Excellent all the way around, parking excluded but that’s the beach area for you. I stopped here the other day on a bicycle tide. Enjoyed it so much that I came back with my wife for lunch. Brilliant idea! Highly recommend for a great change of pace and atmosphere. Bring your walking shoes as the beach area calls
Overview
Moulin San Clemente offers a delightful French-inspired experience right in the heart of San Clemente, California. Located at 120 Avenida Pico, this charming restaurant blends casual elegance with an authentic taste of Paris, making it a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service, Moulin San Clemente draws visitors in with its inviting ambiance and mouthwatering menu.
The restaurant boasts a variety of traditional French dishes, all crafted with the freshest ingredients to ensure an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re craving a classic Croque Monsieur or a delicate quiche, there’s something for everyone on the menu. Guests often rave about the freshly baked pastries, with buttery croissants and decadent desserts that transport you straight to a Parisian café. The blend of traditional flavors and modern twists makes every bite a true culinary delight.
One of the standout features of Moulin San Clemente is its diverse wine list. Carefully curated to pair perfectly with the menu, the wine selection complements the French dishes beautifully. The knowledgeable staff are always eager to offer suggestions based on your taste preferences, ensuring you find the ideal wine to enhance your meal. If you’re not sure where to start, the house-specialty wine pairings are a great place to begin.
But it’s not just about the food and drinks-Moulin San Clemente excels in creating an experience. The decor transports diners to the streets of Paris, with soft lighting, rustic wooden tables, and vintage French posters adorning the walls. The cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere sets the perfect tone for any occasion, whether it's a casual lunch with friends or a romantic dinner for two. Many patrons also enjoy the outdoor seating area, where they can dine al fresco and soak in the sunny Southern California weather.
Moulin San Clemente also stands out for its impeccable service. The staff is attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu, which adds a personal touch to the overall dining experience. They take the time to ensure that each guest feels like part of the family, making every visit feel special. Whether it’s a quick bite or a leisurely evening, the team at Moulin makes sure that every detail is taken care of.
When it comes to customer reviews, Moulin San Clemente is consistently praised for its high-quality food, charming atmosphere, and excellent service. Many visitors note that it’s the perfect spot for a cozy meal or a celebratory occasion. The restaurant has earned a loyal following due to its commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience time and time again. People often return to indulge in their favorite dishes, like the savory duck confit or the creamy crème brûlée.
For those looking to explore French cuisine in San Clemente, Moulin San Clemente offers a culinary experience that feels both familiar and exciting. The combination of excellent food, fine wines, and inviting ambiance makes it a top choice for food lovers. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this gem on Avenida Pico is sure to provide a memorable meal and a taste of France in the heart of Southern California.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ No-contact delivery âś“ Delivery âś“ On-site services âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Fast service âś“ Great coffee âś“ Great dessert âś“ Great tea selection âś“ Serves local specialtyPopular for
âś“ Breakfast âś“ Lunch âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Coffee âś“ Comfort food âś“ Quick bite âś“ Small plates âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Breakfast âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dessert âś“ SeatingAmenities
âś“ Toilet âś“ Wi-Fi âś“ Wi-FiAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ CosyCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ TouristsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ High chairs âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lot âś“ Paid street parking âś“ ParkingPets
âś“ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Reviews
- No ratings yet 385 reviews
I ordered their croissant sandwich and a cup of coffee, and both were outstanding. The croissant was incredibly flaky and buttery, perfectly complementing the savory fillings that made each bite memorable. The coffee was rich, smooth, and the perfect pick-me-up to round out the meal. The cafe itself exudes a charming, European vibe with an inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The friendly and attentive staff added to the overall experience, ensuring that every detail was spot-on. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot for breakfast or a relaxing coffee break, Moulin is definitely a must-visit in San Clemente.
This is an authentic French cafe on the corner, in San Clemente. We walked in for a cup of coffee, then stayed for breakfast, and got some wonderful items to go. The pastries were outstanding. We picked up a selection of Tarts and eclairs along with a baguette and some fig jam for our charcuterie later that afternoon. A welcoming staff, wonderful atmosphere, and delicious food.
If you’re anywhere near San Clemente, you have to stop at Moulin. It’s like stepping into a little slice of Paris—cozy, charming, and full of incredible food. The pastries are unreal: buttery, flaky croissants, rich pain au chocolat, and desserts that look like literal artwork. Think glossy fruit tarts, elegant mousse domes, and delicate layers that are almost too pretty to eat… almost. They’re as delicious as they are beautiful. The sandwiches are just as amazing—fresh, packed with flavor, and served on the kind of crusty baguette that makes your whole lunch feel special. The staff is super friendly and helpful, and the upbeat, happy vibe just makes you want to stay a while (especially if you grab a table out on the patio). Between the food, the energy, and those jaw-dropping desserts, Moulin is hands-down one of my favorite spots. Go for one thing, leave with a whole box.
Favorite local eatery for breakfast. Feels like you're sitting at a café in France. Ocean view, great selection of baked pastries and breads. The most beautiful Cafe au Lait too! Friendly staff.
We moved to San Clemente in 1956, and this is one of my favorite places to visit. Their coffee and croissants are some of the best I’ve ever experienced. The location is perfect for a French Café with ocean views from the patio and inside by the windows. The staff are always polite and very courteous. Highly recommend for breakfast and lunch since they close early around 3pm.
Beachfront French pastries and fresh sandwiches! Amazing and delicious quality ingredients. Great light and open atmosphere with nice patio seating and display cases. I wanted to eat it all! Dog friendly patio and right next to a bike way, the casual atmosphere was chill and comfortable for anyone. Great brunch spot right next to the beach.
This place is amazing, I had the best salmon sandwich here! Also had great croissant the staff was very nice. When I’m back in the area this will be my first stop. They have so many great sandwich options, this is a must when in the area!