Restaurants in Dana Point
Best Restaurants
“The steaks were very pricey$$$$, my wife had the parmesan spaghetti and i had the ravioli. The ravioli was very good, but the spaghetti was to die for!! it's a modern decor, very nice, but not stuffy. It was a cold and rainy evening so we ate inside. at 6:30pm the place was nearly empty, but really picked up by 8pm.”
“I had a delicious lunch with a friend today on the outdoor patio! The chicken BLT sandwich was delicious and my glass of wine was good as well!! Katie was a personable, efficient and extremely accommodating as our server! The hostess was friendly as well !!”
“As a steak lover who has been grilling steaks on a weekly basis for over a decade and has tried some of the best steakhouses in this country and beyond, I can say that this is one of the best steakhouses in SoCal.Short review:Excellent food. Even better service. Try the Wagyu steak trio. Their complimentary fries, soups in cups and a fried bun are excellent offerings. They ask about your dietary restrictions so as to accommodate you fully. Their dessert offerings were delightful. Ask for blankets if you get cold sitting on the balcony. Valet parking only ($10+tips with validation)Overall Experience: 9.5/10Food: 9/10Service: 10/10Cost: $$$$Reservation needed: No, but I would recommend getting a reservation just in case.Long review:To begin, the restaurant is located inside a Waldorf Astoria. Valet parking only and the restaurant will validate the parking ticket making it come out to $10 plus tips.The restaurant looks classy (as expected). We sat on the balcony which had views of the ocean and the resort. When we got cold, we were offered blankets (very nice touch) and the heaters were turned on. Excellent Service. Meal started with complimentary fries (3 different kinds coupled with individual sauces), and cups (actual cups) of tomato soup. The fries were likely duck fat fries and were definitely a treat. Tomato soup was great (it's tomato soup, not much to say here) but definitely tasted well after the fries. They offer table side bourbon which is an experience altogether but as we drove from San Diego, we opted for non-alcoholic cocktails. Furthermore, they provided bread/bun but it was pretty unique as it had cheese inside and was first baked and then fried. Kudos to Bourbon management for pairing those great little appetizers.We kept the order short and sweet. 2 orders of the Wagyu Trio and a side of Truffle Mac and Cheese. Wagyu Trio was $198 each and came with 17oz of Wagyu beef (10oz of Missima Ultra NY Strip (American Wagyu), 4oz of Snake River Farms Ribeye (American Wagyu) and 3oz of Hokkaido A5 Wagyu (Japanese Wagyu)). I ordered them Medium rare plus. The steaks came out with the right warmth (maybe a smidge overcooked, I didn't expect them to hit medium rare plus anyway) but the steaks were perfectly seasoned. Needless to say the A5 Wagyu melted in the mouth so it was our favorite. The Snake River Farms have always stood out as one of the best, if not the best, American Wagyu producers and it was very evident here. Think of it being the middle ground of A5 Wagyu and the Missima ultra. The Missima ultra (ultra being the highest richness in Missima meat categories) fell short compared to the others but that was expected. They also came with peppers and they weren't spicy and tasted great with the steak. The Truffle Mac and Cheese was a little disappointing to be honest. It tasted like a regular Mac and Cheese from any steakhouse. I was expecting a hint of truffle flavor but didn't feel anything was different.As we were dining, rain started pouring out of nowhere. The servers sprung to action and moved us into the restaurant quickly and efficiently and each and every server genuinely apologized to us for the rain. They didn't cause the rain, but they apologized. Nevertheless, it's a sign of a very empathetic team of employees. Excellent service!!!!As dinner ended, we ordered 2 desserts. We were already stuffed from the steaks (which neither of us could finish more than half way) but ending the night on a sweet note is always good. We opted for the Souffle and the Beignets. The souffle was passion fruit so very fruity yet not too sweet. The Beignets were large and coupled with a chocolate ganache (maybe a thicker consistency than a ganache) and they were the perfect end to the evening.But wait. They offered us 2 cubes of honey when they brought the check. Think of a lightly sweet cube of honey gummy. That concluded the dinner.Will we back? Considering we live in San Diego, driving an hour to come here regularly is tricky but for celebrations, I don't see why not!Parking: $10 for p”
“Seriously amazing food!! I’m definitely a foodie and have been disappointed by a lot of restaurants in Dana Point, until I found Gianas! Tons of flavor and very fresh, with a beautiful presentation!! Highly recommend!Update: I’ve eaten breakfast here almost every morning. It’s that good! And the people who work here are absolutely amazing!”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“As if the restaurant name isn't enough to make you smile, the menu and the warm welcome will lighten your heart. Excellent service. Start with the appethaizers and move to the Have Wings will Travel section. All four dishes were delicious with #40 my favorite - the Road Runner / Kai Himapan with Spicy chicken cooked with cashew nut and roasted chili. I will definitely return with the same friends and a few more. Nice vegetarian options.”
“Five stars in all aspects. Great breakfast, coffee is on the weaker side for my personal preference. Excellent service every time. My local breakfast spot over the years. Highly recommend!!Parking: Have rear parking”
9
Kahani
“Kahani is a welcome addition to the collection of Indian restaurants in Orange County. All food items were artistically plated to give the vibe of a high-end restaurant. The chef was innovative with his menu. The Chilean Sea Bass was excellent. The red kidney bean sauce gave the dish a unique flavor. I would definitely go back again.”
Restaurants with Delivery
“We are so glad we stopped by here on our road trip as we had the best pizza in Cali so far! Love the options and flavours. Highly recommend the Stingray pizza which is prepared with a drizzle of citrus honey to balance the heat from the jalapeños. We also loved the Boho salad which was crunchy and came with super flavourful chicken. We finished our meal with the perfect dessert - delicious and light Tiramisu. Love this place! Great food and the staff are attentive to your needs and are so warm and friendly.”
