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Welcome to Carmelita’s Kitchen

Located in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, Carmelita’s Kitchen offers a delightful Mexican breakfast and brunch experience. With stunning lake views, house-made margaritas, and fresh, light dishes, it's a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. The attentive staff, outdoor seating with heaters, and complimentary warm bean dip add to the charm of this restaurant. Highlights include the tostada salad, customizable protein options, and the friendly service provided by staff like Dennisse and Matthew. Whether you're looking for a relaxing meal by the lake or a gathering with friends, Carmelita’s Kitchen is a top choice.

Carmelita’s Kitchen: Reviews & Ratings

Sean L.
Sean L.

I absolutely love this place! The stunning lake view, delicious food, and fantastic service make every visit special. We've been coming here for years, and it never disappoints. The house-made margaritas are a highlight--there's truly nothing better than sipping one with friends on a sunny afternoon, soaking in the relaxing atmosphere. The restaurant can get quite busy, but the staff always handles it beautifully. They're friendly, efficient, and attentive. Dennisse took care of us during our most recent visit, and she made sure we had everything we needed with a smile. Whether it's a family reunion or a long-overdue catch-up with friends, this place is perfect. It's a little slice of joy by the lake, and I can't recommend it enough!

Manuel V.
Manuel V.

Delicious food, even better service. Was impressed on my first visit and am making this a frequent come to.

Em T.
Em T.

This is my favorite local place to go for Mexican food and it has been consistently great and fresh for the decade plus I have been going. The location is right on the lake which is a beautiful spot to sit outside and people watch. The recently added an awning so even when it is raining or very hot and sunny, outside is an option. Service is always great and attentive. One of the things I really love about coming here is the food feels a little lighter and less greasy than other Mexican restaurants (even the carnitas). The tostada salad is my favorite of all time (my benchmark for tostada salads at other restaurants) and they let you switch out the protein to your choice. You can even get this to go (with one caveat that the shell will need to be broke to pack it). Drinks are awesome and the warm bean dip is not something I have found elsewhere served with salsa and chips complimentary and we all really enjoy this! What a nice touch for your customers. There are a few kids options off menu so be sure to ask your server if you have little ones with you!

Sandy B.
Sandy B.

I think there are 2 things about this restaurant that are the best - the patio view of the lake and the exceptional service we received, the food was good, but nothing special from any other Mexican eatery. The prices were average to average high. We had the Carmelita Combination with chicken enchilada and beef taco. The enchilada was flavorful with the green sauce but I would've wanted a bigger portion. The taco was overcooked and difficult to eat. My friend got the burrito and said it was good but again nothing special and unique. Overall a nice experience.

Tommy T.
Tommy T.

Great experience! This was our first visit and the service was awesome with Matthew our server. Very attentive and great suggestions. We didn't have to ask for refills as the chips and water were filled frequently. The cocktails were not shy of liquor and tasted great. Food was fresh and flavorful. The ambiance was very nice and they have electric heaters in the patio. Nice of them to allow us to bring our own birthday cake AND they have me flan for my birthday. Overall, very nice experience and definitely will return.

George U.
George U.

What a fantastic evening at Carmelita's in RSM. We sat at the bar for a fee drinks and put our name on the waiting list for an outside table. Neyali was our bartender and Don Ross gets the assist. My wife had Don Julio Blanco with Topo Chico (we brought our own) and three limes muddled with mint and I had the blackberry margarita. The drinks were splendid and Vanessa on of the managers made sure we had fresh chips, salsa and bean dip. The service is fantastic. The ambiance is always positive and uplifting. Our table was ready and we shifted from the bar to the outside high top table once again assisted by Vanessa. Josh came over and introduced himself and we ordered another round of drinks. John had a very positive and professional approach and his service was exemplary. Jose Basurto the GM also stopped by to say hello. I must also mention the winning smile and also top notch service by Belle who always made sure our chips, salsa, water etc. were sufficiently refreshed. Josh then took our main entree order with my wife ordering the chicken enchilada platter and I had the pollo serano. Both dishes were brought out by Mathew another amazing staff member and the plates were well prepared, presented and tasty. The evening was simply wonderful. Jose the GM sent us a fried ice cream and all I can say is WOW and thank you. I had a wonderful coffee and we enjoyed the dessert. Highly recommended and the lake ambiance is the topping on the cake. Good times.

Sonia Alisa J.
Sonia Alisa J.

We brought our friend here for her birthday she absolutely loved it. Our server Chris was wonderful! The food was exceptional drinks Refer's, the view spectacular, just one of favorite restaurants !!! Can't get enough of Carmelita's!!!

Armin M.
Armin M.

I was invited to go here with a group of my coworkers. First impressions, a beautiful view and a very clean restroom. We were seated outside with a nice view of the lake. Only complaint I have is the size of their chairs and the table. It almost seems like they glued the square table to each other to make a bigger table. Nothing to be bothered by or drop stars. They served tortilla chips along with black beans frijoles and salsa as an appetizer. The food was delicious and warm. I really hope they reconsider getting new chairs for the outside patio because the inside looks to be fine.

Location

Welcome to Carmelita's Kitchen, a delightful Mexican breakfast and brunch spot located in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA. This cozy restaurant offers a range of amenities, from taking reservations to offering vegan options and even accepting cryptocurrency as payment. With a stunning view of the lake, Carmelita's Kitchen is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing meal with friends and family.

Customer reviews rave about the house-made margaritas, which are a must-try when visiting. The friendly and efficient staff, such as Dennisse who goes above and beyond to ensure a pleasant dining experience, add to the charm of this establishment.

One standout feature of Carmelita's Kitchen is the lighter and less greasy approach to Mexican cuisine. Dishes like the tostada salad, which can be customized with your choice of protein, are a favorite among regulars. The warm bean dip served with salsa and chips is also a unique and delightful touch that sets this restaurant apart.

Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or a special dinner, Carmelita's Kitchen has something for everyone. The patio seating overlooking the lake, combined with attentive service and fresh, flavorful food, make for a memorable dining experience.

Overall, Carmelita's Kitchen offers a unique blend of delicious food, fantastic service, and a picturesque ambiance. It's no wonder why customers keep coming back for more. So, why not pay a visit to Carmelita's Kitchen and experience the magic for yourself?