El Adobe de Capistrano, Historic restaurant in San Juan Capistrano, California.
El Adobe de Capistrano is a restaurant in San Juan Capistrano that links two historic adobe structures through sunken connecting sections. The interior features wooden beam ceilings and multiple dining levels creating different spaces for guests.
One section of the building was constructed in 1797 as a private home, while another section built in 1812 served as a courthouse and jail facility. The two structures were later connected and eventually transformed into a restaurant.
The site reflects the community's connection to early California Spanish life through its appearance and daily use. The spaces show how local traditions remain visible in the way people gather and eat here today.
The restaurant sits on Camino Capistrano and offers dinner service along with Sunday brunch. The space can also be reserved for private events with catering available.
Below the restaurant sits a former jail cell now used as a wine cellar, still displaying original iron bars and inscriptions left by past prisoners. This space gives visitors an unexpected glimpse into the building's past life.
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