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Embarcadero Reviews List

Embarcadero

Embarcadero California Bistro is George Valdovinos' newest restaurant and is located in the El Paseo plaza in Rancho Santa Margarita. Embarcadero hosts an innovative menu featuring small plates, signature salads, homemade pizzas, creative sandwiches, and entrees with a new twist. We also boast a full bar featuring specialty mojitos, martinis, and an extensive wine list. We will have live entertainment in the bar on most weekend evenings. The staff at Embarcadero looks forward to seeing you all in the very near future.
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94 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
3.9 / 5
(Very Good) 3.9 / 5
(94 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 94 reviews
5 stars
(31)
4 stars
(36)
3 stars
(15)
2 stars
(9)
1 star
(3)
Food 
3.9 / 5
(Very Good) 3.9 / 5
Service 
3.9 / 5
(Very Good) 3.9 / 5
Ambiance 
3.7 / 5
(Very Good) 3.7 / 5
Noise Level
2.3 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • neighborhood gem(50)
  • great for outdoor dining(46)
  • fit for foodies(33)
  • vibrant bar scene(30)
  • hot spot(26)
  • special occasion(23)
Embarcadero Reviews List
Review 1 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Always good.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Very fresh seafood and friendly service."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 2 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Always Great

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Have eaten at this establishment numerous times now and we're never disappointed. Excellent food.
The new owners have created a much enhanced environment with changes to the interior design!
Try it! You will not be disappointed.
"
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 3 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

When we first arrived I was

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"When we first arrived I was a little concerned as the music was turned up really high to the point of deafening, but it was eventually turned down to a more suitable level. We were seated right away and out server immediately took our drink orders. I ordered the Chef George steak and my wife ordered the Rib Eye. Both were very delicious as we did not leave anything. The vegetables were undercooked for me but were still good nonetheless. We both had mashed potatoes, both excellent, but hers were better (garlic & bacon). Our server was very attentive and made sure we enjoyed our experience. It would have been nice if our drinks had come more expediently, the bar seemed a little slow to put the orders out. Overall, a great meal!!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 4 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Service lacked, very slow

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Service lacked, very slow , wrong drinks came, order taken wrong by waiter. Needs some help..."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2009
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Review 5 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The service was good. If you

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The service was good. If you buy a bottle of wine next door at Uncorked they do not charge you a corkage fee. The food is pretty good.
We had a great booth tucked away in the corner.
"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2009
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Review 6 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Fantastic brunch! Great if

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Fantastic brunch! Great if you want to enjoy a relaxed meal with a wide variety of foods from breakfast through lunch items. Service is very good, and the atmosphere pleasant/comforable. A great find! We will frequent this one."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 7 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Everything was great. The

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Everything was great. The only comment is that it would be nice to know the cost of a glass of wine before you receive the bill. We ordered a mid-level wine, that was fantastic, but did not know that it was $15/glass until we received the bill."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2006
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Review 8 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Went here for Easter with

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Went here for Easter with my mother and they were serving Brunch. I wish I had known that, because I was hoping to try items from their actual menu. I will have to come back at a different time. They had a shaved ice vendor on-site and that was a nice touch. Everybody enjoyed it."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 9 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Loved the live band! Was a

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Loved the live band! Was a little disappointed with our meal - they didn't have one of the appetizers we wanted and also didn't have the ingredients for one of their drinks. We were there at 5pm on a Sunday - so felt that they should have been fully prepared. The food was good, as well as the service."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2012
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 10 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

WOW!!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Beyond my Expectations is the best descriptive that I could give considering that my wife and our friends set the bar pretty high!!"
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 11 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Stellar food and good service

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fresh and creative food choices and an appealing martini menu, but a disappointing wine selection (plenty of selections, but quality is certainly more appealing than quantity) considering it's San Fran/Napa vibe and the fact that a wine store is next door. There's a kids meal, plenty of outdoor and indoor seating, a large bar with seating. They have a Sunday brunch buffet that may be worth a shot. The front desk/check in hostess was a bit lacking in customer service skills, but the waiters and servers were exceptionally polite and attentive."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 12 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Not very vegetarian friendly.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Not very vegetarian friendly. Wine list, in addition to typos, did not have select wines listed. Food was quite good; service somewhat challenged."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2008
Special Features: kid-friendly
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Review 13 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Our service was pretty horrible.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Our service was pretty horrible. But the food was great when we got it."
Dined on 04/03/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 14 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Had brunch on Easter Sunday

