12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

LO C A L

N EWS

February 7, 2020

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THE RESULTS ARE IN! Here are your choices for Dana Point’s best businesses, services, places and events of 2019

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, SPORTS AND MORE

12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards // 3

WELCOME

TO THE BEST OF DANA POINT

The readers have spoken, and the results are in for the Dana Point Times’ annual “Golden Lantern Awards,” which honor the best Dana Point has to offer.

For the past 12 years, the readers have helped us recognize the city’s stellar businesses and individuals who contribute to making Dana Point a wonderful place to live, work and play. And each year, the list of nominees grows as we continue to add categories, giving you—the readers—more options for feedback. We want to thank each of the businesses that make this community what it is. We also want to thank every one of you who voted in this year’s Best of Dana Point. Nothing is more rewarding for us than seeing businesses proudly display their Gold and Silver window stickers as badges of honor.

Best Bagel: The Coffee Importers

4 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Best Grooming/Pet Care: OC Grooming & Pet Spa, Dana Point

CONTENTS EATERIES, WATERING HOLES AND MORE

Taco Wine Selection

Best...

AT THE SHOPS

Appeti ers Bagel Bar Bartender Beer Selection Breakfast Breakfast Burrito Brunch Burger up of offee Donut Family Restaurant Happy Hour International Eats Margarita Menu for Healthy Choices enu for egan ptions New Restaurant verall estaurant Pi a Poke Place Restaurant for a Date or Romantic Evening estaurant for utdoor Dining Salsa Sandwich Seafood Sports Bar Spot for ake ut Spot to Cure a Sweet Tooth Sushi

8 18 18 17 8 8 9 10 8 8 15 16 15 17 9 6 16 12 12 14 15 10 9 12 18 14 10 12

12 17

Best...

Bicycle Shop Clothing Home DĂŠcor and Furnishings Home Improvement Store Jewelry Pet Store Place to Buy Flowers Local Grocer Secondhand/Thrift Store Store to Buy Gifts for Adults Store to Buy Gifts for Kids Surf/SUP Shop Tackle Shop Tattoo Shop

23 20 20 22 20 23 21 22 21 19 19 22 23 23

SERVICES ON THE TO-DO LIST

32 32 28 34 34 38 38 26 34 30 26 30 26 33 28 28 28 33 36 33

GETTING OUTSIDE

Best...

Best...

Acupuncturist Aesthetic Service Provider Auto Repair Banking Institution Barber Shop Catering Chiropractor Dental Health Care Provider Dry Cleaner Grooming/Pet Care

Group Workout Gym Hair Salon Jeweler Laundromat ocal Nonpro t rgani ation Lodging Manicure and Pedicure Martial Arts Studio Medical Health Care Provider New Business Best rthodontist verall ustomer Service Pilates Studio Spa for Facials Spa for Massages Specialty Beauty Service Veterinarian Yacht/Boat Maintenance Repair Yoga Studio

30 30 34 36 28 36 32 30 34 34

Beach Camp for Kids Harbor Recreation/Excursion Local Annual Event Park Place to ake ut of owners Surf Break Venue for Live Music Wedding Venue Whale Watching Yacht Club

40 40 44 42 42 40 42 44 44 42 42

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 danapointtimes.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL & PHOTOGRAPHY Lillian Boyd Shawn Raymundo Collin Breaux Zach Cavanagh Fred Swegles Randall Youngman Andrea Papagianis Zara Flores

ART/DESIGN Jasmine Smith Chelsie Rex ADVERTISING Lauralyn Loynes Traci Kelly Debra Wells OPERATIONS Alyssa Garrett Tricia Zines

The Dana Point Times (www.danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the San Clemente Times (www.sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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EATERIES,

Watering Holes & MORE

Best NEW RESTAURANT GOLDEN LANTERN

VIBE ORGANIC KITCHEN & JUICE

After establishing its rst location in Newport Beach, ibe rganic itchen uice opened its second location in Dana Point in . he menu is all organic, and everything is made from scratch. wner osh eibowit says ibe is best known for dishes with bright colors and avors. ibe offers bowls, salads, burgers, a variety of avocado toast, soups, fresh s uee ed uice shots, smoothies and iced coffee and tea. All ingredients are soy free, gluten free, dairy free and vegan.

34255 Pacific Coast Highway 105, 949.259.5514, eatdrin vibe.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

PROJECT SOCIAL

Pro ect Social is a new, local watering hole that aims to bring friends together to connect face to face. his open space beer oint was founded by friends who met while hammering away on a construction pro ect. his taproom melds local eats with craft beers.

24040 Camino Del Avion, Suite , 949.424.2313

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Bourbon Steak Orange County; Silver: Maison CafĂŠ + Market

Vibe Organic Kitchen & Juice

Dippity Donuts

8 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Best BREAKFAST GOLDEN LANTERN

RJ’S CAFÉ

This diner-style restaurant is a repeat winner for good reason. Owner RJ Breeden says his goal upon opening RJ’s Café was to create a restaurant where customers felt at home and where they could relax and meet with friends and family. Some customer favorites include eggs Benedict and the corned beef hash and eggs. Customers have the option of going with a hearty, greasy, avorful and traditional breakfast or healthier dishes such as the Feta Avocado Scramble.

25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.218.5757, rjscafe.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

THE COFFEE IMPORTERS

While he offee mporters doesn’t serve the traditional bacon-and-eggs dishes, their bagel sandwiches, custom egg sandwiches, a power pancake crunch and Acai bowls do not disappoint. Bagels are delivered fresh daily, and the menu’s unique breakfast options cater to individual tastes.

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, co eeimporters.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: RJ’s Café; Silver: What a Dish Café & Catering

Best CUP OF COFFEE GOLDEN LANTERN

THE COFFEE IMPORTERS

he talented baristas at he offee mporters work diligently to create the perfect latte. They use a proprietary blend of

espresso that is uni ue to he offee mporters and serve more than eight different regular coffees daily that are selected from varieties of Arabica coffee beans. wner Jim Miller says he and his baristas are so appreciative of customers for continuing to vote them Best up of offee in Dana Point. “We are proud to have been serving coffee to the Dana Point community for more than 40 years,” Miller said.

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, co eeimporters.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

J.C. BEANS COFFEE HOUSE

f you en oy an eclectic, co y ambience with a replace, old books, art and Wi i to go with your coffee, look no further than . . Beans.

For folks on the go, J.C. Beans also has a drive-thru for your drink and pastry orders.

34114 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.4700

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Coffee Importers; Silver: Bear Coast Coffee

Best DONUT GOLDEN LANTERN

DIPPITY DONUTS

or early risers, Dippity Donuts opens its doors at 5 a.m. and is best known for its classic donut variety paired with hot chocolate (a customer favorite). The shop has been in business for 33 years and has since made itself a Dana Point staple for breakfast enthusiasts with a sweet tooth.

Staff prides itself on being warm, welcoming and friendly, as well as offering affordable prices.

33621 Del bispo Street, Suite C, 949.240.6064

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

PRIMI DONUTS

At Primi Donuts, you’ll nd that the service is ust as wonderful as the menu items.

Apple fritters are a customer favorite, but be sure to try camp re think s’mores , maple bacon and mango cheesecakeavored donuts as well.

32880 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.388.5595, primidonuts.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Flipped Doughnuts; Silver: Dippity Donuts

Best BAGEL GOLDEN LANTERN

THE COFFEE IMPORTERS

With more than different types of fresh bagels delivered every morning, The offee mporters is dedicated to serving the perfect bagel. Be sure to try one of the most popular bagel orders, “The California Bagel,” which is slathered in cream cheese and topped with tomato, onion, avocado and the house’s famous lemon pepper. You can create your own bagel sandwich or select from different menu options. n oy your bagel as you look out onto the harbor, take a esty bite of your mouth watering bagel and absorb the sunshine.

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, co eeimporters.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

I LOVE BAGELS

ove Bagels has more than varieties of bagels available at locations throughout Southern California. Whether you prefer classic cream cheese or a deli sandwich on

your bagel, ove Bagels provides uality breakfast and lunch bagels.

32545 Golden Lantern, Suite , 949.443.3300, ilovebagelsinc.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Coffee Importers; Silver: I Love Bagels

Best BREAKFAST

BURRITO GOLDEN LANTERN

A’S BURGERS

A’s Burgers uses fresh eggs and makes their own hash browns from scratch for their meals, owner George ardakostas said. t’s a really fresh burrito,” he said. “That’s what we pride ourselves in.” There are a lot of options when it comes to what customers want. t’s my go to breakfast item, ardakostas said. Breakfast burrito options include eggs, bacon, sausage and chori o. George’s father, Angelo Vardakostas, started the restaurant and is the namesake. This restaurant is affordable and provides high-quality food.

34344 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.4460, asburgersrestaurant.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

LUPE'S MEXICAN EATERY

Their breakfast burrito is a classic, said director of operations Guillermo barra. he spot is a popular place for surfers to chow down in the morning after getting out the water, as well as for locals.

33621 Del bispo Street, Suite , 949.558.5430, eatlupes.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: A’s Burgers; Silver: Lupe's Mexican Eatery

12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards // 9

Best SANDWICH GOLDEN LANTERN

TUTOR & SPUNKY’S DELI

Originally founded by Tom Blake in 1988, Tutor & Spunky’s has been serving a classic menu of signature sandwiches for decades. Samantha Nguyen and Elena Sik have taken over ownership since 2019 and have preserved customers’ favorites while adding some special Vietnamese dishes to the menu, including Bánh mì sandwiches, pho and ietnamese coffee. Staff prides themselves on providing well-portioned, hearty sandwiches. Popular sandwich picks include Tutor’s Special, which comes with ham, capicola, salami and prosciutto.

34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 116, 949.248.9008, tutorandspun ys.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

THE COFFEE IMPORTERS

he offee mporters serves a wide variety of fresh-made sandwiches, from their most popular turkey panini and grilled cheese with tomato and avocado, to seasonal sandwiches such as the Thanksgiving Panini and the famous Harbor Sub. 34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, co eeimporters.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Tutor & Spunky’s Deli; Silver: Subway

Best BRUNCH

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

CRAFT HOUSE

Craft House opened in 2016, aiming to put an emphasis on local ingredients and sustainable seafood. Chef Blake Mellgren’s Sunday brunch menu offers traditional breakfast items such as avocado toast, French toast and bottomless mimosas, as well as a Brunch Burger topped with white cheddar and a fried egg.

34094 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.481.7734, eatatcrafthouse.com

2018 WINNER: Gold: Craft House; Silver: The Harbor Grill

Best MENU FOR

HEALTHY CHOICES GOLDEN LANTERN

VIBE ORGANIC KITCHEN & JUICE

ibe rganic itchen uice’s menu is 100% organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, soyfree and vegan. Signature items include the Macro Bowl, which contains roasted butternut squash, black lentils, steamed kale, sliced avocado, beet hummus, turmeric sauerkraut, tahini drizzle, nori and hemp seeds. he ronman smoothie is a mi ture of cold brew coffee, cacao nibs, almond butter, banana, hemp seeds, Cordyceps, cinnamon and protein. ibe offers a variety of add-ons such as plant-based protein, oil and spirulina. Staff is friendly and more than helpful to guide new customers on what to order.

GOLDEN LANTERN

34255 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.259.5514, eatdrin vibe.com

What beats bottomless champagne and mimosas? For a classic brunch that not only serves traditional breakfast menu items but unique dishes with a seafood spin, pop on over to The Harbor Grill. “We’ve enhanced our brunch menu this year with savory treats like Dungeness Crab-O-Cado Toast, Maine Lobster Benedict and Banana’s Foster Belgium Wa e, says eegan icks, one of the operating partners at The Harbor Grill.

The restaurant serves its “Sunday Champagne Breakfast from a.m. to p.m.

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

THE HARBOR GRILL

34499 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1416, harborgrill.com

Tutor & Spunky’s Deli

THE COFFEE IMPORTERS

Walking in, you’ll immediately hear the sound of blenders and smell the fresh fruit, vegetables and ingredients used for delicious smoothies and uices. Staff is more than willing to accommodate your needs if you have dietary restrictions, says owner im iller.

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, co eeimporters.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Jack’s Restaurant; Silver The Coffee Importers

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distinctive and simply scrumptious, says owner im iller. ust beside the Scoop Deck ce ream shop sits he spresso Bar, where im and his staff serve e uisite pastries, cookies and specialty dessert bars that are sure to satisfy the sweet tooth of children and adults alike.

