blues band, which added to the southern charm of the place.

I also tried their famous New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, and I have to say it was the best I've ever had.

The shrimp were cooked to perfection, and the sauce was rich and full of flavor.

I couldn't help but mop up every last drop with the warm, buttery bread that accompanied the dish.

El Comal Cocina y Cantina

I recently decided to treat myself to a night out at El Comal Cocina y Cantina, a colorful Mexican eatery that specializes in traditional fare like tacos and pupusas.

The moment I stepped in, I was drawn to the festive atmosphere, complete with booth seating and a full bar.

I started with their delicious chips and salsa while browsing through their extensive menu.

I couldn't help but notice the tempting drink options advertised throughout the restaurant, so I decided to try a pina colada and a mango margarita.

Both drinks were fantastic and tasted very fresh, with no hint of pre-made mixes.

For my meal, I decided to try something new and ordered a queso and jalapeno pupusa, which was gooey and had an amazing toasted warm corn flavor.

The thin acidic sauce that accompanied it was a perfect complement.

I also indulged in a massive chimichanga that was packed with flavor, and the meat was perfectly seasoned without being too salty.

As a fan of Salvadoran cuisine, I appreciated that El Comal offers authentic Mexican and Salvadoran dishes prepared daily and made to order.

During my meal, I noticed the outdoor patio seating and thought it would be a lovely spot for my next visit, especially during the warmer months.

Sansui Sushi

As a sushi lover, I recently visited Sansui Sushi and had a great experience there.

The restaurant truly serves the best quality sushi and rolls with the freshest ingredients.

Their menu is quite extensive, offering a diverse and creative range of options to satisfy any sushi fanatic's cravings.

When I walked in, I noticed the clean atmosphere and the lovely ambiance, which immediately made me feel comfortable.

The chefs at Sansui Sushi are undoubtedly some of the best in town, as they prepared my sushi rolls with utmost care and precision.

I couldn't help but be impressed by the presentation and taste of the dishes.

During my visit, I tried a variety of sushi rolls, including the popular California roll, which was absolutely delicious.

The rice texture was perfect - not too soggy or too hard - and the imitation crab and avocado offered a delightful flavor.

I also tried a couple of their teriyaki entrees, which were equally scrumptious.

Although Sansui Sushi does not have an all-you-can-eat option, their lunch specials are quite affordable and satisfying.

They also offer a 10% off happy hour for some dining-in options, making it an even better deal for sushi lovers.

CJ's Sports Grill & Turf Club

I finally decided to check out CJ's Sports Grill & Turf Club after hearing about their great food and fun atmosphere from friends.

When I arrived, I was instantly impressed by the spacious layout and the numerous large TVs showing various sports and events.

Off-track betting also caught my attention, as I'm a fan of horse racing.

I decided to try their steak and lobster special, which was cooked correctly.

The lobsters were delicious, and I appreciated the creativity in the presentation, despite the membrane making it a bit challenging to extract the meat.

While waiting for my food, I couldn't help but admire the atmosphere.

The recently remodeled dining room was huge and contained over fifty 60-inch flat-screen televisions.

I enjoyed watching a basketball game without having to worry about changing channels or missing any important moments.

Pho Ngon Restaurant

As I was driving through Lake Elsinore, I found myself craving a warm, savory bowl of pho.

I had heard about Pho Ngon Restaurant and decided to give it a try.

Upon entering, I noticed the restaurant was super clean, organized, and had a comfortable atmosphere.

I started with a delicious Thai tea, which was on point.

For my main course, I chose chicken pho and was pleasantly surprised at the generous portions of meat in my bowl.

The flavors were rich and satisfying, making it the perfect meal for a cold, rainy day.

My dining partner opted for the wonton soup with veggies, which was equally delicious.

During our meal, we noticed a steady stream of pick-up orders, which confirmed that we had made a great choice.

I couldn't help but overhear other patrons raving about the pho rare beef and lemongrass vermicelli, so I knew I'd be coming back to try more dishes.

Palm Thai Cuisine

Recently, I decided to try out Palm Thai Cuisine for dinner, and I must say, I was more than satisfied with my experience!

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a cozy atmosphere.

The restaurant offers booth, banquette, and sidewalk seating, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor dining experiences.

The menu at Palm Thai Cuisine is extensive and offers something for everyone.

I'm a big fan of shrimp, so I had to try their popular shrimp fried rice.