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Had brunch on Easter Sunday and really enjoyed the food and service. I will definitely return. The buffet area can get crowded because it is small but everything else was perfect."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 15 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I'll eat here again

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We've been twice, once for Mother's Day & once for Easter. The brunch on Easter Sunday was memorable, SUCH a great choice of foods and desserts. They are on open table so you can earn points to dine there, that is how I found out about them in the first place. Staff is always super nice. I'll eat there again."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2011
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining
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Review 16 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

went to Embarcadero for easter

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"went to Embarcadero for easter Brunch. The food was excellent, service was great; however, I called a day before our reservations (Saturday) to confirm the price and they told me it was 19.99 for adults and 9.99 for kids. when we got our bill the price for adult was 28.99 and 12.99 for kids. I understand this price was probably based on Easter brunch for they should inform the staff about the price change."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2011
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 17 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great food, great atmosphere!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food, great atmosphere! We really enjoyed our dining experience there!"
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 18 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We had a great time.. food

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a great time.. food was really good! Would love to return! Our server Tanner did a wonderful job! Thanks for a great dinner! :)"
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 19 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

First time there, can't wait

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"First time there, can't wait to return!! Great food and wonderful service,, so excited to find a new place to eat."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 20 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Too loud. Food nothing to

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
"Too loud. Food nothing to write home about"
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2013
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Review 21 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We went here with friends

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We went here with friends and everyone enjoyed their meal. Presentation of food was nice. I had the potato wrapped salmon & it was very good. The service was very attentive. The ambiance was nice & quiet, with low music in the background so that we could enjoy our conversation. I do not like loud music or noisy restaurants because you are shouting at each other, but was pleasantly surprised here. We had the creme brulee for dessert for $10, but what you got was a very small cup. Prices are on the high side here, but well worth a special occaision or night out with friends."
Dined on 03/27/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 22 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Winning neighborhood option!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This is the third restaurant in this location and I believe a winner! Exec chef is the owner and is doing an excellent job with the menu and quality of the food. We have gone several times with different people and have not been disappointed. Business is brisk with a vibrant bar separated off from the dining area and a nice outdoor patio. The restaurant handles children well by separating the families from those without kids. Having dined with and without, I can add that there is no difference in the service and makes for a more comfortable environment for both. Highly recommend a visit!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 23 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Our server was amazing at

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Our server was amazing at first, started out 5 star, but declined as the night got busier. They weren't well staffed at all for a busy Saturday night. Our server got 2 large parties and we never saw him again. Even asked the Manager for help, he went to go get out drinks, and HE never returned to us. Food was amazing however."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2010
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 24 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

First time here .. came with

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"First time here .. came with a few friends .. everything was great! Definitely would come back to try more items!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining
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Review 25 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

You Will Not Be Disappointed!!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We have eaten at this neighborhood restaurant numerous times now and find it to be simply terrific! We were disappointed when the former restaurant operator abandoned this location, but now we're glad because Embarcadero is far superior! The staff is very attentive, opening the main entrance doors upon arriving and departing - what a great touch! Edgar, the manager was right on the job, greeting customers and assuring that their dining experience was as desired. And the wait persons are very very attentive and helpful. Oh yes, the best steak in town - George's Special! Try this restaurant, , you will not be disappointed!"
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 26 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great salads, nice ambiance.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great salads, nice ambiance. Live entertainment was nice but made it hard to have a conversation without yelling. Server Tanner was attentive and knowledgeable."
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2008
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 27 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Chef George has some specials

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Chef George has some specials and I ordered the white seabass/corvina entree. It was PERFECT."
Dined on 03/21/2013
 2002
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 28 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

SAdly Served

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Starting, wine was corked/vodka limited-however better wine to replace the bad one, just ask and they'll order your vodka likes! Mistakes were fixed. 4 requests for heaters, then 15 minutes later one table opted no heater, and the entire patio went out! server seemed new at her job. slowly got food- chix/avacado rollups tasty, ahi poke way too veiny/too much tissue to ever reorder. shrimp on baguette was good years ago when you opened- bread/presentation gone. Filet sandwich was enjoyed by my husband. one reason we choose Embarcadero last night was the chowder. WRONG in so many ways! EXtremely salty, potato soup, no clams, no flavor, no coming back to have it again.
sorry to say, and probably no surprise, we won't be returning!
"
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2005
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, notable wine list
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Review 29 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We'vw been to Embarcadero

