We were driving home on the 5 and we were looking for some Mexican food. El ZARANDEADO came up on our Yelp search so we gave it a try. It was Amazing. If your looking for Mexican seafood style this is the place. We tried the fried ahi tacos shrimp cocktail, and the shrimp ceviche. Each was was filled with flavor and fresh. We like it hot so we liberally added the Tapatio. Our kids kept it simple with kids menu items that are also available (chicken nuggets and burrito). The ambiance for lunch was a clean location with large TVs but space for small and large groups. The service was quick and helpful, our server Marlena was great providing insight to favored dishes. read more

El Zarandeado - Fried ahi tacos - Mexican Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

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I loved the Aquachile Chapala and the Chile Relleno was a surprise hit. I will be coming back for those. I would probably skip the Pulpo Zarandeado on revisit. read more

If you're looking for authentic, fantastic Mexican food in San Juan Capistrano, El Zabandeja is absolutely worth your time. This is the kind of place where the food speaks for itself. As a local gringo, sure--I wouldn't mind a few pictures on the menu--but honestly, it doesn't matter. Just pick something and go for it. Everything I've tried has been excellent, and you really can't go wrong. What makes it even better is that it's truly family-owned and operated. And I mean that literally--you'll see them in the front, in the back, and serving tables. There's something special about that level of care and pride in what they're doing. It's incredibly important to support places like this, especially in South Orange County and particularly in San Juan Capistrano. Restaurants like this are what give the area its character. Take your time when you go--make it a date night or bring family when they're in town. If you want real, authentic, fantastic food, this is the spot. read more

We ordered a 4 lb lobster. It came with shrimp, potatoes, and rice. The price was cheap, but the lobster was so bad that I'd never go back. The lobster meat was watery & mushy. I complained & they gave me a discount. The discount did not take away the bad taste in my mouth. I came here because of the great reviews on Yelp. I was so disappointed! read more

El Zarandeado - 4 lb lobster - Mexican Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Very fresh and authentic Mexican seafood place. We had a tuna ceviche, grilled octopus. Both were super delicious. For drinks we had a Medolo Negra and original margarita, and dessert we shared a flan. Restaurant is family friendly. Service was very good with frequent checking on things. read more

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Just an updated review to say that this place is STILL amazing. They constantly amaze me and the party I am with. They recently welcomed a party of 7 and our waitress was so attentive, kind and helpful. We were a lot and asked a lot of questions and she accommodated us and went above and beyond. They could have the worst service and I'd still be back for the food. The food is so flavorful. Every sauce offered is bursting with authentic flavors and it's hard to determine what to get. There is no wrong dish! Keep up the amazing work! I nominate this restaurant one of the best restaurants in Orange County! read more

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An absolute hole in the wall that was surprisingly delicious and satisfying. The service was great and restaurant was clean. Decent amount of seating. The free homemade chips and salsa were great. The stuffed pepper was amazing. The seafood enchilada was fantastic. The shrimp plate was super savory. All in all the food was fantastic and worth the wait (fill up portion chips when waiting). read more

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5/5, no notes! Happened upon this place by accident and will make it a real destination going forward. Lovely service and food is amazing. We sat outside close to the fountain. The camarones al ajillo was recommended by the server and was truly special. We looked up recipes after getting home to see how we could recreate it. The pulpo was very tender and delicious as well. The sauces on both these dishes were excellent and asked for spoons so get every last drop. It's a must visit in SJC! read more

This place was not good ! They got my order wrong . When it finally came it was nasty . The Birria was so greasy and Pulpo taco was just gross and the governado was nasty ! The waiter took forever . And for some reason after giving me my plate he took of picture of it . read more

Family and I had dinner here, our server was really nice, helpful and accommodating. We started off with the shrimp appetizer, 12 shrimp that were charred with two dipping sauces. My daughter enjoyed it alot. Then we ordered the fish and Chile relleno, we did wish there was more Chile relleno or a bigger portion of it. The description was a bit false advertisement. But the flavor was great. All in all we left feeling a bit hungry still even after spending over $100 not including tip. read more

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Great service, nice ambiance and delicious food. The ceviche and grilled branzino were very tasty. It was our first time eating here and didn't realize this place existed. A must try. Definitely didn't disappoint. We will be back for sure. read more

