You didn't say North or South County, so here goes-
North - Blue Gold in Huntington Beach at Pacific City. Bonus, go or the sunset, windows overlook PCH and the beach.
Central - Javiers in Crystal Cove - Newport Coast - decent but overpriced Mexican however, it's a very cool place and they know…
I love Anastasia in laguna beach for breakfast. Coyote grill in south laguna beach is great breakfast/brunch/Mexican. Tupelo junction in nb is a favorite too for brunch. For Mexican I’d recommend javiers in Newport Coast. If you’re also looking for sushi, sota in corona Del Mar is the place in my opinion.