“Tabay's food is very authentic and you can see how much love is puts into the food. Tabay is also very friendly, greets everyone with a smile, can answer any question you have regarding the menu and ingredients.”
“I couldn’t be more in love with Vibe, I have been going to them for years. So delicious and fresh! They are the cleanest spot around, in both their food and ingredients, as well as their locations are always so nice and well kept. The staff is always down to earth, incredible, kind, and very generous. The food is fabulous especially if you have dietary restrictions! I am vegan and only eat Whole Foods, refined sugar free, and this place is just that! No seed oils, all organic, Whole Foods, with the most fresh ingredients! They juice their juices and smoothies right there in front of you. If you are in a Rush order online, real food takes a few extra minutes to prepare (maybe 5-10 extra minutes) and even then they are so speedy! Thank you vibe. I love you!Vegetarian options: It’s all vegan, plant based! So incredible!Dietary restrictions: Vibe is all organic, they use no deep fryers, no microwaves, it’s real whole food, gluten free kitchen, when my partner had to go on a Low FODMAP diet, they were so kind and made a special custom bowl for him.”
“I had a delicious lunch with a friend today on the outdoor patio! The chicken BLT sandwich was delicious and my glass of wine was good as well!! Katie was a personable, efficient and extremely accommodating as our server! The hostess was friendly as well !!”
“I honestly cannot understand any negative reviews for this restaurant. Not only is it beautiful, but the food is wonderful! Their round pizzas have the most special and unique crisp crust. It’s just phenomenal! The toppings are thoughtful and high quality. The umami mushroom and la foresta were some of the best pizzas I’ve ever had anywhere. The salads are delicious as well.I’m so happy to have somewhere special nearby that takes pride in their food and doesn’t taste like every other place around.”
“As a steak lover who has been grilling steaks on a weekly basis for over a decade and has tried some of the best steakhouses in this country and beyond, I can say that this is one of the best steakhouses in SoCal.Short review:Excellent food. Even better service. Try the Wagyu steak trio. Their complimentary fries, soups in cups and a fried bun are excellent offerings. They ask about your dietary restrictions so as to accommodate you fully. Their dessert offerings were delightful. Ask for blankets if you get cold sitting on the balcony. Valet parking only ($10+tips with validation)Overall Experience: 9.5/10Food: 9/10Service: 10/10Cost: $$$$Reservation needed: No, but I would recommend getting a reservation just in case.Long review:To begin, the restaurant is located inside a Waldorf Astoria. Valet parking only and the restaurant will validate the parking ticket making it come out to $10 plus tips.The restaurant looks classy (as expected). We sat on the balcony which had views of the ocean and the resort. When we got cold, we were offered blankets (very nice touch) and the heaters were turned on. Excellent Service. Meal started with complimentary fries (3 different kinds coupled with individual sauces), and cups (actual cups) of tomato soup. The fries were likely duck fat fries and were definitely a treat. Tomato soup was great (it's tomato soup, not much to say here) but definitely tasted well after the fries. They offer table side bourbon which is an experience altogether but as we drove from San Diego, we opted for non-alcoholic cocktails. Furthermore, they provided bread/bun but it was pretty unique as it had cheese inside and was first baked and then fried. Kudos to Bourbon management for pairing those great little appetizers.We kept the order short and sweet. 2 orders of the Wagyu Trio and a side of Truffle Mac and Cheese. Wagyu Trio was $198 each and came with 17oz of Wagyu beef (10oz of Missima Ultra NY Strip (American Wagyu), 4oz of Snake River Farms Ribeye (American Wagyu) and 3oz of Hokkaido A5 Wagyu (Japanese Wagyu)). I ordered them Medium rare plus. The steaks came out with the right warmth (maybe a smidge overcooked, I didn't expect them to hit medium rare plus anyway) but the steaks were perfectly seasoned. Needless to say the A5 Wagyu melted in the mouth so it was our favorite. The Snake River Farms have always stood out as one of the best, if not the best, American Wagyu producers and it was very evident here. Think of it being the middle ground of A5 Wagyu and the Missima ultra. The Missima ultra (ultra being the highest richness in Missima meat categories) fell short compared to the others but that was expected. They also came with peppers and they weren't spicy and tasted great with the steak. The Truffle Mac and Cheese was a little disappointing to be honest. It tasted like a regular Mac and Cheese from any steakhouse. I was expecting a hint of truffle flavor but didn't feel anything was different.As we were dining, rain started pouring out of nowhere. The servers sprung to action and moved us into the restaurant quickly and efficiently and each and every server genuinely apologized to us for the rain. They didn't cause the rain, but they apologized. Nevertheless, it's a sign of a very empathetic team of employees. Excellent service!!!!As dinner ended, we ordered 2 desserts. We were already stuffed from the steaks (which neither of us could finish more than half way) but ending the night on a sweet note is always good. We opted for the Souffle and the Beignets. The souffle was passion fruit so very fruity yet not too sweet. The Beignets were large and coupled with a chocolate ganache (maybe a thicker consistency than a ganache) and they were the perfect end to the evening.But wait. They offered us 2 cubes of honey when they brought the check. Think of a lightly sweet cube of honey gummy. That concluded the dinner.Will we back? Considering we live in San Diego, driving an hour to come here regularly is tricky but for celebrations, I don't see why not!Parking: $10 for p”
“What a lovely cozy spot with absolutely delicious food! The Happy Hour deal was 2.50 oysters and $6 bubbles. All of the dishes were superb. Both the presentation and flavor was impeccable.”