If you're the kind of person who believes the best food comes from the most unassuming places, this little hole-in-the-wall spot will absolutely win you over. From the outside, it's easy to miss--but step inside, and you will love it. The seafood here is incredibly fresh. The flavors are simple but done right, letting the quality of the ingredients shine. Whether it's perfectly grilled fish, buttery shrimp, or a rich, savory seafood platter, everything is cooked with care and consistency. The staff treats you like a regular, even if it's your first visit. They're attentive without being overbearing, happy to make recommendations, and genuinely seem to enjoy what they do, which makes the whole experience even better. It's not fancy, and that's exactly the point. No frills, no pretension, just amazing seafood, generous portions, and people who know how to take care of their customers. Places like this are rare, and once you find it, you'll keep coming back. read more

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Great seafood, quick service. The tacos don't come with rice and beans. Quick walk from the train station

The seafood was fresh and full of flavor, and everything tasted very well prepared. I highly recommend trying the agua chile con salsa negro -- it had great flavor and was one of my favorite dishes. The camarones a la diabla and camarones al ajillo were also both delicious, well seasoned, and cooked perfectly. If you enjoy seafood, this is definitely a place worth trying. I would gladly come back again. read more

Best Aguachile I have ever had. Everything we had here was amazing. Tasty margaritas and tacos but I would totally come back just for the Aguachile. read more

El Zarandeado - Aguachile negro - Mexican Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Yelp reviews brought me here with high expectations. I had a baja fish taco and a shrimp and crab chile relleno. The relleno didn't have any typical fluffy egg batter or ranchera sauce, but was smothered in a cream sauce that worked well with the seafood. This was very tasty. The rice and refried beans that came with it were pretty bland and uninteresting. 4/5 and $26. The taco was just okay. The batter didn't have that tempura like consistency, nor did the flavors or textures really capture a true Black Market Ensenda fish taco. Why these are so hard to recreate is almost universally a puzzle places find difficult to tackle. 3/5 and $7 per taco. We ordered margaritas, all flavored varieties. I had the jalapeno variety, and tasted a plain one as well. I was curious about the absence of any tequila flavor, until I looked around and saw only beer and wine. It was a wine based margarita, so really wasn't a margarita at all. They should make this clear on the menu. 1/5 I'd be interested in trying some of their other items, but would have to be in a spendy mood. The prices here for everything are pretty high with the cheapest entree at $24, and the highest at $68. read more

If you're looking for authentic Mexican seafood that hits every mark, El Zarandeado is the spot. The outdoor ambience is great, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal. The highlight of the meal was the Branzino. It was savory, seasoned to perfection, and grilled beautifully. The meat was incredibly tender and just melted in your mouth. I also had the Chile Relleno stuffed with shrimp, which was superb. My husband ordered the Chicken Burrito, which came with a side of French fries--a pleasant and tasty surprise that we really enjoyed! The service here is world-class. Every staff member was friendly and welcoming. We were even greeted by the chef, who shared that their seafood is brought in fresh from Ensenada. That dedication to quality is evident in the taste. Phenomenal food, great vibes, and top-tier service. We will definitely be back. Highly recommend! read more

This place was great. Went for my dad's birthday (he is a repeat customer and this is where he wanted to go) for our group of 8. It was quiet inside and the food and drinks were great. I had a cucumber margarita that was fresh and very good. Everyone at the table loved their food (we had a little bit of everything including enchiladas, burritos, tacos and even grilled chicken) and the fresh quac was also amazing. They were sweet and brought out a piece of flan for my dad and sang to him in Spanish. As we were leaving there was a big birthday party outside on the patio and it seemed like the perfect place to host an event like that that! It can be a little hard to find but they have signs and you just go behind the bank and you will find it. We will definitely go back! read more

El Zarandeado - Crab and shrimp Enchiladas - Mexican Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

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Octopus lovers need to try this restaurant! Service was friendly and attentive. Enjoy our entree and appetizer. read more

El Zarandeado - Puplo Zarandeado - Mexican Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

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This place has a very casual atmosphere. We went there on a week night and the place was kind of empty. Bu read more

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El Zarandeado in San Juan Capistrano has a lot going for it, fresh seafood, lively atmosphere, and friendly service. The staff was attentive without hovering, and everything came out hot and well-prepared. The flavors were solid, good, but missing that extra punch that would make it great. Prices felt fair for what you get, would have liked to seen a little more shrimp and it's definitely a spot worth checking out if you're craving Mexican-style seafood and a chill vibe. read more

