Grub Guide

ROMEO CUCINA
This ain't an intimate trattoria. Romeo's is a celebration space that's all about comfort food—and you'll be comforted by their specialty: pork chops decked out in a reduction of shallots and peppercorns. It's a taste sensation. 249 Broadway, Laguna Beach, (949) 497-6627; 28241 Crown Valley Pkwy., Laguna Niguel, (949) 831-4131; www.romeocucina.com. $

SUNDRIED TOMATO CAFÉ
Rack of lamb is as ubiquitous to fancy American bistros as falafels are to Middle Eastern bazaars, but the Sundried Tomato Café prepares a version fit for hoity-toity cavemen—meaty bones doused with a tart cranberry sauce and the lamb cooked to pink perfection. There is a great, zesty sun-dried tomato cream soup, as well. 31781 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, (949) 661-1167;361 Forest Ave., Ste. 103, Laguna Beach; (949) 494-3312; www.sundriedtomatocafe.com. $$