South of Nick's San Clemente | Mexican Kitchen + Bar
Vibrant Mexican kitchen and bar offering creative twists on classics in a cozy, dimly lit setting with an open kitchen.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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South of Nick's San Clemente | Mexican Kitchen + Bar
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant Mexican kitchen and bar offering creative twists on classics in a cozy, dimly lit setting with an open kitchen.
Make Reservations
Secure your table by making reservations in advance, especially on weekends, as it's a popular spot.
Try Signature Cocktails
Savor unique drink experiences with their specialty cocktails like Tijuana Poolside or Tamarindo Margarita.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Mexican
Price
$$$
Phone
(949) 481-4545
Address
110 N El Camino Real, San Clemente, CA 92672, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Signature Seafood & Tacos
Savor creative seafood dishes and flavorful tacos, including slow-braised beef and fish tacos, for an exceptional taste.
Cozy Ambiance with Dim Lighting
Experience a cozy ambiance with dim lighting, an open kitchen view, and comfortable bar seating for an intimate dining experience.
Refreshing Specialty Cocktails
Indulge in refreshing cocktails like Tijuana Poolside and Tamarindo Margarita, crafted for a unique and delightful drinking experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Make Reservations
Secure your table by making reservations in advance, especially on weekends, as it's a popular spot.
Try Signature Cocktails
Savor unique drink experiences with their specialty cocktails like Tijuana Poolside or Tamarindo Margarita.
Visit on Weekdays
Opt for weekday visits to avoid crowds and enjoy a less crowded dining experience.
Don't Miss Desserts
Indulge in standout desserts like the highly recommended Butter Cake to perfectly cap off your meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
Make Reservations
Secure your table by making reservations in advance, especially on weekends, as it's a popular spot.
Try Signature Cocktails
Savor unique drink experiences with their specialty cocktails like Tijuana Poolside or Tamarindo Margarita.
Visit on Weekdays
Opt for weekday visits to avoid crowds and enjoy a less crowded dining experience.
Don't Miss Desserts
Indulge in standout desserts like the highly recommended Butter Cake to perfectly cap off your meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
South of Nick's San Clemente is highly praised for its delicious Mexican cuisine, particularly its seafood dishes, tacos, and desserts. The service is often highlighted as friendly and efficient, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. While many enjoy the ambiance and quality, some find the prices a bit high for the portion sizes, and occasional service oversights have been noted.
"Highly recommend making a reservation, nonetheless we didn't wait much longer than 35 min or so. Everything we had for dinner was absolutely delicious though. We left very full and happy!"
Jillian Davis
"Lilly our server made us feel welcomed and special! She was thoughtful in recommendations for concern about spice-heat levels. The chips starter was delish and the entrees yummy!
You most likely will have to wait to be seated even with a reservation which we had, but I would defiantly go back ❣️"
Paula Healthy
"We came to South of Nicks for the first time the last night! We sat at the bar and it was amazing. Service was friendly and drinks were really good. We had the shrimp taquitos, ahí ceviche and tablita to share. Everything was 10/10! We were too full for dessert lol but will definitely be back very soon!"
karlee norcutt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is highly recommended to make reservations, especially during peak times and weekends, as the restaurant is very popular.
Popular choices include seafood dishes like fish tacos, slow-braised beef tacos, and the highly recommended Butter Cake for dessert. The chips and salsa are also a frequent favorite.
Yes, the restaurant is noted for its accommodating staff who can guide gluten-free diners through the menu.
The restaurant features a cozy ambiance with dim lighting, an open kitchen view, and comfortable bar seating.
While not explicitly detailed, given the variety of Mexican cuisine, it's likely there are vegetarian options. It's best to confirm with the staff.
Signature cocktails include the Tijuana Poolside and the Tamarindo Margarita, offering unique and refreshing flavors.
