Our waiter was spot on. Gave great recommendations. Food and drinks were terrific. Great night!

First let me say, we dine out frequently. The service here was horrible. We made a reservation a week in advance, we were forced to sit outside on the noisy curb next to the noisy street and cars. When we asked fir indoor seating, they abruptly said no! When then waited over 20 minutes for someone to come b and offer us water. Another 20 minutes before someone took our order. All this with a reservation made a week in advance. They act like they are the only restaurant in town, there not! Will never be coming back to the restaurant again. Way to many options to be treated this way. Take my advice, go somewhere else! Not worth the time or money!!! read more

Really great food and service. The bartender was really friendly and pours a mean drink.

My first time trying Roccos. My date and I had a great experience. Lots of seating. The noise level was good. The games were playing on the TVs. We were able to catch the football game while dining here. Food was on point!! We ordered the crab cakes as an appetizer, it was delicious. The sauce it comes with was a hit. My main dish was filet mignon pasta. I don't usually have a red wine dish but I was impressed by the flavor. We didn't have room for dessert here. Perhaps another time. Will definitely dine here again. read more

We made Reservations on a Wednesday night but they definitely weren't needed as we were the only ones dining. Most there were locals hangin out at the bar. The service was definitely 5 stars. Siana B was our server and she was excellent. We had a Ceaser Salad and their Insalatina for starters. Both were perfectly fine .. the one big miss was in the drink selection I picked. It was a Blueberry Jalepeno Margarita. I've had similar drinks before and the heat was wonderfully balanced, but that wasn't the case here, I think this is the first time I've ever sent a drink back if only because it burnt my lips. I could actually see the Jalepeno seeds floating in the drink. They quickly switched me out to a vodka tonic and that was fine. Very much loved the Risotto Del Orto.... Overall, not worth the trip due to ambiance and the number of other restaurants in the same location that seemed to attract more diners, read more

Very disappointing. We've been disappointed in the past, waited several months and tried again, and keep getting disappointed. We won't go back anymore. 1. They didn't have the only 2 things on the menu I wanted and one was the Zuppa Toscano. Really?? Two other food items and the wine we wanted were also not available. That's a lot of unavailable items. 2. The food we did get was mediocre at best. 3. It is so loud in there anyway and the music they were playing on top of that made it uncomfortably loud. 4. Service was pleasant but slow. Our server was also seating people as they arrived. He did his best but they were understaffed. My advice is to go somewhere else. read more

5 The food and drinks are simply amazing and made with LOVE! They take so much pride in everything they do, hands down one of the best restaurants in San Clemente~Thank you Rocco's for making our Thanksgiving one to remember! read more

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We've been going to Rocco's for more than 10 years. We've always had good service and food. Recently we've had different experiences. I have never written a negative review on Yelp but felt compelled to share our experience. We've recently ordered take-out from Roccos via through GrubHub twice. Both times our order was delivered incorrectly or the food was cold. According to Grub Hub, they delivered to us the order given to them by the restaurant. Tonight 10/18/22 we went to the restaurant for a quick anniversary meal with our teen kids. The restaurant had a party of a dozen or so people that was in process. We would have appreciated a heads up that a party was in process and the service might be slower. We were seated promptly but it took sone time to get drinks ordered. We tried to order wine but we were told the bottle we wanted was out. It took another 15 minutes or so to order a bottle of wine and 3 sodas and another 10 minutes or to receive. We never really had a waiter/waitress as we were tag teamed by the one waitress and one bartender that were working. The bartender couldn't answer any questions about wine, deferring to the waitress. We finally got dinner ordered. My son has been ordering Rocco's special Mac and cheese for years which is Alfredo sauce with shell pasta. It took more than 40 minutes to receive our food and everyone in the restaurant had eaten with the exception of a couple at the bar. Every other time we've been here the food had taken about 15 minutes or less. We were ready to walk out when the food was delivered. The special mac and cheese that we ordered was fettuccine Alfredo and steaks were over cooked. At no time did the waiter or bartender check in and let us know what was going on The bar in the restaurant was full of people yelling across the bar to chat with people on the other side. The bartender was equally loud to the point we couldn't talk at our own table. By the time we ate we couldn't leave fast enough. The party was now singing songs at the top of their lungs in a small restaurant. It was clear the restaurant was only interested in the party and I hope it was worth it. The restaurant staff was part of the party and other customers were ignored. As long time customers, we supported the restaurant during covid, ordering take out a few times a month. We will never be back after such a terrible experience on a special day. There are many better options in San Clemente where you can receive good food and service. We can forgive an off night related to food quality but we cannot get past poor service. It's a shame that a great neighborhood family restaurant is no longer a good place. Clearly the restaurant is no longer family friendly. Look elsewhere for a good meal. Sadly, this restaurant cannot deliver. read more

