The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs

Name: The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs
Address: 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA, United States, 92629
Telephone: (949) 487-7555
Price range: $50 and over
Rating: 4.3

4.3

300 Reviews

$50 and over

Steak

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Led by nationally-acclaimed, James Beard nominated chef, John Tesar, Knife Modern Steak’s elevated, yet approachable, culinary program strikes a balance between traditional and contemporary interpretations of a steakhouse. At Knife Modern Steak, Tesar serves premium cuts of steak and fresh-caught seafood, alongside salads, sandwiches, burgers and more.

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Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Sep 25, 2023

7:00 PM

Booked 6 times today

Private dining

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View details

Dining areas

Additional information

Dining style
Fine Dining
Cuisines
Steak, Seafood
Hours of operation
Breakfast Daily 6:30 am–11:00 am Lunch Daily 11:00 am–2:30 pm Bar Daily 2:30 pm–5:30 pm Fri, Sat 9:30 pm–12:00 am Dinner Daily 5:30 pm–9:00 pm
Phone number
(949) 487-7555
Website
http://www.knifeoc.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Resort Casual
Executive chef
John Tesar
Private party facilities
Whether you're planning a cocktail reception, business meeting, or an intimate dinner with friends and family, choose one of Outer Reef's private dining option for your next event. We fully customize your menu with Chef John Tesar's most popular dishes to create the best experience for your event.
Private party contact
Alex Catubig: (949) 487-7555

Location
25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629
Neighborhood
Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Cross street
Dana Point Harbor Drive and Park Lantern
Parking details
Valet only
Additional
Banquet, Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Entertainment, Full Bar, Non-Smoking, Outdoor Firepit, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Popular dishes