Mentioned in
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16 Best Mexican Restaurants In Orange County
Established in 2008, Nick’s Restaurants wants you to have an exceptional dining experience in all of its eight California locations—including the South of Nick’s Mexican Kitchen + Bar locations in Laguna Beach and San Clemente. Start with a traditional soup or taquitos, then sample the variety of upscale tacos or mains like chipotle-dusted Chilean sea bass or seafood enchiladas. Wash them down with a variety of specialty tequila and mezcal cocktails, like the Spicy Avocado or Smokey Pineapple, as well as sipping tequilas, tequila flights and wines.
The Ultimate Foodie’s Guide to San Clemente: Must-Try Restaurants and Cafes
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico at South of Nick’s Mexican Kitchen + Bar. This lively restaurant combines traditional Mexican recipes with modern flair, resulting in a menu that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. Indulge in dishes like the Chile Relleno or the Carne Asada Tacos, accompanied by a refreshing Classic margarita or one of their specialty cocktails.
Top 5 Dinner Dates This Valentine’s Day – Triton Times
South of Nick’s is a popular restaurant on San Clemente’s famous Del Mar Street that offers a variety of Mexican dishes including burritos, soft tacos, chimichangas, and enchiladas. The servers provide excellent customer service. Ivette Ceja, a senior at San Clemente High School notes, “They always make me feel comfortable and help me chose a dish.
The 16 Best San Clemente Restaurants In 2022
South of Nick’s is the sister restaurant of Nick’s and offers upscale Mexican fare in a casual dining environment. We recommend their Seafood Chile Relleno, a green chile pepper that is stuffed with Maine lobster, shrimp, jack cheese, white rice, refried beans and ranchera sauce. It such a treat for the taste buds and is worthy of writing home for.
BEST 10 Restaurants In San Clemente, CA
South of Nick's is a lively restaurant known for its delicious and innovative Mexican dishes with a SoCal twist. The menu features a variety of fresh, expertly-prepared places and a selection of tasty margaritas, cocktails, and local beers. Nick’s offers a lively and enjoyable dining experience.
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These venues create natural opportunities to meet new people or enjoy intimate dates. The combination of ocean views, fresh cuisine, and varied entertainment options makes San Clemente’s dining and nightlife scene a dynamic part of the local dating experience.
Taste of San Clemente
When your craving leans toward authentic Mexican cuisine, South of Nick’s Mexican Kitchen and Bar is an absolute must visit!. Whether you’re in the mood for Birria or classic fish tacos, every item on their menu is a delicious choice you can’t go wrong with.
San Clemente's Top 5 Must-Try Restaurants
South of Nicks offers traditional Mexican fare with a twist. The gorgeous surroundings and mouthwatering smells immediately draw you in. Choose from an extensive menu of traditional options and creative selections made with the highest quality ingredients.
The 50 Best Gluten-Free Spots in San Clemente
We came here last night without reservations and were seated immediately. Our server, Viviana, was one of the best servers we’ve ever had. I am gluten free and she guided me through the menu and told me what I could or couldn’t have.
15 Best Restaurants in San Clemente, CA for 2025 (Top Eats!)
110 N El Camino RealSan Clemente, CA 92672(949) 481-4545 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Open daily, this brightly colored haunt dazzles with its innovative takes on several classic Mexican favorites.
Ultimate Guide to Gluten-Free in Orange County, CA
When I'm in Laguna Beach, I'm often torn between South of Nick's Mexican Kitchen and GG's Bistro downstairs. (We'll cover GG's Bistro next.). When I want an ocean view or Mexican food, South of Nick's wins out.
Guides: San Clemente
South of Nick’s: We are obsessed with this modern Mexican restaurant. So much so, that we celebrate every Christmas Eve there!. (No joke, we really do!) Hands down our favorite margaritas.
Things to do in San Clemente, California
South of Nick’s is a California-style Mexican restaurant and one of the most popular spots in town. They waive the corkage on your first bottle of wine. Be sure to make a reservation.
Open restaurants San Clemente
South of Nick's San Clemente | Mexican Kitchen + Bar is most popular around 3 PM on Saturdays. Visitors usually stay up to 2 hours here. It's most quiet on Tuesdays.
San Clemente, CA – MONCADA
South of Nicks: For a more upscale Mexican spot, South of Nicks never disappoints. It is a buzzing atmosphere with incredible Mexican dishes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit