Carmelita's Kitchen Carmelita's Kitchen
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  • Carmelita's Kitchen


    31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, United States


  • Carmelita's Kitchen


    +1 949-709-7600


Service options

+ Outdoor seating

+ Delivery

+ Takeaway

+ Dine-in

Highlights

+ Fast service

+ Great beer selection

+ Great cocktails

+ Great wine list

+ Serves local specialty

Popular for

+ Lunch

+ Dinner

+ Solo dining

Accessibility

+ Wheelchair-accessible car park

+ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

+ Wheelchair-accessible seating

+ Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings

+ Alcohol

+ Beer

+ Cocktails

+ Coffee

+ Comfort food

+ Organic dishes

+ Small plates

+ Spirits

+ Vegetarian options

+ Wine

Dining options

+ Breakfast

+ Lunch

+ Dinner

+ Dessert

+ Seating

+ Table service

Amenities

+ Bar on site

+ Toilet

+ Wi-Fi

+ Wi-Fi

Atmosphere

+ Casual

+ Cosy

+ Romantic

+ Trendy

Crowd

+ Family friendly

+ Groups

+ Locals

Planning

+ Dinner reservations recommended

+ Accepts reservations

+ Usually a wait

Payments

+ Credit cards

+ Debit cards

+ NFC mobile payments

+ Credit cards

Children

+ Good for kids

+ High chairs

+ Kids' menu

Parking

+ Free of charge street parking

+ Free parking lot

+ Parking


Carmelita's Kitchen menu

Guacamole

made to order with hand picked avocados

US$16.00

Shrimp Ceviche

citrus cooked with pico de gallo and avocado

US$19.00

Queso Fundido

pan roasted cheese, longaniza sausage, poblano, onion, and mushroom

US$16.00

Nachos

baked nachos with melted cheese, pico de gallo, beans, sour cream and guacamole

US$16.00

Shrimp Taquitos

house-made aioli, lettuce, cheese and pico de gallo

US$21.00

Little Casita Salad

champagne dressing, corn, cheese, cucumber, onion and tomato

US$17.00

Fajita & Avocado Salad

corn, pepitas, veggies, avocado, cheese and chipotle apple dressing

US$18.00

Chicken Tostada

with guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, cheese and cilantro ranch

US$23.00

Full Menu

Discover Carmelita's Kitchen

Carmelita's Kitchen is a charming, must-visit restaurant nestled in the heart of Rancho Santa Margarita at 31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688. If you're craving a hearty, flavorful meal with a touch of warmth and comfort, this cozy spot is the perfect place to satisfy your hunger. From the moment you walk in, you're welcomed with a warm ambiance, friendly staff, and a menu that will make your taste buds dance.

The menu at Carmelita's Kitchen offers a blend of classic diner favorites with a twist, showcasing fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you're a fan of breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there's something for everyone. The portions are generous, and the variety ensures that no matter your craving, you’ll leave happy. A popular choice for many regulars is the signature "Carmelita's Breakfast Burrito." Packed with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, sautéed vegetables, and a special house-made sauce, it's the kind of dish that makes you want to come back for more. For those who prefer a lighter option, the fresh salads with grilled chicken or shrimp are a fantastic choice, offering a balance of flavors that are both satisfying and refreshing.

One of the standout features of Carmelita's Kitchen is its ability to maintain a friendly, local vibe while offering a quality dining experience that rivals higher-end establishments. The restaurant’s owners and staff take great pride in their work, ensuring that each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail. This dedication shines through in the flavor profiles of their meals, which have earned the restaurant loyal customers who return time and time again.

A quick look at the reviews for Carmelita's Kitchen on various platforms reveals a pattern of praise for not just the food but the service as well. Guests consistently highlight the attentive and welcoming staff, noting how they go the extra mile to make each dining experience feel special. Whether you're coming in for a quick bite during lunch or enjoying a leisurely dinner with friends, the service at Carmelita's is consistently top-notch.

The restaurant’s location also makes it a convenient spot for locals and visitors alike. Situated near local shops and scenic spots in Rancho Santa Margarita, Carmelita's Kitchen is an ideal place to drop by after a hike or a day of shopping. It’s the perfect combination of great food, excellent service, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a go-to for casual dining.

Looking to dive deeper into the experience at Carmelita's Kitchen? Their daily specials are something to watch out for. These dishes, offered only for a limited time, feature seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations. If you're fortunate enough to visit when one of these specials is available, you’re in for a treat. From a grilled salmon with lemon-butter sauce to a mouth-watering pot roast served with mashed potatoes, these specials showcase the restaurant's ability to deliver unexpected delights.

If you're planning your first visit to Carmelita's Kitchen, here’s a tip: don't skip dessert. The homemade pies, particularly the apple and pecan pies, are often mentioned as favorites among regulars. The crust is flaky and perfectly baked, while the filling is always fresh and flavorful-making it a satisfying way to end your meal.

Moreover, the friendly, community-oriented atmosphere at Carmelita's gives it a unique charm. It’s the kind of place where the staff knows your name after a few visits, and you feel like part of the family. The owners have truly created a welcoming space where diners can relax and enjoy their meal, whether alone, with friends, or with family.

For those who might be on the go or prefer to dine at home, Carmelita's Kitchen offers takeout options that make enjoying their delicious meals even more convenient. The packaging ensures that each dish arrives fresh, hot, and ready to be enjoyed, even if you're not able to dine in the restaurant.

In conclusion, whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a special occasion, Carmelita's Kitchen offers a delightful dining experience that combines great food, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere. With its convenient location, seasonal specials, and mouth-watering menu options, this Rancho Santa Margarita gem is definitely worth a visit.


Carmelita's Kitchen Photos

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Location & Contact

Get in touch with our support team


  • 31441 Santa Margarita Pkwy, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, United States
  • +1 949-709-7600




Clock


Hours

Our open schedules

Day
Monday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Tuesday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Wednesday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Thursday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Friday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM



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Carmelita's Kitchen

Discover Carmelita's Kitchen in Rancho Santa Margarita, where fresh, flavorful dishes and warm hospitality come together to create a delightful dining experience you’ll love!

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