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, co eeimporters.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE CAKE

t’s All About the ake speciali es in detailed, beautiful, custom cakes, but also offers goodies including cupcakes, rench macarons, cookies and other mini des serts. his bakery has been family owned and operated for years.

24921 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Suite 100, 949.240.7100, itsallabouttheca e.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: It’s All About the Cake; Silver: Scoop Dec at The Coffee Importers

Best SALSA GOLDEN LANTERN

LUPE’S MEXICAN EATERY

A’s Burgers

Best BURGER GOLDEN LANTERN

A’S BURGERS

A’s Burgers shreds their own lettuce and uses other fresh ingredients for their burg ers, owner George ardakostas said. t’s a good si ed burger, he said. We toast our buns. Burgers also come with pickles, mayonnaise, onions and tomatoes. hey have options when it comes to cheese and bacon, as well. ustomers can e pect to eat mouth watering dishes without break ing the bank. A s Burgers was founded in the early s and is family owned and operated. ther menu options include fries, onion rings and burritos.

34344 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.4460, asburgersrestaurant.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

THE SHWACK BEACH GRILL

24502 Del Prado Avenue, 949.218.2731, theshwac .com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Shwack Beach Grill; A’s Burgers

Best SPOT TO CURE

OPTIONS

A SWEET TOOTH

GOLDEN LANTERN

GOLDEN LANTERN

VIBE ORGANIC KITCHEN & JUICE

very item on the ibe rganic itchen uice menu is vegan, soy free and delicious.

With the right avoring, seasoning and te ture, ibe staff e pertly uses plant based ingredients to mimic traditional meat dishes. he iesta Bowl contains chipotle black beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, crispy pumpkin seeds, cashew lime crema and ackfruit carnitas. Add ons include mushroom chori o, chickpea frittata, vegan burger patty, and e tra avocado. he signature Buddha Burger has a patty made in house that uses black beans, mush rooms and cashews, avored with sriracha almond butter.

SCOOP DECK AT THE COFFEE IMPORTERS

he offee mporters serves appert’s ce ream, which is a premium, handmade ice cream that originated in awaii. hey serve more than avors of ice cream that range from auai Pie to awaii Sea Salt aramel. ach avor is crafted to be

33621 Del bispo Street, Suite , 949.558.5430, eatlupes.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

TACO SURF

aco Surf makes their salsa from scratch and chops up the ingredients that go into the salsa, said owner George Blake. ur salsa is so good, Blake said. he restaurant takes pride in using uality products.

34195 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.5754, tacosurf.com

2018 WINNERS: New category

34255 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.259.5514, eatdrin vibe.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

JACK’S RESTAURANT

ack’s estaurant has a menu dedicated to customers eating a raw, vegan and gluten free diet. ustomers love the vegan tacos, which are made with fresh veggies, avor ful seasoning and mango salsa.

24462 Del Prado Avenue, 949.489.1903, jac sdp.com

2018 WINNERS: New category

Scoop Deck

he Shwack Beach Grill has high uality food, general manager Shana oran said. he avor is consistent. We’re uick, we’re fast, and we’re easy without sacri cing uality. he signature burger has its own signature sauce.

Best MENU FOR VEGAN

All of the salsa at upe’s is made in house daily. hey have a chunky salsa and fresh guacamole, said director of operations Guillermo barra. We take a lot of pride in what we do, he said. he beans are also fresh. he overall vibe in the restaurant is one people like. t’s very casual and very warm, barra said. We try to take an au thentic stand on the food. he restaurant is one that’s accessible to everyone and a source of en oyment for people in Dana Point.

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Best TACO

catches from local waters and West oast sheries, including salmon, sword sh, tuna, Alaskan cod and halibut. Seafood is their passion, freshness is their mission, and quality is their commitment. The market has been family owned and operated since 1980.

GOLDEN LANTERN

LUPE’S MEXICAN EATERY

upe’s has a diverse variety of tacos, including octopus and beer battered sh. ortillas are made in house, and the beans are always fresh. Guillermo barra, director of operations, said people en oy the casual and warm vibe in the restaurant. Salsas are also made in house on a daily basis, drawing in locals, surfers, and Dana Point visitors. A popular, customer favorite is the aco Sonora, which has steak, cactus, beans, cheese, guacamole and pico de gallo served on a our tortilla.

33621 Del bispo Street, 949.558.5430, eatlupes.com

34665 Golden Lantern, 949.496.2807, jonsfishmar etdanapoint.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Harbor Grill; Silver: Coastal Kitchen

Best POKE PLACE GOLDEN LANTERN

KAMEA POKE

Lupe’s Mexican Eatery

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

TACO SURF

wner George Blake says the most popular taco is with grilled shrimp. hey also have veggie tacos, soft tacos and hard shell tacos. acos can be made with lettuce, cheese, and other ingredients.

34195 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.5754, tacosurf.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Lupe’s Mexican Eatery; Silver: Taco Surf

Best PIZZA GOLDEN LANTERN

BEACH HARBOR PIZZA

At Beach arbor Pi a, the ingredients are made fresh to give pi a lovers in Dana Point the most satisfying e perience for their taste buds. he dough is made in house, where the cheese is also grated and the vegetables are cut. And for those who want some meat on their pi as, the shop uses Boar’s ead premium deli meats. Be sure to try the most popular options such as the Beach arbor Special ombination pie, as well as he hailand and he awaiian.

is admired in the Dana Point community for offering the best service to customers for more than years. ry the umbo crunchy roll, sashimi mi , baked crab hand rolls or something off the lunch menu. ustomers have described the portions as generous and have said it’s the freshest, best sushi in town. Dinner options and miso soup are also available to cater to all tastes.

34143 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.240.2004, sushiorangecounty.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

DANA KAI

Want to try Blue n tuna sushi, vegan rolls and edamame ry Dana ai. hey have online ordering. Appeti ers include oyster dishes, and they also feature various salads, as well as tempura stuffed chili and udon noodles.

24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.489.8168, dana aisushi.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Gen Kai Sushi; Silver: Mahé

Best SEAFOOD GOLDEN LANTERN

THE HARBOR GRILL

eegan icks, an operating partner for he arbor Grill, says, A wide variety of the sea’s fresh bounty is consistently prepared on our mes uite grill with our homemade sauces from cuisines around the world.”

Nestled in the Dana Point arbor near the waterfront, he arbor Grill offers the freshest dishes, including sword sh marinated apanese style, as well as seafood gumbo and blackened sea bass. icks also gives props to the restaurant’s longtime sh suppliers and knowledgeable, e perienced staff in the kitchen and front of the house.

34499 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1416, harborgrill.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

JON’S FISH MARKET

on’s ish arket serves only the freshest

34473 Golden Lantern, 949.218.1920, beachharborpi a.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

STUFT PIZZA

Stuft Pi a is known for its crust, which features fresh and uni ue ingredients. When combined with a plethora of toppings, the whole pie sets up a avorful e perience as you take each delectable bite.

24821 Del Prado Avenue, 949.240.6444, stuftpi adp.com

Best SUSHI GOLDEN LANTERN

GEN KAI SUSHI

Simple, fresh, traditional apanese cuisine is how Gen ai describes itself. onsistency is key for Gen ai Sushi, which

Beach Harbor Pizza

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Brio Tuscany Grille; Silver: Beach Harbor Pizza

Sancho’s Tacos

amea Poke is held in high regard by customers—locals and tourists—for the hearty portions, reasonable prices, tasty sauces and friendly staff. People also like the location near the public beach access off Paci c oast ighway some even take their meals with them to the beach to en oy in between sur ng and getting sun. amea Poke has a mi of greens and other ingredients to ensure a healthy and appeti ing meal.

34320 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.443.5226, amea po e.business.site

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

KAWAMATA SEAFOOD

his repeat winner is a co y local favorite for lunch. ustomers rave about the fresh sh, tasty sauces and cheerful service.

Prices are reasonable, so chow down with peace of mind.

26881 Camino de Estrella, 949.248.1914, awamata seafood.business.site

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Kamea Poke; Silver: Kawamata Seafood

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Best RESTAURANT FOR

Best SPOT FOR

A DATE/ROMANTIC EVENING

TAKE-OUT GOLDEN LANTERN

THE LITTLE KITCHEN ASIAN CAFE

GOLDEN LANTERN

LUCIANA'S RISTORANTE

24312 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.6500, lucianas.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

BRIO TUSCANY GRILLE

f you’re looking to impress your signi cant other with a specially planned dinner date, Brio Tuscany Grille is just the spot. With romantic mood lighting, live music, welcoming staff and authentic talian cuisine, you’re sure to make a memorable impression.

24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, briorestaurant.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Luciana’s Ristorante; Silver: Craft House

hand-cut French fries are seasoned to perfection.

GOLDEN LANTERN

34094 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.481.7734, eatatcrafthouse.com

24831 Del Prado Avenue, 949.276.7799, thelittlekitchenasiancafe.com

For those willing to share, Craft House has beautifully arranged appetizers that are almost too intricate to eat. All dishes demonstrate pristine and detailed presentation, and the appetizers are no exception. or rich, creamy avor, the mac and cheese can’t be beat. Spicy tuna crispy rice and fancy toast are some of the best sellers at Craft House. There are also the “Thai-style” chicken wings that come with either honey, vinegar, sesame or cucumber kimchi avor.

For the traditional palate, Craft House’s

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

The Harbor Grill has a variety of great sharable dishes. Check out the newly added Baker Dozen Duo of freshly shucked oysters and chilled prawns. Appetizers also include shrimp tempura, smoked halibut and steamed Littleneck Oysters.

The lunch menu has a variety of pizza options, while dinner offers options such as let mignon and vitello marsala veal scaloppini, mushrooms and marsala sauce.

Craft House

Wanting to take your special someone abroad for a romantic getaway? Luciana's Ristorante is the next-best experience. The family restaurant opened in 1983, in a structure built in the 1930s, and its classic Italian menu soon proved popular among local culinary enthusiasts and tourists in search of excellent cuisine. Word of mouth was so positive, in fact, that the restaurant was soon catering to numerous world gures and Hollywood celebrities. Owner Jorge Luhan II says that once you enter Luciana’s, you’re transported to a rustic Tuscan inn.

Manager Rebecca Ling describes the food as good and said customers always enjoy stopping in. “Our food is very fresh and very fast,” Ling said. “We have experienced cooks here.” Popular dishes include the orange chicken and Hong Kong black pepper steak. You can also order pork dishes, seafood and tofu vegetable soup. Appetizers include egg rolls, green beans, lettuce wraps and shrimp. Prices are reasonable.

Soups are made daily, and the restaurant believes in healthy eating. Ingredients are farm-fresh and locally sourced, according to the website.

Best APPETIZERS

CRAFT HOUSE

THE HARBOR GRILL

STELLA’S SERIOUS ITALIAN

34499 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1416, harborgrill.com

17 Monarch Bay Plaza, 949.234.1679, stellasitalian.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Craft House; Silver: Coastal Kitchen

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Little Kitchen Asian Café; Silver: Lupe’s Mexican Eatery

12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards // 15

Best INTERNATIONAL

EATS GOLDEN LANTERN

THAI THIS

Thai This had been a favorite spot for Dana Point locals for nearly 25 years before closure at the end of 2015—but now they’re back! Thai This reopened with a new location in the summer of off Paci c oast Highway. Owners Jib Roungchun and Noi Tanomkret, a husband-and-wife team, say they’re thrilled to be back, because Dana Point feels like home. Thai This specializes in delicious, avorful curry dishes. here are vegetarian and gluten-free options, too.

34119 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite A, 949.240.7944, thaithis.com

omelets and wa es. hey also offer mud pies and chocolate brownies on the dessert menu.

34699 Golden Lantern, 949.496.6500, windandsearestaurants.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

WATERMAN’S HARBOR

Waterman’s Harbor is an ideal spot to watch boats go by, grab weekend brunch or en oy their happy hour. he menu offers oysters, salads and burgers, and customers can enjoy a beautiful waterfront view.

34661 Golden Lantern, 949.764.3474, watermandp.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Wind & Sea Restaurant; Silver: Waterman’s Harbor

Best FAMILY

RESTAURANT

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

BRIO TUSCANY GRILLE

Born and raised in Napoli, Italy, Enzo Scognamiglio grew up in a large family. When he opened Brio Tuscany Grille in 1993, his goal was to bring contemporary Italian cuisine to range ounty in a welcoming setting, so customers could feel like family, too.

24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, briorestaurant.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Little Kitchen Asian Café; Silver: Luciana's Ristorante

Best RESTAURANT FOR

OUTDOOR DINING GOLDEN LANTERN

WIND & SEA RESTAURANT

If you want to relax and watch the sun go down over the water while enjoying a good meal, this repeat winner is the place to do it. With an ideal location at Dana Point Harbor, this popular spot provides delicious eats and a prime location to enjoy all the harbor has to offer. Wind Sea opened in the 1970s and is known for serving up fresh seafood. Try the mahi mahi, martinis, and Sunday breakfast buffet, which includes

GOLDEN LANTERN

RJ'S CAFÉ

’s af has indoor and outdoor seating space that can accommodate large parties, families and gatherings. RJ’s breakfast and lunch menu is affordable and well portioned, so you don’t have to break the bank to treat your family to a restaurant meal. After building long-term connections with his customers, RJ Breeden says one of the most rewarding aspects of leading the restaurant is seeing the next generation of customers come in with their own children.

This diner-style setting maintains an atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.218.5757, rjscafe.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

BRIO TUSCANY GRILLE

he staff at Brio uscany Grille aim to make all customers feel part of the Brio family.

“We feel very honored and humbled by our guests,” said Enzo Scognamiglio. Brio is an ideal spot for large parties, events and family meals.

24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, briorestaurant.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: RJ’s Café; Silver: Coastal Kitchen, The Harbor Grill

Thai This

16 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Best OVERALL

Best HAPPY HOUR

RESTAURANT

GOLDEN LANTERN

BRIO TUSCANY GRILLE

GOLDEN LANTERN

THE HARBOR GRILL

wner n o Scognamiglio says that the ma ority of his regular customers for happy hour are locals. reating long term relationships with our customers is ob No. , Scognamiglio said. We are especially humbled that our guests choose Brio. We have emphasized to our team the importance of reaching out and making all of our customers become part of the Brio family.

Scognamiglio says his positive relationship with customers helps him get feedback on menu items.

Since 1984, proprietors John, Wanda and Keegan Hicks have welcomed guests and taken special pride in the sincere, friendly attitude of the staff and uality of the food. he arbor Grill offers a delicious daily array of fresh seafood cooked in a variety of inventive styles, including Southwestern, Paci c im, aribbean, a un and editerranean. onsistent delivery of authentic hospitality and fresh seafood is what we've prided ourselves on for 35 years,” said eegan icks. ustomers are sure to feel like regulars upon their rst visit.

24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, briorestaurant.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

34499 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1416, harborgrill.com

HARPOON HENRY’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

BRIO TUSCANY GRILLE

arpoon enry’s Seafood estaurant has its happy hour onday through riday from p.m., offering different specials each day of the week. ake advantage of the deals on calamari strips and coconut shrimp, as well as discounted beer, margaritas, wine and well drinks.

Brio Tuscany Grille brings authentic Italian cuisine to Dana Point. We take pride in cooking with the best local ingredients,” says owner n o Scognamiglio. ur Pollo attone hicken cooked under a brick in the pi a oven is de nitely a winner, along with our cioppino seafood stew.

34555 Golden Lantern, 949.493.2933, harpoonhenrys.com

24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, briorestaurant.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Harbor Grill; Silver: Brio Tuscany Grille

The Harbor Grill

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Brio Tuscany Grille; Silver: Wind & Sea Restaurant

12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards // 17

brews on the menu are diverse and plentiful.

24040 Camino Del Avion, 949.424.2313

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Craft House; Silver: StillWater Spirits & Sounds

Best MARGARITA

Best WINE SELECTION

GOLDEN LANTERN

GOLDEN LANTERN

Craft House

CRAFT HOUSE

Best BEER SELECTION GOLDEN LANTERN

CRAFT HOUSE

Chef and owner Blake Mellgren says the business is celebrating four years since its opening, and he and his staff are focused on maintaining the quality of his top-notch cuisine. Craft House’s menu focuses on using local ingredients, and the beer menu is no exception. The restaurant exclusively features California-brewed beer and drafts

from Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego. Craft House keeps a consistent rotation of draft beers to allow for new wheat, red amber ale, blonde ale, pale ale and IPA beers.

34094 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.481.7734, eatatcrafthouse.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

PROJECT SOCIAL

Project Social isn’t just the neighborhood watering hole for draft beer, it's a hub for friends and family to deeply engage with one another. With dozens of rotating taps, the

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Coastal Kitchen; Silver: Luciana’s Ristorante

Blake Mellgren, chef and owner of Craft House, says the wine menu puts an emphasis on local. We e clusively offer alifornia wines,” Mellgren said. “We have wines from Sonoma, Napa, Santa Barbara. We try to highlight the best growing regions of California. What we nd is the best representation of those areas.” Of those listed, there is sure to be a pour that complements each Craft House dish. Every week, Craft House hosts Wine Wednesdays, when all bottles are off and glasses are off.

34094 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.481.7734, eatatcrafthouse.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

LUCIANA'S RISTORANTE

Luciana’s Ristorante has cultivated a diverse wine list with bottles from Italy as well as California. Wine is specially selected to complement the dishes on the menu. The Wine Room is reminiscent of a Tuscan wine cellar.

24312 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.6500, lucianas.com

EL TORITO MEXICAN RESTAURANT

The margaritas are made from scratch, so stop by El Torito and enjoy a fresh one— maybe a spicy mango cucumber margarita.

Although renowned for their margaritas, El Torito is a family-friendly restaurant with a nice and quiet atmosphere. Their signature margarita is available during happy hour, but be sure to try out the cilantro cucumber skinny margarita or the black diamond margarita. The regular menu includes plenty of good food to enjoy with a cocktail, including autas for appeti ers and numerous options for tacos and burritos.

34521 Golden Lantern, 949.496.6311, eltorito.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

TACO SURF

Taco Surf has a house margarita, which staff makes by hand in batches, as well as the popular skinny margarita. Owner George Blake said their margaritas are dened by consistency and authenticity. Pair it with tacos for the full experience.

34195 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.5754, tacosurf.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: El Torito Mexican Restaurant; Silver: The Harbor Grill

18 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Mary Treadway, Brio Tuscany Grille

Best BARTENDER GOLDEN LANTERN

MARY TREADWAY/ BRIO TUSCANY GRILLE

Mary Treadway has decades of experience in bartending behind her, and she considers herself lucky. “Not everyone can say they truly love what they do, especially after doing it for as long as I have,” Treadway says. “I love my job. I’m surrounded by great people.” Not only can Treadway make a perfectly crafted designer cocktail, she also knows customers by name and has been able to cultivate authentic connections with regulars to make them feel part of the Brio family.

24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, briorestaurant.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

GARTH DOKKEN/CRAFT HOUSE

For folks craving a designer cocktail tailored to their taste, or for those hankering for a draft pint or glass of wine, bartender Garth Dokken can guide you in picking a tasty beverage at Craft House.

34094 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.481.7734, eatatcrafthouse.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Matt Barret/Brio Tuscany Grille; Silver: Markus Kreuger/Luciana’s Ristorante

Best BAR GOLDEN LANTERN

TURK’S RESTAURANT

Turk’s Restaurant is a Dana Point Harbor staple. Its coziness, the collector’s items and nostalgic photographs decorating its walls are all part of the Turk’s charm that keeps longtime customers coming back. his waterfront hangout features affordable, fresh and avorful seafood, burgers, beer and classic cocktails. Menu favorites include sh and chips, clam chowder, a Bloody Mary cocktail or a salty dog. Enjoy

a drink with a beautiful view of the marina.

The menu has items for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the restaurant is open for most holidays.

34683 Golden Lantern, 949.496.9028

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

BRIO TUSCANY GRILLE

“We take pride in our friendly bar service.

Everyone knows your name when you come in,” said Enzo Scognamiglio, owner of Brio Tuscany Grille. “Guests call us the ‘Cheers’ of Dana Point.”

24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, briorestaurant.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Turk’s Restaurant; Silver: Brio Tuscany Grille

Best SPORTS BAR GOLDEN LANTERN

STILLWATER SPIRITS & SOUNDS

StillWater Spirits & Sounds is the ideal spot to enjoy delicious food, live music, unique libations and watch the big game. "I want to create an unpretentious environment that serves food and cocktails that simply taste great,” Damian Collins, a managing partner, said. “We want to be a place where people come after work, to celebrate special occasions or simply just hang out with friends." StillWater has several big screen TVs, two projectors and drink and food specials t for watching sports.

24701 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.6003, danapointstillwater.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

HENNESSEY’S TAVERN

If you’re looking for a cozy indoor experience or prefer an open patio and outside bar, ennessey’s avern offers both options for sports spectators. Multiple TV screens are located throughout the pub to allow customers to enjoy either setting.

34111 La Pla a, 949.488.0121, hennesseystavern.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Point Restaurant & Bar; Silver: Hennessey’s Tavern

12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards // 19

At the

SHOPS

Best STORE TO BUY

GIFTS FOR ADULTS GOLDEN LANTERN

SEA & SKY

The beach-chic boutique run by sisters Laura Lee, Lisa Hatch and Buzzy Karnazes has tried to cultivate special relationships through the products offered in their home décor shop. Sea & Sky offers select products from companies that give back to some charitable effort through purchases of those products, including candles that help fund surfing classes for foster children. atch said the shop tries to make a difference through its vendors. Sea Sky offers decorative pieces and ewelry from local artisans as well.

24625 Del Prado Avenue, 949.276.7833, seaskyhome.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

BELLA BAZAAR

rom its selection of ewelry, clothing, home décor and more, Bella Bazaar provides a wide selection of items to ll the gift bag of anyone you know. Bella Ba aar offers plenty of coastal inspired items.

34467 Golden Lantern, 949.429.6200, bellabazaar.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Hobie Surf Shop; Silver: Bella Bazaar

Best STORE TO

BUY GIFTS FOR KIDS GOLDEN LANTERN

THE WEE LOFT

For 30 years in the Dana Point community, the Wee oft has provided an incredible variety of toys and games for children of all ages to en oy. he Wee oft has tapped into that community and the needs and desires of kids. t offers everything from G s to plushes to traditional wooden toys to developmental toys to arts and crafts, and much more. Looking to complete a party of birthday gifts he Wee oft offers a birthday basket to ll.

32585 Golden Lantern, Suite K, 949.489.9202, theweeloft.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

BELLA BAZAAR

he selection of products at Bella Bazaar is extensive and even extends to kids’ beachwear. Bella Ba aar offers children’s bathing suits, rompers and dresses for baby’s day at the harbor’s Baby Beach.

34467 Golden Lantern, 949.429.6200, bellabazaar.com

Sea & Sky

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Wee Loft; Silver: Ocean Institute/Laurena G. Chambers Gallery Book and Gift Store

Golden Galleon Boutique

20 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Best JEWELRY GOLDEN LANTERN

MARINELLI FINE JEWELRY

sure to assist you in nding the perfect purchase. Its premium location in Dana Point Harbor allows for beautiful waterfront views during your shopping experience.

34677 Golden Lantern, 949.493.8521

The calling card for Marinelli Fine Jewelry that sets it apart from the rest is its specialization in custom jewelry. For two decades in Dana Point, owner and jeweler Marty Lungo has provided the highest quality services tailored to each customer’s needs.

Marinelli Fine Jewelry has made-to-order options in wedding bands, engagement rings, bracelets, earrings, pendants, bangles and necklaces, among many choices, with a selection of stones and metals. In addition to the custom items, Marinelli Fine ewelry offers repair service for your most treasured items.

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

32932 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 12, 949.443.4030, marinellifine.jewelry

Best HOME DÉCOR

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

AND FURNISHINGS

BELLA BAZAAR

The jewelry options at Bella Bazaar go right along with the coastal vibe of the boutique. t offers artisanal ewelry with natural stones of the beach communities, along with silver pieces.

