Darrell P.
Yelp
I've been talking about making a ride to Cook's Corner with friends ever since I first bought my new, used bike in July. (2018 Honda CB500X) The bar/restaurant is located at the corner of Live Oak Canyon roads and Santiago Canyon.
Cook's Corner - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=xVfadTaKmg_QGNqIUI2CJQ&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ
Cook's Corner has a rich history, dating back to 1884 when it was originally established as a stagecoach stop. Over the years it and has become a popular gathering spot for motorcyclists, hikers, and locals. Cook's Corner has transformed into a biker-friendly bar and restaurant. It is situated in the scenic canyons of Orange County and offers a unique and rustic atmosphere for visitors.
History - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=JwDG6SIS2zpoczbMfLt6Ng&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ
DC and I met up @ Dana Point; rode north on PCH to Jamboree; right on Santiago Canyon; making a pittstop at Cook's Corner for lunch. It was a good day. After Cook's Corner, we made a left out of the parking lot on to Live Oak Canyon Road which turns into Trabuco Canyon Road. We made a right at Santa Margarita Parkway; left on Antonio until it turned into La Pata Avenue. We eventually ended the ride at the San Clemente Pier. Did I mention it was a good day?
Bar - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=mEB095-AZtbxRDQ3NCOzXg&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ
Cook's Corner is a local, historic spot that has its fair share of regulars, visitors, and weekend riders. This was my first visit and overall, I thought it was alright. I was surprised by how many bikes were in the parking lot; everything style under the sun. There were cruisers, sports bikes, adventure bikes, to café racers.
Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=wzutW2_IIbLpik9yGQeNTA&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ
The vibe was chill and laid back, no harsh attitudes that I noticed; folks just hanging out.
Placer order here! - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=e3IJcVIWBJkGOvmqVKTFqA&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ
Cook's Corner serves a variety of pub-style food and drinks, including burgers, sandwiches, and a selection of beers. It's a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy a cold drink. However, with that said, nothing really stood out to me on the menu. IMO, a tad $$ for a basic hamburger or simple appetizers but it is what it is... So, "When in Rome!"
Patio seating - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=RST0JfpnR2uIZwffKYaUVg&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ
The young lady that took my order was fast and friendly; placed my order, paid, done. The entire transaction didn't take more than a few minutes at most. Now, wait until my number is called.
DC and I visited with some of his friends who were there for a "Halloween Ride." As we ate lunch, we enjoyed the live music by a cover band playing on the stage in the back. They were good! DC ordered a Bacon Cheeseburger with a side of BBQ sauce and a fountain drink.
My order:
Ortega Burger - Decent hamburger with two different cheeses and an ortega chili. It was okay.
Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=1vahM9b2wpbQ6ZVk3pgDXw&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ
Fountain drink - MUG Root Beer soda; free refills
Grand total + tip = $20
After our lunch, DC & I walked around for a few minutes. Cook's Corner has a rather large outdoor seating area in the back with its own separate bar as well. (Thumbs up) I was hoping to get a photo of the live band performing but they were taking a break at the time.
Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=SVVv9SCDPeP0bA5agTh_og&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ
I'm looking forward to our next ride and visit to Cook's Corner... 'Maybe for their Taco Tuesday, Spaghetti Wednesday, Thirsty Thursday, or Fish Friday! Part of the enjoyment of Cook's Corner is the ride to and from.
Overall rating: 3 Stars
- Big Aloha!
Food: 3 (Fair)
Ambiance: 4 (Chill and laid back)
Service: 3 (Fast and friendly)
Value: 3 (A bit $$ for standard burger and appetizers)