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Local picks

American and Mexican food in Dana Point

Made for those who refuse to choose between a burger and a taco when they are hungry.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Doheny Cafe image 1
Doheny Cafe image 2
Doheny Cafe image 3
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American restaurant

Garage doors open to let in sea breeze, creating an open-air cafe feel with a laid-back, relaxed vibe. The space has a local, friendly atmosphere where families and dogs gather comfortably. Music plays softly, enhancing the positive, easygoing mood throughout the day.

Steak and eggs stand out as a signature dish, often considered better than offerings at big steakhouses. Biscuits and gravy feature rich, flavorful gravy that impresses consistently.

People are saying

"The food here is really good, especially the biscuits and gravy."

"The American Food here, especially the steak and eggs, is the best."

"I'll definitely return for the Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Doheny Cafe offers free parking in the strip mall parking lot.

2

The cafe gets busy around noon, so expect potential wait times.

3

The menu features organic ingredients, emphasizing quality and freshness.

02
Sunsets Bar image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill with oceanfront deck offers a chill atmosphere and great music. Outdoor seating provides stunning Pacific views ideal for watching sunsets. TVs and pool tables add to a casual, relaxed vibe.

Big plates of nachos come loaded with lots of meat. A version called totchos swaps corn chips for tater tots. Happy hour offers $5 mai-tais alongside these fabulous nachos.

Breakfast tacos stand out with spicy fish tacos and pork tacos offering solid flavor. Coconut shrimp adds a tasty twist alongside classic Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"I watched the beautiful sunset from here."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, thanks to Scotty's welcoming vibe."

"You have to try the nachos; they're huge and loaded with meat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 PM with great drink specials.

2

Four large beers and a huge plate of nachos cost $30 during happy hour.

3

The bar doesn't allow kids, making it an adult-only venue.

03
Monarch Bay Beach Club image 1
Seafood restaurant

Private beach club offers serene oceanfront setting with gorgeous coastal views and patio heaters for comfort. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, attracting a mix of ages enjoying the peaceful vibe. Amenities include wheelchair access and shuttle service, enhancing convenience for guests.

Spicy fried chicken sandwich stands out alongside chicken wings and tuna nachos. Desserts include lemon meringue pie and cheesecake, with an espresso martini available as a drink option.

Blackened shrimp tacos stand out with their bold flavor and come with a fab salsa that complements them well.

People are saying

"The food here is unbelievable with incredible ocean views."

"I loved the American food and beachy club atmosphere."

"The Mexican food here is great with gorgeous ocean views."

Good to know

1

Access to Monarch Bay Beach Club is restricted to members or Waldorf Astoria guests.

2

Dining is only available for guests of the Waldorf Astoria; no outside guests allowed.

3

Payment is only accepted via room charge; cash and cards are not accepted.

04
The Point Restaurant & Sports Bar image 1

Indoor and outdoor seating surround numerous screens for sports in a lively, social atmosphere filled with live music that can be very loud. The space offers pet-friendly accommodations and a relaxed vibe with plenty of activities and views from the outdoor area.

Huge super-loaded steak nachos stand out as a signature dish. The clam chowder is smooth, not gritty or salty, and the buffalo chicken sliders and wings offer solid American bar food options.

Fish tacos appear frequently, often paired with grilled or fresh ingredients like diced mango in Cole slaw. Other Mexican-inspired items include loaded slaw and dishes featuring seafood with bold flavors.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are great for watching live sports."

"The American Food clam chowder wasn't too clammy or salty."

"The Mexican Food here is incredible, with a wide variety to choose from."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and available nearby.

2

The restaurant is pet-friendly, welcoming dogs.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

05
Youngโ€™s Beach Shack image 1

Cafe sits on the edge of a clean beach with panoramic ocean views and crashing waves creating a tranquil atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes shaded areas and a large lawn for groups, with dog-friendly policies and shuttle services for convenience. Music plays softly, and the vibe balances relaxed beach energy with casual dining.

Lobster Rolls come on a perfect brioche bun and taste fresh, priced at MP $38. Clam chowder stands out as very good, while the hamburger and fries are crispy and delicious.

Breakfast burritos stand out with generous portions and solid flavor. Fish tacos on Taco Tuesday offer a great taste alongside other Mexican options like tacos.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the nice view of the ocean and the beach."

"I found the breakfast burrito to be delicious."

"The American Food here is awesome, right on the beach."

Good to know

1

The place is open until sunset.

2

You have to park and make a short walk to the beach.

3

The menu is kid-friendly with options for all ages.

06
RJ's Cafe image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Casual breakfast spot with pet-friendly patio and outdoor heaters creates a lively, warm atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and covered outdoor areas, with a family-friendly vibe and positive energy. Patio overlooks harbor, adding to the inviting, nostalgic setting.

Biscuits and gravy stand out with a rich, satisfying flavor. Hash browns come out light and fluffy, far exceeding usual expectations. Chicken fried steak, eggs, and Eggs Benedict offer solid, classic American tastes.

Breakfast includes chilaquiles, pancakes, and burritos with some items like cinnamon buns and French toast. Ground beef tacos come with sweet potato fries. Burritos vary in size and flavor, with some lacking taste and others smaller than expected.

People are saying

"I had the best breakfast I've ever had here."

"The American Food here, especially the biscuits, is unbelievably soft and huge."

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

RJ's Cafe is dog friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

2

There is minimal wait time, even during busy weekends.

3

Parking is easy and available near the cafe.

07
A's Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Old school diner with a classic, quiet vibe and cool-looking building. Offers generous portions of burgers and fried zucchini, known for best fast food burgers and dog-friendly indoor seating. Parking and access can be challenging near busy roads.

Cheeseburgers stand out with fresh ingredients and thousand island dressing. Onion rings and double cheeseburgers add variety to the classic American menu.

Burritos come packed with huge chunks of beef and refried beans, offering a hearty meal. Tacos feature tender, flavorful meat with an insane amount of filling that holds up well even when reheated.

People are saying

"I thought their burgers were the best in town."

"I loved their breakfast burritos, especially the bacon ones."

"I thought the cheeseburgers were delicious."

Good to know

1

A's Burgers is closed on Sundays.

2

Parking at A's Burgers is a nightmare due to the drive-thru sometimes blocking spots.

3

The portions at A's Burgers are very generous.

08
Jimmy's Famous American Tavern - Dana Point image 1

Restaurant offers beautiful harbor views and a warm, cozy atmosphere with tasteful decor. Seating includes cushioned booths and a patio with heaters and fire pits. The vibe is casual yet upscale, attracting diners looking for a relaxed but refined experience.

Fried chicken and maple bacon Brussels sprouts stand out here. The Wagyu cheeseburger comes with garlic Parmesan fries, and clam chowder arrives with house-made chips.

Short rib tacos stand out with their rich flavor and leave a lasting impression. Grilled shrimp tacos come with crispy, well-seasoned fries, and the guacamole is above average.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good."

"The American Food here is amazing, and the service is great."

"The short rib tacos are awesome Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6 PM with great food and drink options.

2

Parking is available outside the restaurant, but can be limited during peak times.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during busy hours.

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Dana Point, California

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