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We'vw been to Embarcadero many times and on many occasions the service has not been up to par. That seems to have changed, as the service was excellent this time. Our waiter was really friendly and did an outstanding job, and this time there were others that stopped by as well to top off our wine, bring us bread, etc. The food was also very good. We had a beet salad, which was great, and the Cioppino and the swordfish, which were also great."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 30 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The soothing sounds of live

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The soothing sounds of live saxophone was awesome!"
Dined on 03/10/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 31 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This is the second restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This is the second restaurant I have frequented that was owned by Chef George Valdovinos. I spent a lot of lunches and dinners at his original restaurant, Bisto 311, which was close to my office. George has catered many work and personal events for me. His new restaurant, Embarcadero California Bistro is a refreshing surprise in Rancho Santa Margarita. From his attentive and friendly staff to his varied menu (which changes seasonally), I always enjoy my lunches/dinners at Embarcadero. This is definitely the best restaurant in the area, with its extensive menu, complete wine list and fun, energetic bar!"
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 32 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Embarcadero

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Second time at Embarcader. I had the Sea Bass and it was wonderful... Annita had the 14 oz steak medium rare... It was almost past medium temp... But the taste was so good, we did not send it back... I was also expecting a little birthday something as I had stated that in the.reservation.. Annita got nothing... Oh well, overall, restaurant is great."
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2012
Special Features: romantic
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Review 33 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I would have given the whole

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I would have given the whole experience 5 stars, BUT, they didn't have our reservation. There were 2 other groups that came in who used open table to make their reservation too and the restaraunt did not have it. So it took 45 minutes past our reservation to be seated, this was rough, we had a large party hence why we made the reservation. This needs to be figured out. Otherwise the food, the service, the bar, everything was great!!"
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list
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Review 34 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This place is amazing. Everything

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This place is amazing. Everything tasted good. The crab cakes were to die for. The clam chowder was delicious and tastes like it was from pier 39 in San Francisco. Oh and the lobster mased potatoes were mind blowing! The service was wonderful. We will definitely return again."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 35 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Good Food, Bad Service

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We were placed at a table that was next to the hostess station, in the path of the kitchen, and subject to cold blasts of air through the front door. We asked to be moved and were placed in the bar along the window. We ordered an appetizer which we shared. My wife's entree arrived at the same time as the appetizer and the food server ignored her request to reject the entree at that moment until we finished the appetizer. The entree was picked up and returned to the kitchen. My entree arrived and my wife's was missing. After about 15 minutes, my wife's entree returned with a hot plate and cold meat. My wife tried to eat her meal but it was not appetizing. We asked that my wife's entree be subtracted from the bill which was done."
Dined on 02/22/2013
 2013
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Review 36 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Completely enjoyed our evening

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Completely enjoyed our evening out. We had drinks at the bar and they were very good. Our waiter was knowledgeable about the menu and clearly enjoys his job."
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2010
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 37 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Overall, the food was good,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Overall, the food was good, the service decent, the prices leave something to be desired for some of what we ordered, and if you don't mind almost shouting to have a conversation across the table on a Saturday night, have at it. There were some disappointments like the creme brulee that was sub-par for $10 but on the other side, the ceviche appetizer was excellent along with the crab cakes. The potato-wrapped salmon was good, too, but the cioppino should have been the next level up for the $23 entree. Ditto for the $4 Ceasar salad. Pale. Those two items were sub-par next to other restaurants at that price. Would have liked the wine list to be more expansive and thought out."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2013
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Review 38 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Overpriced fish

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Service was horrible. Items on menu were not available but was not told that by waiter. Waiter was not professional or attentive. Fish was very delicious but overpriced. I was disappointed from all the hype about Embarcadero"
Dined on 02/15/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 39 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

My wife ordered the pasta.

