Olamendi's Inc
Mexican restaurant · Dana Point ·

Olamendi's Inc

Mexican restaurant · Dana Point ·

Mexican classics in colorful surrounds with a full bar

great service
ocean view
margaritas
friendly staff
authentic mexican food
good food
nice ambiance
chile relleno
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null
Olamendi's Inc by null

Information

34660 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA 92624 Get directions

$$

Order delivery
See Menu
Restroom
Accepts reservations
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Cozy

Information

Static Map

34660 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA 92624 Get directions

+1 949 661 1005
originalolamendis.com
@olamendis_oc
𝕏
@olamendis_oc

$$ · Menu

Features

•Restroom
•Accepts reservations
•Popular for lunch
•Popular for dinner
•Cozy
•Trendy
•Family friendly
•Good for groups

Last updated

Dec 22, 2025

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@travelleisure
28,641 Postcards · 5,541 Cities

The Essential Guide to Dana Point, California

"A colorful, family-run Mexican institution for more than 50 years, this spot was famously one of Richard Nixon’s favorites; to dine like the former president, ask for the Pollo a la Veracruzana, while locals swear by the Camarones al Mojo de Ajo and the ceviche tacos." - Cu Fleshman Cu Fleshman Cu is a freelance writer and editor with more than five years of experience. She has written for a variety of publications, including Afar, Matador Network, and Editoire. No matter where she is in the world, you can find her hunting for local eats and hiking trails. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/guide-to-dana-point-california-11863145
Olamendi's Inc
@eater
391,688 Postcards · 10,992 Cities

A Running List of Orange County Restaurants That Have Fully Reopened | Eater LA

"A longtime Mexican food staple located near the water offering classic family-style Mexican dishes and a full bar in a relaxed waterfront setting." - Eater Staff

https://la.eater.com/2020/5/27/21271177/orange-county-california-restaurants-fully-reopened-dine-in-service
Olamendi's

Reelislander

Google
We had an amazing experience at Olamendi’s! I ordered the Camarones el Diabla and, of course, a margarita, and everything was fantastic. The shrimp had the perfect balance of heat and flavor—spicy, rich, and absolutely delicious. The margarita was refreshing, smooth, and the perfect complement to the meal. The atmosphere was lively, and the service was warm and welcoming. It’s also within walking distance of Doheny Campground, which makes it super convenient. My husband and I always eat at Olamendi’s when we are camping at Doheny, and it never disappoints.

Alex F.

Google
It's okay, but not more. The food is nothing special. I didn't like the shrimp cocktail. Very watery and sweet. Too pricy for what I got. Less then 5 shrimps in number and didn't taste fresh. The value for money used to be good. These times are over.

Sandy M.

Google
HOT food, so good!! I ordered the taquito combination plate with rice and beans. It came out on a hot plate, everything looked amazing. The beans had broiled cheese on top, oh so hot and delicious. Their rice was fluffy and delicious as well. Hubby had a carnitas burrito, it was stuffed with meat! Great prices, great food, lots of stuff to look at and great service! We'll be back.

Marc K.

Google
Food and ambiance are excellent! They have amazing mole options. But, over the years the prices have skyrocketed and charging an extra $3 to add rice and beans to a Mexican plate should be criminal. It's also gotten more touristy. Knocking off one star. But the service us still great, and the food very good so.... i guess maybe we just come less often?

D S.

Google
We stopped by after dinner for margarita drinks and a Flan dessert. I tried the house jumbo and my wife the jumbo mescal. It was busy but the service was great. Enjoyed the art and nostalgia decorating. We loved the scratch margaritas especially the smoky finish on the mescal. The Flan was the perfect not so sweet dessert.

Mark G.

Google
Fantastic food, view & service. Luis and Claudia waited on us & made sure we were taken care of. This is locally owned & you can tell by the authenticity of the food & the house made tequila. Highly recommend this place come see Claudia and Luis.

C L.

Google
The hand crafted guacamole was creamy, chunky, citrusy, and fresh as the Pacific breeze coming in off your view of the ocean from your table. The beef tacos? Holy moly! these things were tender, juicy, and bursting with slow cooked love, and the crunch of the perfect golden shell? A spiritual experience. They also have a spicy hot salsa you can special request - Woo! That bad boy doesn’t mess around. It hits with a fireball of flavor that dances on your tongue and keeps you coming back for more. And to wash it all down? A classic margarita that was smooth, perfectly balanced, not too sweet, and with just the right kick of tequila to rev your engine. Olamendi’s is the real deal. It’s got the vibes, ocean air, and plates that speak fluent flavor. If you’re cruising the coast and craving something unforgettable, punch Dana Point into your GPS.

Dawn S.

Google
Loved the food! Thank you to George for the fantastic nachos and to Victor our server and Angel our busser, friendly and checked on us every few minutes with a smile! Very accommodating and fabulous atmosphere! We are from Az. and a gal we met in Huntington Beach told us to try it! She was right best Mexican food ever!
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Michael K.

Yelp
As our families were coming into town for a wedding, a group of seven of us made last-minute reservations for dinner here on a Wednesday night. The restaurant was easy to find along the coast south of Dana Point. Their relatively small parking lot had plenty of spaces available when we arrived at 530 p.m. Some street parking was also available if you come at a busier time. We were quickly seated in their decorative dining room, which had walls full of photos of famous past guests. As sunset approached, other groups were availing themselves of the outdoor tables. They serve all the favorites. Several in the group started with Margaritas, while others went for Mexican Coke or water. Chips and salsa were brought out. The red salsa was quite spicy, even though they said it wasn't. We must have been lightweights. I ordered two crispy taco combo, one chicken and one beef. Both were delicious and (temperature) hot with shells that did not break midway through eating. The side of refried beans was great with a thick cheese layer on top. I didn't care as much for the rice in the combo. My wife got their signature burrito with red and green sauce. It was huge, almost the size of her head, I think. Needless to say, she didn't finish it but did enjoy it. Some others got tacos, and someone else ordered two wet enchiladas. Everything was great. Service was awesome the entire evening, and we had a great time.
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Nats A.

Yelp
Ordered four tacos. Shrimp, fish, birria, chicken. Shrimp was bad quality frozen. Fish looked like slop. Chicken was dry. Birria was dry. The ingredients for the meat used is just bad quality. Do yourself a favor and skip this place. If you think this is legit Mexican food you're wrong.
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Arturo V.

Yelp
Right across the street from the ocean, indoor or outdoor, we sat outdoors 81degrees and the sun was out with plenty of umbrella shades. Waiters and waitresses are attentive, they are polite, friendly and respectful. There is also a drink menu, if I was not driving believe me you I would have had some spirits. The menu is simple and easy, the food was delicious, plate hot to the touch. I wanted to order more but I knew my eyes were too big for my stomach, I will be back and I hope you Yelp readers make the trip!
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Tintin B.

Yelp
Great service and location here at Olamendi's with Amazing weather today. Perfect pit stop to relax and enjoy the sunshine and ocean breeze. The main dish was carnitas de Olamendi was kinda dry and not properly seasoned right because you need the fiery mole sauce to compliment this dish. The Hibiscus drink was refreshing and delicious. They also have a vegan menu too. They also have a sweet mole sauce with 50 ingredients and all vegetarian version no meat. Beautiful atmosphere and environment with nice clean restroom available inside for disabled customers too. Lots of parking available here during non peak hours. Love the different colors of umbrellas too. Overall a wonderful alternative to the mundane things in life. Try the new and fresh approach to traditional Oaxaca Mexican cuisine here in Beautiful Dana Point right on Pacific coast highway. Enjoy the Sunshine of Love today.
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Andrew B.

Yelp
2nd time eating here came back the next day Excellent!!!! Service awesome !!! Trust me try there rolls Royce margaritas wow the best one I have tasted I love margaritas but oh man it was smooth you get buzzed or even drunk like I was no hang over lol it was that good there food was great but the best one is there capo beach buritto thank you will be back next time where down here I'm capistrano beach
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Amy M.

Yelp
Yuk The draw must be the view. Food and margaritas just yuk. Skinny marg so tart it was undrinkable. Almost straight lime juice. Enchiladas order was wrong, ordered one chicken, one cheese, got two chicken. Green enchilada sauce too limey. With all the good Mexican food in The area I would avoid this place
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Charles R.

Yelp
When in the area, Olamendi's has been our "go to" place for years. We especially like going there after we go walking through Doheny. I personally like their beef tacos , while my wife loves their chili rellano (with a beef ). If we didn't live 18 miles away, we would be there every week.
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Andrea Michelle O.

Yelp
Can't go wrong with Mexican food! Right next to PCH & the coast ! Friendly & fast !
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Kristen S.

Yelp
I am so sad to leave this review - I have been coming to Olamendi's for 40+ years. First with my parents growing up and then when I had my own family we came here all the time. I just cannot recommend this place anymore at all. I keep trying to go and have a positive experience but it just keeps getting worse and worse. I think sadly tonight was and will be our last visit. The quality of the food has gone so down hill I just can't do it anymore. The chips were so so stale to the point you couldn't even chew them. I ordered the combo with the chili relleno and the refried beans were hard and old. The sauce on chili relleno tasted like ketchup. I'm sorry Olamendi's - I tried to keep coming back for nostalgia sake but I just can't do it anymore. Obviously it's a great location and most of the staff is kind but that's all :(
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Anna C.

Yelp
Chile en Nogal is gross and extremely sweet !! Food is expensive here and not good ! Meh ! Service was fine ! Just come here for beer and chips and salsa .
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Elisa G.

Yelp
Definitely the worst Mexican food in Dana Point snd I remembered why I haven't been back since 2022. :(. The fajitas are inedible and so is the presentation. I sent back my food but ate the house salad and guacamole My stomach is aching so much. I should have gone anywhere else for lunch!!
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Darrell P.

Yelp
Olamendi's - The food was good, the ambiance was nice, but the service was lacking. Their website says, "When you visit our restaurant, you become part of our family," and it felt just like my own family--we haven't spoken to each other for years. "Hello?! Anybody home?" We asked for water three different times and never saw a single cup. Menu (Starters) - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=cNuEbcyKYuz0w2ySuZa5TA Olamendi's on PCH has been on my list to try for some time. AR, who frequents this location, recommended we visit on a beautiful SoCal Saturday afternoon. Menu (Flavored Margaritas) - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=Lw0nVCKjPPqauqOGm7jxrA I vaguely remember an Olamendi's that used to be in Lake Forest and wondered if it was connected to this one. While writing this review, I discovered there's another "Olamendi's" in Mission Viejo and an "Olamendi's Express" in Aliso Viejo. Are they connected? I'm not sure, but it piques my curiosity. Menu (Combination Plates) - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=4Lscxq3jmntv6vmqpW_GgQ We arrived around 12:45 PM, and the restaurant was already bustling. We walked in, waited about five minutes, and were seated within ten. That was easier than I anticipated. We were seated on the front patio with a nice view just across from the ocean. The restaurant was busy, but it took another 15-20 minutes for us to get our menus and another 15-20 minutes to place our order. Our order: Margarita Oro (Regular) x2: $15 x2 = $30 Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=17eW4KxHB5uUAeb3lhElRA Guacamole: $12 Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=S0CIYJB5oJAfhTuu7QcOcw No. 2 - Enchilada (Chicken enchilada with green sauce): $14 Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=94FxUTCD3P-H4ih3ZlwedQ No. 9 - Chile Relleno & Enchilada (Carnitas enchilada with green sauce): $21 Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=Z4LO1F_Imj4sGUNqz2O3cQ Total: $83 (+tip) Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=Fm6OcT3xYjPKJmUcuVAjug The margaritas were good, and so was the food (Food: 4 Stars). I'm always looking for a good chile relleno; it was tasty but a bit on the small side. Chile Relleno (detail) - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ&select=UUhz_Odq2_9rKc20g3lbnQ This was my first time here, and overall, it was an okay experience marred by lackluster customer service. We requested water three times, but it never made an appearance at our table. AR mentioned that based on her previous visits, customer service has never been their strong suit. Overall rating: Solid 3 Stars Food: 4 Ambiance: 3+ Service: 2 Value: 3
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Raegan T.

Yelp
Not worth it but you'll probably come here anyways for the tourist trap and lack of options otherwise. First off, The prices are way too high and the service way too subpar to be turning away people dressed in.. i dunno.. BEACH ATTIRE. But whatever. We sat outside and I covered up my inappropriate shirtless self and ordered ceviche and tacos. Very mid mexican food and we hardly got checked on or our waters refilled.
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Blake B.

Yelp
Want bad food? And rude/bad service? With high prices? Make sure to visit & ask for Claudia the waitress who has 9+ 1 star reviews (search if you think I'm exaggerating ). Incredibly rude & beyond slow service. Visit Ricardo's or el adobe for some quality, great service. This place has terrible parking & some of the lowest quality food and service you can experience.
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roberta b.

Yelp
I had the shrimp chili rellano and it was delicious! Also the flan is awesome! Great service and colorful! Bought a festive blouse!
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Robert C.

Yelp
A ruined reputation. I have gone here many times over the years and have liked it. Went in the other day (after 2-3 years) and boy, NOT the same place. The service was iffy. Talk about shrinkflation!!! The portions are smaller and the prices? Yikes, $101.29 for lunch?? The guacamole was about the portion of a 1/2 an avocado (it literally looked like the busboy ate most of it on the way to the table) AND they charged us $12.00 ?!?!?!?!?
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Donald M.

Yelp
It's been 15+ years since I've eaten here. The food is every bit as good as my last visit. Service was excellent and many additions to the epic memorabilia hanging on the walls. If you're looking for classic, authentic Mexican food, look no further. And be sure to walk around and check out some of the pictures and other cool stuff.
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Louis B.

Yelp
What a charming place with excellent food and beautiful views! After a whole day of flying across the continent and doing an interminable line at the car rental, we finally arrived at Dana Point and were able to relax by the beach and enjoy the beautiful day. And we noticed we were hungry and that Olamendis was almost next door We arrived shortly after 5 PM and got our choice of outdoor seating with the fresh air making everything nice. Olamendis is an iconic venue in this area. The owner knew Nixon, who lived close by, as well as a plethora of Washington insiders. Her niece narrated to us about how White House staff would come here to eat. Today, it is still a charming place. We ordered margaritas, which noticing a couple of Yelp reviews, we expected to pay $20 apiece. However, they were priced at $11-$16 per rail drinks, and the upper price was paid for organic exclusive tequila, commanding a high price, not only here but also anywhere. I ordered the mole which was was exquisite. This came with a superb albondigas soup. My spouse ordered the pork tacos with tamale which was also finger licking good. Every member of the staff was at this best. Superb experience.
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Rando S.

Yelp
Friendly & fast service !the server made us feel at home. Ambiance was very nice & right off the beach .Thanks Jorge!
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Carol D.

Yelp
The Birria taco was terrible. It fell apart. And the shell was not cooked all the way. There wasn't anything in it but meat and a little cheese and lettuce. The cheese enchilada wasn't cooked all the way, and the cheese was not melted.
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Audrey T.

Yelp
We have tried so hard to like this place over the last few years . Each time they disappoint , food has no flavor, sauce smells straight from the can and the burritos have hardly anything in it. Service is not good either. No more chances for this Mexican food place.
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Taylor A.

Yelp
I really wanted to like this place and have given it multiple chances, but the inconsistency is just too much and lately the food has only gotten worse. Tonight, I ordered the two enchilada combo, thinking cheese enchiladas would be a safe bet. Unfortunately, they were barely edible. The cheese inside was thick and rubbery, the sauce was clumpy, and both the rice and beans were cold. What made it worse was the lack of care from the staff. I sent the food back and shared my concerns with two different employees. Neither offered an apology or seemed to care. Sadly, I think I've given this place enough chances.
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Dennis R.

Yelp
Typical family Mexican restaurant with indoor abs patio seating. Across the beach from capo beach so nice coastal location. Staff is really friendly and helpful. Parking is a bit difficult with a small lot but street parking is close by. Food wise had capo beach burrito with carnitas, taco plate and chimi. Food was pretty good. Nothing stood out but no complaints either. Good selection of beer and drinks.
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Chris W.

Yelp
Fast service. Kind staff. Always kept the water cup filled. There is a great view of the ocean across the world famous PCH.

Parisa H.

Yelp
Went to dinner last night and had some visitors from out of town the worst food chips, salsa service I've ever had to experience at a Mexican restaurant overlooking the ocean. It's a shame wouldn't recommend it.. I had their enchilada with the shrimp which was overcooked and the sauce was kind of like their catchup with water down tomato . Definitely not authentic.

Diana E.

Yelp
What a fun place! The interior is filled with lots of memorabilia and fun things to look at. The patio area is inviting and comfortable. The first stop was just for margaritas and a shrimp cocktail. Both were great and our server was super friendly and prompt. We went back for dinner and everyone at our table enjoyed their meal. We had read previous reviews that were not favorable, but we are glad we went regardless of the reviews.
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Lynn E.

Yelp
Excellent food and service. Jorge Sr and Jr take care of us very well. We drive from Lake Elsinore to Dana Point just to eat here.
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Jeff S.

Yelp
So sad. I was a huge fan of this place years ago and went there for some drinks last year, chips and salsa and it was good So went back yesterday and it was... not the same. The rice was bland, the beans were not great, which as easy ways to tell about the rest. Kid quesadillas were wimpy at best. Sodas for 3.99 in a can. The tacos had a lot of lettuce but otherwise, nothing to write home about. The steak was overcooked and reminds me of Alberto's or something like that, not a sit down spot.
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Laurie V.

Yelp
Love this place whenever we stay at my brother's timeshare next door!! They have something for everyone with ample parking. This time around, we were in town for Fourth of July. Perfect place for fireworks =) when the weather is nice, perfect patio with view of the beach! Ambiance inside reminded me of the movie, Coco, with the skeletons and overall, "celebration decor." Bright and festive! I was on a shrimp cocktail "kick" at the time so, was so happy to see couple clients order it. It came in a HUGE glass cup. Lots of cocktail sauce and pieces of whole shrimp. That was a nice surprise to see/taste that! Also, ordered their spicy margarita -- also, in a HUGE glass cup. Service is always nice and friendly. Almost like a mom and pop shop.
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Sheila C.

Yelp
Service was outstanding. Very friendly, accommodating and prompt. Poor server even had to tell another customer that they couldn't serve them and to please leave. Handled very gracefully. Margaritas are well proportioned and very tasty. The food was good, a little on the smaller portion size, but good none-the-less. The enchiladas were a little dry, but we asked for more sauce and it greatly improved them. The chicken taco was well stuffed with chicken. The patio takes you away to the streets of Mexico. Papel picados line the patio and the view is right to the beach/ocean. The patio is dog friendly.
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Guy M.

Yelp
3 is for location. I have been coming here for years and I have seen others have issues. The main lady does not care. My burrito with red sauce was so watered down it had zero flavor. Water was standing on my plate from sauce after I put on burrito, after picture. Waiter saw it and had zero suggestions to fix it. It's the main lady! I'm done won't be back, which is sad.
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Elyse E.

Yelp
Thank you so much. It was excellent for having a vegan menu. The guacamole is so good hot salsa everything fresh. Great service.
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Antoinette L.

Yelp
Very cute place that is just a short walk from the beach! I had the bistek al chipotle that came with albondiga soup, beans, rice, and 3 tortillas for $29. The meal was great but the sauce did come out less creamier than I thought it would be (photo for reference). The steak is on the thinner end, but it wasn't bad! The albondiga soup was mouth-watering, we all shared the small side. My favorite dish from all of our food would probably be the albondiga soup. Service was good, our waiter was very attentive and noticed right away that our tacos weren't soft and immediately went to get it fixed. I would say the only thing that threw me off was that they had a subcharge for splitting meals so we ended up just each getting our own dish.

Ariana F.

Yelp
Service was super horrible. I got a metal piece in my food and Claudia, which was our cashier was super rude about the whole situation.
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Jerry L.

Yelp
Great ambiance. Love the pics on the wall and the location. Always get the same thing when I'm there. And always have a jarritos lime with it. One of my favorite places in Dana point.
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Lisa V.

Yelp
The ambiance is awesome! The people are very nice and helpful! We had taquitos and enchiladas, rice and beans. The rice and beans were authentic, the taquitos were homemade and yummy. The chicken in the enchiladas was good. The red sauce was ok. We were not impressed with the guacamole or the stale chips, although they were plentiful. Not really a place we feel a need to return to, but everyone in our party found something to eat.

Mia K.

Yelp
Olamendi's is seriously so good. The restaurant itself is decorated so fun with all of the pictures, plates, skeletons, papel picado--it is so vibrant! The staff were also all super kind and attentive. And then the food itself, amazing! I got the calabacitas a la olamendi, and it was so so delicious.

Josephine V.

Yelp
Horrible service. food was ok. Rude waitstaff. Wrote her own tip. Only beer and tequila. Not again.
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D B.

Yelp
Are here with my wife today. I left underwhelmed. I ordered the #5 combo with 2 tacos and beans.tacos were dripping grease and bland. Beans were bland. They served chips and salsa and the chips were stale. The beer was not cold. Asked for a Grand Mariner double, only to be told they do not have it. They suggested their orange cognac which is shit. I believe in honest reviews so here are the pros... The view of the beach and ocean are amazing. The staff is friendly and accommodating. It is within walking distance from the hotel we were staying at. We will not return. Despite that, we will not return.
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Lynne A.

Yelp
Walked here from our hotel for lunch. Delicious Mexican food. I had a shredded beef chimichanga covered with red sauce and cheese. Was so good I wanted more!! Chips were a bit hard but good salsa! It was such a beautiful day we sat on the patio but they do have indoor seating and cute decor.
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Charles E. C.

Yelp
Oh no oh no olamendi's. Food so bad brought me to my knees. Chucks been wide and chucks been far but never seen food this bad so far. So if you're traveling or just rambling keep on moving and keep on gambling. Place soooo bad ain't worth havlin. Shoooots. Love ya Chuckster
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Judy a.

Yelp
How in the world can you call this MEXICAN food It's a upgrade Taco Bell ! Shrimp cocktail was blah and OLD tasting . Chicken pozole was a JOKE 2 pieces of chicken and NO FLAVOR Over priced SLOW custom service. Only reason for the 2 stars is location Other then that I would NEVER go back
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Kai F.

Yelp
Olamendi's Mexican Restaurant in Dana Point is a vibrant celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine, exceptional service, and a traditional aesthetic that transports you straight to the heart of Mexico. From the moment we stepped in, we were enveloped by an explosion of color and culture, with every wall adorned with eclectic Mexican art, vibrant murals, and fascinating memorabilia, including nods to its storied past as a favorite of President Nixon. The traditional Mexican aesthetic is not just decor--it's a warm, immersive experience that makes every visit feel like a festive gathering. The food is nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the rich, authentic flavors of recipes passed down through generations. We started with their freshly made guacamole, bursting with bright, zesty notes, paired with warm, crisp chips and a tangy house salsa that set the tone for the meal. The Mole Poblano was a standout, its complex blend of spices and velvety texture draping tender chicken in a way that felt like a loving tribute to Puebla's culinary heritage. The Baja-style fish tacos were another highlight, with perfectly crispy fish, fresh pico de gallo, and a creamy sauce that made each bite a delight. Every dish felt like a labor of love, crafted with the freshest ingredients and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. The oceanfront patio elevated our experience to another level. Nestled along the Pacific Coast Highway, it offers a breezy, dog-friendly space with stunning views of the ocean and fiery sunsets that paint the sky. Sipping on one of their signature hibiscus margaritas while watching the waves crash was pure bliss. Speaking of margaritas, Olamendi's vast selection is a tequila lover's dream. From classic to innovative flavors like strawberry and organic agave, each cocktail is crafted with their own smooth, family-made organic tequila--voted "Best Cocktail in America" for good reason. We sampled a flight of their top tequilas, and the crisp, clean flavors were a perfect complement to the meal. The service was impeccable, striking that rare balance of attentive and warm without being intrusive. Our server was a gem, offering thoughtful recommendations, ensuring our drinks were always topped off, and sharing stories about the family-run restaurant's 50-year legacy. The staff's genuine hospitality made us feel like part of the Olamendi family, a sentiment echoed in the bustling, community-oriented vibe of the restaurant. Olamendi's is more than a meal--it's a cultural experience wrapped in phenomenal food, top-notch service, and an unbeatable oceanfront setting. Whether you're a local or just passing through Dana Point, this gem is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine with a side of coastal charm. We're already counting down the days until our next visit
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Therese D.