“As if the restaurant name isn't enough to make you smile, the menu and the warm welcome will lighten your heart. Excellent service. Start with the appethaizers and move to the Have Wings will Travel section. All four dishes were delicious with #40 my favorite - the Road Runner / Kai Himapan with Spicy chicken cooked with cashew nut and roasted chili. I will definitely return with the same friends and a few more. Nice vegetarian options.”
“Five stars in all aspects. Great breakfast, coffee is on the weaker side for my personal preference. Excellent service every time. My local breakfast spot over the years. Highly recommend!!Parking: Have rear parking”
“The halibut piccata was delicious! So was the salmon and filet mignon. The house Chianti was good. Service was great - we did not feel rushed and could really relax and enjoy. The brownie sundae was ok - brownie a bit dry and ice cream more like ice milk (not real creamy). All in all, I would recommend this restaurant.”
“Great spot. Nice setting. French inspired make reasonable modifications to food. Good sized portions and quality. Great coffee too. A go to spot for breakfast.Dietary restrictions: Gluten”
“I love stacks. The first time I went to any of their locations was 11 years ago. I love that they've had enough success to expand more and more over the years and still maintain the same level of food throughout each location. I do wish they would go back to rotating their specials more frequently but I think that's probably harder to do with all of the locations they now have. My typical go to nowadays is the island chilaquiles.”
“Best sushi! They prepared our food very fast, within 5 minutes of ordering. Everyone is very kind, and always asks what they can do. Defiantly a must go sushi spot.Vegetarian options: They have plenty of vegetarian dishes like vegetable tempura.Kid-friendliness: It’s a very calm place, but at the same time modern and clean.”
“The cake for my 40th birthday turned out exactly how I hoped! I was able to meet with the manager and taste different cakes, figure out a design and come up with the perfect cake! The delivery was perfect and made things easy. I also ordered mini berry pies from the bakery and they were perfect! The cake was fluffy and flavorful and my guests loved it. I will definitely order my custom cakes here again!”
“Rita's Italian Ice has been staple for me as someone raised on the East Coast. It was an absolute joy to find one in Dana Point. The custards make for a great dessert. Highly recommend!”
“The halibut piccata was delicious! So was the salmon and filet mignon. The house Chianti was good. Service was great - we did not feel rushed and could really relax and enjoy. The brownie sundae was ok - brownie a bit dry and ice cream more like ice milk (not real creamy). All in all, I would recommend this restaurant.”
“Great spot. Nice setting. French inspired make reasonable modifications to food. Good sized portions and quality. Great coffee too. A go to spot for breakfast.Dietary restrictions: Gluten”
“I love stacks. The first time I went to any of their locations was 11 years ago. I love that they've had enough success to expand more and more over the years and still maintain the same level of food throughout each location. I do wish they would go back to rotating their specials more frequently but I think that's probably harder to do with all of the locations they now have. My typical go to nowadays is the island chilaquiles.”
Outdoor Dining
“The steaks were very pricey$$$$, my wife had the parmesan spaghetti and i had the ravioli. The ravioli was very good, but the spaghetti was to die for!! it's a modern decor, very nice, but not stuffy. It was a cold and rainy evening so we ate inside. at 6:30pm the place was nearly empty, but really picked up by 8pm.”
“A local owner (went to the local high school back in the day) who's involved in the community. Oh, and a great Cali beer selection for all tastes (changes frequently) delivered with genuinely good service. Cheers!Parking: Close to harbor, coastal views (1 block away), and many restaurants.”
“Seriously amazing food!! I’m definitely a foodie and have been disappointed by a lot of restaurants in Dana Point, until I found Gianas! Tons of flavor and very fresh, with a beautiful presentation!! Highly recommend!Update: I’ve eaten breakfast here almost every morning. It’s that good! And the people who work here are absolutely amazing!”
“I stayed at the Monarch for a business meeting. The property and resort is absolutely outstanding. From the friendliness of the staff to the condition of the property, my experience was superior. I will definitely return!”
“Can’t get enough of this place! The food items are so unique and love the drinks. Staff is super friendly. Don’t miss out on their avocado toast called “The Funk”. Got it gluten free. It’s out of this world.”
“Went on a Saturday night. Fairly busy, but not too crowded. It was just 2 of us, so we ordered drinks and played ping pong while we waited for a pool table to open up. Had to wait about 10 min. Server was very kind, bartender was busy and direct. Overall it was a clean place with decent tables and cheap drinks. You pay hourly for the tables. Would come back again.”
“Delahunt Taproom and Taqueria in Dana Point was outstanding. We decided to come down for lunch and a couple beers! We ended up staying a lot longer than expected because the vibe and staff were incredible! The food was very good! Our beertender Gavin was outstanding! He knew the selections of beers and made excellent recommendations! The vibe was our style. Not too loud! They had the games on as well! The beer was exceptional- we tried a variety of different styles from IPAs to an epic Blueberry Almond BBA Stout! They do flights as well for those wondering! They have an outdoor seating area with heaters!We will definitely be coming back next time we’re in town! These guys know what’s up! Thanks guys! Till next time! -Tom”
“Only had breakfast burrito and that was very good. Coffee was good and there was a good selection of food to choose from . I want to try other items next time and there will be many more times to come . Can not beat the atmosphere!!!!”
“Amazing service, fabulous food!! Enjoy our meal! Love the asparagus fries...one of the best linguini and clam sauce I ever had!! Best tiramisu too! Only concern is that the bathroom needs to be checked in on more frequently...a bit dirty. The restaurant could use a little bit of an update...but will certainly return soon!!~”
“Very clean, friendly staff, quiet and the food was better than expected. The ride down from the Waldorf Astoria was fast and bumpy. Wheelchair accessible ramp. Beach chair service. MEMBERS ONLY or Waldorf Astoria guests.Wheelchair accessibility: See photo”
“Our meal here was absolutely fantastic... We tried the hummus and liver pate appetizers to start, our companions had the salmon and we tried the lemon sole and lamb(the Volcano). Everything was so delicious and beautifully presented. Great service and yes one could carry on a conversation...”
“UPDATE: THE chowder was ok. We shared the Jimmy's burger and it was great. Homemade chips are super. Server, Dillon was terrific.Excellent chowder and jalapeño calamari. The Jimmy Burger with pimento cheese & bacon jam was outstanding. The prime rib dip was very good. French fries were crispy and the coleslaw was good… not too much vinegar and very little or no mayo.The restaurant has a great view and has a cool vibe. Service from Jeff was fantastic.”
“Stopped in for dinner as our hotel's steakhouse was booked and the reviews were good. Food was great! We had nachos for an appetizer and then we each had a cheesesteak. Waiter was great, but he was slow to come back so my husband got to-go boxes from the bar as well as paid there. We saw a family with kids there. Towards the end of our meal someone was setting up some equipment-not sure if he was going to be a DJ or if there was going to be a band. Fun atmosphere.”
“Another wonderful evening at Lucci's! Back to my favorite Lasagne Melania I. Others had the special Lobster Ravioli. Excellent as usual! Best service! Fun atmosphere. Donna played accordian music which we love. If you have never eaten here, you are missing a gem!”
“Excellent custom sandwiches at a great price! The Squaw bread is the best! They have a menu of sandwiches that you use as a starting point, and then you customize the way you like it. Plenty of parking available. There is a little outdoor patio in the back, or you can hike about 3 minutes down towards the end of the street and sit on a bench overlooking Dana Point Harbor.”
“Can’t get enough of this place! The food items are so unique and love the drinks. Staff is super friendly. Don’t miss out on their avocado toast called “The Funk”. Got it gluten free. It’s out of this world.”
14
Dana Kai
“Best sushi! They prepared our food very fast, within 5 minutes of ordering. Everyone is very kind, and always asks what they can do. Defiantly a must go sushi spot.Vegetarian options: They have plenty of vegetarian dishes like vegetable tempura.Kid-friendliness: It’s a very calm place, but at the same time modern and clean.”
“Delahunt Taproom and Taqueria in Dana Point was outstanding. We decided to come down for lunch and a couple beers! We ended up staying a lot longer than expected because the vibe and staff were incredible! The food was very good! Our beertender Gavin was outstanding! He knew the selections of beers and made excellent recommendations! The vibe was our style. Not too loud! They had the games on as well! The beer was exceptional- we tried a variety of different styles from IPAs to an epic Blueberry Almond BBA Stout! They do flights as well for those wondering! They have an outdoor seating area with heaters!We will definitely be coming back next time we’re in town! These guys know what’s up! Thanks guys! Till next time! -Tom”
Online Reservation Available
“Always 10/10 at What a Dish. Best breakfast/brunch spot in the area, hands down! Fresh, delicious food and a great atmosphere make it an excellent spot to dine with friends, family, or even in a casual date.Vegetarian options: Plenty of options for meat eaters, vegetarians, and vegans!Parking: Parking in front and back, just make a circle :)Kid-friendliness: Very kid-friendlyWheelchair accessibility: Yes!”
“It was a great experience overall, I got the warmest welcome from the staff. They attended to my every need and were intuitive to my other needs I did not verbalize. I wanted to take a picture of my special day but was too shy to ask. The wait staff offered to help me take a picture. I appreciated the thought to detail. I felt very welcome, the drive was well worth it!”
“What a wonderful night! And how silly are we? We've owned a boat in this marina for well over three years, and have spent quite a bit of time in the Dana Point Harbor, eating at the various restaurants, but it wasn't until January 2024 that we finally tried Harpoon Henry's. Our meal that afternoon was terrific and we wondered why we waited so long to try them. Tonight we came back with friends who hadn't eaten here for well over 10 years and they were thrilled. They raved about their fish & chips & my husband compared their swordfish to what we were accustomed to having at our beloved Harbor Grill!! We all wondered why we had waited so long as we see the patio busy regardless the season! Our server, Michael was very friendly, warm and funny. The food was terrific, and the hostess was great, showing us to a booth by the window, where we could actually see our boat in its slip at M Dock. Cocktails are great too. You won't be disappointed.”
“Great happy hour values! $5.00 bubbles! The green chill fries @ $8.00 were amazing. The pork was very flavorful and delicious. Only con was it was very noisy. We were sat on the patio next to the street. Lots of revving engines. Our server Kelsey was great! We'll be back!”
“I had the eggplant and it was delicious! We tried the pizza and it was pretty good. I would not go there just because for the pizza. We were there at lunch and the menu was limited. Don't know if it's the same menu at dinner. My husband had a pasta dish and he enjoyed it. I'm not sure if they make their own pasta. I will go back for the eggplant!”
“Great service, beautiful spot, love that they have brews AND cocktails. Also, a separate vegan menu upon request as well as other dietary restrictions clearly noted. Terrific IPA”
“My husband, my son, and I love Carmelita’s! The salsa, refried beans, and chips are above average. I get the spinach enchiladas and they are excellent every time!”
“Breakfast was delicious except the fried chicken with churros was a bit dry & salty. The lobster scramble & American breakfast were perfectly cooked. Service was excellent!!”
“Restaurant with a beautiful view of the Dana Point Marina. Food is delicious. Scallops were seared beautifully and fish was blackened nicely. First time ever eating Mexican oysters and they were good! Make a reservation for sunset time and ask for a window seat by the water.Parking: Large free parking lot by the marina.Wheelchair accessibility: Stairs all over so I believe this restaurant may be difficult to navigate.”
