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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Dana Point's best

Lunch food

A midday break is the perfect excuse to step away and grab a bite.

Based on 542 Opinions
+539
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01
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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.

Food comes out fresh and made in house with organic ingredients. Meals balance quality and quantity well, offering a healthy and delicious experience.

Offers a nice selection of egg-based dishes and more waffles during lunch. Service is wonderful, making it a reliable spot for a midday meal.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has fantastic, fresh 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
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Market combines Mexican street tacos with a carniceria offering a wide meat selection and fresh produce. Atmosphere stays clean and inviting, with a small take-out spot in the back. Tacos and burritos come in generous portions, often praised for their quality and flavor.

Food here is authentic Mexican cuisine served quickly with great flavor. Ordering from the counter offers a very good and satisfying meal.

Offers a great lunch experience with a vibe that feels like a secret spot. Known for its casual and inviting atmosphere during midday.

People are saying

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

"I loved the tacos; they were so yummy."

Good to know

1

The market offers a variety of Mexican street tacos at reasonable prices.

2

Expect a clean environment throughout the market and deli.

3

The meat counter features a wide selection of fresh meats.

03
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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.

Food arrives quickly and tastes delicious and great. Service stays excellent and often adapts to ensure satisfaction.

Offers a varied menu with solid choices for both breakfast and lunch. Serves as a casual spot that fits well after activities like marina tours.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"It's a great lunch spot with wonderful selections."

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.

04
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Waterfront setting offers beautiful harbor views and a comfortable outdoor area with space heaters. Atmosphere feels lively and homey, with friendly people and playful energy from teenagers. Music plays softly, and pets receive water bowls, adding to the welcoming vibe.

Food here stands out for its amazing flavor and excellent quality. Every dish delivers a fantastic taste that impresses consistently.

Offers quick lunch options with soup, sandwiches, and sodas. Serves well for a satisfying midday meal before heading out.

People are saying

"I experienced the food here as absolutely the best I had ever had."

"I'd recommend it as a convenient and tasty lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available.

2

The restaurant allows pets in the outdoor boat area.

3

Expect a relaxed atmosphere with no rush during meals.

05
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Quaint cafe with French flair and boutique tableware creates an authentic, uplifting atmosphere. Small size and charming decor offer a home away from home vibe despite a lively, noisy interior. Outdoor seating enjoys sun-filled patio enhancing the inviting experience.

Food stands out for its amazing taste and freshness. Presentation matches the quality, making each dish both delicious and visually appealing.

Lunch features quiche and French onion soup alongside a spritz drink. Outdoor seating includes a patio option.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has excellent flavor."

"The food here is really good and tasty."

Good to know

1

The cafe's popularity means there might be a wait if arriving after 10.

2

Parking is not very accessible, especially for elderly people.

3

Bonjour Cafe is pet friendly.

06
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Cozy Italian restaurant with an ocean view and an enclosed patio that sometimes feels like a greenhouse. Atmosphere blends family-like warmth with a romantic, upscale vibe enhanced by live saxophone and acoustic music. Location in a strip mall contrasts with the otherwise European-style relaxed dining experience.

Food offers authentic taste and consistently delicious flavors. Service complements the great food experience well.

Lunch features Italian sausage panini with spicy mole, Margherita pizza, and bruschetta. Quiet setting with an ocean view suits relaxed meals.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"This lunch spot has amazing pizza and pasta."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The Margherita pizza costs $13, and bruschetta is $8.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

07
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Hotel perches atop a seaside bluff with breathtaking ocean views and access to a private beach. Atmosphere blends luxury and intimacy, with lively evening parties on the lawns and serene sunset vistas. Amenities include a top-tier spa, pool with bar, and shuttle service connecting to the beach.

Outdoor dining at 180blu offers panoramic ocean views with surfers visible in the water. The food comes with attentive service in a setting that highlights the clear blue sky.

Lunch includes sandwiches served even after usual hours. The spot handles last-minute plans smoothly and offers a wonderful dining experience for special occasions.

People are saying

"The food here offers spectacular ocean views."

"The staff here makes your lunch spot feel like a special occasion."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during events, especially on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during event weekends.

3

Parking can be limited during events; consider using valet service.

08
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Sandwich shop offers large patio with views and natural light inside. Atmosphere stays clean and friendly with exposed glass showcasing fresh ingredients. Energy suits quick meals with family or catering needs.

Fresh ingredients show clearly under the glass, letting you see exactly what goes into each sandwich. Food arrives fresh and on time, with expert preparation and consistent quality.

Offers a quick lunch option often chosen after park visits. The experience can take up a significant part of a lunch break.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and expertly prepared."

"This lunch spot has delicious sandwiches with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

The Subway is always clean and well-maintained.

2

The location on Del Prado and PCH is convenient for quick meals.

3

The glass over the food allows you to see the fresh ingredients.

09
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French cafรฉ with vintage dรฉcor and eclectic European goods creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a patio vibe popular with locals and cyclists. The setting blends authentic French motifs with a small-town feel near the ocean.

Food features high quality and well-prepared French dishes like croque monsieur and custard flan. Drinks such as caffe latte complement the excellent flavors.

Lunch draws a crowd with a limited menu and a busy patio on the street. Quick meals fit well into a long drive or a casual stop.

People are saying

"The French food here is delicious, especially the pastries and sandwiches."

"I loved the classic chocolate croissant at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is somewhat limited, but there is a small free lot for customers.

2

Expect long wait times during busy weekend brunch hours.

3

The inside seating is limited, especially during peak times.

10
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Spacious Mexican restaurant with a large patio featuring a huge fire pit and live music that stays at a comfortable volume. The atmosphere is laid-back and festive, enhanced by cozy indoor seating with a fireplace and abundant plants. Patrons enjoy authentic dishes and a variety of margaritas in a welcoming, fun setting.

Authentic Mexican food stands out with fresh, delicious chips and salsa. The dishes consistently deliver great flavor and satisfy the palate.

Lunch happens around a fire pit, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The spot sits within walking distance of workplaces, making it convenient for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right on PCH, but it can be limited.

2

The restaurant is pet-friendly and allows dogs on the patio.

3

Prices are reasonable and portions are generous.

11
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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.

Food here stands out with fantastic flavors and consistent quality even near tourist spots. The menu pairs well with a great view and reliable service.

Quiet weekday lunches come with attentive service and no rush. The spot suits both grabbing a quick bite and enjoying some drinks with family or friends.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has delicious food, especially the burgers."

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.

12
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Small and quaint space with 80s European vibe and cozy festive decor creates a calming, intimate atmosphere. The setting feels mellow and pleasant, attracting a mix of generations without a hip or trendy energy. Large parking lot supports easy access despite the quiet, unhurried pace.

Food features super tender chicken and sauces that showcase French cuisine. Portions come perfectly sized with delicious flavors across drinks, appetizers, main dishes, and desserts.

Lunch hours bring a calm vibe with only a few tables occupied. The menu features specials like angel hair pasta, making it a solid choice for a quiet midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tender chicken and French sauces."

"The angel hair pasta special at this Lunch Spot is the best value."

Good to know

1

There is a huge parking lot, so parking is not an issue.

2

The prices are reasonable and portions are generous.

3

Expect a quieter dining experience during off-peak hours.

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