Your spot to relax
Experience Coastal Kitchen
Coastal Kitchen is a vibrant culinary gem located in Dana Point, California. This restaurant seamlessly combines fresh, coastal flavors with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for casual dining with a touch of elegance. Guests rave about standout dishes like the crab cake salad, blackened grouper, and the decadent butter cake. The attentive staff enhance the experience, offering friendly service and valuable recommendations. Whether you’re savoring cocktails on the patio or enjoying the inviting dining room, Coastal Kitchen embodies a delightful blend of great food and relaxed beach charm, inviting visitors to indulge in flavorful, quality cuisine.
Inspired Moments
Enjoy a mix of flavors and experiences
Smoked Trout Dip
Half Rotisserie Chicken
Coleslaw
Campari Tomatoes & Blue Cheese
About the Place
Coastal Kitchen
Welcome to Coastal Kitchen, a culinary sanctuary nestled along the stunning California coastline in Dana Point. This restaurant is not just a dining destination; it’s a joyous celebration of coastal flavors and welcoming hospitality. With a picturesque location at 34091 CA-1, Dana Point, CA 92629, Coastal Kitchen offers an elevated yet casual atmosphere, making it the ideal spot for families, friends, and anyone looking to indulge in the delights of the Pacific.
The menu at Coastal Kitchen dazzles with an array of mouthwatering dishes that capture the essence of coastal cuisine. Imagine savoring succulent crab cakes brimming with chunks of fresh crab meat, or trying the blackened grouper, seasoned to perfection and served with vibrant sides. The Crab Cake Salad, as highlighted by enthusiastic patrons, is a must-try that balances freshness and flavor brilliantly.
For those craving something lighter, the Ahi Tuna Salad is a standout, featuring perfectly seared tuna that melts in your mouth. Don’t overlook the Baby Back Ribs, tender and succulent, making them an irresistible choice for meat lovers. If you’re in the mood for a classic, the Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad boasts freshness and crunch that will leave you longing for more.
No meal here would be complete without indulging in one of the house specialties like the Parker House Rolls, dripping with golden brown butter and herbs. It’s a heavenly combination that will have you wondering why you ever tried to resist them. And for dessert, the butter cake is a sweet finale that captures the essence of comfort food in every bite.
What truly elevates your dining experience at Coastal Kitchen is the warm and attentive service. Guests frequently commend the friendly staff who ensure that every visit feels special and personalized. Whether you’re greeted by the cheerful server Greg or the ever-helpful Courtney, you’ll feel right at home.
In summary, Coastal Kitchen delivers a comprehensive dining experience that blends flavor, atmosphere, and hospitality into one unforgettable package. With stunning views, creative cocktails like the Paloma, and delightful dishes, this is a must-visit eatery for anyone in the vicinity of Dana Point. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal, Coastal Kitchen promises to create lasting memories.
So, the next time you find yourself along the Pacific Coast Highway, treat yourself to a meal at Coastal Kitchen. It's more than just a restaurant; it’s a taste of coastal living at its finest.
Stories & Reviews
Guestbook
“ My favorite spot in South OC! Crab Cake Salad, Shrimp Cocktail and Baby back Ribs are some of my Favs. Finish with a butter cake! Cocktails are great as well, I love the Paloma. Atmosphere is elevated but casual, nice beach feel. ”
“ From the moment we walked in, we were warmly welcomed by our server Courtney, who was incredibly friendly, attentive, and helpful—she made our visit feel extra special. We took her recommendations and ordered the Ahi Tuna Salad and the Crispy Chicken Caesar, and wow… both dishes were phenomenal. The tuna was perfectly seared, fresh, and flavorful, and the salad that came with it was refreshing with great texture and balance. The crispy chicken was seasoned just right—tender inside, crunchy outside—and paired beautifully with the Caesar greens and quinoa. Everything—from the plating to the flavors—was spot on. And the sauce that came with the tuna? So good we could’ve had a whole bowl of it! This place exceeded our expectations, and thanks to Courtney, it truly felt like a Christmas treat. We’ll absolutely be back again and again. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a beautiful, relaxed lunch with quality food and genuine service. ”
“ It's a great family place for people of all ages. Delicious food and great service. Peaceful, cocktail alternatives. We enjoyed it a lot. ”
“ I had a wonderful dining experience at Coastal Kitchen. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and perfect for a relaxing meal. The staff was friendly and attentive throughout, and our server Greg was especially fantastic—professional, cheerful, and genuinely helpful. We tried several dishes, including the Clam Chowder, Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad, and Salmon. Everything was delicious and perfectly cooked. The salads were fresh and flavorful, with a great balance of ingredients. I also appreciated that the kitchen was flexible and allowed us to make small customizations to our orders, which made the experience even better. The service was fast and efficient without feeling rushed, and every dish was served with care and great presentation. Overall, Coastal Kitchen exceeded my expectations. I would definitely recommend it and look forward to coming back!!! :-) ”
“ Coastal Kitchen Review: A Coastal Culinary Delight in Dana Point Coastal Kitchen in Dana Point is an absolute gem that effortlessly blends vibrant flavors, warm hospitality, and a breezy coastal charm. From the moment we stepped in, the staff greeted us with genuine smiles and attentive service, setting the tone for a memorable dining experience. The star of our meal was the blackened grouper—a perfectly seasoned, flaky masterpiece with a smoky crust that gave way to tender, moist flesh beneath. The zesty remoulade added a creamy kick, elevating each bite, while the side of golden fries struck the ideal balance between crispy and fluffy. My girlfriend raved about her seared ahi tuna salad, where buttery-rare slices of tuna rested atop a bed of fresh, peppery greens, drizzled with a tangy dressing that tied the dish together beautifully. What truly sets Coastal Kitchen apart is its ambiance. The light-filled space features chic indoor-outdoor seating, adorned with nautical touches and lush greenery that evoke a relaxed, coastal vibe. After our meal, we strolled just steps away to soak in breathtaking views of the bay, where sailboats dotted the horizon under the Southern California sun. Whether you’re savoring expertly prepared seafood, enjoying the friendly banter of the staff, or simply soaking in the serene setting, Coastal Kitchen delivers a slice of Dana Point paradise. We’ll definitely be back—next time, perhaps with sunset cocktails in hand! ”