“Kaycee is amazing! So friendly and happy to serve her customers. She literally listens (I'm high maintenance) and delivers what you ask for with a smile on her face. Patio is great in warm weather and dog friendly! I highly recommend, but be sure to ask for Kaycee to take care of you. Happy hour has great deals.”
“Came here on a Sunday night after driving by this place for a number of years. The outdoor seating area was nicer than it looked from the outside and the Halloween decor was a kitschy sort of cute. Our server was fantastic and took time to make recommendations and made sure our waters were always full.We started with the over baked baguette, which I have to say was a fantastic piece of bread. The rest of the food itself didn't knock my socks off but my chicken was good and the others in my party had a similar assessment of their plates. Not incredible but good. The dessert menu was intriguing but I'll have to come back to develop an opinion on that.”
“I've been to some of the best steak houses in the US. This one was okay and I understand I'm at the Ritz Carlton, but the prices are just crazy expensive. At the end of the day I love steak, but I've been to better places in nicer restaurants for half the price.”
“I'm disappointed that the coconut shrimp doesn't taste as good as it used to, and the sauce is different and not as good too. The calamari was mostly fried veggies, still good, just not much calamari. Drinks were delicious! Very busy for happy hour on a Friday, so heads up and get there before happy hour starts to get in line for a table when they open. Still had a great meal and view although the hearers barely reached the seats so we were very cold.”
“Only had breakfast burrito and that was very good. Coffee was good and there was a good selection of food to choose from . I want to try other items next time and there will be many more times to come . Can not beat the atmosphere!!!!”
“Amazing service, fabulous food!! Enjoy our meal! Love the asparagus fries...one of the best linguini and clam sauce I ever had!! Best tiramisu too! Only concern is that the bathroom needs to be checked in on more frequently...a bit dirty. The restaurant could use a little bit of an update...but will certainly return soon!!~”
“Very clean, friendly staff, quiet and the food was better than expected. The ride down from the Waldorf Astoria was fast and bumpy. Wheelchair accessible ramp. Beach chair service. MEMBERS ONLY or Waldorf Astoria guests.Wheelchair accessibility: See photo”
Takeout Restaurants
“During our stay I came to the marketplace everyday. The staff were super friendly and helpful. The ambiance is very nice too. It's a fast casual food market with breakfast and lunch options. I had the Patty Melt for lunch one day and it was so good, hit the spot. We also enjoyed some of the pastries. One day for breakfast I had the salmon toast and the portion size was huge! They definitely give you plenty to eat. It is more expensive than other places outside of the hotel, but like I said the portions are big and it's convenient.”
“Very lively evening, and likely due to that, the service was a little slow. Had a few cocktails all around $15 a piece and some appetizers. Everything was good, but the oysters were tiny, as were the mussels. I should have taken a photo of the oysters....Also, more bread is needed. Had to order more as two pieces was not enough for the tasty broth. The ahi tacos were bountiful and filling.”
“Nice place and really friendly baristas! The matcha was a little bit over powdered for me so it was hard to drink as it was sort of bitter. The coffee was delicious though!”
“Decided to get dinner here after a long walk and this was nearby since I was craving a burger. I decided to get the shwack. I decided to get spuds with it and a fountain drink. I also got sauce with it. There are seats inside and out. Service was great.”
“Lovely juice place in Dana Point. I saw the store while looking for parking right before doing hike. I got açai bowl and the energy juice drink. The servers are amazing and patient. If you download their app, you get 5$ off ;)”
“Had my best EVER jersey mikes sandwich here today. Ordered on the app and picked it up. I requested hot peppers and they gave me the scoop to ask for “CPR” cherry pepper relish.GAME CHANGER. this was THE BEST sub I’ve had. I will definitely be ordering again and thanks to the team for the tip!”
“My favorite Chinese place and I ❤️ Chinese food. I always order the honey walnut shrimp, orange chicken, and cream cheese wontons. If we are really hungry we add the Dan Dan noodles, they're great!”
“The best poke in Orange County by far.For $20 you can get a large bowl with a 1/2 of tuna, salmon or shrimp. Fish is always fresh and the service is always really friendly.Highly recommend”
“The pizza was excellent, chef was nice and he was able to make myself a custom pizza. I couldn't finished it here and ask for a box to take home. I recommend ordering"The Margarita", but add pepperoni and mushroom. The Crow's Pie!”
“Great food with many options, one side of menu is vegan and other side is everything else. Great option for those who have a vegetarian or vegan friend/spouse. Recommend to make a reservation as seating is limited.”
“Great food, great service, friendly people.Lots of TV's, lots of Pool tables, lots of parking across Doheny Park Road in another cost City parking lot. Be careful crossing the street.”
“I had the pleasure of eating in Zen Sushi on Valentine's day 2024. The food was excellent, the service and the atmosphere were very good!Fish was fresh, sushi and sashimi were delicious and we really enjoyed our time and the food!”
“Great customer service at this location. This location really cares about the integrity towards the restaurant. Every time I come here, I am always thankful for Rafael and Magdalena for their great management. They are on top of everything, very polite and care for the needs of their customers. Food is always looking presentable and on point at this location.”
“I had my doubts after the first couple visits here but the last two times getting the lemon garlic chicken kabobs have made a full redemption and come back for Luna grill in my opinion.”
“Nice pizza, sandwich, salad Italian place. I really enjoyed the caprese sandie. It's a very large sandwich so I was only able to eat half. Packed with lots of arugula and mozzarella plus a giant slice of tomato. The bread app was really good, basically Parker house rolls covered with cheese/garlic/butter and comes with marinara sauce. My sister has the lemon pasta and loved it as well. I would just say that they missed giving us napkins and utensils in our order tho they knew we were eating next door and the order took a lot longer than it should have. Would love to dine in next time and try other items.”
“Our meal here was absolutely fantastic... We tried the hummus and liver pate appetizers to start, our companions had the salmon and we tried the lemon sole and lamb(the Volcano). Everything was so delicious and beautifully presented. Great service and yes one could carry on a conversation...”
“UPDATE: THE chowder was ok. We shared the Jimmy's burger and it was great. Homemade chips are super. Server, Dillon was terrific.Excellent chowder and jalapeño calamari. The Jimmy Burger with pimento cheese & bacon jam was outstanding. The prime rib dip was very good. French fries were crispy and the coleslaw was good… not too much vinegar and very little or no mayo.The restaurant has a great view and has a cool vibe. Service from Jeff was fantastic.”
“Stopped in for dinner as our hotel's steakhouse was booked and the reviews were good. Food was great! We had nachos for an appetizer and then we each had a cheesesteak. Waiter was great, but he was slow to come back so my husband got to-go boxes from the bar as well as paid there. We saw a family with kids there. Towards the end of our meal someone was setting up some equipment-not sure if he was going to be a DJ or if there was going to be a band. Fun atmosphere.”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“Great customer service.Parking: I usually park in the big parking lot. I don't mind the short walk. If you park near the drive thru, you may get stuck trying to get out. Sometimes lots of cars in drive thru.”
“Great Mexican food place experience. Ordered the Grilled Calamari and it was breaded, deep fried-they should change it on the menu! Chicken Tostada was excellent! Some good tequilas too! Would definitely go back again when in the area.”
“This location is amazing! The staff was so friendly and very attentive. I communicated with the manager Silvestre and he helped us very much. The food was delicious.”
“My service has never been so fast, and a fast food place has never had such a happy environment. the worker were clearly happy and our cashier Kathy V. was INCREDIBLE! She deserves a host/waiter position seriously! her conversation skills and extraverted attitude are on the spot! Shout to her constant freindly, entertaining, and kind personality!”
“Great Starbucks, probably my favorite one in town. I come here often to do some work. Lots of tables, and very well lit.Bathroom can be a bit cleaner, though.Super friendly and helpful staff.”
“Fan of The Habit. Tasty fresh food and beverages and reasonably priced. Visited on a rainy day and kinda wished it was warmer inside. Felt cooler inside 60s than outside. I like it when it's warm inside but not hot like some places...maybe like 73 degrees or so. Otherwise delicious as always. Also the manager is very attentive and not afraid to be part of the team he leads.”
“Another wonderful evening at Lucci's! Back to my favorite Lasagne Melania I. Others had the special Lobster Ravioli. Excellent as usual! Best service! Fun atmosphere. Donna played accordian music which we love. If you have never eaten here, you are missing a gem!”
“Excellent custom sandwiches at a great price! The Squaw bread is the best! They have a menu of sandwiches that you use as a starting point, and then you customize the way you like it. Plenty of parking available. There is a little outdoor patio in the back, or you can hike about 3 minutes down towards the end of the street and sit on a bench overlooking Dana Point Harbor.”
“During our stay I came to the marketplace everyday. The staff were super friendly and helpful. The ambiance is very nice too. It's a fast casual food market with breakfast and lunch options. I had the Patty Melt for lunch one day and it was so good, hit the spot. We also enjoyed some of the pastries. One day for breakfast I had the salmon toast and the portion size was huge! They definitely give you plenty to eat. It is more expensive than other places outside of the hotel, but like I said the portions are big and it's convenient.”
Cheap Eats
“Our food was excellent! My family ordered the #3 Breakfast Burrito, the Carne Asada Burrito. The Chicken Quesadilla, and a Cheeseburger. HUGE portions!Little patio. Next to a busy road. Great stop for a quick bite before hitting Doheny Beach.They did not honor my Entertainment coupon unfortunately.”
“Every time I’ve come to this location I’ve had a great experience; the store is very clean, quiet, and accessible to customers. I’ve ordered online a few times and my order has been ready for pickup when I’ve arrived. My order has been accurate each time and tasted how I wanted it to; I’m a spicy Italian fan. The workers I’ve interacted with have been friendly and helpful so I’ll definitely come back again.”
“We have come here several times to enjoy the sunset at the Dana Point Harbor. Lots of seating available outside this place with umbrellas. Had the matcha lavender latte and the macaroon. Both were delicious with the drink being nice and hot like I enjoy it. There is a lot of walking available around the harbor and people watching. Lots of dogs and strollers. It’s an enjoyable time anytime at the oceans side.”
“Lovely staff! The barista was extremely helpful and offered great suggestions. It is inside the Ralph’s so it was nice getting a espresso drink to wake me up a bit prior to my morning shopping.”
“Great place to go if you want a good cold beer and to meet some very friendly locals! I’m a solo traveler and always check out the local watering holes…. so far in my travels, This is my favorite one!! The bartender welcomed me the minute that I walked in and included me in conversations. Lots of laughs and overall a fun evening!! No food but the very attentive and kind bartender took it upon herself to bring in homemade tacos for taco Tuesday free for all patrons…. They were amazing !! if you’re looking for some friendly people to hang out with and a fully stocked bar this is your place!!!”
“This is a staple every time we visit California. We have been going there for 10 years since they were a popup coffee stand. My wife loves their coffee so much, we waited for an hour for them to open so she could get a coffee before we flew back home.”
“What a great morning!! My mornings get even better when I visit the local starbucks across the street! The Best Customer Service Like Ever!!! Very Consistent and reliable! My order is always perfect! I wish I lived nearby I would make this my only starbucks to go to!”
“To me this pizza is good they have a good sauce that doesn't taste like ketchup. They are quick and reasonably priced. I always order a medium pepperoni. I find when ordering a large most places loose the flavor. All in all it good and hits the spot when you want something quick”
“Service was friendly and the food was hot and fresh. My husband and I each got our own small pizzas. Meat lovers for him, vegetarian for me. Both were really delicious except the salami was a little on the salty ”
“This place is amazing. Jose the manager, Mireya, & Salma are amazing. They are so hardworking, efficient, and nice. I love going to this place because of the staff.”
“Very charming coffee shop. I got a decaf vanilla oat latte and it was delicious. Such friendly staff, particularly Stephanie and Susana . The warm seating inside with the library is the cherry on top.”
“Walking along the pier we noticed a sizable line of people waiting in line at only one restaurant, which is usually a sign of good food. This was certainly true at The Coffee Importers. We ordered sandwiches - one roast beef and one turkey -- was able to specify the bread and condiments. Both were quite thick - appropriate for the price point >$14 - and both were very delicious. The use of fresh ingredients was readily apparent. Served with a few pieces of fruit, which was a nice refresher at the end. We would come here again to try some of the other options. The egg/bagel sandwiches that we saw coming out of the kitchen looked marvelous!”
“the yogurt here is super yummy I decided to order it for my family the sampler and I was not disappointed! gummy bears were a nice touch the strawberry tasted great with the cheesecake bites. The peanut butter cups sprinkled over chocolate was definitely a favorite!”
“I ordered ahead using the Starbucks app so I can only speak to the pick up experience.I was staying at the Waldorf Astoria and walked to this Starbucks location as there was a nice walking path from the resort to this plaza. I ordered an iced Venti espresso drink and it was more than enough caffeine to last me throughout the day and night. The ordering process via the app was seamless and my drink was ready when I arrived.This Starbucks is located in a plaza right off of the PCH Highway so there is plenty of parking. There are some tables and chairs both inside and outside for you to enjoy your drink.”
“My favorite Starbucks location. This location is not only clean, the service is swift, always great and friendly, and as well as other employees at this location know what they're doing and do it well! You'll be in and out in an appropriate amount of time, you won't stand around and wait 30-40 minutes for a drink like other locations, as well as the fact that I decided to bite the bullet, and buy one of their little bento, snack boxes, and for the first time, I got one that was not stale! Really happy that this location focuses on quality control, and good service! Wish I could get more stars. Also this location is super convenient being off golden lantern.”
“Very lively evening, and likely due to that, the service was a little slow. Had a few cocktails all around $15 a piece and some appetizers. Everything was good, but the oysters were tiny, as were the mussels. I should have taken a photo of the oysters....Also, more bread is needed. Had to order more as two pieces was not enough for the tasty broth. The ahi tacos were bountiful and filling.”
“Always 10/10 at What a Dish. Best breakfast/brunch spot in the area, hands down! Fresh, delicious food and a great atmosphere make it an excellent spot to dine with friends, family, or even in a casual date.Vegetarian options: Plenty of options for meat eaters, vegetarians, and vegans!Parking: Parking in front and back, just make a circle :)Kid-friendliness: Very kid-friendlyWheelchair accessibility: Yes!”
“This restaurant specializes is poki bowls (rice base with sushi). It’s kinda a build your own, with choices for rice, the sushi, and the toppings.The food is extraordinary, fresh, and very tasty. The rice is a bit underwhelming, but still very good.The location is a bit of a hole in the wall, with minimal parking, a liquor store next door (in case you really need that drink!), and a sign for “tattoos”. I’m not really sure if they do Tattoos here, but maybe? Or maybe it’s just an inside joke?This is the place you come to and order to go. While they do have tables in the parking lot, I’m not sure I want to eat next to running cars in a filthy parking lot…”
28
Raya
“It was a great experience overall, I got the warmest welcome from the staff. They attended to my every need and were intuitive to my other needs I did not verbalize. I wanted to take a picture of my special day but was too shy to ask. The wait staff offered to help me take a picture. I appreciated the thought to detail. I felt very welcome, the drive was well worth it!”
“What a wonderful night! And how silly are we? We've owned a boat in this marina for well over three years, and have spent quite a bit of time in the Dana Point Harbor, eating at the various restaurants, but it wasn't until January 2024 that we finally tried Harpoon Henry's. Our meal that afternoon was terrific and we wondered why we waited so long to try them. Tonight we came back with friends who hadn't eaten here for well over 10 years and they were thrilled. They raved about their fish & chips & my husband compared their swordfish to what we were accustomed to having at our beloved Harbor Grill!! We all wondered why we had waited so long as we see the patio busy regardless the season! Our server, Michael was very friendly, warm and funny. The food was terrific, and the hostess was great, showing us to a booth by the window, where we could actually see our boat in its slip at M Dock. Cocktails are great too. You won't be disappointed.”
“My favorite Chinese place and I ❤️ Chinese food. I always order the honey walnut shrimp, orange chicken, and cream cheese wontons. If we are really hungry we add the Dan Dan noodles, they're great!”
Latest Reviews
“First time visiting. Service was excellent. My food excellent but one person in our party got something different from what they ordered. The other had filet and it was just ok. Will definitely go back but probably make different menu choices.”
“So freaking delicious. I ordered the ginger tea- was surprised it came with a little tea pot! The taste was spicy and herby. The gluten free spring rolls were fresh and a lovely appetizer! Love the peanut sauce. The eggplant curry was so lovely for a winter meal. The base tasted kind of pumpkin-y and had a subtle kick! Let's not forget the carrot cake... moist and airy frosting. It doesn't get better! All this left 2 stomachs stuffed. And the prices are fairly reasonable! I will definitely be back to try more dishes.”
“Nice pizza, sandwich, salad Italian place. I really enjoyed the caprese sandie. It's a very large sandwich so I was only able to eat half. Packed with lots of arugula and mozzarella plus a giant slice of tomato. The bread app was really good, basically Parker house rolls covered with cheese/garlic/butter and comes with marinara sauce. My sister has the lemon pasta and loved it as well. I would just say that they missed giving us napkins and utensils in our order tho they knew we were eating next door and the order took a lot longer than it should have. Would love to dine in next time and try other items.”