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My wife ordered the pasta. The waiter then advised it was not available as the Valentine menu was in place on 2/15/13. However, he had gieven her the regular menu with past listed. She then ordered a pizza to only have the waiter tell here the pizza oven was not working. At this point, the restaurant received a "D" when she had to make a 3rd entree selection.
Food was only average at best."
Dined on 02/15/2013
 2013
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Review 40 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Very over priced. Some unique

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Very over priced. Some unique entrees but not worth the price. Most items are a la carte so you need to order additional items. Very loud. They also ask for your cell phone number so they can text you when a table is available. Seems there would be another way than the personal invasion of asking for your phone number."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
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Review 41 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We made reservations for 4

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We made reservations for 4 for Valentines Day which also doubled for my daughter's birthday. Seated right away despite a hectic holiday night. Server was very attentive and the recommendation of wine we selected for the meal was perfect. Food was excellent, shrimp lettuce cups was nice twist on traditional lettuce wraps; the seabass came with a tomatillo sauce that was just the right touch of flavor. Even the mac and cheese enjoyed by daughter and son was prepared perfectly with just right touch of cheese and cream. Desert was snickerbar sundae. Very nice! Will come back again!"
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2012
Special Features: kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 42 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

We'd been there once before

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We'd been there once before and enjoyed it - this time, it was just "ok." We went for a special meal with our two elementary-aged kids. The kids menu didn't offer steak so we asked if a kids portion could be done, and after the waiter checked, she came back with a "no." So my husband ordered a large steak to split with our daughter, and she ordered a side of fries (which were too salty). I got the potato-wrapped salmon, and our other child got the buttered pasta. We never got bread and finally had to ask for it when our food was finally served. All the food was just "ok" ... nothing great, and not worth the price or wait. I don't know that we'll be back. Too bad - because I love the ambiance."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2006
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Review 43 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food was very good, but

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was very good, but a little disappointed when told that eh Halibut was "out-of-season" and hence they substituted a Maui-Maui...which was simply not the same at all. If it's "out-of season", they better find a different supplier - or take it off the menu! I had the rack of lamb and it was excellent.Otherwise, the service was excellent and the ambiance was good. A nice local restaurant where you can get decent food at a relatively fair price, and not feel out of place bringing the kids."
Dined on 02/09/2013
 2006
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly
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Review 44 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We always have a great time

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We always have a great time at Embarcadero! The service is excellent! The food is delicious! This time we had a group of 8 for a birthday celebration. They were very attentive & the birthday girl had a grand celebration. I recommend the Lobster Melt Sandwich with garlic fries. To wash it down, I had the vodka martini with blue cheese stuffed olives. Pure decadence! The birthday girl had the venison & gave me a bite so I can also recommend that!"
Dined on 02/05/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 45 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Go to Retaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great dinner and outstanding service from waiter Kevin. His spirit was upbeat and extremely knowledgeable and helpful. A nice date night with my hubby"
Dined on 02/02/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 46 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food is fantastic! Service

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food is fantastic! Service is fantastic!"
Dined on 02/01/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 47 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fun date night

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Delicious food in a great resturant. Can get a bit loud, but we could still hear each other talk. They had live music playing in the bar on Saturday night which we also enjoyed."
Dined on 02/02/2013
 2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 48 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A great neighborhood find.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"A great neighborhood find. Live music Thurs -Sat adds to the experience! We tried the Embarcadero for the first time on Fri night and liked it so much we returned on Sun morning for brunch. Both meals were great, and brunch was beautiful. This is the perfect place to meet friends. The dishes were a bit spicey for me, as cayanne seemed to be a std. ingredient, but not so for my husband. A pleasant experience overall. Glad we found this restaurant!"
Dined on 02/01/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 49 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

My Hubby and I absolutely

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"My Hubby and I absolutely love this place. We are in almost once a week and are so happy we found this neighborhood treasure! We have been coming here for about 8 months and honestly everytime we go the food is spectacular! I can order the same thing and it is always consistent. The staff are super friendly and the ambiance is great!"
Dined on 01/27/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 50 for Embarcadero
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food was good although they

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was good although they were out of the Halibut and offered Mahi Mahi instead, then when order was delivered to our table the waitress asked "Who has the Halibut?" We also had 7:00pm reservations and were asked to wait 20 minutes for our table because they were so busy and had not properly prepared for reservations. Other than those service issues, I would go there again."
Dined on 01/25/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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