5 Best Restaurants for People Watching in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

5 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Harpoon Henry's Seafood Restaurant restaurant

1. Harpoon Henry's Seafood Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(1533)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Booked 19 times today

OPEN FOR DINING INDOORS AND ON OUR WATERFRONT OUTDOOR PATIO Join us dockside for dining with sweeping Harbor views; for a weekend breakfast, or lunch/dinner daily... in the evenings we have patio heaters to keep you warm!Harpoon Henrys Seafood Restaurant is proud to offer a spectacular waterfront view, fresh seafood, and the latest in California Beach Cuisine. We offer our guests harbor views from our dining room and our outdoor waterfront patio. For 46 years, we have provided the best in service, ambiance, and cuisine. We have been winners of awards from the Southern California Restaurant Writers Association”, a finalist for Dining Excellence from both the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and the County of Orange, and our wine list has been awarded a Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence.”

A photo of Nick's - San Clemente restaurant

2. Nick's - San Clemente

4.8

Exceptional(3207)

Price: Moderate

• American • San Clemente

Booked 58 times today

Classic American comfort food, crave-able bar snacks, plus unique cocktails & an extensive wine list in an upscale yet casual environment. Our intimate restaurant features a chic island bar, walls of glass and a spacious covered patio, perfect for people watching. Our exhibition kitchen highlights the talents of our passionate culinary team.Nick’s is dedicated to perfecting the dining experience through continuous innovation, offering the highest quality food and beverage, and executing impeccable standards of hospitality. The deeply instilled Nick’s culture is personified by its Ladies and Gentlemen – professionals who share a single focus and are inspired and committed to offering great service and creating positive memorable experiences.

A photo of Mozambique Restaurant restaurant

3. Mozambique Restaurant

4.5

Awesome(3102)

Price: Expensive

• Steak • Laguna Beach

Booked 51 times today

Mozambique blends exotic adventure with warm hospitality, offering a menu rich with South African influences, including signature Peri-Peri prawns, wood-fired steaks, and flavorful curries. The three-story venue boasts stunning ocean views from its Veranda rooftop, elegant dining in the Durban Room, a lively music scene in the newly renovated Ivan’z House (formerly the Shebeen, updated in July 2024), and a serene garden patio.Reservations will guarantee a table in our restaurant, but seating area is subject to availability. Please expect an additional wait for Rooftop Seating, Live Music, and other high demand areas. To book a Private Event or a specific table, a deposit will be required in addition to a food and beverage minimum, please contact our events coordinator at 949.715.7107 for pricing.Complimentary Transportation available! 5pm and later, within Laguna Beach or a 5-10 mile radius depending on group size). For customers w/ dinner reservations only - call to schedule.

4. Tango

4.8

Exceptional(115)

Price: Moderate

• Tapas / Small Plates • Laguna Beach

Booked 3 times today

Tango Laguna embarks on a culinary voyage blending global flavors with local dedication. Our menu boasts tapas, sandwiches, and main courses meticulously prepared with care and precision. Each dish, influenced by worldwide inspirations, is paired thoughtfully with wines and cocktails, complemented by bites enhancing the dining experience.Featuring premium meats, artisan cheeses, and fusion small plates sourced globally, our commitment to quality defines every meal, offering a unique culinary journey exclusive to Tango in Laguna Beach, CA.Join us for weekend brunch, a delightful twist on classic favorites paired with cocktails in a coastal ambiance. Wednesdays bring the International Wine Experience, presenting a curated wine selection paired with small plates celebrating diverse culinary traditions, transporting your palate worldwide from Laguna Beach.

A photo of FIN SUSHI & SAKE at Hotel Laguna restaurant

5. FIN SUSHI & SAKE at Hotel Laguna

4.7

Exceptional(135)

Price: Expensive

• Sushi • Laguna Beach

Booked 4 times today

The fish is fresh and the sake is strong at Fin, our oceanview sushi restaurant, located inside the historic Hotel Laguna in the heart of Downtown Laguna Beach. Offering the freshest daily-caught local seafood as well as imported delicacies like Hokkaido scallops and firefly squid, plus a selection of award-winning sake, it is a thrilling adventure in flavor and fun. Belly up to the Tokyo-style bar for lively chef interaction and unforgettable omakase or take a table overlooking the sea and sample to your heart’s desire.

Best Restaurants for People Watching in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Price

Cuisine

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Accessibility

5 restaurants available nearby

1. Harpoon Henry's Seafood Restaurant

2. Nick's - San Clemente

3. Mozambique Restaurant

4. Tango

5. FIN SUSHI & SAKE at Hotel Laguna

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable