Nestled in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, California, Trevor’s at the Tracks is more than just a culinary destination. It’s an immersive experience that encapsulates the rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere that this quaint town exudes. We recently had the pleasure of visiting Trevor’s at the Tracks, and it was an experience that tantalized my taste buds, warmed my heart, and etched an indelible mark in my memory.

Here’s how the experience unfolded.

The Atmosphere & Location

The moment we arrived in the historic town of San Juan Capistrano, I could feel the essence of the past converging with the comforts of the present. As we meandered through the streets, each corner whispered tales of yesteryears, leading me on a path that culminated at the iconic train depot, built in 1894 and home to Trevor’s at the Tracks.

Stepping into Trevor’s is like being transported to a different era. The restaurant has meticulously preserved the depot’s original structure, paying homage to its rich heritage. The charm of the vintage train station is palpable. Everything from the antique-styled interiors to the rustic decor to the warm, ambient lighting – it’s a beautiful blend of history and contemporary elegance.

Chef Trevor, the chef-owner behind the restaurant, took great care in preserving the building’s history, and you get the sense that this was a real passion project for him. History doesn’t just extend to the building. There’s also a family history at play here. Trevor’s mother, Jeanne, manages the restaurant’s garden, and his father, Greg, is the handyman, ensuring every facet of the space is maintained in tip-top shape.

What to Expect When You Dine at Trevor’s on the Tracks

What immediately caught our attention at Trevor’s was the lively atmosphere. The place buzzed with an eclectic mix of patrons – families sharing a hearty meal, professionals unwinding after a busy day, and friends toasting to everlasting companionship. The staff greeted us with the kind of warm, genuine smiles that made everyone in our group feel not like a customer but like a part of a close-knit community.

Settling into a cozy corner, I couldn’t help but admire the lovely art pieces on the walls, each narrating a different chapter of San Juan Capistrano’s lore. My reverie was interrupted, but in the most delightful way, by the arrival of the menu, a treasure trove of culinary delights promising an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

The wine list is eclectic and includes producers like DuMol, Schramsberg, Trefethen, Freemark Abbey, and Orin Swift. One thing we love about this list is that all of the wines on the list are under $100 a bottle, and every single one is from California. There are wines from Paso Robles, Sonoma, Napa, Santa Barbara, Monterey, and beyond. 

The Experience

We dined with friends here just before heading on the train down to the horse races. On account of getting to our next event on time, the dinner was short but wonderful and consisted of a selection of salads (the Southwest Cobb and Sultan of Salads were both hits), Brussels sprouts, and a big, meaty Prime Rib Sandwich. 

If we had more time, we would have loved to explore more of the offerings. Chef Trevor has crafted a “globally-inspired, locally sourced” menu that is approachable with lots of modern classics. Standout starters like Bacon-Wrapped Dates stuffed with Goat Cheese, an elevated Mac n’ Cheese made with two types of melted cheese and topped with panko, fun sushi “tacos,” Ahi Poke Nachos, and several flatbread pizzas are sharable and perfect for group dining.

The entrees at Trevor’s lean into the kind of light but satisfying fare that this part of California is known for. Items like Japanese Soba Salad, the Seoul Bowl with grilled chicken and quinoa, and the Ortega Chicken Wrap appeared very popular in the dining room. Having said that, Southern Fried Chicken, Brazilian Steakhouse Flat Iron Steak, and Thai Curry Cioppino were also getting some love from restaurant guests. 

Music Events

One of the biggest draws to Trevor’s on the Tracks is the restaurant’s event calendar. The space features live music seven days a week, which is a rare treat these days. Expect a mix of singer-songwriters, blues, soul R&B, and light rock.

Final Thoughts

We had a wonderful time at this restaurant. The service was great, the food was great, and the ambiance was infectious. If you’re taking the train through San Juan Capistrano, this is the perfect place to stop for dinner or lunch. We also recommend you add Trevor’s to your list of San Juan Capistrano date night spots for their incredible line-up of events and live music. 

Tips

• Trevor’s at the Tracks does not accept reservations. The restaurant has ample seating, but if there is a special event that day, like the Kentucky Derby, you may want to arrive early.
• Request patio seating to catch all of the day’s live music. All of the patio tables are shaded, so there’s not a bad seat out there.
• The menu includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten items, which is great news for diners following a specialized diet.