It was absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection!

I also ordered the satay and was very pleased to find that they offer brown rice as an option.

The curry dishes were also a hit, especially the panang curry, which had just the right amount of spice.

As a vegan, I was thrilled to find that Palm Thai Cuisine offers a vegetarian menu that can easily be made vegan by requesting tofu and veggies.

The Garlic Pepper Tofu & Veggies is now one of my favorite dishes, and I can't wait to try more of their vegan options in the future.

What truly made my experience at Palm Thai Cuisine memorable was the exceptional customer service.

It's always great to support local businesses like Palm Thai Cuisine, especially when they offer such high-quality food and service.

Lookout Roadhouse

At Lookout Roadhouse, you'll see the panoramic view of the city, and the lake was breathtaking, and it set the perfect mood for a relaxed and enjoyable meal.

The serving size was generous, and the taste was delightful.

We also tried their homemade country-style ribs, which were smoked in-house with their very own rib rub and sauce – simply delicious!

The BBQ sauce was very good, and the amount of meat was enough to feed all of us.

The historical charm of the place added to the overall experience, and we loved the 180-degree views of the mountains and the lake.

Even though it was busy, we had a pleasant time enjoying our meal, the view, and each other's company.

I also noticed that they allowed pets on the outside deck, which is great because I might just bring my golden retriever along next time.

The Lookout Roadhouse has been in business since 1945, and it's clear why it has been a local favorite for decades.

The friendly service, gorgeous views, and delicious dishes make it a must-visit spot for breakfast and lunch.

Jack's BAR-B-Q

Last weekend, I decided to try out Jack's BAR-B-Q with my friends.

The moment we arrived, we were captivated by the lakefront view and the relaxed atmosphere.

There were plenty of picnic tables on the beach and even a covered beach patio that could seat 50 people comfortably.

The menu offered a wide variety of barbecue plates, sandwiches, and unique dishes like the Mac Attack Burger.

We ordered the Rack for 2, which came with a side of tri-tip, coleslaw, and potato salad.

It was more than enough to feed the four of us, and the quality of the BBQ was impressive.

Aside from the mouthwatering dishes, Jack's BAR-B-Q also offers a unique "beach in" option for boat owners, where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner from 10 am to midnight.

The beach and fire pits are free to use, provided you use their wood.

Main Street Kitchen & Tap

As a frequent visitor to Main Street Kitchen & Tap, I can vouch for its delicious food and wonderful service.

I remember walking in on a quiet Friday afternoon, and the lovely hostess, Nicole, greeted us warmly.

My mom and I decided to order salads, and Nicole recommended the citrus dressing for my mom's cobb salad.

It turned out to be a great suggestion, as my mom absolutely loved it!

The Greek salad I ordered was quite flavorful, but I believe it would be even better if it was chopped a bit more to marry all the flavors.

The portions of the salads were enormous, making them great value for money.

I’ve also tried their BBQ chicken salad, garlic Parmesan fries, and BBQ baby back ribs in the past, and they were all amazing.

However, I noticed they no longer offer the Ahi Tuna salad or appetizer, which I used to enjoy on previous visits.

Don Mere's Restaurant

As someone who frequently visits Don Mere's Restaurant, I can confidently say that it never disappoints.

My go-to dish is their Pepita salad, which I pick up once or twice a week.

The restaurant is situated in the old town of Elsinore, and although there's no outdoor seating, the inside is really nice.

I remember one night when my son and I stopped by just as they were about to close.

On another occasion, my husband and I decided to stop in for dinner.

We were pleasantly surprised by the excellent customer service and good food.

The red sauce on their burrito was way better than most.

The restaurant, including the restrooms, was very clean and well-organized.

We're excited to make our way through the rest of the menu.

One of my favorite dishes there are fish tacos.

They're always packed with plenty of fish and other delicious ingredients.

The mild salsa served alongside is just perfect for my taste.

Another great option for a family meal is their pozole and menudo, which are really good.

Don Mere's is a family-friendly restaurant and a great place to have dinner with the family.

Final Thoughts

Lake Elsinore offers a diverse range of culinary experiences that never fail to satisfy my taste buds.

From the mouthwatering BBQ at Jack's BAR-B-Q to the delectable sushi at Nekko Sushi, there's always something to delight my palate.

Whether you're a fellow local or just passing through, I highly recommend giving these gastronomic gems a try!