Coastal Kitchen’s location dates back to the 1920’s and was the first commercial building in Dana Point. The Blue Lantern Fountain Lunch served as a cafe and service station to Pacific Coast Highway travelers and was the stopping point between Los Angeles and San Diego in the 20’s and 30’s. The owner was Anna Walters, a Laguna Beach realtor who was a partner in the first land development in Dana Point. Anna retained her investment when Sidney H. Woodruff’s investors purchased Dana Point. The gazebo located at the end of Blue Lantern was built to complement the cafe and service station providing a beautiful view of the harbor. S.H. Woodruff was famous for developing the Hollywoodland tract in the Hollywood Hills and the iconic sign that became HOLLYWOOD when restored. Woodruff had big plans to develop Dana Point but the 1930‘s crash put a stop to his vision. This historical structure represents over 90 years of Dana Point history. Coastal Kitchen’s extensive renovation pays tribute to the building’s historic Spanish Colonial revival architecture.
Arrived right when the restaurant opened on July 4th. Since the weather wasn’t too hot, we decided to sit in the outdoor seating area. We ordered the clam chowder, crab cake salad, and the French dip, and everything was absolutely delicious! The greens and fruits in the crab cake salad were so fresh, and both sauces that came with the French dip paired perfectly with it. The clam chowder wasn't overly salty; it was savory and light, making it the perfect starter for our meal. All three dishes were so good that they are absolute must-tries! I’m already wondering what to order on my next visit. The restaurant itself is super clean and gives off a relaxing vibe, like you're at a beachside resort town. The staff members were incredibly friendly, and even the restrooms were well-maintained.
Had a beautiful Grey Goose Martini, BabyBack Ribs with a Starter Caesar (not just the leafy parts but the crispy hearts chopped into a salad that is shared equally!) and a loaded Baked Potato. Everything was amazing i didn’t know whether to have a second drink (ergo the price) or dessert on last night in Dana Point. Saved the best place for last! Edit: The wait staff rotates so you glass doesn’t empty or you need to raise a hand! THANK YOU!
Some of the best food/seafood I’ve had in Orange County. We enjoyed every bite of everything we ordered, and had multiple “I think that was the best _____ I’ve ever had” moments (shrimp cocktail and butter cake with hot fudge were the two biggest hits). Beyond the food though, the service was truly top-tier. Food came out within minutes of ordering, we were constantly refreshed and checked up on by our amazing server Kelly, and she graciously entertained our request to try half a dozen sauces from all sorts of dishes to truly take our experience to the next level. Will absolutely be coming back any time I want to take friends/family to enjoy an upscale, delicious meal
Food was wonderful, service was superb. I ordered clam chowder - it was perfect. Temperature was ideal for eating... Served with 4 small bread rolls & "Herb butter" flavored with basil, oregano & other herbs. Highly recommend. Parking is tough - advise using a smaller vehicle if possible, not a big Lincoln or Caddy
The food was amazing! I got the cheeseburger minus pickles and cheese, and it was very well put together & delicious! The toppings go perfectly together. My mom got the clam chowder and she loved it! She is picky with her soups lol. My brother got the baby back ribs and they were so tender! Falls right off the bone. And the sauce on them was perfect. The staff was all so kind and friendly & our server was great! Definitely give this place a try!