The Goldfinch (Planning Application RSM 26-005)

The Goldfinch project, identified as Planning Application RSM 26-005, is a request for a Conditional Use Permit from the City of Rancho Santa Margarita to establish a new restaurant within the Plaza El Paseo shopping center. The permit seeks to authorize alcoholic beverage retail sales, outdoor seating and dining, and live entertainment and dancing. The project will occupy an existing restaurant space located at 22312 El Paseo, Suite A, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, and involves no modifications to the building footprint or existing floor area. The project is managed by The Goldfinch 2 LLC and is overseen by the City of Rancho Santa Margarita. According to the Notice of Exemption dated July 1, 2026, the project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 Class 1 for Existing Facilities, as it does not cause significant adverse environmental effects. The application is categorized under NAICS code 722511 for full-service restaurants.