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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

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63 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Truly Pizza restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(558)
Price: Moderate
• Pizzeria • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 134 times today
Truly Pizza is a neighborhood gem in Dana Point. The outdoor garden and rooftop dining provide a warm and welcoming community atmosphere. As one reviewer said, 'From the moment you walk into the dining room, you feel like you are being transported to an elegant setting on the beautiful Amalfi coast.' The food is consistently praised as 'delicious', with the pizza crust described as 'perfect' and 'light and crisp'. The staff is noted as friendly, efficient and attentive. The overall ambiance is rated highly with many reviewers recommending it.
A photo of Luxe Restaurant and Bar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(653)
Price: Moderate
• American • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 4 times today
Luxe Restaurant and Bar is a true gem in the neighborhood. With its high-quality food, craft cocktails, and wonderful ambiance, it's a favorite among locals. One review even called it a 'great local gem'. The restaurant's offerings, including seafood, steaks, and Italian dishes, are praised for being on par with nearby competition. The addition of live piano music enhances the dining experience. The service is also highly rated, making Luxe a perfect choice for any occasion.
A photo of The Tea House on Los Rios restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3020)
Price: Expensive
• Afternoon Tea • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 48 times today
Set in a beautifully restored 1911 cottage complete with a wrap-around veranda and lush gardens, The Tea House on Los Rios offers Orange County's premier high tea experience. Known for our famous scones, delicious tea sandwiches, and loose-leaf teas, we also feature a full luncheon menu and a weekend brunch menu, complete with mimosas and Bloody Marys. Join us for an unforgettable experience on Historic Los Rios Street in San Juan Capistrano. Take the train and making a day of it!
A photo of RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2568)
Price: Expensive
• Latin American • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 29 times today
RAYA, a restaurant concept by Chef Richard Sandoval, showcases Pan-Latin coastal cuisine prepared with sustainable seafood, local produce, natural and organic meats, and signature Latin flavors.
A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Dana Point restaurant
4.4
Awesome(6544)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 66 times today
Chart House is a fine dining restaurant serving seafood & steak and famous for their spectacular views. For more than 50 years, Chart House has redefined the ideal dining experience. With 27 waterfront and showcase locations ranging from the historic to the unforgettable, Chart House restaurants specialize in dazzling views, unique cuisine and exceptional service. From fresh fish specialties to slow-roasted prime rib, the renowned chefs of Chart House have tailored a menu that adds a unique touch to local flavors. And the Chart House happy hour is a guest favorite, where guest favor our signature cocktails and delicious bites you are sure to enjoy. Our original Hot Chocolate Lava Cake is the perfect end to a memorable dining experience at Chart House. Chart House offers the ideal setting for your next event. We would be happy to assist you with all the details of your special occasion.
A photo of Luciana's Ristorante restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3507)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 32 times today
Located in a historical home in the resort town of Dana Point, California, Luciana's Ristorante has been serving the Orange County community for over 40 years. The decor is reminiscent of a cozy European-style inn, establishing it as one of Orange County's most romantic restaurants. Awarded the Southern California Restaurant Writers gold medal since 1996, three stars from the California Restaurant Writers, Zagat's Survey "America’s 1,000 Top Italian Restaurants 2008" and an Award of Excellence for its wine list, Luciana's has been setting the standard for classic as well as innovative Italian cuisine. Whether visiting our cozy restaurant or our Bed and Breakfast and Cooking School in Tuscany, Italy, you are sure to experience the best and freshest combination of the old and new worlds.
A photo of Lantern’s Edge restaurant
4.3
Awesome(407)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 11 times today
The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs is a neighborhood gem, highly praised for its elevated yet approachable culinary program. The restaurant serves premium cuts of steak and fresh-caught seafood, and has been called a 'hidden gem' by many reviewers. The food is consistently described as 'outstanding', 'delicious' and 'amazing', and the service is frequently rated as 'excellent'. The restaurant's ambiance is also highly commended, with many reviewers highlighting its 'beautiful location', 'modern touches with a timeless flair', and 'gorgeous interior'.
A photo of Wind & Sea Restaurant restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1898)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 49 times today
The Wind & Sea Restaurant is located on the water in the Dana Point Harbor. With water on three sides, every table has a spectacular view. We serve fresh fish selections daily as well as Lobster tail, shrimp, steaks, and vegetarian dishes.Monday through Friday (not available Holidays and Special occasions) we have Hawaiian Happy Hour from 4:00 to 7:00 featuring our world famous Mai Tai's as well as draft beer, wine and food specials. Big screen TV's, keep the lounge exciting at all times. The waterfront open-air patio serves the full menu and is heated at night, perfect for an order of nachos and a margarita or a full dinner under the stars. Private banquet facilities accommodate 20 to 75.
A photo of Salt Creek Grille Orange County restaurant
4.4
Awesome(478)
Price: Expensive
• American • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 41 times today
Nestled along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, Salt Creek Grille proudly returns to the Dana Point community under new ownership. Our newly remodeled interiors and stunning outdoor patio exude elegance and comfort for unparalleled ambiance, setting the perfect stage for savoring our enhanced menu that features a true, wood-fired American steakhouse with a California coastal twist.
A photo of Harpoon Henry's Seafood Restaurant restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1533)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 14 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.”

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From verified diners like you
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Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Discover the charm of Dana Point/Monarch Beach in South Orange County through its array of esteemed neighborhood gems. These restaurants stand out not just for their unique culinary offerings but also for their commitment to providing a delightful dining experience. Each establishment in this locale reflects a warm community atmosphere, coupled with expertly crafted menus that often highlight local produce and sustainable practices. From cozy Italian eateries and sophisticated bars to places offering panoramic views of the Pacific, the dining scene here is diverse and highly praised for both its quality and service. Patrons frequently describe these venues as 'hidden gems,' perfect for both casual outings and special occasions. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the neighborhood gems in Dana Point/Monarch Beach promise a memorable culinary journey that's both authentic and inviting.

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