Just off the Mission-styled courtyard of the acclaimed Rancho Valencia resort, presides Valencia, a romantic dining experience reminiscent of the French countryside. The interior dining room is bright with whitewashed walls, beamed ceilings, live palms and wide windows that offer panoramic views of Rancho Santa Fe. The tiered outdoor patio allows for abundant alfresco dining. The menu is a generous fusion of Californian and Mediterranean influences, featuring seafood, fresh vegetables and aged beef. Highlights of the restaurant’s menu include the Maryland blue lump crab cake; a Colorado lamb rib eye with roasted vegetables and merlot sauce, and the Valencia veal picatto with crème fraiche whipped potatoes and asparagus. For those forgoing the decadent desserts, an artisan cheese plate is available. The restaurant also offers an outstanding Sunday brunch.

Valencia Information:

• California menu. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sun brunch. Bar. Children's menu. Business casual attire. Reservations recommended. Valet parking. Outdoor seating. Credit cards accepted.