Let's talk filet mignon.....when you have a great cut of steak, you grill it and NOT bake it at all....when you have a great piece meat like that you do NOT have to drench it in sauce...sauce comes on the side...my filet was drier than an Arizona desert. Drenched in sauce which means NO CONFIDENCE in the steak.. Monday night, nobody there and service STUNK! ONE and DONE...Won't go back... read more

Outstanding food as always. My friends has the seafood pasta. And loved it. I had their steak w an fantastic mushroom sauce. Our server was great Everyone had masks. We felt completely safe and comfortably. read more

We've been wanting to try Rocco's sooner, but each time I waited too long and couldn't get a reservation, and now I know why... it is that good! We had a party of 8 people and had a great table on the back side of the bar. Our server was super sweet. I think she was one of the owners. Everyone ordered very different dishes and everyone was super pleased with their choice. I had the pappardelle and it was honestly the best meal I have had in possibly years. Absolutely awesome! Others at table had a bite and were blown away how tasty it was. My boyfriend had the spicy italian sausage and penne, which he enjoyed very much. Other dishes guests ordered and were very pleased with included: two specials that night (one was short rib and the other halibut), spaghetti lucia and fettucini mignon. We ordered three bottles of wine, scotch and a mixed drink and everyone was pleased with the beverage selection. We also brought one bottle of champagne and the corkage was $15. We finished the night sharing three desserts and let our server select them. We had a vanilla creme brulee, a chocolate creme brulee and tiramasu. Seven of the eight voted the chocolate creme brulee as the favorite. One loved the traditional vanilla. All three were very good. Our bill was $72 per person with tax/tip. We felt that was very fair for the amount of alcohol we ordered, the quality of the food and getting three desserts. We all agreed this is bumping up to the top of our regular list. Well done Rocco's! read more

Meh. Just meh. I went there on a Wednesday in early December. Short Rib was so tough and fatty I sent it back. The opposite of what you look for when eating short ribs. Plus I asked for extra mashed potatoes and was given only a small dollop. Nothing special about them. The stuffed artichoke appetizer was not good either. There was no balance. The cheese overpowered the whole dish. My girlfriend had the risotto and she liked it enough. I tried it and was unimpressed. When you go out and spend good money on a meal, liking something "enough" doesn't cut it. There service was super slow but we didn't mind because after all, they were open during COVID. So thank you for that. Overall, I was very disappointed in the food and won't be going back. read more

Great food, and great service from our server Zach. We got Cappellini campagnole, risotto del orto, spaghetti al pomo. Kids loved it too. Very close to the San Clemente pier. read more

Hands down adding this place to my fav restaurants! If you are ever in San Clemente, this is definitely a must try! Perfect for a date night or drinks with your friends! Markee was amazing, and so attentive. I would ask for her if you come down! Cheers read more

Rocco's Restaurant - Linguine alle Vongole - Modern European Near Me - San Clemente, California

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I do not even know where to begin to write this review as this restaurant is above and beyond. First, the owner Belle, and staff are incredible. Quick and incredible service on all drinks and food. And they have such a friendly nice happy staff that gets you smiling and laughing no matter the mood you are in and despite what is happening in this world right now. Second, the food is to die for! The risotto melts in your mouth. The short ribs are so moist. The mashed potatoes are magical. And the crab cake salmon . To finish it all off with the Tres Leche cake, that is a family recipe, just completes the meal. I highly recommend Roccos for both service and food and will be back without a doubt! read more

Go to spot in SC. Tried and true and an original locals favorite. Pride of ownership and family owned with great cuisine.

What a great experience last night! This was our first time at Rocco's, as we just moved to SC, and from the moment we entered, people were very friendly. Our waitresses (I can't remember her name!!) was awesome!! We loved everything about this place from the ambiance to the food. Highly recommend. We will be back. read more

My wife and I ordered our Easter meal for the family delivered from there (Covid Easter 2020) Delivery was set up in advance. They were there at the exact time they said they would be and the meal was fantastic! We ordered the prime rib and the Halibut. (My daughters don't eat meat) All of it was fantastic! The prime rib was slow roasted to medium rare perfection and they went HEAVY on the portions. The halibut was as fresh as could be and the blueberry cheesecake was fantastic! Thanks Rocco for really coming through!!!! read more

Had a reservation for three people and was first tried to sit at a two top table. Had to ask for EVERYTHING the entire night. Was not greeted for 20 minutes. Couldn't get drinks and asked for bread three times before another server finally got it for us. Joe was the worst server I have ever had. Put in the reservation it was my wife's birthday and after waiting with empty dinner plates on the table for 15 minutes I asked about dessert and said it was her birthday only to have nothing done for her. Will NEVER go back. read more

