The Goldfinch, a California-cuisine restaurant with an elevated bar program, is getting ready to open a new location in Rancho Santa Margarita at 22312-A El Paseo.
The company’s second location will join Redshift Coffee Roasters at 22312-C El Paseo as Plaza El Paseo’s newest tenants, according to 926oc. Co-owner Ciaran Gough tells What Now that, while the exact opening date is still up in the air, the team aims to open in late Summer 2026. Customers can expect seasonal California dishes, a curated cocktail program, and a dining experience consistent with the Irvine location.
The Goldfinch currently operates at 2000 Main Street, Suite 200, in Irvine, where it serves lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. The group behind the restaurant is also responsible for The 908 Restaurant in Long Beach and Jolie Restaurant & Rooftop in Huntington Beach. This marks the first time the group has expanded one of its existing concepts into a second location.
Gough says the new restaurant will feature a slightly different design to reflect its setting, similar to the Irvine location, which has its own identity. The interior and front facade will differ from the original, though the overall concept will remain consistent. He notes that while there will be some adjustments, the menus will largely stay the same, with legacy items carried over. The new location will also feature a seasonal menu and chef-inspired dishes.
Seasonal offerings at the Irvine restaurant have included Blackened Seared Ahi with avocado, cucumber, and soy vinaigrette, Chicken Pot Pie with mushrooms and rosemary under puff pastry, and Lamb Chop with mint chimichurri and organic carrots. The restaurant also offers brunch service and weekday happy hour specials.
The bar program remains central to the concept, with specialty cocktails, wine, draft beer, and high-end liquor featured prominently. Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. This will be an excellent landing space for The Goldfinch as it expands further into South Orange County.
