Date Night, Done Right
Dana Point has no shortage of excellent spots for a date night out on the town, and with summer officially in full swing, we thought it would be fun to put together a list of some of the best spots to dine with your special someone. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, farm-to-table fare, or cozy Italian cuisine, we’ve got you covered.
Glaspar | Address: 24961 Dana Point Harbor Dr
For couples seeking an elegant and upscale dining experience, Glaspar, across from the harbor, is the place to be. This seafood-centric restaurant combines tradition with modern sophistication in a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The menu features fresh, sustainably-sourced seafood, including oysters, lobster, and a variety of seasonal fish; in addition to soups, salads and a mouth watering selection of appetizers. Start with some duck fat fries, the scallop crudo, Caesar to share and go from there. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic evening with its warm lighting and chic décor. Snag a seat at the beautiful wrap-around bar for a view of the action, or grab a cozy and quiet table inside or outdoors on their charming covered patio. Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails such as the Glaspar Margarita, French 75 or a glass of bubbly if you’re so inclined. Bringing the essence of an East Coast seafood hall to the West Coast, Glasspar infuses it all with a fresh, artisanal California twist making for a fun and tasty date night spot.
CraftHouse | Address: 34094 Pacific Coast Hwy
CraftHouse, situated on PCH, offers a warm and vibrant atmosphere, ideal for a laid-back but refined date night. Known for its farm-to-table approach, the menu courtesy of Chef Blake Mellgren, showcases a variety of locally-sourced ingredients that always hit the mark. The diverse menu features everything from delicious apps such as the Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice (one of my faves), to mouthwatering artisanal burgers, fresh caught seafood (always recommended), and specialty vegetarian options. Their lively bar offers specialty craft cocktails whether you prefer light and refreshing or more spirit forward, as well as local brews, making it a great spot for those who appreciate quality food and drink in a relaxed setting. You can opt for indoor or outdoor dining, we suggest the latter - either a table overlooking the comings and goings of PCH, or on their gigantic covered patio area out back. The rustic decor and friendly service make CraftHouse a cozy and inviting choice for date night, and one that is a win, time and time again.
Coastal Kitchen | Address: 34091 Pacific Coast Hwy
Housed in the first commercial building in Dana Point dating back to the 1920’s, Coastal Kitchen combines history and casual elegance in a Spanish Colonial revival-style setting. The menu features coastal-inspired dishes with a modern twist, including favorites like jumbo lump crabcakes, grilled fish selections, steaks, sandwiches, and a variety of fresh salads. The bright and airy dining room, coupled with friendly service, make it a welcoming spot for couples looking to enjoy a relaxed meal with a touch of sophistication. Grab a glass of white or red to pair with your meal, or if cocktails are more your style, you can’t go wrong with a Paloma Martini or Spiced Old Fashion. With its beachy vibes and fresh, flavorful dishes, Coastal Kitchen captures the essence of Dana Point's historic charm. When your meal is over, take a little walk down Blue Lantern St. (away from PCH in the direction of the harbor), for views overlooking the ocean and harbor below.
Truly Pizza | Address: 24402 Del Prado Ave
For date night under the lemon trees, head over to Truly Pizza. This pizzeria, the dream of four friends in the hospitality industry and pizza fame success, has become one of Dana Point’s most popular restaurants, and for good reason. Their pizza is out of this world; incorporating the freshest ingredients topped on their secret fermented dough recipe, with micro blisters that makes for the perfect crunch. Their team recently won 1st Place in the Traditional Category at the International Pizza Expo and Conference in Las Vegas this past March so they clearly know what they’re doing. Truly features outdoor dining only, making it the perfect spot for a summer date night. Grab a table downstairs on their beautiful patio, or head upstairs to their rooftop dining area for views of the city. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Why not share a Spagnola salad (a mix of arugula and radicchio blend tossed in a quince dressing, topped with grated Manchego cheese, speck, zodiac pears, Marcona almonds….so yum), followed up by one of their specialty pizzas? Their American Artisan “Champion Cheese” is a replica of the one that won first place in Vegas, but for those who prefer a little more meat or veggies, you can’t go wrong with the Crispy Pepperoni or La Foresta. If you prefer a thicker crust, their square pizzas incorporate their unique fermented dough - try the Sweet and Spicy or Smoky Vodka for some delightful flavors. The Truly Spritz with prosecco, lemon zest and basil pretty much screams summer while their soft serve icecream makes for the perfect sweet finish to your date night under the stars.