Most Popular Restaurants
“I'm disappointed that the coconut shrimp doesn't taste as good as it used to, and the sauce is different and not as good too. The calamari was mostly fried veggies, still good, just not much calamari. Drinks were delicious! Very busy for happy hour on a Friday, so heads up and get there before happy hour starts to get in line for a table when they open. Still had a great meal and view although the hearers barely reached the seats so we were very cold.”
“Restaurant with a beautiful view of the Dana Point Marina. Food is delicious. Scallops were seared beautifully and fish was blackened nicely. First time ever eating Mexican oysters and they were good! Make a reservation for sunset time and ask for a window seat by the water.Parking: Large free parking lot by the marina.Wheelchair accessibility: Stairs all over so I believe this restaurant may be difficult to navigate.”
“Irish pub. Had their signature Bloody Marys. Delish. Walked in during a weekday, steady traffic. Great atmosphere. Indoor and open air bar, fire pit seating, and various events during the week.”
“The best poke in Orange County by far.For $20 you can get a large bowl with a 1/2 of tuna, salmon or shrimp. Fish is always fresh and the service is always really friendly.Highly recommend”
“The pizza was excellent, chef was nice and he was able to make myself a custom pizza. I couldn't finished it here and ask for a box to take home. I recommend ordering"The Margarita", but add pepperoni and mushroom. The Crow's Pie!”
“Nice staff at the front desk (dude named Adam. Folks in the kitchen are a bit serious and angry it seems, but that’s ok - kitchen folks don’t need to talk to customers usually).It’s mainly a tourist hangout for guests of the Ritz Carlton nearby who are tired of paying $31 for a turkey sandwich there and walk here instead. Take-out took 30 min at 3pm on a random Sunday due to a long line of (*drunk*) hotel guests who decided lunch happens at 3pm after their buffet breakfasts in the morning were wearing off.Nevertheless the sandwiches are good here and the beer is cold! I like the vibe and the quality of their crisp fresh produce on the sammys. Bread is super soft and not at all crispy or toasted - so make sure you’re ok with that.I’m a local but still go and recommend it. Worth going just be prepared for lines of tourists sometimes. (FYI, if you are $$ conscious, do not go here. It’s pricey for what you get but that comes with the address being on Ritz Carlton Drive).”
“Great food with many options, one side of menu is vegan and other side is everything else. Great option for those who have a vegetarian or vegan friend/spouse. Recommend to make a reservation as seating is limited.”
“Great happy hour values! $5.00 bubbles! The green chill fries @ $8.00 were amazing. The pork was very flavorful and delicious. Only con was it was very noisy. We were sat on the patio next to the street. Lots of revving engines. Our server Kelsey was great! We'll be back!”
“Great food, great service, friendly people.Lots of TV's, lots of Pool tables, lots of parking across Doheny Park Road in another cost City parking lot. Be careful crossing the street.”
“I had the eggplant and it was delicious! We tried the pizza and it was pretty good. I would not go there just because for the pizza. We were there at lunch and the menu was limited. Don't know if it's the same menu at dinner. My husband had a pasta dish and he enjoyed it. I'm not sure if they make their own pasta. I will go back for the eggplant!”
“I honestly cannot understand any negative reviews for this restaurant. Not only is it beautiful, but the food is wonderful! Their round pizzas have the most special and unique crisp crust. It’s just phenomenal! The toppings are thoughtful and high quality. The umami mushroom and la foresta were some of the best pizzas I’ve ever had anywhere. The salads are delicious as well.I’m so happy to have somewhere special nearby that takes pride in their food and doesn’t taste like every other place around.”
“I just want to send a big "Thabk You" to the wait staff and kitchen staff. I recently visited this location with a patient of mine and we were met with nothing but absolute kindness. I'm not going to mention names as it might be impolite. The food was hot and not rubbery (eggs get that way). So again thanks to all that served us and we will be back!!”
“We are so glad we stopped by here on our road trip as we had the best pizza in Cali so far! Love the options and flavours. Highly recommend the Stingray pizza which is prepared with a drizzle of citrus honey to balance the heat from the jalapeños. We also loved the Boho salad which was crunchy and came with super flavourful chicken. We finished our meal with the perfect dessert - delicious and light Tiramisu. Love this place! Great food and the staff are attentive to your needs and are so warm and friendly.”
“I had my doubts after the first couple visits here but the last two times getting the lemon garlic chicken kabobs have made a full redemption and come back for Luna grill in my opinion.”
“Tabay's food is very authentic and you can see how much love is puts into the food. Tabay is also very friendly, greets everyone with a smile, can answer any question you have regarding the menu and ingredients.”
“I couldn’t be more in love with Vibe, I have been going to them for years. So delicious and fresh! They are the cleanest spot around, in both their food and ingredients, as well as their locations are always so nice and well kept. The staff is always down to earth, incredible, kind, and very generous. The food is fabulous especially if you have dietary restrictions! I am vegan and only eat Whole Foods, refined sugar free, and this place is just that! No seed oils, all organic, Whole Foods, with the most fresh ingredients! They juice their juices and smoothies right there in front of you. If you are in a Rush order online, real food takes a few extra minutes to prepare (maybe 5-10 extra minutes) and even then they are so speedy! Thank you vibe. I love you!Vegetarian options: It’s all vegan, plant based! So incredible!Dietary restrictions: Vibe is all organic, they use no deep fryers, no microwaves, it’s real whole food, gluten free kitchen, when my partner had to go on a Low FODMAP diet, they were so kind and made a special custom bowl for him.”