Left: Grilled Octopus, Right: Barramundi Carpaccio Credit: Irvin RiveraGuests began filling the house as soon as the San Clemente newcomer opened its doors in December, but you’d expect that from a restaurant conceived by a celebrity chef. ILYA is Charbel Hayek’s third restaurant—his first in Orange County. A year later, he opened Ladyhawk at the Kimpton La Peer in West Hollywood, followed by Laya, in Hollywood. The grilled octopus is a standout. ILYA RESTAURANT1502 S. El Camino Real, San Clementeilyarestaurant.com

Source: The North Africa Journal April 03, 2026 16:04 UTC