34467 Golden Lantern, 949.429.6200, bellaba aar.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Swiss Connection; Silver: Bella Bazaar

Best CLOTHING GOLDEN LANTERN

GOLDEN GALLEON BOUTIQUE

With an award-winning selection of women’s fashions, shoes, jewelry, unique gifts, and accessories at Golden Galleon Boutique, it’s no wonder the shop is celebrating 40 years of business. Golden Galleon Bouti ue offers a variety of fashion pieces suitable for multiple generations of women. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or treating yourself to a new wardrobe, associates at Golden Galleon are

HOBIE SURF SHOP

Hobie Surf Shop curates the hottest trends for the bohemian, surf-chic fashionista. his retail spot offers Southern alifornia style clothing for both men and women, whether it’s name-brand items, swimwear, loungewear or fashion forward out ts.

34174 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.2366, hobiesurfshop.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Hobie Surf Shop; Silver: Golden Galleon Boutique

GOLDEN LANTERN

SEA & SKY

Sea Sky offers a wide variety of locally and globally sourced items to give personality and style to your home. The beachchic boutique operated by the sister trio of Laura Lee, Lisa Hatch and Buzzy Karnazes has created a connection with its customers in that they come to them to add to the store. Sea Sky offers many consignment pieces, as well as pieces from local artists.

The shop also has pieces from Africa and entral America that help give back to those areas.

24625 Del Prado Avenue, 949.276.7833, seas yhome.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

BELLA BAZAAR

Want to keep your home in tune with the vibes of our coast? Look no further than Bella Bazaar. With fabric by the yard, pillows, throws, pottery and custom pieces, Bella Bazaar can complete your home.

34467 Golden Lantern, 949.429.6200, bellaba aar.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Sea & Sky; Silver: Bella Bazaar

12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards // 21

Best PLACE TO BUY

Best SECONDHAND/

FLOWERS

THRIFT STORE

GOLDEN LANTERN

GOLDEN LANTERN

Browne’s Flowers is family-operated and has been providing oral arrangements to the community of Dana Point since 1988. If you have a vision for your special event or celebration, Browne’s Flowers is committed to making that dream a reality. Staff is committed to providing prompt, friendly service and the nest oral arrangements.

Browne’s specializes in large-inventory orders, tropical plants, European gardens, arrangements for weddings and funerals, gourmet and fruit baskets, silk and dried oral arrangements, as well as contemporary and traditional arrangements.

2nd Hand Treasures sells home décor, accessories, jewelry, chandeliers, rugs and more. The store ensures customer loyalty by keeping a wish list of what clients are looking for. They specialize in high-quality vintage pieces at affordable prices. nd Hand Treasures looks for unique treasures people will cherish. The atmosphere is fun, with coffee and candy offered to customers, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff is always ready to help locals and tourists who walk in.

BROWNE’S FLOWERS

2ND HAND TREASURES

34272 Doheny Park Road, 949.218.7962, 2ndhandtreasures.com

31456 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.4748, brownes owers.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

DOHENY CLOTHING EXCHANGE

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

With good prices, vintage styles, and recycling tied in, Doheny Clothing Exchange has an eclectic mix of customers. The store features styles suitable for teenagers, senior customers and all ages in between.

“We cater to every age group,” owner Pamela Vandergrift said.

GELSON’S MARKET

Gelson’s orists’ attention to detail is sure to provide uality oral arrangements for all occasions. The store website makes it convenient for customers to place orders online for pick-up or delivery. You can input your price range to ensure you stay within budget.

34276 Doheny Park Road, 949.240.4800

24 onarch ay Pla a, 949.488.8147, gelsons.com

2018 WINNERS: New category 2018 WINNERS: Gold: Browne’s Flowers; Silver: Gelson’s Market

Browne’s Flowers

22 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Best HOME

Best LOCAL

IMPROVEMENT STORE

GROCER

GOLDEN LANTERN

GOLDEN LANTERN

This family-owned business started in the s and has a staff ready to help you and answer all your questions. Customers say it’s the best place to shop for all the things you need and rave about the e cellent service. his shop has everything you’d e pect for a small, neighborhood hardware store. t’s conveniently located, and staff gives great advice in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

alphs continues to be a staple within the community. With two locations in Dana Point, alphs makes it easy and convenient to get your grocery shopping checked off the to do list. alphs also offers same day pickup, delivery and free shipping. he grocer makes couponing easy as well with digital coupons. ustomers are sure to get everything they need from their bakery, deli, grocery, seafood and meat, pharmacy, dairy and li uor departments.

24422 Del Prado Avenue, Suite 5, 949.496.4158

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

GANAHL LUMBER

Whether you’re a professional working with lumber or just an enthusiast, Ganahl Lumber has a variety of products for your pro ects.

Ganahl umber products can help with paneling, plumbing, and outdoor pro ects.

34162 Doheny Park Road, 949.496.5765, ganahllumber.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Hardware; Silver: 2nd Hand Treasures

Best SURF/SUP SHOP GOLDEN LANTERN

HOBIE SURF SHOP

Hobie Alter, the inventor of the Hobie Cata-

RALPHS

Hobie Surf Shop

DANA POINT HARDWARE

24871 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.4145; 32555 Golden Lantern, 949.661.6334, ralphs.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

GELSON’S MARKET

maran in Dana Point, founded obie Surfboards in . Since then, the company has transformed into an iconic community staple. oday, the obie Surf Shop offers a variety of boards that can be tailored to your e perience level, si e and preference.

Boards are shaped by in house shaper Gary arson. Not only does the shop have varieties of shortboards to longboards up to feet, it also offers surf and swim accessories so customers can stock up.

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

34174 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.2366, hobiesurfshop.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Hobie Surf Shop; Silver: Killer Dana Surf Shop

KILLER DANA SURF SHOP

iller Dana Surf Shop is a locally owned and operated surf shop that sells uality boards, wetsuits and gear for men, women and children of all skill levels. Staff is friendly and welcoming of locals and tourists alike.

24621 Del Prado Avenue, 949.489.8380, killerdana.com

Gelson’s arket staff members say they go above and beyond to build relationships with their customers when they walk through the door. or high uality products and pristine customer service, look no further than Gelson’s arket.

24 Pointe Monarch Drive, 949.488.8174, gelsons.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Gelson’s Market; Silver: Ralphs

12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards // 23

Best BICYCLE SHOP GOLDEN LANTERN

CYCLEOGICAL

Cycleogical brings a high level of customer service and a great selection of bikes, gear, parts, and accessories, said store co-owner Bill Mol. Conveniently located next to La Plaza Park, the cozy store serves everyone from 12-year-olds buying helmets to experienced cyclists getting new tires. “It’s just the freedom of being on a bicycle,” Mol said of their appeal. “It’s timeless to be able to get on a bike and have that feeling and adrenaline.” The mom-and-pop shop has been in business for eight years.

34102 La Plaza, Suite A, 949.542.4777, cycleogicalbikes.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

34193 Golden Lantern, 949.351.8344

Cycleogical

EZ GREEN BIKES

EZ Green Bikes has a variety of bikes, the latest in biking tech, and is all about promoting cycling in the area. It opened in the late 2000s as gas prices increased.

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Cycleogical; Silver: Pedego Electric Bikes

Best TACKLE SHOP GOLDEN LANTERN

HOGAN’S BAIT & TACKLE

Hogan’s Bait & Tackle is a full-service tackle shop, specializing in customer service and offering a large selection of saltwater and freshwater tackle. The shop provides line spooling, custom rods and rod repairs.

The business was founded by the Hogan family, with three generations of shing experience behind them before taking over the tackle and bait shop previously at their location. Any gear relevant to Southern alifornia shing can be found here.

34320 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite G, 949.493.3528

Sierra Wild. “That’s something we really pride ourselves on.” The Wild family, which owns and manages the store, has put in a tremendous amount of care and attention into the business and has been dedicated to the satisfaction of their customers.

32880 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 30, 949.488.0025, wildsanimalsupplies.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

REPTILES REPTROPOLIS

Reptiles Reptropolis stands out as a unique shop where you’re not just sold an ordinary pet, you’re given knowledgeable expertise by the owners that’s needed to care for your new reptilian pal. Supplies are also available.

34215 Doheny Par Road, 949.492.6598, reptilesreptropolis.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Wild's Animal Supplies; Silver: Feed Barn

Best TATTOO SHOP GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA POINT TATTOO

Dana Point Tattoo’s exceptional body of work can easily be seen through its awardwinning team of professional artists. “I have never worked with such a strong team in all my years tattooing,” says owner Justin Hobson. “If you’re looking for a tattoo shop that is professional and clean, you have found the right shop.” For about the last ve years, obson adds, the team at the shop has always made sure to take care

of locals in Dana Point, while providing all customers with a pleasant experience.

34144 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.303.3410, danapointtattoo.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

THE BLACK LANTERN

Located in Dana Point’s Lantern District, overlooking the Dana Point arbor and off Paci c oast ighway, he Black antern houses world-renowned artists who are known for their exceptional and awardwinning artwork.

24302 Del Prado Avenue, Suite A, 949.429.7433, theblac lanternoc.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: True at Heart; Silver: Dana Point Tattoo

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING & WHALE WATCHING

Dana Wharf Sport shing Whale Watching has organi ed shing trips year round since 1971, and it provides tackle in the shop. Fishermen (and women) are able to purchase their shing licenses and all of their shing gear at Dana Wharf.

34675 Golden Lantern, 949.496.5794, danawharf.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Hogan’s Bait & Tackle; Silver: Dana har Sport shing hale atching

Best PET STORE

WILD’S ANIMAL SUPPLIES

After being a family-owned pet supply shop in Dana Point for nearly 30 years, Wild’s Animal Supplies knows a thing or two about pets and the products it sells.

“I think a lot of people really appreciate the knowledge we all have,” says manager

Dana Point Tattoo

GOLDEN LANTERN

26 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Services ON THE TO-DO LIST

Killer Beauty

Best OVERALL

CUSTOMER SERVICE GOLDEN LANTERN

THE HARBOR GRILL

he arbor Grill staff prides themselves on consistent delivery of authentic hospitality and service. In addition to serving fresh seafood for 35 years, Keegan Hicks gives credit to his e perienced, knowledgeable and welcoming staff. ere at he arbor Grill, customers are given a ne dining e perience and made to feel right at home, says icks. We have a great team of people in the kitchen and on the dining oor. We’re so grateful to our customers for voting The Harbor Grill for best overall customer service.”

waterproof and oil-resistant glue for lashes, making the service ideal for surfers, yogis, athletes and beyond.

24422 Del Prado Avenue, Unit 8, 949.374.3211, killerbeautyoc.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

F45 TRAINING DANA POINT

is speci cally designed to provide a functional full-body workout while improving energy levels, metabolic rate, strength, and endurance. The team mentality at F45 Training helps members transform their lifestyle physically and mentally.

34255 Pacific Coast Highway, nit 111, 949.326.2221, f45training.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Acne Lab; Silver: Nexus Family Chiropractic

34499 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1416, harborgrill.com

Best MANICURE

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

AND PEDICURE

CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING SAFARI

aptain Dave’s Dolphin Whale Watching Safari is the highest-rated whale watching adventure on TripAdvisor, Yelp and Google. ur mission is not only to connect people to marine wildlife, but to connect people with other people,” said Gisele Anderson, or Mrs. Captain Dave.

24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.488.2828, dolphinsafari.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: What a Dish Café & Catering; Silver: 2nd Hand Treasures

Best NEW BUSINESS GOLDEN LANTERN

KILLER BEAUTY

Killer Beauty changes the world one eyebrow and lash at a time. wner and artist Carissa Collins aspired to open her own work space shortly after esthetics school and went on to train with multiple lash companies. Collins became a trainer herself and tested out as many products as she could so that Killer Beauty could provide the best quality. Killer Beauty uses

GOLDEN LANTERN

POSH NAILS

The nail techs at Posh Nails say that clients go to them because of the top-notch customer service, cleanliness, precision and attention to detail. Manicurists will make sure you feel comfortable and are taken care of, and are more than willing to do designs. The Posh Nails team says if you have a picture of what you want, they can do it for you. The nail salon, celebrating 12 years of business, also offers lash e tensions, brow tints, massages and facials.

24040 Camino Del Avion, Suite 8, 949.496.7674

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

BELLA TERRACE

Bella Terrace provides top-notch nail services including acrylic, white tip, gel manicure and pedicure, hot oil treatments and much more. Clients can enjoy the cool breeze from the ocean view terrace as they rela for pampering.

24857 Del Prado Avenue, 949.248.3366, bellaterrace.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Posh Nails; Silver: Nails by Dianne Tracy

28 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

with a handful of minute options. he Spa is open every day.

25135 Par Lantern, 1.866.526.7772, lagunacli s.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

MASSAGE ENVY

assage nvy provides its customers with total body care in a comfortable setting. assage nvy offers a wide variety of therapeutic massage and spa services, as well as facials designed for a myriad of skin treatments.

32585 Golden Lantern, Suite C, 949.545.0444, massageenvy.com

The District Hair Salon

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Laguna Cliffs Marriott esort Spa; Silver: Miraval Li e in Balance Spa

GOLDEN LANTERN

THE DISTRICT HAIR SALON

Need to nd that new look that’s sure to turn heads or give you the con dence to con uer anything Swing through and make an appointment at he District air Salon. he District provides a variety of services to give you the look you want. uts, colors, curling and even customi ed wedding services are available. here are also permanent makeup services and a skin care specialist to complete and complement your full look. n addition, men’s services are available at he District.

24452 Del Prado Avenue, 949.248.3406, thedistrictsalon.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

DAWNIELLE JONENE SALON

he Dawnielle onene Salon provides a clean, rela ing environment to give the customer piece of mind and a fantastic look. he salon is an ribe e clusive salon that provides a variety of services and treatments.

24691 Del Prado Avenue, Suite 101, 949.240.5171, dawniellejonenesalon.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The District Hair Salon; Silver: Salon Revelation

BEST BARBER SHOP GOLDEN LANTERN

THE KINGS CLUB BARBERSHOP

he oldest working barber shop in Dana Point enters its seventh decade of service. perating since , he ings lub Barbershop continues with tradition to serve up the classic American barber shop e perience. here’s a no nonsense, straightforward approach to the ings lub e perience to keep you clean, aligned and ready to take on anything. he ings lub

GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA POINT ACNE LAB & SKINCARE STUDIO

is in high demand, so appointments are a must. he staff is well trained, professional and personal. ustomers rave about the atmosphere and staff at he ings lub.

skin care and suggested regimen are guaranteed to give you a new glow.

24672 San Juan Avenue, Suite 104, 949.573.4949, danapointacnelab.com

34085 La Plaza, 949.496.4644

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

THE CAPTAIN’S CHAIR

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Acne Lab; Silver: Belant Vi Lash & Brow Studio

he staff at he aptain’s hair can handle any mop that walks through their doors. he aptain’s hair offers a cool and loose beach vibe that sends customers out with a clean cut and a smile.

Best SPA FOR

34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 104, 949.496.1957, thecaptainschairdp.com

LAGUNA CLIFFS MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Captain's Chair; Silver: The Kings Club Barbershop

Best SPECIALTY

BEAUTY SERVICE GOLDEN LANTERN

KILLER BEAUTY

arissa ollins made her vision come true when she founded iller Beauty, a lash e tension and semi permanent makeup salon, in . ust like the uality of her beauty products, ollins has hand selected a team of artists who can ensure clients will have a rela ing e perience, and most importantly, get properly applied lash e tensions. lients have the option of choosing classic, hybrid or volume sets of lash e tensions. Semi permanent makeup services include freckles, beauty marks, lip liner and brow designs.

24422 Del Prado Avenue, Unit 8, 949.374.3211, illerbeautyoc.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

DANA POINT ACNE LAB & SKINCARE STUDIO

Dana Point Acne ab Skincare Studio owner Sharon oconsolo will determine your skin type and condition and tailor treatment to t your needs. er analysis,

MASSAGES GOLDEN LANTERN

he Spa at aguna liffs has the perfect atmosphere for you to sink into rela ation and get the kinks out. rom atop the bluffs overlooking Dana Point arbor, the spa pulls in all your senses with the tremendous scenic views of all that Dana Point offers. he Spa offers a variety of services, with seven massages, ve body treatments and seven facial options. Almost every option is available in or minute service,

The Kings Club Barbershop

Best HAIR SALON

Best SPA FOR FACIALS

ind out how to better take care of the skin you’re in with a skin care analysis. he most popular service at Dana Point Acne ab Skincare Studio is the uropean facial, which includes foot re e ology.

Acne specialist and business owner Sharon oconsolo will perform a skin type analysis on her clients and ad ust treatment appropriately. Skin types are very uni ue to the person, oconsolo said. make sure to tailor my treatment accordingly and provide a suggested skin care regimen for clients to take with them and continue their own skin care routine.

24672 San Juan Avenue, Suite 104, 949.573.4949, danapointacnelab.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA

At this spa, treatments borrow from the ocean to restore balance and nurture the body and feature marine collagen, sea salt, smoothed beach stones and seaweed, among other natural ingredients. acials feature products from renowned skin care lines SPA and Skinceuticals.

1 Rit Carlton Drive, 949.240.2000, rit carlton.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Acne Lab; Silver: Laguna Cliffs Marriott esort Spa

30 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

facial treatments.

24672 San uan Avenue, Suite 104, 949.573.4949, danapointacnelab.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Riviera Laser Studio; Silver: Coast Medical Aesthetics

Best MEDICAL HEALTH

CARE PROVIDER GOLDEN LANTERN

DR. LARRY SNYDER, MD/ PACIFIC CREST MEDICAL GROUP

Dana Point Dental

Providing family medicine care in range ounty since the s, Dr. arry Snyder works with his patients for an individual i ed care system. Dr. Snyder can treat a wide range of patients and is uent in both nglish and Spanish. e focuses on preventative care to fend off illness before it arrives. e is also a board certi ed ad diction specialist. e can treat patients for different addictive issues and provide consultations for gambling, alcohol, substance and cigarette dependency. Dr. Snyder is a liated with aguna Beach’s ission ospital.

34052 La Pla a, Suite 101, 949.496.7881

Best ACUPUNCTURIST GOLDEN LANTERN

PACIFIC ACUPUNCTURE CENTER

Dr. ia Chou, L.Ac, Dr. i e Hsu, L.Ac.

Paci c Acupuncture enter’s family of pa tients entrusts ia hou and ike su to deliver the body, mind and spiritual healing impacts of traditional hinese medicine.

With acupuncture, we are using our own body to heal, hou said. We don’t have to worry about the impacts down the road. t is a noninvasive way to heal. Providing pain management and treatment for fertil ity, addiction, fatigue and stress among other conditions , hou and su gener ate health and harmony by correcting the body’s uantity, uality and movement of i pronounced hi .

tics apart, one word came to the mind of o ce manager elene eyers access.

Dr. Nguyen understands everyone’s plight, she said. mmigrating from ietnam at , Dr. Nguyen made it a pillar of his practice to ensure every patient has e ual access to affordable care. rom their two locations in the antern District and onarch Beach, Dr. Nguyen and his tight knit staff provide an e cellence in care that goes well beyond orthodontia. hey’ve fashioned a community centric culture that embraces family, access to care and education to create Nguyen ing, smile after smile.

24661 Del Prado Avenue, Suite 1, 949.661.5882; 32241 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite 250, 949.363.0033, lagunadanabraces.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

Dr. Garrett ubio and his staff offer the latest advancements in dentistry to deliver comfortable, uality, patient centered care to local families. We are absolutely thrilled to be selected again, he said. t means a great deal to my team and me.

Part of a husband wife team at Ne us am ily hiropractic with his wife, eather, Dr. Daniel imbley provides performance and results based care tailored to bring families more health, happiness and productivity.

DR. GARRETT RUBIO, DDS

24861 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.6255, garrettrubiodds.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Dental; Silver: Dr. Garrett Rubio, DDS

34700 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 308, 949.489.1911, pacificacupuncture.com

Best DENTAL HEALTH

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

CARE PROVIDER

Dr. eannine offord and the staff at iviera aser Studio are leading e perts in global facial restoration. Dr. —as clients affec tionately refer to her—speciali es in safe, minimally invasive techni ues for natural looking, lasting results. Services include llers, laser resurfacing, non surgical facial re uvenation and skin resurfacing. Physi cians on staff have uni ue and e tensive e perience working with all types of skin. he iviera aser Studio team makes sure all who walk through their doors feel like family.

GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA POINT DENTAL

Dr. Lilian Cifarelli, DDS; Dr. Amir Larijani, DDS; Dr. Ashish Vashi, DDS

NGUYEN ORTHODONTICS

or more than years, Dana Point Dental has provided comfort, compassion and uncompromising care to generations of lo cal patients. With a healthy smile being the body’s rst line of defense against disease, the Dana Point Dental team stays at the forefront of dental innovation to enhance smiles and improve a patient’s overall health. Sometimes pinch myself, said Dr. ilian ifarelli. am really thankful that our patients have entrusted us to care for them and their families. We’ll continue working hard to earn their trust year after year.

When asked what sets Nguyen rthodon

34080 Golden Lantern, Suite 201, 949.661.5841, danapointdental.com

32585 Golden Lantern, Suite , 949.558.2556, modernacupuncture.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: aci c Acupuncture Center; Silver: Xu’s Chinese Healing

Best ORTHODONTIST GOLDEN LANTERN Dr. William Nguyen, DDS, MSD

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dr. Anne Luhan, MD/Elite Medizin; Silver: Dr. Shilpa Gaikwad, MD./MemorialCare Health

SERVICE PROVIDER GOLDEN LANTERN

rom the comfort of ero gravity chairs, od ern Acupuncture delivers minute relief and rela ation treatments to help you glow from the inside out. his is the little bit of time in people’s day where they can rela and ust be, said en adviser Nautika artine .

34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 114, 949.356.0556, nexusfamilychiropractic.com

Best AESTHETIC

2018 WINNER: Gold: Dr. William Nguyen, DDS, MSD

MODERN ACUPUNCTURE

DR. DANIEL KIMBLEY/ NEXUS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

RIVIERA LASER STUDIO

34189 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 201, 949.370.3177, rivieralaser.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

SHARON LOCONSOLO/DANA POINT ACNE LAB & SKINCARE STUDIO

Acne specialist Sharon oconsolo says that with her custom acne skin care program, clients can see improved skin within months. he Dana Point Acne Skincare Studio also offers wa ing services and

Dr. Larry Snyder, MD

32 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Best GYM

Best GROUP WORKOUT

GOLDEN LANTERN

GOLDEN LANTERN

Private, personalized training and nutrition. That’s the name of the wellness game at Fitness Together—a repeat Best of Dana Point Golden Lantern winner. At this farfrom-big-box gym, a family of dedicated coaches removes fear and intimidation from workout and nutritional programs to give clients the support and tools needed to achieve their health and tness goals.

“Our coaches work as a team, and the intimate design of our studio allows our clients to thrive and make positive change in their lives,” said owner Kyle Radomski.

The largest yoga community in Orange County, iHeartYoga is for everyone. “Being part of the iHeartYoga community feels like being in the middle of a big group hug,” said Elsa Stuart, who founded the donation-based, iHeartYoga in the Park sweat-and-stretch sessions in 2008. “It gives me peace when I need stillness, energy when I need uplifting and encouragement when I need accountability.” With its 10 a.m., rain-or-shine class at Lantern Bay Park, its studio in the harbor and lineup of paddleboard-yoga events and Mexico retreats, there’s something for everyone in this community.

FITNESS TOGETHER

Best CHIROPRACTOR GOLDEN LANTERN

NEXUS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

Embracing a vitalistic health care approach that acknowledges the body’s natural ability to heal itself, the Nexus Family Chiropractic team strives to achieve its robust vision of adding 1 million years of healthy living to Orange County families.

The Nexus family delivers results-based perinatal and pediatric care, care for entrepreneurs as well as care for whole families, that connects community members to an active, fruitful lifestyle through every phase of life.

34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 114, 949.356.0556, ne usfamilychiropractic.com

Nexus Family Chiropractic

34255 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 107, 949.488.0005, fitnesstogether.com danapoint

IHEARTYOGA

34485 Golden Lantern, 949.363.3152, iheartyoga.org

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

If Mother Nature delivers sizeable swells, you’d better call before paying Dr. Burton Lucich a visit. Chances are, he’s at Salt Creek. Truly embodying the laid-back, Dana Point way of life, Dr. Lucich’s boutique chiropractic care center is there for patients when they need it. Call or walk in.

At Evolve Personalized Fitness, co-owners Megan Czuchra and Scott Newton take an individualized, systematic and sciencebased approach to tness that transforms bodies and lives. No workouts are the same at this antern District gym keeping tness diverse, safe and fun.

