Best Restaurants for People Watching in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Everything was good but some large parties arrived shortly after us and it became very noisy and hard to converse.

The cocktails were great, and the food was absolutely delicious ( especially the scallops). Our server gave us good advice and brought out the different order of tapas at the right time throughout the evening. We’ ve dined here often since Tango opened in Laguna and we’ve never been disappointed. Chef Josh and his staff have made it a special place.

We love Starfish! Having said that, the last time we were there the food, which usually is great, wasn’t. Tonight, they were BACK!!! Every dish and cocktail we ordered was over the top yummy!! The edamame was garlicky and spicy and fresh and super tasty. We also ordered the calamari, the Bah Mi sliders, the lettuce wraps, the Korean tacos, pot stickers and the satay beef skewers. Each dish was 8 thumbs up!!! (There were 4 of us). The place was super busy too but our server was spot on!

Harpoon Henry's has been a wonderful restaurant on the harbor for many years. I have enjoyed many great meals and happy hours here over the years. Ambiance is warm and cozy with great harbor views, the Christmas Day turkey dinner was prepared to perfection and the service was outstanding as usual. I understand that this wonderful restaurant will close in the spring. It is so unfortunate that Dana Point Harbor Partners is driving away all that is good around the harbor for the love of more money. Thanks to all at Harpoon Henry's for today and for all the happy times in the past.

The food was incredible, the service was great, and it was a fantastic way to spend Christmas Eve. We had everything from the lobster Mac and cheese to the burger and steak, and even the charcuterie board. And guess what? Our two kids loved it too! Thank you, Mozambique, for being open on Christmas Eve!