What 300 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.3

4.3 based on recent ratings

4.3Food
4.4Service
4.4Ambience
3.8Value

Noise • Moderate

300 Reviews

OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
2 reviews
vip
1.0
2 reviews
Dined 2 days ago
overall1food1service5ambience3
Steak cooked poorly. Way to expensive. Great server.
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CB
CB23
Orange County
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 17, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
Fantastic steaks and seafood, delicious sides, and great service! We had a terrific night and we'll definitely be back!
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MF
MarcF
Chicago
27 reviews
vip
5.0
27 reviews
Dined on September 17, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Beautiful views, top notch service and fantastic food! I’d highly recommend and we will be back soon
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L
Leilei
1 review
2.0
1 review
Dined on September 15, 2023
overall2food2service2ambience4
Apparently this restaurant was Outer Reef, then Modern Knife, and now The Restaurant. Arrived to find a very small menu, descriptions were inaccurate, out of various items, sent my steak salad back. The manager did comp some items but I won't be back unfortunately.
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EE
ElandEl
San Diego
58 reviews
vip
5.0
58 reviews
Dined on September 8, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Stellar! Menu choices, preparation and presentation, all exceptional. Truly one of the best meals we've enjoyed in a long time. Well done!
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BH
BillH
Orange County
13 reviews
vip
5.0
13 reviews
Dined on September 4, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience3
Everything was first class. Food was delicious. Service great. Only criticism was the patio chairs were uncomfortable. Otherwise, awesome experience!!!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
1 review
vip
3.0
1 review
Dined on September 3, 2023
overall3food3service3ambience1
Very plain menu , bacon all tasted the same The filets were cooked perfectly
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MS
MarieS
Los Angeles
2 reviews
3.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 3, 2023
overall3food5service1ambience5
We had reservations, when we arrived that sat us a tiny table at the entrance. There were only 2 other tables occupied at the time and probably 25+ tables to choose from. We asked them find us another table, which they did. Everything was perfect except the slow service. We waited a long time for the dinner to arrive after we ordered. We ordered another drink after dinner and waited over 20 minutes, their excuse, "we have a large party" It was a rehearsal dinner, add an extra bartender for the evening. I'm sure this was a one off day, but my friend will never return. The atmosphere was lovely and the food was great.
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JM
JoeM
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on September 2, 2023
overall4food4service5ambience5
Great service by Chelsea and entire staff. Unfortunately there was a very extra loud wedding party. DJ music loud and heavy bass. and it kind of spoiled the atmosphere for many of us having dinner outside for special events. Anniversaries, Birthdays and retirement dinners. Otherwise great setting. Food good but not great. Interesting cocktail selections. We’ll try again in near future and enjoy steak along with fish.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 31, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great good and our service was exceptional! Go! The burger is amazing. The oysters are excellent. The Caesar salad is huge and shareable. Get the salsa verde fries, worth it. The big eye tuna so good. My party of four, we all thought the portions were good sized and tasty. Great location and great service
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SM
ShelleyM
Orange County
4 reviews
vip
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on August 27, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Beautiful setting, delicious meal. Allow time because it takes a while but worth it. I will definitely go back.
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DD
DyrrenD
Houston
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 26, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The food was great. Music great. Service great. Ambience great. I will return.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
New York Area
3 reviews
vip
2.0
3 reviews
Dined on August 26, 2023
overall2food3service2ambience3
The quality of the food and sauces were good, but unfortunately, my steak was cold, and the vegetables came out late. There appear to be significant problems with the management of the restaurant: the servers were doing the best they could, while the managers stood or paced around with their hands in their pockets. The general atmosphere seems to be one of disorganization.
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JR
JoelR
New York Area
12 reviews
5.0
12 reviews
Dined on August 25, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Amazing night everything was awesome Especially the aged steak
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NG
NicholeG
Seattle
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined on August 25, 2023
overall4food3service5ambience5
In the area for a work event and stumbled upon Knife while staying at the Marriott. The interior of the restaurant is absolutely gorgeous, modern touches with a timeless flair. Everything from the glassware to the plates and cutlery was beautiful, with touches of blue to match the impressive view of the ocean, and the service was just as impressive! The food was alright for a steakhouse of this price point. My steak was cooked to perfection, but they were a little heavy on the seasoning. The macaroni was tasty, but again- a little heavy on the salt.. Overall, the food was alright but the drinks and service were phenomenal. From what I've read on other reviews, they recently opened and are likely going through some growing pains. Regardless, my meal and my waitress were both great and I would likely come here again the next time I'm in town!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
New York Area
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 22, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The appetizers and main course were perfect and we really enjoyed. However the dessert was disappointing, portion size for ice cream was less than a spoonful and was given to kids. Overall the experience was great but would not waste time ordering dessert.
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MG
MauiGirl
San Francisco
61 reviews
vip
3.0
61 reviews
Dined on August 21, 2023
overall3food2service5ambience3
Service was excellent. Food was ok. My burger was really bad - bacon and burger was overcooked. The server took all the right measures to correct the issue.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on August 20, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Had our booking at 8pm so limited view but I can bet it looks amazing during sunset!! The interior and all of the restaurant was so nice and fancy. Valet parking too so no hassle! Good for dates but not the quiet intimate kind. The vibe is nice!! FOOD WAS GREAT!! The burgers are a must try!! The server was informative of the menu and all. Will definitely come back and bring guests or tourists next time 🫡
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AJ
AJThurber
Orange County
14 reviews
vip
5.0
14 reviews
Dined on August 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
A hidden gem with world class views, amazing service.
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A
April
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 18, 2023
overall5food3service5ambience5
I took my mom to Knife Modern Steak for her birthday. The staff was very friendly & attentive and the food was really good. They also surprised my mom with a beautifully decorated birthday dessert at the end which along with the beautiful view in the patio made her day truly memorable.
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BM
BarbaraM
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 17, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Our waitress Madison was lovely! The food was amazing; especially loved the Bacon Tasting! Atmosphere ; sublime!
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T
Terr
Los Angeles
4 reviews
vip
2.0
4 reviews
Dined on August 17, 2023
overall2food1service5ambience2
A coffee shop trying to be high end dining. Steak and salmon were ordered medium rare and came out raw and cold. Server was great but will not be back
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MB
MsBliss
Palm Springs
3 reviews
vip
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on August 15, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
This is a hidden gem. The food at lunch and dinner were delish. Not cheap, not typical hotel food but nuanced, fresh and top quality. Best Ceasar ever!
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G
Gwyn
Baltimore
25 reviews
5.0
25 reviews
Dined on August 14, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great service, great food!!! Both Abraham and Calin (sp?) did a fantastic job.
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c
claudines
Orange County
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 13, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
This was my first time at knife. The ambience was great, service was good. Food was extremely flavorful. The next time I go back, I would love to be there during sunset. The view is phenomenal.
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JH
JoeH
Orange County
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined on August 9, 2023
overall4food5service5ambience4
Excellent service, view and overall experience. In particular the Steak fillet and swordfish was top notch.
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B
Barb
Orange County
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on August 8, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Everything was very nice but the hostess seemed inexperienced and did not greet guests. Her fist question was "do you have a reservation?"
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BL
BryanL
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 6, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Chelsea might’ve been the best waitress we’ve ever had. Major props. Great food recommendations, was very friendly and treated us well. Definitely coming back before we leave town. Thank you for a great meal!
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C
Chris
Washington DC
18 reviews
vip
5.0
18 reviews
Dined on August 6, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Lovely place to eat. Especially outside. Food is very tasty.
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BW
BillW
Orange County
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 5, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Food and service was excellent. There was a strike going on against the hotel plus a wedding so the noise was horrible and my date and I couldn’t hear each other. The worst was the very limited menu. No potatoes, no red sauce for the pasta, only 2 raw fish items for appetizers, only French fries with a $54-$300 steak. Very disappointing since we were celebrating our 13th anniversary.
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AB
AdamB
1 review
2.0
1 review
Dined on August 3, 2023
overall2food2service2ambience4
Steak was overcooked and claimed to be a 12 oz portion and couldn't have been even 10 oz., sides were brought out halfway through eating dinner. Drinks we're incorrect, Swordfish was presented interestingly but wasn't fresh and the flavors were lost - tried too hard. Spent $250 and was quite disappointed.
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JH
JimH
San Francisco
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 3, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
nice! Will return. Server Chelsea was exceptional. We were very pleased with her service.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
4 reviews
vip
3.0
4 reviews
Dined on August 3, 2023
overall3food3service2ambience4
Since Outer Reef was changed to Knife Modern Steak, the restaurant has gone at least a notch lower. The change is quite palpable at every level. The menu is smaller and the presentation is not as good. We asked for a substitution of risotto with some vegetables because my daughter has gluten issues and the waiter was very firm that there could be no substitution. We asked for risotto to be separated and they brought three scallops in a small bowl with no presentation whatsoever and the food was kind of cold. Although the restaurant was not busy, it took us 15 minutes to pay the bill because we were not being checked on. We really liked Outer Reef and recommended it to everyone, but not happy with this one.
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PJ
PattyJ
New York Area
6 reviews
2.0
6 reviews
Dined on July 30, 2023
overall2food2service1ambience5
The Caesar salad and 6 types of bacon where fantastic but the steak had to be sent back! It’s a steak restaurant 😳 The wait to receive our dinner was very long and our waitress gave the impression that she was “checked out!” I rarely write reviews but this place is not worth the $$$.
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M
Msstaci5
San Diego
8 reviews
vip
5.0
8 reviews
Dined on July 30, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Incredible from beginning to end. The strawberry dessert was so creative. Love the cacio y Pepe pasta. Ambiance was gorgeous. Service was on point. View and fire pits made all the difference. One of our top ten meals! Can’t wait to come back.
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a
ahmadr
Portland
3 reviews
2.0
3 reviews
Dined on July 29, 2023
overall2food2service1ambience4
Other than view , there is nothing special about this place . Food is mediocre at best services like amateur night . I will go back again, but not for food
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
1 review
vip
1.0
1 review
Dined on July 23, 2023
overall1food2service3ambience1
There were 40 protestors outside banging on drums the entire meal. The food was very small portions, do not go here.
1 person found this helpful
OT
OpenTable Diner
Hawaii
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on July 18, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
I’ve worked in fine dining and resorts for about 7 years, and I have to say that this place was VERY impressive. The ambience was very coastal California modern with a great view. The food was great- quality cuts of steak with very nice presentation. Highly recommend the Parker house rolls and Caesar salad. The highlight, however, was the service. Our server Chelsea was outstanding- she was extremely personable, sweet, and professional and gave us some great recommendations. Every other member of the staff from the host, bartender, and server assistants gave us quick, attentive, and friendly service. I’m an OC local and will be recommending this spot!
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MM
MiriamM
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 16, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Such a great place. The food was amazing, our service was great, and the atmosphere overall was phenomenal. I highly recommend!
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AL
AnnL
Los Angeles
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on July 2, 2023
overall3food2service3ambience2
Despite mentioning in the restaurant’s mission to continue to provide seafood options similar to Outer Reef, there are only a few seafood options on the menu. Vegetarian options are minimal with only one vegetable side on the menu, a couple of pasta dishes and no flexibility from the chef to accommodate vegetarians dining at the restaurant. Vegans have NO options.
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FAQs