CrossFit Dana Point infuses its highintensity WODs (Workout of the Day) with a strong sense of community and sportsmanship that challenge and support local athletes in their pursuit of a better quality of life.

24582 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.1213, evolvefitnessdp.com

34198 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.342.5139, crossfitdanapoint.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Fitness Together; Silver: Evolve Personalized Fitness

2018 WINNERS: Gold: iHeartYoga; Silver (tie): CrossFit Dana Point, Evolve Personalized Fitness

LUCICH CHIROPRACTIC

34189 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 203, 949.240.6422

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dr. Daniel Kimbley/Nexus Family Chiropractic; Silver: Dr. Burton Lucich/Lucich Chiropractic

EVOLVE PERSONALIZED FITNESS

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

CROSSFIT DANA POINT

Studio A Pilates & Yoga

12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards // 33

Best PILATES STUDIO GOLDEN LANTERN

STUDIO A PILATES & YOGA

If you’re in the mood for a specialized and mindful experience, Studio A Pilates & Yoga is the place to go. All the instructors are certi ed and will work with you to achieve whatever goals you have in mind. or beginners, they offer a ump start series that focuses on the methods and form to ensure you’re starting out with a good foundation that will lead into different areas of concentration. he studio also offers full body barre classes and ethod classes that are designed to help with mobility, pain, posture and more.

24849 Del Prado Avenue, 949.218.0233, studioapilates.yoga

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

STUDIO A PILATES & YOGA

Studio A Pilates oga offers a wide range of yoga classes to t your needs. here’s something for everyone—from yoga foundations that explore common posture and step by step dynamic poses to prenatal yoga for e pectant mothers to stay active and relieve physical discomfort.

24849 Del Prado Avenue, 949.218.0233, studioapilates.yoga

2018 WINNERS: Gold: iHeartYoga; Silver: Studio A Pilates & Yoga

Best VETERINARIAN GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA NIGUEL VETERINARY HOSPITAL

CLUB PILATES

Dr. Deborah Adams, DVM.; Dr. Elizabeth Edmunson, DVM; Dr. Gary Johnson, DVM; Dr. Jill Granite, DVM; Dr. Julie Ryan Johnson, DVM

2015 Birch Road, Suite 1204, 949.392.2572, clubpilates.com

Best YOGA STUDIO

Dana Niguel eterinary ospital is a full service animal hospital offering a wide range of services such as abnormal pet behavior, nutrition, microchipping, preventative care and much more. he staff tailor their care and services to match the needs of your pet. our pet will be in the best care with this team of highly trained and skilled veterinarians. he staff members also run a blog on their website that is full of tips and information to keep your pets safe and healthy.

GOLDEN LANTERN

34249 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.6375, dananiguelvet.com

At lub Pilates, the instructors use a modern approach to classical methods of Pilates. he certi ed instructors help create workouts for your needs and guide you through the equipment for a safe and effective workout.

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Studio A Pilates & Yoga; Silver: PCH Pilates & Yoga

IHEARTYOGA

i eart oga is not the average yoga studio, but a yoga community full of possibilities.

The teachers and community leaders are driven to provide and promote health and wellness. ocated in the Dana Point arbor, i eart oga offers a wide variety of classes including barre, sculpting, hot yoga and more. f you’re in need of a getaway, you can oin their monthly wellness retreats to e ico for yoga and workshops. f you’re on a budget, the studio offers free yoga in antern Bay Park every day of the year, a local tradition.

34485 Golden Lantern, 949.363.3152, iheartyoga.org

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

ESTRELLA VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Dr. Ryan loeser, RC S Dr. Wendi rowne, D Dr. ulie wen, D Dr. Ri i Alley, D

strella eterinary ospital is a full service facility with a dedicated staff providing a wide range of medical, surgical and dental services. hey’ll keep your pets healthy and handsome with their full service grooming, too.

26925 Camino De Estrella, 949.239.7753, estrellavet.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Niguel Veterinary Hospital; Silver: Golden Lantern Animal Hospital

34 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Best LAUNDROMAT GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA POINT LAUNDROMAT & DRY CLEANERS

The Dragon Institute

Dana Point Laundromat & Dry Cleaners is a self-service coin laundromat with full service options and more than 90 machines, so there are rarely any wait times. A uff and fold service is also available for customers’ newly cleaned items. ustomers can also get their clothes dry cleaned at great prices.

The service is personalized with great attendants. Same day service is also available for orders. he lovely neighborhood shop has patio seating, and the easy to nd location includes private parking.

24522 Del Prado Avenue, 949.218.1570

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

PET CARE GOLDEN LANTERN

OC GROOMING & PET SPA, DANA POINT

All dogs and cats that are brought to OC Grooming & Pet Spa in Dana Point are treated with the utmost care, and each pet is treated for its own speci c needs. wner Tamara Muslin has expanded the business over the past 15 years and is a proud member of the community she serves. uslin and her staff care deeply for their loyal customers and ensure their pets are treated like family. he business offers a wide range of services, from full service grooming to simple nail clippings.

34102 La Plaza, Suite B, 949.429.7297, ocgrooming.com

34085 La Pla a, Suite , 949.496.2640, raymarcleaners.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

SUNNY FRESH CLEANERS

Sunny Fresh Cleaners just celebrated its 30-year anniversary of business and service in Dana Point, and they’re as dedicated as ever to providing top-quality service to their customers using the best products and e uipment.

24040 Camino Del Avion, Suite , 949.240.9787, sunnyfreshcleanersdanapoint.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Raymar Cleaners; Silver: Sunny Fresh Cleaners

Best MARTIAL ARTS

STUDIO

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

DAWGY STYLE GROOM SHOP

Dawgy Style Groom Shop specializes in grooming for dogs of all breeds and even those with special needs. ou can rest easy knowing your pets are in uali ed, safe hands here and will leave looking and feeling their best.

34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 112, 949.496.3315, dawgystylegroomshop.net.

2018 WINNERS: Gold: OC Grooming & Pet Spa, Dana Point; Silver: Dawgy Style Groom Shop

Best DRY CLEANER

GOLDEN LANTERN

THE DRAGON INSTITUTE

he Dragon nstitute is the rst of its kind in Dana Point operating as a professional Wing hun School. he nstitute speciali es in the martial art of Wing hun, which focuses on self defense. t’s all about practicality, close quarters and self-defense, as opposed to martial arts for sport or competition. he nstitute offers classes for kids as young as 5 and seniors as old as in their 70s in practices that range from bullying prevention to meditation. With the Institute in mind, it’s never too late to prepare yourself.

GOLDEN LANTERN

34241 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 105, 949.542.8470, dragoninst.com

Raymar Cleaners is a small mom-and-pop business and, as the rst dry cleaner in Dana Point, a staple in the community. he husband and wife team of Ann and Steve Chung are proud of the work and services they offer while maintaining environmentally safe standards. With her e tensive background work in high-end wedding dress designs, Ann is able to make just about any alterations you may need.

The couple are dedicated to providing top-quality service to their city while also

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

RAYMAR CLEANERS

GRACIE BARRA DANA POINT

Gracie Barra Dana Point is a martial arts and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu school with programs for all skill levels and all ages. Start with the fundamentals and move up into the ranks of advanced no gi.

34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 106, 949.388.8886, gbdanapoint.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: The Dragon Institute; Silver: Gracie Barra Dana Point

SPARKLEAN LAUNDRY

Sparklean aundry offers a variety of machines ranging from single loads to large loads. or those with active and busy lifestyles, uff and fold services are also offered, helping you stay clean and on the go.

34320 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite I, 949.489.1466

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Surf Cycle Laundromat; Silver: Sparklean Laundry

Best JEWELER GOLDEN LANTERN

MARINELLI “MARTY” LUNGO, MARINELLI FINE JEWELRY

It makes sense that the best jewelry store in town is owned and operated by the best jeweler in town, as is the case with Marty ungo at arinelli ine ewelry. arty Lungo has been creating the best custom jewelry in Dana Point for 20 years, with more than 50 years of experience since his start as an apprentice in New ork ity.

Lungo talks with each customer to understand their vision for the pieces and works to provide the piece of the customer’s dreams.

32932 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 12, 949.443.4030, marinellifine.jewelry

Dana Point Laundromat & Dry Cleaners

Best GROOMING/

cultivating lasting relationships with their customers.

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

JEAN-JACQUES MAMIE FINE JEWELRY; SWISS CONNECTION

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the family-owned business has two Dana Point locations: Jean-Jacques Mamie Fine Jewelry at the Monarch Beach Resort and the Swiss onnection at cean anch illage. Both are full service ewelers.

1 onarch each Resort, 949.240.2226 32565 Golden Lantern, Suite A, 949.488.0900, jeanjac uesmamie.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Jean-Jacques Mamie Fine Jewelry, Swiss Connection; Silver (tie): Dana Point Jewelers, Marinelli Fine Jewelry

Best AUTO REPAIR

(SERVICE) GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA POINT AUTO SERVICE

Since 1969, Dana Point Auto Service has offered bumper to bumper service repairs, as well as oil changes, smog checks, brake and lamp inspections, and hard to nd diagnostics on all makes and models. he local shop is committed to delivering excellence in the automotive service industry, as its team of advanced technicians always works to take care of customers and their vehicle’s needs. Dana Point Auto is also a member of the American Automobile Association and has been a Dana Point Chamber of Commerce member since the s.

34342 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.1086, danapointautoservice.weebly.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

RUBENS IMPORTS

At Rubens Imports in Dana Point, your automotive needs are handled with paramount concern. ts team of technicians are committed to excellence, ready to meet any challenge, and will exceed your highest e pectations.

34134 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.493.5050, rubensimports.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Auto Service; Silver: Performance Haus Volkswagen

Dana Point Shipyard

36 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Best YACHT/BOAT

MAINTENANCE REPAIR

and other businesses in the community.

24921 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Suite 100, 949.276.4884, whatadishoc.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA POINT SHIPYARD

The family-owned Dana Point Shipyard is dedicated to customer satisfaction, as the technicians put in hard work of which they can be proud. “Providing good customer service is very key to how we run our business,” says Steve Morris, who co-runs the shipyard with his brother Jason Morris. “We stand behind our work 100%. If someone’s not happy with it, we make it right.” And the 50-year-old business, he added, is committed to the marine environment, holding that aspect of the company in high regard.

34671 Puerto Place, #A, 949.661.1313, danapoint-shipyard.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

OUTBOUND YACHT SERVICE

Outbound Yacht Service prices itself on the ability to take on any yacht’s problems, ranging from the most complex systems to simple repairs. It works to make your yachting experience enjoyable through periodic maintenance.

34241 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 201, 949.488.0652, outboundyachtservices.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold Pacific Edge Marine Ed Reiner Diving Co.

Best CATERING

PACIFIC THYME CATERING & EVENTS

Paci c hyme atering vents combines the best aspects of the kitchen, catering and hospitality industries. Its incredible food, memorable service and gracious hospitality highlight its passion for creating a culinary experience for clients.

24050 Camino Del Avion, Suite , 949.547.3939, pacificthymecatering.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold What a Dish Caf & Catering Silver Pacific Thyme Catering & Events

Best BANKING

INSTITUTION GOLDEN LANTERN

PACIFIC WESTERN BANK

Paci c Western Bank is more than ust a bank. It works to improve the well-being of communities while staying committed to nancial and human resources. t’s also an advocate for every one of its clients’ vision.

By investing in people, we grow more than money,” the bank's website states. “We build the kind of deeply invested relationships that put the power of people in a world of numbers. At Paci c Western, clients are offered such services as business banking, lending solutions and personal banking.

34180 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.4100, pacificwesternban .com

GOLDEN LANTERN

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

What a Dish Café & Catering is known for being very versatile, listening to the needs of the clients as it offers healthy menu options, as well as everything from easy passing appetizers to sit-down dinners. Owner Jordan Richey, who started the catering company right out of high school, worked with several executive chefs and also has a culinary background. The company works locally with Dana Point to help contribute back to everyone at Dana Hills High, the Ocean Institute

Bank of America is committed to helping customers with their banking needs while working toward responsible growth in order to best serve its clients, as well as ensure the success of its clients and the communities it serves.

