Trackside Tavern
PATIO BAR
All California wine list with over 80 bottles, all Southern California beer list, no imports. No Bud Lite, Coors Light. No Coronas. We have sourced all beer flavor profiles from Southern California to satisfy all palates. We have 12 local drafts and many local bottles. Our extensive wine list brings the world of wine varietals to San Juan Capistrano with California-sourced wines from all over our beautiful state. The overwhelming majority of our wines are sustainably farmed and have received over 90 points or higher from Wine Spectator, Wine Advocate, Vinous, etc.
Our cocktail program provides the freshest, garden-to-glass offerings that utilize our on-site, Trackside Garden of fruits and vegetables, as well as our living wall of herbs and other veggies. Our Beverage Director, Robert Hernandez, has carefully crafted a strong list of delectable cocktails. Artisanal spirits from San Diego to LA and beyond adorn the U-shaped Trackside Tavern bottle racks. House
I chose this restaurant due to its proximity to downtown, situated just off the main street. The ambiance, both indoors and outdoors, was exceptionally warm and welcoming. The patio featured outdoor heaters for comfort during meals, complemented by live entertainment that enhanced the experience without being overwhelming. Inside, we were seated in high-backed chairs by the window, allowing us to observe the trains arriving and departing. The service was outstanding, with the staff promptly attending to our needs. The food was exquisite, with generous portions that were satisfying without leading to waste. They offered wine samples to help us select the perfect pairing for our meal. We decided to order the Mac-n-cheese to take with us for a late-night snack after the concert, which proved to be an excellent choice to share. The overall atmosphere was friendly and courteous. I would highly recommend this establishment and eagerly anticipate my next visit.
Taking the train from north Orange County to San Juan Capistrano was an experience that felt like stepping back in time while embracing the convenience of modern travel. The ride itself was peaceful, with views of Southern California’s varied landscapes flashing by—suburbs giving way to stretches of open space and eventually leading into the historic charm of San Juan Capistrano. Once I arrived, I made my way to a charming restaurant located just steps away from the train station. The outdoor patio, which overlooks the iconic station, offered the perfect vantage point to take in the timeless atmosphere of the area while enjoying an exceptional meal. The restaurant’s design masterfully integrates the train station’s vintage charm with a modern, elevated aesthetic. From the moment I stepped onto the patio, I was struck by how seamlessly the ambiance captured both history and sophistication. The glow of string lights overhead, combined with the gentle hum of conversation and the occasional distant whistle of a passing train, created a warm and inviting atmosphere that felt both lively and tranquil. It was the kind of place where you could easily lose track of time, immersed in good company and even better food. The menu was nothing short of delightful, offering a range of thoughtfully crafted dishes that showcased fresh, vibrant ingredients and bold flavors. Each bite felt intentional, as though the chef had carefully curated every element to create a perfect balance of taste and texture. Choosing just one dish was nearly impossible, as every option seemed more enticing than the last. To complement the meal, the cocktail menu offered an impressive selection of handcrafted drinks, each as beautiful as it was delicious. The mixologists clearly knew their craft, creating beverages that weren’t just drinks—they were experiences in their own right. Every sip seemed to melt away the stresses of the day, leaving only the joy of the moment. Dining on the patio added an extra layer of magic to the evening. The open-air setting allowed me to fully appreciate the charm of the surrounding area. I could see the station’s historic architecture lit up against the night sky, its timeless beauty reminding me of a bygone era while I sat comfortably in the present. The cool evening breeze carried with it the faint scent of nearby gardens, further enhancing the sensory experience. The soft glow of candlelight on the tables and the gentle murmur of trains arriving and departing in the distance added a cinematic quality to the evening, as though I were part of a story unfolding in this enchanting setting. Overall, the night was a perfect blend of history, ambiance, and culinary excellence. Taking the train and dining at this incredible spot wasn’t just a meal—it was an experience that engaged all the senses, leaving me feeling relaxed, inspired, and eager to return. It’s the kind of outing that reminds you to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the beauty of the simple yet extraordinary things in life.
This place came as a recommendation. I guess I didn’t have the same experience as they did to say the least. We were greeted and seated immediately upon arrival. When seated the server assistants came and offered water pretty quickly. After that it took a while before the server came up. Now I don’t know if this makes a difference but we let the server know we were only there for an appetizer and a round of drinks. This is where it takes a turn because after we ordered the server was really not attentive. She didn’t come back until after the appetizer was done so we asked for the check, which also took a while. She didn’t come back after that for a while so I had to ask the manager if she would close us out, which she did and thanked us. So here are my gripes…. - service was slow and we weren’t thanked by the server. - plates sat in front of us even when the check was dropped. Not even the manager grabbed the plates when we were obviously done. - food bland at not as described on the menu. - as we walked out the host staff just looked at us and we weren’t thanked. I will say it’s in a cute spot which is why I gave it 2 stars and not 1.
The restaurant is in a great location and has such a nice outside dining area, there’s a bar outside as well. The staff was fantastic and so was the food. The menu had lots of different options. Basically something for everyone. But dessert was the true star! The carrot coconut cake and the toffee pudding cake are exceptional! The ice cream has to be made in house, it was the best I’ve ever had in my entire life, and I get around lol
Trevor’s at the Tracks is a fantastic location, offering a unique and charming ambiance. The food is of exceptional quality, fresh, and flavorful, leaving a lasting impression. The staff are warm, friendly, and attentive, ensuring a memorable dining experience. The atmosphere is inviting and perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable meal. Highly recommended.