El Zarandeado - Mexican Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

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What a nice find in San Juan Capistrano! Both my son and girlfriend had been to El Zarandeado (El Z) before my visit with my girlfriend. I can say that they were right with how much they liked El Z. Service was efficient and friendly, the restaurant was clean and had a nice atmosphere. We selected a shrimp dish and an enchilada dish and both were excellent. While we were dinning the table next to use had the lobster special brought to the table, it looked so amazing that I had to ask about it when we left. The couple said they saw the table next to them have it served so they ordered it and it was fantastic, that is what I am getting the next time I visit El Z and it will not be lone before I make that return visit. read more

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Fantastic unassuming restaurant in the charming main strip of small historic town. Service was prompt, kind, and attentive. Shrimp and crab (actual crab meat!) enchiladas + green sauce were delicious. Grilled octopus platter was well prepared, fresh, and tender. Small kids shared an impressively prepared shrimp pasta. Branzino is the highlight and they can prepare in various ways. But for us -- fried, lemons, and a wooden board and let us go to work! Fine dishes, priced reasonably, and abundant parking. Bonafide SJC hidden gem. read more

I walked in today on my lunch @ 11.57 am... was told we don't open until 12 pm. Waitress was rather blunt / rude. Sorry not getting my $$ ever.. first and last attempt. read more

Entering through a courtyard we were nicely seated and enjoyed great service from several of the staff. our order of a margarita, guacamole, shrimp diablo, cameron aguachile, flan and a coffee cane to about $100. we added the medium salsa to the guacamole to flavor it up a bit. sadly the chips didn't seem fresh. the margarita was good and the entrees delicious. i recommend ordering a side of mayo with the aguachilies. the diablo sauce is very tasty! we. weren't a real fan of the flan because of the texture (too stiff) not creamy enough for us. coffee was delish. a gentleman came in and played some nice dinner music so that was a treat in the pleasant atmosphere. i recommend this eatery. the menu is mostly seafood but there are some meat taco and burrito options as well as a few choices for children. read more

I can't believe it's taken me this long to write this review because this place truly deserves it. The quality of the food is consistently outstanding you can taste how fresh the seafood is in every single bite. Whether it's fish, shrimp, or anything else on the menu, it's always prepared perfectly and full of flavor. The seasoning and balance of flavors never disappoint. Every dish feels thoughtfully made and beautifully presented. And let's not forget the drinks, they are just as impressive as the food. Always refreshing, well crafted, and the perfect complement to the meal. If you're looking for fresh seafood, amazing flavor, and delicious drinks all in one place, this is it. Highly recommend! read more

Great fresh food, indoor and outdoor dining and great service. Will try the Octopus next time. read more

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This place deserves all the praise and then some! El Zarandeado is easily my favorite Mexican restaurant in South OC. The owners, husband and wife, are so kind and welcoming, and you can tell they pour their heart into every dish. The food is incredible. The shrimp pasta is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. The fried tuna tostadas my favorite, so savory and good. And the shrimp platter is a must.. it comes with a buttery garlic sauce and spicy salsa on the side that brings it all together. Everything is plated beautifully and the quality of every dish speaks for itself. Their drinks are just as impressive. The guava margarita is my go-to, so refreshing and not overly sweet. And their micheladas are hands down the best around! Everything about this place just hits the spot.. the food, the drinks, the people behind it. I always find myself craving it again the next day. San Juan has a gem with this one! read more

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The food was delicious and we loved the complimentary chips/salsa. I got an Ensenada fish taco, shrimp taco and a quesa birria taco. All three were sooo delish. The servers were extremely welcoming and kind. Can't wait to come back!! read more

El Zarandeado - Ensenada fish taco, shrimp taco and a quesa birria taco - Mexican Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

If I could it would be about a 4.4 or 4.5 star review but since it was only our first time I have it a 4 star review. The service was excellently balanced between attentive and providing space. The food was brought with good spacing and at peak temperature for the dishes them selves. The Capistrano Shrimp was just legit! The main dishes hit the spot! All in all a fantastic meal! We hope to try it again soon. read more

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Not worth the price and certainly not a a great place for seafood. Typical Mexican restaurant in a failing strip mall with a difficult entrance. What would seem like the main entrance on the street leads you to a sign that says to go around and a bunch of empty boxes. Certainly not appetizing. The prices are jacked up over anybody in the area and there are a lot of competitive places that are better. read more