WHAT A DISH CAFÉ & CATERING

BANK OF AMERICA

24801 Del Prado Avenue 32595 Golden Lantern, ban ofamerica.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold Pacific Western Bank Silver Bank of America

38 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Best LOCAL NONPROFIT

ORGANIZATION GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA POINT 5TH MARINE REGIMENT SUPPORT GROUP

The volunteers of the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group are dedicated and committed to providing assistance to the namesake 5th Marine Regiment of Camp Pendleton. The group supports family members while those Marines are deployed and helps the deployed servicemen and servicewomen with comfort packages of necessities and other gifts. The group hosts and contributes to many community fundraisers, including the group’s annual Combat Golf Tournament in June. For more than 10 years, the 501 (3)(c) organization has supported fallen, wounded and active-duty Marines.

P.O. Box 471, 949.373.5373, danapoint5thmarines.com

Best LODGING

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

GOLDEN LANTERN

Since 1977, the Ocean Institute has taught and inspired generations with a passion for the familiar sea waters. The Ocean Institute offers immersive learning programs and eld trips, as well as its public e hibits.

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

OCEAN INSTITUTE

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.493.2274, ocean-institute.org

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group; Silver: Ocean Institute

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

LAGUNA CLIFFS MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA he location and setting alone for the aguna liffs arriott esort Spa are hard to beat as a place to stay when visiting Dana Point, or even if you’re just in need of “staycation” from the rigors of day-to-day life. All 378 rooms at the aguna liffs are newly renovated, including the suites, to keep up with needs of its guests. n site, guests can en oy two pools, a children’s splash zone, putting green, bicycle rentals, a spa, bocce ball, ping pong and much more. 25135 Par Lantern, 949.661.5000, lagunacli s.com

THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAGUNA NIGUEL Sitting on the bluff above Salt reek Beach, he it arlton, aguna Niguel offers all of the services of a lu ury resort with all of the beauty of the Southern alifornia coast, featuring a spa, multiple dining options and rooms with a view.

1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949.240.2000, ritzcarlton.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa; Silver: Monarch Beach Resort;

40 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Getting

OUTSIDE

Dana Point Harbor

Best PLACE TO TAKE

OUT-OF-TOWNERS GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA POINT HARBOR

There is no shortage of fun activities in Dana Point Harbor. You can plan your visit to be a casual one, with a stroll around the marina to enjoy the beautiful coastal sights, or go all out with a whale watching excursion or dinner cruise. Take part in a yoga class on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP), go shopping, grab some coffee, or have a ne dining experience—all in the Dana Point Harbor.

This must-see destination has events yearround, including the Festival of Whales and the Tall Ships & Ocean Festival.

34624 Golden Lantern, 949.923.2255, danapointharbor.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING SAFARI

See how Dana Point earned its trademark for being the “Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World” by going on a trip with Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari. iewing pods offer a close look at marine life.

24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.488.2828, dolphinsafari.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Harbor; Silver: Ocean Institute

Best CAMP FOR KIDS GOLDEN LANTERN

WESTWIND SAILING

Since 1987, Westwind Sailing has been a leader in boating and water sport instruction in South Orange County. Westwind offers courses in various levels of sailing, as well as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. here are many different programs in the spring and summer, including an introduction course, sailing into science to explore STEM-based careers, and a seaside

adventure camp that includes all types of boating and paddling. Westwind also has youth categories in the annual Dinghy Dash in Dana Point Harbor during the Festival of Whales.

34452 Ensenada Place, 949.492.3035, westwindsailing.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

OCEAN INSTITUTE

cean nstitute offers a range of fun and educational programs. Over the summer, the Ocean Institute has week-long, overnight and three-day camps that take place in the institute’s learning labs and in the water.

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.493.2274, ocean-institute.org

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Ocean Institute; Silver: Westwind Sailing

Best BEACH GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA STRAND BEACH

Dana Strand Beach is a beloved spot that attracts locals throughout the year. Located beside the Headlands, underneath majestic cliffs and palatial homes, Strand Beach is accessible by walking a steep downhill ramp or by riding a funicular. Once you’re there, you will be able to savor one of the nest natural beaches along alifornia’s coast. ocals and travelers alike will nd Dana Strand Beach to be perfect for nearly any beachgoing activity. On your way out, be sure to catch the sunset from the cliffs.

Access from Strand Vista Park on Selva Road

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

SALT CREEK BEACH

Whether you’re planning to spend the day lounging under the sun or engaging in some fun activities on the grassy area above, Salt Creek Beach is a year-round go-to spot for ocean lovers.

33333 S. Pacific Coast Highway, 949.923.2280, ocparks.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Strand Beach; Silver: Salt Creek Beach

42 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards S I LV E R L A N T E R N

DANA POINT YACHT CLUB

Philip e feld, the Dana Point acht lub’s commodore for , says the organi a tion’s commitment to its members, the community and to having a good time while e ploring water based activities, made it a wonderful year.

24399 Dana Drive, 949.496.2900, dpyc.org

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana West Yacht Club; Silver: Dana Point Yacht Club

Best WHALE WATCHING GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING & WHALE WATCHING

Salt Creek Beach

Best SURF BREAK

ful lookout spot to spend the day—and especially the early evening, when the sun is beginning to set.

GOLDEN LANTERN

25111 Park Lantern Road, 949.248.3557, danapoint.org

SALT CREEK BEACH

Salt Creek Beach is proven to be a surfer’s haven, so it’s no wonder why it has contin uously earned gold for the People’s Choice Lantern Award. Experienced surfers and body boarders ock to Salt reek because of its fun, yet often challenging, waves. Its southwest facing direction picks up swells arriving from nearly every direction, so there’s consistent surf breaks and waves to catch. There, surfers are treated with long, hollow barrel rides. The shore break is notoriously heavy and not recommended for beginners.

33333 S. Pacific Coast Highway, 949.923.2280, ocparks.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

DOHENY STATE BEACH

Doheny State Beach is the perfect training ground for the novice surfer, as its gently breaking waves welcome those of all skill levels. Drenched with allure and history, Doheny has become a legendary surf spot.

25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.6171, parks.ca.gov

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Salt Creek Beach; Silver: Doheny State Beach

Best PARK GOLDEN LANTERN

LANTERN BAY PARK

Many of those who love and enjoy being outdoors in Dana Point choose Lantern Bay Park to spend their days. Its lush green lawn is so inviting that it attracts those looking to partake in fun group games and recreational activities, as well as exercise and stay t with some yoga. ts location above Doheny State Beach and the Dana Point Harbor also makes it a wonder

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

PINES PARK

Pines Park, located in the heart of the apistrano Beach community, offers a welcoming environment for local events and gatherings with close friends and family. his bluff top park offers barbecues, benches and beach views.

34941 Camino Capistrano, 949.248.3557, danapoint.org

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Lantern Bay Park; Silver: Heritage Park

Best LOCAL

ANNUAL EVENT GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA POINT HARBOR BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS

thanks than by running to support local nonpro ts. turkeytrot.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Harbor Association’s annual Boat Parade of Lights; Silver: Dana Point Turkey Trot

Best YACHT CLUB GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA WEST YACHT CLUB

Dana West Yacht Club strives to be the “Best Yacht Club on the West Coast,” says Commodore Tamara Tatich. “We do a lot to try to live by it.” Members of the yacht club, she says, are considered family. The club, in general, she adds, likes to have a good time, while continuing to be a small orga ni ation that relies on volunteerism. hat, to me, is the key ingredient to everyone wanting to come down and have a good time and enjoying each other.”

24601 Dana Drive, 949.661.1185, dwyc.org

Each year around Christmas time, the Dana Point Harbor hosts its annual Boat Parade of ights, offering a mesmeri ing display of lights that’s meant to capture the essence of Dana Point. This highly anticipated holiday tradition celebrates the commu nity, culture and legacy of the Dana Point Harbor, Bryon Ward of Dana Point Harbor Partners has said. hroughout the multi night event, guests can enjoy a lineup of various presentations, as well as holiday activities including Boat Rides with Santa, Santa Photos and the Pet Project Founda tion’s Santa Paws. danapointharbor.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

DANA POINT TURKEY TROT

This year, the Dana Point Turkey Trot will celebrate its 43rd year as a family and holiday tradition. Readers agree, there’s no better way to start your day of giving

Dana West Yacht Club

Dana Wharf Sport shing Whale Watching was founded in 1971, when the Dana Point Harbor opened. “We are always striving to bring the best whale watching to custom ers, says General anager Donna ale .

Three new vessels have been added to the eet over the years the foot Dana Pride; the foot Ocean Adventure catamaran; and the newest catamaran, the Lot’ A Fun, introduced in 2018. “We have paved the way and are happy to share the title with Captain Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Watch ing Safari, who worked with us to trademark Dana Point as the Dolphin Whale Watch ing apital of the World,’ ale said.

34675 Golden Lantern, 949.496.5794, danawharf.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING SAFARI

Passengers get a unique, intimate experi ence of the Dana Point coast with Captain Dave’s Dolphin Whale Watching Safari’s underwater viewing pods. Whale watchers and marine enthusiasts can get a clear view of what lies beneath.

24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.488.2828, dolphinsafari.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Dana har Sport shing hale atching; Silver: Captain Dave’s Dolphin hale atching Safari

44 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Best VENUE

Best WEDDING VENUE

FOR LIVE MUSIC STILLWATER SPIRITS & SOUNDS

StillWater Spirits & Sounds showcases the most talented musicians South Orange ounty has to offer. StillWater offers a diverse lineup of performers throughout the month. Whether you want to relive the ’ s or listen to your favorite Fleetwood Mac, Talking Heads or Blondie hits, StillWater is the venue for you. here’s a dance oor for those who like to get their boogie on, as well as indoor and outdoor seating for those who en oy live music from a distance.

For a calendar of bands performing, visit the restaurant website.

24701 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.6003, danapointstillwater.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

BRIO TUSCANY GRILLE

Brio uscany Grille offers a variety of live music riday and Saturday nights. ive bands are enhanced with Brio’s acoustics and open space, making it the ideal hotspot for a night out.

24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, briorestaurant.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold: StillWater Spirits & Sounds; Silver: Doheny State Beach

Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching

GOLDEN LANTERN

GOLDEN LANTERN

Best HARBOR RECRE-

ATION/EXCURSION GOLDEN LANTERN

DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING & WHALE WATCHING

Dana Wharf Sport shing Whale Watching offers a diverse set of options for those looking to enjoy the Dana Point Harbor in uni ue and fun ways. ur strong offerings of wine cruises, private charters, live music cruises and specialty events, like Yacht Yoga, speak to why customers come to us for the best harbor recreation or e cursion, said General anager Donna ale .

We love introducing new cruises and col-

LAGUNA CLIFFS MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA

laborating with others like Wyland for our Art essons in the Wild.

34675 Golden Lantern, 949.496.5794, danawharf.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING SAFARI

aptain Dave’s Dolphin Whale Watching Safari offers year round access to whales, dolphins, sea lions and more. At the end of the tour, rs. apt. Dave’s legendary triple fudge brownies are served free to everyone.

24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.488.2828, dolphinsafari.com

2018 WINNERS: Gold Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching; Silver: Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Wedding parties big and small can be accommodated to showcase the spectacular ocean views found at the aguna liffs arriott esort Spa. he resort offers different event rooms with more than , s uare feet of total event space, boasting a top capacity of guests. t also offers packages for wedding ceremonies and wedding receptions. here are three outdoor venues available for ceremonies, with plenty of space on patios, lawns and terraces to have everything set for the big occasion.

25135 Par Lantern, 949.661.5000, lagunacli s.com

S I LV E R L A N T E R N

OCEAN INSTITUTE

he cean nstitute provides the stunning views of Dana Point arbor to offer a uni ue e perience for a couple’s big day.

Weddings at the cean nstitute also allow wedding costs to contribute to a nonpro t cause.

