MORE EATERIES:

Cafe Capistrano, 31752 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. Open daily, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. (714) 493-0607. A cross between a truck stop and a country kitchen, this place exudes the kind of small-town, Western flair that attracts customers with cowboy boots and turquoise jewelry. Be sure to sit by the window for a view of the mission and great people watching. And ask for the Capistrano Omelette: peanut butter, apricot-pineapple preserves and bacon.

Las Barcas Mexican Restaurant, 21032 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach. Open daily, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (714) 536-2616. Oversized portions, the hodgepodge decor and a colorful variety of local folk make this tiny eatery a beachside winner. The food is good and cheap, featuring ranchero-covered burritos, fresh snapper tacos and homemade tortilla chips. Be prepared to take out, though, there’s always a crowd.