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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Dana Point

Lunch spots

A lunch break that feels like a proper pause in your day rather than a rushed transaction.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Buena Vista Market image 1
Buena Vista Market image 2
Buena Vista Market image 3
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Grocery store

Market blends Mexican street tacos with a wide meat selection and fresh produce. Lunch feels like a secret spot with a casual, inviting vibe. Portions are generous and flavors stand out.

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 tacos here to be some of the best I ever had."

"I found the food here to be authentic."

"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.

02
Dana Kai image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese spot offers fresh fish sushi and a chill vibe with spacious seating. Lunch is quick with friendly servers and a standout special. Draft Asahi beer deal adds to the relaxed feel.

Fast service and friendly servers make lunch smooth. The lunch special stands out as very good.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, you can taste it in every bite."

"This is the best Japanese Food I've ever tasted."

"The sushi here is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Each sushi roll costs between $16 to $18 and includes 8 pieces.

2

The California roll is priced at about $8 plus tax.

3

They offer brown rice as an alternative for sushi.

03
Stella's image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot offers ocean view and an enclosed patio that feels like a greenhouse. Lunch shines with Italian sausage panini and Margherita pizza in a quiet, relaxed setting. Live saxophone adds a romantic vibe blending family warmth with upscale charm.

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

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing pizza and pasta."

"You get a gorgeous ocean view, especially at sunset."

"The staff here makes you feel like family during Happy Hour."

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.

04
Doheny Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Garage doors open wide, creating an open-air cafe vibe with a laid-back atmosphere where families and dogs feel at home. Soft music plays, adding to the easygoing mood. Lunch features egg-based dishes and waffles with wonderful service.

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."

"I loved the waffles; they had a hint of lemon."

"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.

05
Station Craft Brewery + Kitchen image 1

Open, spacious setting with large TVs and a dog-friendly patio creates a lively vibe. Lunch offers a casual atmosphere perfect for midday meals. Noise rises with live music and sports, while craft beers keep energy high.

Lunch offers a solid spot to stop by with a casual vibe and a menu that fits well for midday meals. The setting suits those looking for a relaxed atmosphere during lunch hours.

People are saying

"I loved their beer; it was refreshing and delicious."

"I thought the smash burger was the best in town."

"The fish and chips and the salad with salmon were very good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Sundays from 2 to 4 PM.

2

Half off pizza is available on Mondays.

3

The brewery offers a separate vegan menu upon request.

06
Jimmy's Famous American Tavern - Dana Point image 1

Enjoy harbor views and a cozy atmosphere with cushioned booths and a heated patio. Perfect for quiet weekday lunches with attentive service and no rush. Casual yet upscale vibe suits quick bites or drinks with friends.

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."

"The dinner spots here have great food and friendly service."

"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.

07
Young’s Beach Shack image 1

Cafe offers panoramic ocean views and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for lunch. Enjoy all-day meals like the Lobster Roll priced around $40. Outdoor seating with dog-friendly policies adds to the relaxed beach vibe.

Lunch comes served all day with options like the Lobster Roll. Meals cost around $40 and satisfy most appetites.

People are saying

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

"I had a really great breakfast burrito here."

"I went straight for the Lobster Roll; it was exceptional."

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.

08
Bonjour Cafe image 1
French restaurant

Quaint cafe offers French flair with quiche and French onion soup for lunch. Enjoy a sun-filled patio for outdoor seating. Boutique tableware adds charm to the lively, cozy atmosphere.

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."

"I found the best breakfast here in Dana Point."

"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.

09
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel image 1

Hotel offers breathtaking ocean views and a private beach for relaxation. Lunch features sandwiches served late, perfect for last-minute plans or special occasions. Evenings bring lively parties on the lawns, blending luxury with fun.

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

"I experienced spectacular ocean views and amazing sunsets."

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

"The Day Lounge staff greeted us with smiles and friendly greetings."

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.

10
Carlos Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant offers authentic dishes and a huge fire pit on a large patio. Lunch is perfect for a relaxed atmosphere near workplaces. Enjoy variety of margaritas with live music at a comfortable volume.

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."

"The street tacos de birria were amazing with the consommé."

"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
Proud Mary's Restaurant image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Waterfront setting offers beautiful harbor views and a lively, homey atmosphere with friendly people. Quick lunch options include soup and sandwiches for a satisfying midday meal. Outdoor area with space heaters and pet-friendly touches add to the welcoming vibe.

