Malulu sushi in Laguna and SC! Founded by one chef and only has like 3 different sushi chefs who work on a daily basis, waitresses are lovely. They honor regulars and I love going in!
Splashes, Laguna Beach if you can get a table next to the ocean. Great view + can walk around beforehand. It’s been a long while since I’ve been, and I haven’t gone since renovation but they used to have a larger outdoor table
Not sure how upscale you’re trying to go esp w the kiddos but if you’re…