I haven't eaten here but you do need reservations. My daughter came here on a date and recommended it. We were meant to feel like beggars for not having reservations. Won't go again. Don't go near this place without a reservation or you will be turned away. read more

The food was good; However the service just wasn't. They actually had the nerve to ask us to leave after almost 2 hours and wouldn't let us order dessert, even though the server admitted it was his fault that our appetizer took over an hour to arrive. Cocktails took 25 minutes; bottle of wine took over 45 and we were only a party of 2. No manager in sight. No thanks- we'll go somewhere else next time. read more

We love this restaurant! We've been ordering to go and have loved everything from the lobster tail with risotto to the Penne Lauro. Finally dined in and had a great experience with our server Don! He has a great personality and offered excellent recommendations! Homemade pasta, surf and turf, and legit wine list! Definitely one of our favorite San Clemente restaurants! read more

Awesome time. Last minute decision to get out and ended up at Rocco's, I have never been there before. I had a seat at the bar and was attended by two very nice bartenders, a fun loving guy wearing a baseball cap & young gal who mixed really good drinks. I had a couple large pours of wine & the white pizza, all of which were good. Lots of televisions to watch the games and great atmosphere. I am looking forward to going back! read more

Really good experience. We ordered a Burrata (needs to be served with bread) and Caprese. I had the daily special "halibut" which was very good. Our orders ranged from the Filet, Sea Bass, and Fettucini Mignon. Food delivery was a bit slow but didn't hinder the experience since we weren't in a rush. read more

Rocco's Restaurant - Halibut special with mashed potatoes and spinach. - Modern European Near Me - San Clemente, California

I've been coming to Rocco's Restaurant for years. If you like steak order the filet Maxwell with crusted blue cheese. I highly recommend the chicken Empanadas to start. If you want pasta the spicy penne is Fire. My favorite is The Pappardelle Ala Vodka - add sausage with some fresh bread and table served Parmesan cheese. The staff is great and the best part besides the food is getting to watch The chef Rocco cook in plain view. If you are on a date or a special occasion I highly recommend this Restaurant read more

Rocco's Restaurant - This delicious plate is the Pappardelle alla Vodka and I added sausage with fresh Parmesan. The noodles are made from scratch. - Modern European Near Me - San Clemente, California

Always a great place to go if you can get a spot. They are always packed. Which is a great sign. One of my favorite local spots in San Clemente. read more

We were in town celebrating our sons upcoming wedding, a one year anniversary and a birthday. We went to Roccos for a family dinner and had a WONDERFUL time. The service was outstanding as was the food and drinks. After our meals, the waiter brought drinks and desserts (on the house!) to help us celebrate! I VERY highly recommend Roccos!! read more

This is one of our favorite restaurants in san Clemente. However tonight was a disaster. I was really shocked. I normally don't write reviews but this was upsetting. We had a date night and was excited about it. It started first with our waiter having a full personal conversation with a table next to us and completely forgetting to check on us. It took forever to get our order. It took forever to get our wine. We ordered this amazing artichoke appetizer that I was looking forward too. Our waiter who was so distracted talking to other people forgot to put our order in. We got our salads then our main course and finally our waiter realized that he completely forgot to put in our appetizer order in. Then I ordered chicken Marsala which I love. It was basically rubber!!! Something you would expect on an airplane or fast food joint... just disgusting and horrible. I was shocked. I couldn't really eat it. They should have reimbursed us or offered to bring another dish. The waiter just looked flustered and couldn't explain the rubber chicken. As we were ordering our dessert even though we still had 30 min before the restaurant closes according to the internet, they are cleaning up, putting chairs up and when we ordered the dessert I asked kindly "are u guys closed or will we have time to eat our dessert" she responded "it's ok you still have a few minutes ". So I'm sorry after the horrible service I just had I'm being told that I can inhale my $10 dessert in a few minutes!??" There is no courtesy like take your time ? You guys are fine here. Nothing !!!! Our waiter hardly makes eye contact because he knows he has failed tonight. They give us a free dessert thinking they have fixed everything. Anyhow I love this place but I think COVID as made them Forget customer service .....tonight after 8 months I went. We have three kids. We really look Forward to our date night but I was so disappointed!!! it had horrible service and my chicken Marsala was rubber read more

