Janie D.
Yelp
Casual Mexican restaurant in the heart of Laguna Beach. They have a spacious covered patio, with a partially obscured ocean view. The food is definitely not authentic Mexican, but this isn't a tourist trap either; Coyote Grill is reasonably priced, and well liked by locals. They have a full bar, and an extensive menu with something for everyone.
I came here with a group of 8, and sat on the back patio. The staff were friendly and attentive, and had no problem with us hanging out for a while.
You must order the Coconut Shrimp. It's the best thing on the menu. Crispy flaked coconut on the outside, juicy, buttery shrimp within. You can get it as a side, or a combo plate with (bland af) beans and rice. We enjoyed the grilled Shrimp Tacos as well.
Everything else was underwhelming. The Guacamole tasted like the pre-made grocery store kind, made with underripe avocados and then left out for a while. The cheese in the Street Corn was curdled. The Lilikoi Margarita tasted like straight up sweet and sour mix. The Serrano Margarita was better, with a pleasant lingering heat and less cloying sweetness.
If I find myself here again, I will get two orders of Coconut Shrimp and a beer.