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."

"The waterfront scenic views here are like a postcard."

"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.

12
Subway image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop shines with large patio and fresh ingredients visible through glass. Perfect for quick lunch after park visits, it offers a clean, friendly atmosphere ideal for families and catering. Natural light brightens the space, making meals pleasant and fast.

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 staff here is so kind and helpful when making your sandwich."

"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.

13
Moulin image 1
French restaurant

French café offers vintage décor and a lively vibe with outdoor patio seating popular among locals. Lunch features a limited menu perfect for quick, casual stops. Setting blends authentic French motifs with a cozy, small-town ocean feel.

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

"I loved the French pastries and croissants here."

"The Nutella crepes here are amazing and great."

"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.

14
Monarch Bay Beach Club image 1
Seafood restaurant

Private beach club offers serene oceanfront views and a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor deck serves lunch with gorgeous coastal scenery, though prices are high. Amenities like wheelchair access and shuttle service add convenience for all guests.

Lunch happens on an outdoor deck with views. The food costs are high, with two lunches and drinks around $160. Hotel guests find it a good spot for midday meals.

People are saying

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

"The ocean views here are truly extraordinary."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was great and excellent."

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.

15
A's Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Old school diner offers charbroiled burgers with fries and shakes, perfect for a quick lunch. Known for best fast food burgers and dog-friendly indoor seating, it welcomes furry friends. Parking is tight near busy roads, so plan accordingly.

Charbroiled burgers come with fries and shakes for a classic lunch combo. The spot serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a flexible stop during a trip or a quick interstate break.

People are saying

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

"I kept coming back for their delicious breakfast burritos."

"This lunch spot's burgers are amazing and 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.

16
The Point Restaurant & Sports Bar image 1

Lively spot offers plentiful lunch options and cocktails in a loud atmosphere with live music. Indoor and outdoor seating surround many screens for sports, creating a social vibe. Outdoor area is pet-friendly and great for views.

Plentiful lunch options come alongside cocktails in a louder than expected atmosphere. The spot serves well for brunch and lunch with a lively vibe.

People are saying

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

"The Thai wings are crispy and flavorful during happy hour."

"I had a very nice lunch here."

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.

17
RJ's Cafe image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Casual spot with a pet-friendly patio and harbor views offers a lively, warm vibe. Menu shines with varied lunch options perfect after marina tours. Family-friendly seating indoors and outdoors keeps energy positive and inviting.

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

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

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

"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.

18
Gemmell's Restaurant image 1
French restaurant

Small, quaint space with 80s European vibe offers a calm, intimate atmosphere. Lunch features angel hair pasta and a quiet setting with few tables occupied. Large parking lot ensures easy access for a relaxed midday meal.

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 escargots and Chicken Elizabeth make this a great spot for a date."

"I thought the French onion soup was the best I had ever had."

"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.

19
Turk's Dana Warf Restaurant image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Cozy dive bar offers amazing bay views and a lively, beach-town vibe. Fish and chips shine as a classic lunch choice, while the Thanksgiving special delivers a hearty plate. Full bar and many TVs keep sports fans entertained.

Fish and chips stand out as a classic lunch choice here. The Thanksgiving lunch special offers a hearty plate with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, veggies, and cranberry sauce.

People are saying

"I had the best fish and chips I've ever had."

"It's a cool dive bar with a great view of the harbor."

"This lunch spot has classic drinks and great food."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but can be limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Prices are reasonable considering the waterfront location.

3

The restaurant charges extra for coffee refills; no free refills available.

20
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach image 1

Resort hotel offers breathtaking ocean views and private fire pits in spacious rooms. Monarch Beach Bay Club serves lunch with terrace views perfect for special occasions. Guests enjoy impeccable concierge service and amenities like golf, pools, spa, and private beach.

Lunch features beautiful terrace views and a wonderful dining atmosphere at the Monarch Beach Bay Club. The setting suits special occasions like anniversaries.

People are saying

"The hotel staff's personal attention made it the best stay."

"The ocean views here are beautiful and impressive."

"The views from the room were stunning."

Good to know

1

The hotel hosts free events like bookmark making and offers free churros by the pool.

2

Expect large groups and outdoor events that may run until 10 pm.

3

Reservations are recommended for dining, as restaurants can be fully booked.

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Dana Point, California

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