Yelp
Heartbreaking! We used to be regular customers of Rosa's Olamendi's Restaurant in Laguna Beach, many years ago. My daughter was even the flower girl for Gena Olamendi's son's wedding. We celebrated every special occasion at Olamendi's and it was the first restaurant our daughter had gone to as a baby. She was very close to Rosa and in many ways Rosa felt like a member of our family. So when it came time to pick a spot for her wedding shower, though Laguna Beach location had closed, I thought of this location. I read the reviews and thought it couldn't possibly have changed that much. So my hubby and I decided to have lunch to explore the possibility of having our daughter's shower here. But what we found was so disappointing. The margaritas were great. But everything else tasted like it was fried in rancid oil. Maybe money is tight and they thought no one would notice that they didn't change the oil. Was it seed oil? Or was it that they just didn't think it would make a difference? I really believe these reviews would improve if only they would use high quality oil to fry chips & food and change it often. Just when we were trying to convince ourselves that it still had enough of the Old Olamendi's charm to hold our daughter's shower, we both went home and experienced the worst tummy aches. I'd brought part of my meal home, but ended up throwing it away. Unfortunately, this is the end of an era for us.

Denise J.

Yelp
I have bought Olamendis for years. Great food. Today I ordered a combo plate side of taco and chili rellano. Buyer beware. Dont order the chili rellano a la carte. It was 11.95 for one. Are there other a la cartes were 5 to 6 dollars. I was told next time buy a combo plate. I did have a combo plate and if i knew it was going to be so expensive i would have included the rellano in the combo plate and then order the enchilda which was in the combo plate a la carte and save $6. I was told prices have gone up but all the other prices remain the same. Not a happy camper. The rellano is good but not 11.95 good.

Ana R.

Yelp
Mexi-can't ! I'm a local, born and raised Hispanic woman frim San Juan Capistrano for over 57years. The last time I had dinner at Olemendis is when I dated my husband back when we were in our 20"s and we never went back bc we had a guest join us for dinner- a roach. Thirty years later we decide to give a chance to our local establishment and much to my dismay the #6 enchilada combo tasted as tho they bought the sauce from a can at Ralph's, the rice was Al dente and the beans- the entire dish had no salt flavor. The server lady copped attitude when I inquired what was in their house margarita. You are better off making your own dinner. I highly discourage you from attempting to give this Olemedis a chance. They must think this is what Mexican food should taste like. Please, no, it's not. They think you are a dumb dumb. Save yourself $60 seriously!!
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Barbara E.

Yelp
I have been coming to this restaurant since 1988. I fully understand changing times. What I don't appreciate is charging $2.00 for extra sour cream equaling three table spoons when the entree was $20.00. Or changing for extra cilantro! Sadly two of us ordered tamales that came with overly thick dry masa and so were the fillings one pork and one chicken. Be prepared to pay for your second request of table chips and salsa and you will order because the first complimentary basket is small which is to be shard with the entire table. The new outside patio is lovely and the cleaned up inside decor is refreshing. But the bottom line is the food. Normally we eat here three or more times during our week stay next door. Once was too much for my guests and myself. Very disappointed.

Rich M.

Yelp
Gotta agree with some of the posters who tried it recently. I was just there. House margarita was powerful, but $18? They should at least use a good tequila for that price. Had a burrito. It was cold. Not just a little less than hot, it was almost room temperature. They took it back, heated it up and it was then a bit warmer than room temperature. I gave up on it. I'm not used to Mexican food being lukewarm even after being reheated. They said it was because the burrito has sour cream and guac in it. So, guess they cooked it a tiny bit without heating the meat first. No thanks. Service was great. Prices were astronomical. Food was not good.

Jaimie M.

Yelp
We were excited to come here today to enjoy some great food and we walked into a very rude older lady that seems to be the manager and she told us we had to wait outside for shift change to happen. So we did. When we sat down we asked for waters and it's been 20 minutes and still no waters. There is 5 of us and we got one chips and salsa. When we asked for more we were charged for them. The service here was super rude and extra charge for everything. The prices are crazy as well for such horrible service. It's sad because we wanted to have a good experience