Giana Bakery & Provisions | Address: 34146 Pacific Coast Highway
Giana offers an authentic Italian dining experience in a charming, intimate setting and is the essence of a true neighborhood restaurant. Situated on the corner of PCH and El Encanto Ave, Giana is perfect for couples looking to indulge in mouth-watering Italian cuisine in the coziest of spots. The interior features the main restaurant area, a small and intimate bar, a bakery area where you can buy fresh pastries and provisions, wine fridges and more. There’s lots to look at which makes for an interesting and fun night. The menu, the brainchild of Chef Danielle, features organic and sustainable ingredients incorporated into delicious homemade pastas, flavor packed salads, tasty antipasti to share, and more. I always recommend the olives to start with a glass of red wine, followed by the Finoccio Salad (a mix of fennel, celery, arugula, pistachios, mint, citrus, black pepper vinaigrette, parmesan) that can’t be beat, and the Pomodoro Pasta with meatballs. Classic, delicious comfort food. The atmosphere is lively and buzzy, depending on the time of day and the staff couldn’t be more welcoming. Giana also offers a monthly Gigi’s Supper Club in their garden area next door to the restaurant which makes for a fabulous date night idea as well. Follow their Instagram for more.
Wind & Sea | Address: 34699 Golden Lantern St
For those looking to dine with a view, Wind & Sea is Dana Point’s go-to waterfront restaurant offering stunning harbor vistas. This iconic spot has been a Dana Point favorite for over 50 years, providing a picturesque setting for a memorable evening. The large windows allow you to take in the expansive views if dining indoors, while the outdoor patio is perfect for couples wanting to soak in the sights and sounds of the harbor. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood, steaks, and tropical cocktails. Start off with some oysters or a shrimp cocktail before enjoying dishes like the Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi or the Prime Rib while watching the sunset over the marina. You have to order one of their specialty Mai-Tai cocktails to compliment the vibe, or a refreshing glass of white wine to round out your meal for two. Cheers to this long-standing Dana Point institution!
Luciana's | Address: 24312 Del Prado Ave
Luciana's is a quaint family-owned Italian trattoria that has been serving delicious, authentic Italian cuisine for over 35+ years in the heart of the Lantern District. The menu offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes with a California twist, including fresh homemade pastas such as their Rigatoni Pesto for a taste of summer. In addition, risotto, fresh seafood, chicken and steak dishes round out the menu in this historic venue with a feel reminiscent of Tuscany. The extensive wine list complements the flavorful dishes, ensuring a delightful dining experience. In 2023, Luciana’s received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator, recognizing exceptional wine programs, so you are guaranteed an outstanding list for all the wine lovers out there. The charming, old-world ambiance, complete with white tablecloths and dim lighting (whether indoors or out), sets the stage for a romantic evening and the service is always welcoming and exceptionally inviting.
Raya | Address: 1 Ritz Carlton Dr
Located within the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Raya offers an upscale dining experience with panoramic ocean views that simply can’t be beat. As the sun sets, the restaurant's elegant ambiance, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and sophisticated decor, sets the stage for an unforgettable date night. Pure drama. The restaurant's menu, crafted by acclaimed chef Richard Sandoval, features a fusion of innovative Pan-Latin American flavors with locally sourced ingredients that perfectly compliment the ocean views from high above. Sample the salmon, scallops or miso cod main course along with a glass of wine from their curated wine list ensuring the perfect pairing with each course. The attentive and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, providing impeccable service that make Raya a top choice for a special and enchanting date night.
