Nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, the Laguna Hills Mall has long been a recognizable landmark along the bustling I-5 freeway. While the enclosed mall itself closed its doors in 2018 and has since been demolished to make way for the ambitious Village at Laguna Hills redevelopment project, the dining options surrounding the former mall property remain a vibrant draw for locals and visitors alike. As of March 26, 2025, the exterior dining establishments that once complemented the mall continue to thrive, offering a mix of flavors, atmospheres, and experiences that make this area a culinary hotspot worth exploring. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the dining perks of the Laguna Hills Mall property, spotlighting the standout restaurants, their unique offerings, and why they’re a key part of the area’s enduring appeal.
A Shifting Landscape with Timeless Dining
The Laguna Hills Mall opened in 1973, ushering in an era of suburban shopping and socializing for South Orange County. Over the decades, it evolved from a bustling retail hub to a fading relic of a bygone era, unable to compete with nearby heavyweights like the Irvine Spectrum Center and The Shops at Mission Viejo. By 2018, the interior mall was shuttered, and in 2023, the structure was completely razed. But while the mall itself is gone, the property’s perimeter has retained its culinary charm. Restaurants like In-N-Out Burger, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, and King’s Fish House have stood the test of time, weathering the mall’s decline and remaining as anchors of the area’s dining scene.
Today, the site is undergoing a transformation into the Village at Laguna Hills, a mixed-use development that promises 1,500 residential units, a boutique hotel, office spaces, a community park, and a reduced but revitalized retail and dining footprint. While the future looks bright, the current dining options already offer a compelling reason to visit. These establishments aren’t just holdovers—they’re thriving businesses that capitalize on their prime location, loyal customer bases, and the nostalgic allure of a property with deep community roots.
In-N-Out Burger: A California Classic
No discussion of dining at the Laguna Hills Mall property would be complete without mentioning In-N-Out Burger. This iconic fast-food chain has been a staple of the perimeter for years, and its standalone location continues to draw crowds with its simple yet irresistible menu. Known for its fresh ingredients, made-to-order burgers, and cult-like following, In-N-Out is a quintessential California experience.
The Laguna Hills outpost benefits from its proximity to the freeway, making it a convenient stop for travelers and locals alike. Whether you’re grabbing a Double-Double with animal-style fries after a long day or indulging in a late-night shake, the consistency and quality here are unmatched. The outdoor seating area offers a casual vibe, perfect for soaking in the mild Orange County weather while enjoying a meal that’s as much about tradition as it is about taste. For many, In-N-Out isn’t just food—it’s a cultural touchstone, and its presence at the Laguna Hills Mall property keeps that legacy alive.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Craft Beer and Comfort Food
For those seeking a sit-down experience with a broader menu, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse delivers in spades. Located along the outer edge of the former mall, BJ’s combines the laid-back atmosphere of a brewpub with a diverse selection of dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes. From their signature deep-dish pizzas to juicy burgers, fresh salads, and hearty entrees like the Parmesan-crusted chicken, there’s something for everyone.
What sets BJ’s apart is its focus on craft beer, brewed in-house and paired thoughtfully with the menu. Favorites like the Brewhouse Blonde and Jeremiah Red are local staples, while seasonal offerings keep the lineup fresh. The spacious dining room and lively bar area make it a great spot for groups, families, or a casual date night. Plus, the famous Pizookie—a warm, gooey cookie topped with ice cream—remains a must-try dessert that keeps patrons coming back. BJ’s ability to blend comfort food with a craft beer culture ensures it remains a standout perk of the Laguna Hills dining scene.
King’s Fish House: Seafood Sophistication
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more upscale, King’s Fish House offers a seafood-centric dining experience that’s been a fixture near the Laguna Hills Mall since 1997. This restaurant prides itself on its daily-changing menu, which features fresh catches, live shellfish like lobster and crab, and a robust selection of oysters. The focus on seasonality and quality shines through in dishes like the grilled swordfish, cedar plank salmon, and classic fish and chips.
King’s Fish House strikes a balance between casual and refined, with a welcoming ambiance that suits both special occasions and everyday meals. The outdoor patio is a highlight, offering a relaxed setting to enjoy a glass of wine or one of their craft cocktails alongside your meal. For seafood lovers, the sushi offerings—think spicy tuna rolls and fresh sashimi—add an extra layer of appeal. It’s no surprise that King’s has maintained a loyal following over the years; its commitment to freshness and flavor makes it a crown jewel of the property’s dining options.
The Perks of the Property
So, what makes dining at the Laguna Hills Mall property so special? It’s a combination of factors that blend convenience, variety, and a touch of nostalgia. First, there’s the location. Situated right off the I-5 and near the intersection of El Toro Road, the area is easily accessible whether you’re a local resident, a commuter, or a visitor passing through. The proximity to other South County hubs like Mission Viejo and Irvine only adds to its appeal as a quick detour for a bite.
Second, the diversity of dining options ensures there’s something for every palate and occasion. In-N-Out offers fast, affordable comfort food; BJ’s provides a versatile sit-down experience with craft beer flair; and King’s Fish House elevates the scene with its seafood focus. This trifecta caters to a broad audience, from families and solo diners to groups looking for a night out.
Finally, there’s the intangible perk of history. For longtime Orange County residents, the Laguna Hills Mall property carries memories—of shopping trips, movie nights, and meals shared with friends and family. Even as the mall itself fades into the past, these dining spots preserve a sense of continuity. They’re a bridge between what was and what’s to come, offering familiar flavors in a space poised for reinvention.
Looking Ahead: The Village at Laguna Hills
As the Village at Laguna Hills takes shape, the dining landscape is set to evolve further. The redevelopment plans include retaining In-N-Out, BJ’s, and King’s Fish House, while adding new retail and dining spaces to complement the residential and entertainment components. A boutique hotel and a multi-screen movie theater are also in the works, hinting at a future where dining could become part of a larger “live, work, play” experience. Imagine grabbing a burger at In-N-Out before catching a film, or enjoying a seafood dinner at King’s followed by a stroll through the 2.5-acre community park.
While construction is ongoing—demolition wrapped up in 2023, and the first phases of building are underway—the existing restaurants remain open, serving as a taste of what’s to come. The developers, Merlone Geier Partners, have emphasized creating a vibrant community hub, and dining will undoubtedly play a central role. Whether new eateries join the lineup or the current trio continues to anchor the scene, the property’s culinary legacy seems secure.
Why Visit Now?
Even in its transitional state, the Laguna Hills Mall property is worth a visit for its dining alone. The combination of In-N-Out’s fast-food nostalgia, BJ’s hearty variety, and King’s seafood sophistication offers a microcosm of Orange County’s eclectic food culture. Plus, with the redevelopment underway, there’s a sense of witnessing history in the making—enjoying a meal at a site that’s shedding its past and embracing a new identity.
Whether you’re a local rediscovering the area or a traveler seeking a convenient stop, the dining perks of the Laguna Hills Mall property deliver. So next time you’re cruising down the I-5, consider pulling off at El Toro Road. A burger, a beer, or a plate of oysters awaits—and with it, a chance to savor a piece of South County’s evolving story.