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.493.2274, ocean-institute.org

2018 WINNERS: Gold: Ocean Institute; Silver: Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards // 45

Dana Strand Beach

2019

NOMINEES

l at The it Carlton Laguna iguel nd and Treasures orth at Monarch Beach esort —A— A’s Burgers A ail Spa Advanced Dermatology Aventura Sailing Association Afforda le Stand p addle oards Agostino’s y the Sea Al ertsons All Things Fa ulous Catering All ater Charters Boat entals Aloha Bar er Salon Dr Amir Lari ani DDS Dana oint Dental Dr Anna M ennino Monarch Bay ptometry A ua Tech acht Services Armada SalonSpa Art o Inner eace Art Sea Artistic olume Lashes Artistry air Salon As Designed ellness Aurora’s Ta ueria A E Ta le Bar at Monarch Beach esort —B— Ba y Beach

Ban o America Bar aya at The it Carlton Laguna iguel Bas in o ins Beach ar or i a Beach ut Deli Bear Coast Coffee Bella Ba aar Bella Terrace Best estern lus Dana oint Inn y the Sea Best estern lus Marina Shores otel BevMo Big Sporting Goods Bistro rovincia Blue Dolphin estaurant Billiards Blue Lantern Inn Bon our Ca Bistro Bour on Stea range County at Monarch Beach esort Brio Tuscany Grille Bro ne’s Flo ers Buena ista Mar et —C— Ca Del Sol Cali ornia Ban Trust Cali ornia ine Festival Camellia Bouti ue Capistrano Beach ar Capistrano Sur side Inn Capo Beach atercra t entals Captain Dave’s Dolphin hale

atching Sa ari Carl’s r Carlos Mexican estaurant Casanova istorante Catalina Express Cele rity Cleaners Chart ouse Chase Ban Che evine Chic ’s lum ing Dr Christina Meachum DDS Chronic Tacos Circle City o Dana oint Clu ilates Coast Medical Aesthetics Coastal Chiropractic Coastal itchen Core Connection Dana oint Cra t ouse Cree side ar CrossFit Dana oint Curle Charters Inc Cycleogical —D— Dana ai Dana iguel eterinary ospital Dana utrigger Canoe Clu Dana oint Acne La S incare Studio Dana oint A uatic Foundation Dana oint ArtFest Dana oint Auto Service Dana oint Bodycentre

Dana oint Cham er o Commerce Dana oint Cleaners Dana oint Dental Dana oint Dermatology Dana oint Family Dental Cosmetic Dentistry Dana oint Farmer’s Mar et Dana oint th Marine egiment Support Group Dana oint Festival o hales Dana oint Gold Coin Dana oint ar or Dana oint ar or Boat arade o Lights Dana oint ard are Dana oint eadlands Conservation Area Dana oint a ercise Dana oint e elers Dana oint Lantern District Classic Car Motorcycle Sho Dana oint Laundromat Dry Cleaners Dana oint Marina Inn Dana oint Movies in the ar Dana oint Music Dana oint ursery Dana oint arasailing Dana oint Shipyard Dana oint Smiles Dana oint Sur Clu Dana oint Summer Concert Series Dana oint Symphony Dana oint Tattoo

Dana oint Tide ools Dana oint Trolley op Dana oint Tur ey Trot Dana oint inter Festival Tree Lighting Dana oint oman’s Clu Dana oint acht Clu Dana oint acht Clu outh Sailing Dana est Marina Dana est acht Clu Dana est acht Clu Sailing Camp Dana har Sport shing hale atching Live Music ar or Cruise Dana har Sport shing hale atching Dana har Sport shing hale atching Summer Camps Dr Daniel Boehne DDS Dana oint Endodontics Dr Daniel im ley DC exus Family Chiropractic Daniel aul Salon Danman’s Music School Da gy Style Groom Shop Da nielle onene Salon Del Taco Denny’s Desa rana oga ilates Barre Design ails Spa Dharma oga ouse Dic Simon achts Dip ail Bar Dippity Donuts

Doheny Blues Festival Doheny Builders Supply Doheny Clothing Exchange Doheny State Beach Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association Doheny State Beach isitors Center A uarium Domino’s i a Doris al er verloo Dou leTree Suites y ilton otel Doheny Beach Dream Catcher achts —E— Eden egan estaurant Ego Salon El atio Ca El ollo Loco El Torito Mexican estaurant Elaine La ine State Farm Insurance Elite Cleaners English ose Beauty Studio enoSTEA at The it Carlton Laguna iguel Estrella eterinary ospital Evolve ersonali ed Fitness E Green Bi es —F— F Training Family Assistance Ministries Feed Barn

46 // 12th Annual Best of Dana Point People's Choice Lantern Awards

Fitness Together Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular Dr. Frank Godino, DMD/ Dana Niguel Dental Friends of the Dana Point Headlands Frisby Cellars

Dr. Joanne Gabot-Heyman, DDS/ Ocean Ranch Dental Jon’s Fish Market Dr. Judy L. Bourget, MD/ Medical Aesthetics & Wellness Just Like Me Foundation

—G—

Kamea Poke Kawamata Seafood Dr. Kelly F. McDonough, DDS/ McDonough Family Dental Kevin’s Computer Service KG Beach Camps Killer Beauty Killer Dana Surf Shop Knights of Columbus

GameChanger Ganahl Lumber Dr. Garrett Rubio, DDS Gelson’s Market Gemmell’s Restaurant Gems N’ Loans Gen Kai Sushi Get My Point Girl in the Curl Surf Camp Girl in the Curl Surf Shop Glasspar Golden Galleon Boutique Golden Lantern Animal Hospital Good Choice Sushi by the Sea Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Dana Point GritCycle Monarch Beach Groundwork Jiu-Jitsu

—K—

—L—

Harbor House Café Harbor Jeweler Harbor Point Park Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant Dr. Helene Pulnik, ND/Pacific Coast Naturopathic Health Dr. Hemant Patel DDS/ Dana Point Smiles Hennessey’s Tavern Heritage Park Hilltop Park Hobie Surf Shop Hogan’s Bait & Tackle Home Town Pet Grooming Howard Jones Salon Hustle Sports Massage

La Barra by Lupes Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa Laguna Dana Urgent Care Lantern Bay Interiors & Flooring Lantern Bay Park Lantern Bay Realty Lantern Village Association Dr. Larry Snyder, MD/ Pacific Crest Medical Group Las Golondrinas Lash Up Lift Permanent Makeup Lighthouse Charitable Foundation Lighthouse Thrift Store Lil’ Skipper Snack Shack Grab & Go Grub Dr. Lilian Cifarelli, DDS/ Dana Point Dental Lingerie Paradis Lord of the Strings Concerts Lucich Chiropractic Luciana’s Ristorante Lulu’s Hair & Nail Design Luna Grill Lupe’s Mexican Eatery Luxe Martini Lounge

—I—

—M—

Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant iHeartYoga iHeartYoga in the Park iHeartYoga SUP I Love Bagels Infinity Surfboards It’s All About the Cake

Magical Shears Hair Salon Maison Café + Market Maki Yaki Japanese Restaurant Marinelli Fine Jewelry Mariners 936 Sea Scouts Dr. Mark Cruz, DDS Marty Lungo at Marinelli Fine Jewelry Dr. Maryam Moinfar, MD/ Advanced Dermatology Massage Envy Mathnasium of Dana Point McDonald’s Meesh Boutique Millie/Coastal Accents Miraval Life in Balance Spa at Monarch Beach Resort Modern Acupuncture Monarch Bay Cleaners Monarch Bay Optometry Monarch Beach Market Monarch Beach Resort Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary

—H—

—J— Jack in the Box Jack’s Restaurant & Bar Jack’s Surfboards JC Beans Coffee House Jean-Jacques Mamie Fine Jewelry Dr. Jeannine Kofford, MD/ Riviera Laser Studios Jeddy's Upholstery & Interiors Dr. Jeffrey Briney, DDS Dr. Jeffrey R. Kindseth, DDS/ Dana Point Dental Care Jerky & Cali Gifts Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern

Club’s Lobster Fest Monarch Silks Boutique —N— Nails by Dianne Tracy Nexus Family Chiropractic Niguel Shores Nikki’s Café —O— OC Beads OC Grooming & Pet Spa, Dana Point OC Happy Tails OC Junior Lifeguards OC Wine Cruise Ocean Institute Ocean Institute/Laurena G. Chambers Gallery Book & Gift Store Ocean Institute Bioluminescence Night Cruise Ocean Institute Tall Ships Festival Ocean Institute Spirit of Dana Point Ocean Institute Whale Watching Ocean Ranch Chiropractic Ohana Fest Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant Old Town Garage Organic Tree Juice Bar Organic Nails Lounge Outbound Yacht Service OverVue Lounge and Deck at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa —P— Pacific Acupuncture Center Pacific Ashtanga Yoga Shala Inc. Pacific Dry Cleaners Pacific Edge Marine Pacific Gallery Pacific Mistress Sportsfishing Private Charters Pacific Thyme Catering & Events Pacific Touch Gel Coat Pacific Western Bank Palestra Gym Paradis Ice Cream Paradise Nails Paragon Salon & Studio Parallel Pizzeria Party Time Liquor PCH Pilates Peaceful Warrior Wellness Pedego Electric Bikes Peking Dragon Restaurant Pepi’s Sports Bar & Grill Performance Haus Volkswagen Piazza Wellness Center Pick Up Stix Pines Park Planet Beauty Posh Nails Primi Donuts Pro Nails Project Social Proud Mary’s Pure Clover Skin Spa Pure Sweet Skincare Pure Threading & Skin Boutique Pure Watersports

—R— Rado’s Fitness Ralphs Raya at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Dr. Ryan Bloeser, MRCVS/ Estrella Veterinary Clinic Raymar Cleaners Reptiles Reptropolis Revital Fine Jewelry Imports Dr. Richard Kempert, MD/ Pacific Crest Medical Group Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Riviera Laser Studio RJ’s Café RockenReel Sportfishing Rococo Rooftop Pilates Rose Hearing Aid Center Royal Cleaners Royal Thai Massage Rubens Imports —S— Sabroso Festival Salon Connection Salon Revelation Salon Serenity Salt Creek Beach Salt Creek Grille Saltwater Hair Studio Scoop Deck at The Coffee Importers Sea & Sky Sea Canyon Dog Park Sea Breeze Skin Care Sea Terrace Park Sears Family Pediatrics Sheepdog Fitness Shine Salon Dr. Shilpa J. Gaikwad, MD/ MemorialCare Silver Sneakers Skin by Chantel Skin Diva Smart & Final So Cal Boot Camp Soleil Massage Spa Sparklean Laundry Sports Barber Spring Boutique Stacks Pancake House Starbucks

Stella’s Serious Italian Dr. Steven Margulies, DDS StillWater Spirits & Sounds Strand Beach Strand Vista Park Studio A Pilates & Yoga Stuft Pizza Subway Sugared + Bronzed Sundara Salon Sunny Fresh Dry Cleaners Sunsets Bar Sunset Park Supercuts Surf Cycle Laundromat Sveningson Sports Chiropractic Swiss Connection —T— Taco Bell Taco Surf Thai Body Works Thai Dara Thai This The Aussie Bean The Beach Dogue The Beach Flower The Black Lantern The Brig Restaurant The Captain’s Chair The Chocolate Soldier The Coffee Importers The District Salon The Dragon Institute The Gift Chateau The Gulf of Catalina Gray Whale Preservation & Education Foundation (GWF) The Habit Burger Grill The Harbor Grill The Hive & Co The Kings Club Barbershop The Lash Spa Orange County The Little Kitchen Asian Café The Mailroom The Marketplace at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel The Point Restaurant & Bar The Rib Joint The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Fitness Center The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Spa The Sculpted Brow

The Shwack Beach Grill The Spa at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa The UPS Store The Wee Loft Tic Tac Nails Timeless Teak Top Brass Top Nails & Hair True at Heart Studios True Pilates OC Turk’s Dana Warf Tutor & Spunky’s Deli —U— Under Pressure Homework Help Union Bank Unique Accents US Bank —V— Vibe Organic Kitchen & Juice —W— Waterman’s Harbor Westwind Sailing Westwind Sailing Camp Wells Fargo What a Dish Café & Catering White Lotus Day Spa White Pelican Gallery Whitestone Restaurant & Bar Wild’s Animal Supplies Dr. William Nguyen, DDS, MSD/ Nguyen Family Orthodontics Wind & Sea Restaurant Woody Hut Woofstock!

—X— Xu’s Chinese Healing —Y— Yappy Hour at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Yogurtland —Z— Zen Sushi

DEAR READERS, The nominees were submitted by our community of voters.

Please note that we have done our best to review this list and to make edits such as misspellings and elimination of businesses located outside of Dana Point or non-brick-and-mortar businesses. Please be advised that there may be errors.

If you have a correction to submit for Dana Point issue, please email us with info@picketfencemedia.com. Only polite reviewed and considered for publishing

next year’s Best of your suggestion at suggestions will be in future issues.

Thank you for your understanding and participation!

—Your Friends at the DP Times