The Hat is a chain with several locations.
Aliso Viejo =/= Laguna Beach, but you're still in a decent spot.
Downtown San Juan Capistrano has become a foodie destination, including some kickass Texas-Style BBQ (Heritage BBQ) https://www.heritagecraftbbq.com/
Also, if you're in San Juan, there's a legendary dive bar, The Swallows Inn https://www.swallowsinn.com/ It's named after the birds that return to San Juan Capistrano every year, but...the some of the gals in there are "friendly" too, and live up to the name, if you catch my drift.
And, https://www.trevorsatthetracks.com/ has a beautiful patio and great food and drink. It's the old railroad depot.
I personally love Salt Creek Grill in Dana Point https://www.saltcreekgrille.com/dana-point/ although I haven't been there in a couple of years, and there is new management.
For a real feel of "old" California, do The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove State Park. https://thebeachcombercafe.com/ The bloody mary is spectacular. Reservations are recommended, and it's not for anybody that doesn't get around well. You park on the other side of PCH and walk the trail over, or you can catch the shuttle van for a couple of bucks.
If you go into Laguna, stop at https://www.thecliffrestaurant.com/ for at least a drink. Best views anywhere.
And I HIGHLY recommend happy hour and/or dinner at https://www.thefishermansrestaurantsanclemente.com/ On both sides of the pier. One side is Oyster Bar, the other is the full restaurant.
EDIT: Bloody at The Beachcomber
i.imgur.com/U3OEzdU.jpg