Food here is amazingly good! Went about a month ago with a fairly large group so I was able to try multiple food items. I definitely left eating way more than what I should of! The service: We had a good waiter but could of been a bit more attentive. The food: Most of it was great! I didn't care for the corn bread bites and thought the Artichoke Hearts were just ok. The Ahi Tartar; amazing! Do yourself a favor and order this..so much flavor, Crab Cakes; dense but good, Escargot; the butter sauce is beyond good and was cooked perfect. Calabrese; was fab but I feel like that is a hard dish to mess up. I ordered the bacon wrapped scallops for an entree and drool! Makes me hungry thinking about them as they just melt in your mouth and was so fresh. I didn't care for so much arugula that came with them I would of rather had something with more substance like the risotto or mash potatoes. I traded portions of my entree with other people so I could try the Steak and Salmon, which both again were cooked perfect. My friend likes her steak cooked a bit more but to me it was done just right. Overcooked steak is never a good thing! I took a star off as the bathroom if occupied you have to wait and it's in kind of an awkward spot. Some tables were back there which I'd hate to sit there if I had to! Also as mentioned before, the service could of been a bit better but overall this place is a fantastic place to eat so I can't wait to go back! read more

Not only the best restaurant in San Clemente but also the greatest place to work. The staff is like family and the owners are pretty decent! Love you guys read more

I've been to Rocc's before and was very pleased. Sadly, I was a bit disappointed with this visit. I ordered the pumpkin ravioli with brown butter sage but there was no nutty brown butter flavor nor sage taste, just lots of butter.. The other person in my party ordered spaghetti lucia and the shrimp were over cooked. The restaurant was VERY noisy so it was hard to hear conversation. read more

Had an amazing dinner last night! The beef Carpaccio was so amazing and the escargot! Also had the mignon risotto and apple goat cheese salad! All amazing and we can't wait to go back! read more

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Been wanting to try this restaurant for quite a while & we were finally able to dine-in at the last minute on a Saturday, without a reservation. The staff were quite accommodating! I'd recommend a res though. Greeted with the SAVORY aromas that almost knocked me off of my feet, I knew this was going to be GREATNESS! Their high-top tables were lovely, as was the staff of hard working happy people. Everything on the menu sounded delicious, but to make our choices, it was BELLA to the rescue. 1st providing us a basket of homemade bread along with their specialty cornbread tots on an amazing sauce to start. Next, we ordered (to split) 3 dishes. ~ 'Zuppa Toscana' Soup: 5/5 (OMG...GREAT)!! ~ 'House Salad' for a lighter dish & to save room. ~ 'Fettuccine Mignon' Pasta: 5/5 (AMAZING)! Don't pass up an opportunity to eat at Rocco's. You won't regret one bite! Planning our next visit soon. * Apologies for no pics; I was beyond starving!! read more

Food was outstanding along with the service of our lively and fun waiter. Good evening.

We came to this restaurant in San Clemente for our Son's Birthday. We had made reservations fo 9 and when we arrived our table was ready and we were seated immediately. I had heard great reviews of this restaurant and it did not disappoint. The appetizers Caprese and Buretta were great. Service was on spot and excellent in all regards. All of our entrees were excellent. I had the Short Rib, it was fork tender and seasoned perfectly. Others in our group had the Chilean Sea Bass and loved it. Birthday boy had the Halibut and raved about it. The fettuccine with filet mignon was delicious. All in all we had a great meal with exceptional service. read more

I'm never disappointed when I leave Roccos. The food here is amazing! I would definitely call in advance to make reservations because they get busy during dinner but it's so worth it! They have one of the best cocktails here and the dish that we always order is the chicken Marsala that is just cooked to perfection in their wine sauce paired with spinach and perfectly cooked mashed potato's. And their tiramisu which is homemade is to die for! read more

Rocco's was amazing. Joe was very helpful and on top of things. Started with crab cake and stuffed artichokes . I had lobster a top rosoto. Hubster had Filet Mignon. Dessert was chocolate soufflé with gelato. Divine read more

One of the only places in town to get a good steak. Food is excellent!! Holiday Inn ( same owner ) better price, no reservations, better service. Both places are your best bet for steaks in San Clemente. read more

Visitor to San Clemente and found this restaurant on Open Table. What a yummy meal. Had escargot for a appetizer and omg / so tasty. Had veal saltimbocca and could tell it was tender and tasty by just cutting into it and I was not disappointed. Be sure to make reservations. Wait staff is also very helpful and efficient. read more

Rocco's Restaurant - Escargot in Butter Sauce - Modern European Near Me - San Clemente, California

So disappointed I was so looking forward to liking this place. So loud I couldn't even hear my husband. The waitress was overwhelmed took use 50 minutes to get our food and no bread was even served with the meal .... Bar too close to tables to enjoy any romance read more

Rocco's Restaurant - Modern European Near Me - San Clemente, California