Amazing deals on Taco Tuesdays u must order 2 of same to get deal shrimp tacos 2 for $10 and al pastor 2 for $7. I came for lunch to get takeaway at noon and was perfect no waiting. I can imagine later in day would be crowded. The service was excellent and has a cute courtyard for outside seating that is quiet. This place is tucked into a center that I frequent but never noticed. read more

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Best food in San Juan Capistrano. GASPAR is cooking up some Michelin star quality Mexican food. He also cooks for Swallows in down the road. From start to finish, he makes service in a bar (swallows inn) an experience as close to fine dining level care and attention as it gets. Highly reasonable prices for FRESH NEVER FROZEN seafood. The shrimp tacos were off charts. The chef reccomends you order the octopus. Thanks Gaspar. Your passion and care for your product, food, and customers could not be better. Genuinely. Get this food before there's a line so long you can't get a reservation. read more

I don't write enough reviews but the owners and staff deserve all the best things in this world. This place is absolutely incredible. The best Mexican food/seafood/mariscos spots for like 30 miles. Been here so many times and every time it's a great meal. Pescado Zarandeado-have had both but the Branzino has less bones and easier to eat with tortillas. Also, comes with a cheesy shrimp chile relleno that hmmm Butterfly Shrimp Appetizer - that garlic butter sauce and habanero OMG perfectly grilled every time and the side of lime is always nice. Tuna Ceviche - perfect portion if you want some fish but also a regular Mexican meal. Aguachile Negro - perfect mix and the sauce is amazing and they can make it extra spicy so you can start sweating if you like. Queso Fundido w/al pastor - gooey and juicy and a side of corn tortillas. It's like eating a deconstructed al pastor quesadilla lol if that makes sense but cmon who doesn't love melted cheese! Taquitos dorados de papa - for me this is one of the tests if the kitchen is good at making nice dishes or do they care. The staff here fkn cares! Perfectly blended potatoes that aren't mushy inside a rolled crispy tortilla with all the fixings! Lettuce, crema, guacamole. Tacos - al pastor/gobernador/fish/pulpo/asada - big tacos that you can get 2 and an appetizer and be plenty full aka sleepy lol I personally wish they'd bring back the scallop taco :) Caguama Michelada- tasty blend of spicy mix but not too much Clamato where you can't enjoy the beer. This is definitely a late lunch bevvy bc it's 32 oz so like 3 beers in a giant mug. Chips and salsa - man i always try not to get full on chips and you know the place is good when the chips and salsa are good. Nestled in a quaint little plaza in Old San Juan next to the Mission SJC and a street over from the new "River Street" area by the Los Rios district and across from the famous El Campeón this place holds its own. The place has some amazing service and friendly staff that merits multiple visits to try everything. The lighting is always chill and the smell from the kitchen is inviting. They've redesigned the layout to make more room for bar style seating which I think is a great move to bring in more people. They have everything to stick around in an increasingly competitive food scene in SJC. read more

Service was amazing staff was very knowledgeable and the staff was very nice and welcoming the food was 10000000 worth giving it a try you won't be disappointed read more

Outstanding service, food and friendliness. The shrimp and crab enchiladas were amazing. The shrimp burrito was delicious, great mix of textures. Mixed ceviche was such a hit for us. read more

El Zarandeado - Shrimp burrito - Mexican Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

WOW!!! Got to try their food tonight for the first time and could not be happier. Fresh, made to order and full of flavor with just the right amount of heat to enhance it all. I am already craving my next meal. Chef quality at fast food prices!!!! Can't wait to take my husband. read more

Visited again and it was delicious! Pictured is the Branzino Pescado Zarandeado with a stuffed chile relleno. Delectable! Love it here. read more

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This is a nice restaurant situated behind a small shopping area. You enter through a nice courtyard after parking out in front. The place was empty, so do not let the notice on Yelp that there is a waitlist scare you off. We were glad we came, did not wait, and were seated immediately. It was lunchtime, so we decided to share the Pescado Zarandeado, a delicious huge fish, and cooked with delicious seasonings. It comes with a chili relleno with shrimp and smothered in the most delicious sauce. Would definitely order again. The place is clean and casual, and the service is excellent! We will definitely be back to try other menu items. read more

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PHENOMENAL EXPERIENCE - This is truly a one of a kind restaurant. Mexican, yes, but unlike any Mexican restaurant you've ever eaten at before. Exceptionally gourmet and specializing in heavenly grilled steak and seafood. You will recognize the Margaritas, chips and salsa - but beyond those sign posts lie an abundance of new culinary destinations. Enjoy the trip!! read more