The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs is rated 4.3 stars by 300 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Sep 25, 2023

7:00 PM

Booked 6 times today

Google Map for The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs

25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629

Dining areas

Additional information

Cross street
Dana Point Harbor Drive and Park Lantern
Neighborhood
Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Hours of operation
Breakfast Daily 6:30 am–11:00 am Lunch Daily 11:00 am–2:30 pm Bar Daily 2:30 pm–5:30 pm Fri, Sat 9:30 pm–12:00 am Dinner Daily 5:30 pm–9:00 pm
Cuisines
Steak, Seafood
Dining style
Fine Dining
Dress code
Resort Casual
Parking details
Valet only
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
John Tesar
Additional
Banquet, Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Entertainment, Full Bar, Non-Smoking, Outdoor Firepit, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.knifeoc.com/
Phone number
(949) 487-7555
Private party facilities
Whether you're planning a cocktail reception, business meeting, or an intimate dinner with friends and family, choose one of Outer Reef's private dining option for your next event. We fully customize your menu with Chef John Tesar's most popular dishes to create the best experience for your event.
Private party contact
Alex Catubig: (949) 487-7555

The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs

Make a reservation

Private dining

Dining areas

Additional information

Popular dishes

Caesar

Oysters

Pan Seared Diver Scallop

Menu

What 300 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

FAQs

How is The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs restaurant rated?

Is The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Dining areas

Additional information