Craft House: Dana Point's Culinary Gem with Local Flavor
© David Valenzuela
Located along PCH, Craft House has earned its place as a beloved neighborhood dining spot known for its elevated comfort food, vibrant atmosphere, and commitment to local, sustainable ingredients. Whether you're a foodie looking for inventive dishes or a local seeking a memorable night out, Craft House delivers an exceptional experience that combines Southern California charm with an irresistible menu.
A Local Favorite with Roots in the Community
Born and raised in South Orange County, Chef Blake Mellgren founded Craft House, born from a desire to create a restaurant that blended farm-fresh ingredients with bold, inspired flavors. Situated across the street from Coastal Kitchen, this cozy yet stylish eatery has become a go-to destination for both locals and visitors.
From the fresh catch of the day to rotating seasonal favorites, the team at Craft House sources the finest ingredients from Orange County's best producers supporting local farmers, fishermen and purveyors. This farm-to-table approach not only ensures the highest quality, but it also helps support the community—a win-win for food lovers and local businesses alike.
Award-Winning Fare
With its creative menu and attention to detail, it's no surprise that Craft House has been recognized with numerous accolades. Winning Gold as the "Best Restaurant in Dana Point" by the Dana Point Times in 2023, Craft House is celebrated yearly for their commitment to the craft of making delicious food and drinks. Chef Mellgren also took home the Silver for Best Chef that year, so you know you’re in good hands. Last year Craft House took home 5 silver medals, continuing their reign as one of Dana Point’s favorite places for food, drinks, brunch and more!
The Craft House Menu: Comfort Meets Creativity
At Craft House, the menu is a reflection of Chef Blake’s passion for enticing flavors and fresh ingredients. Each dish tells a story, whether it’s a modern take on a comfort food classic or an entirely new creation inspired by the season, along with nightly specials. Here are a few highlights you won’t want to miss:
Grilled Meatloaf: One of their signature dishes, a combination of beef, pork and bacon, warm greens, tomato jam and mashed potatoes; it hits the mark every time and is comfort food to its core.
Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice: Fresh ahi tuna served on crispy rice cakes, this dish is a must-do appetizer and one of my absolute favorites, with flavors of avocado crema, soy, sesame and cilantro.
Signature Craft Burger: Topped with caramelized onions, white cheddar, and house-made aioli, this burger is a fan favorite that delivers rich, satisfying flavors in every bite. I’m not even a big red meat eater but if I’m gonna get a burger, you can bet it’s here.
Brussels Sprouts: Everyone’s favorite side dish, Craft House imbibes theirs with the flavors of maple, bacon and candied pecans. Warm, crispy edges and flavorful.
Market Fish: Whatever their Fish of the Day, you can guarantee it will be fresh, usually local and cooked to perfection. It’s often my dinner order depending on what’s on the menu.
Craft House Cocktails: The drink menu is equally impressive, with handcrafted cocktails from their impressive bar, highlighting seasonal ingredients that pair perfectly with the food. The Craft Old Fashioned, made with Wyoming’s private stock bourbon and a twist of orange, is a must-try. For something lighter, try the What Did the Lemon Say, a blend of tin city vodka, limoncello, lemon and basil. Craft House also features an extensive whiskey menu so if you’re a fan, you must check out their menu which cheekily states “Good luck finding these anywhere else….”
Supporting a Cause
Beyond serving up great food, Craft House is also committed to making a positive impact in the Dana Point and surrounding community. Recently, Craft House took part in the OC Restaurants Give Back benefitting the LA Food Bank, in which participating restaurants donated 20% of all proceeds for the night to help support LA families in need. The night was a success raising over $200,000 from fellow OC restaurants! I was happy to join that night, and as always the food at Craft House was delish. Their participation in this cause, alongside 150+ other restaurants, further cements their role as a business that cares about giving back.
The Craft House Experience
Beyond the food, what makes Craft House truly special is the experience. The laid-back yet stylish interior, with its rustic wooden tables, warm lighting, and casual ambiance, provides the perfect setting for everything from a casual dinner to a celebratory night out. The restaurant's outdoor patio is a prime spot to enjoy Dana Point’s ocean breeze while sipping on a craft cocktail or a glass of locally sourced wine.
And while Craft House may have a chic and inviting atmosphere, it's anything but pretentious. The friendly staff goes out of their way to ensure each guest feels like a part of the family, offering knowledgeable recommendations and a welcoming smile. It’s a true local spot and one we are so happy to have in the neighborhood. With its creative menu, warm ambiance, and commitment to the community, it's no wonder Craft House has become a culinary staple in Dana Point that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.
