Almost empty inside and outside, yet they refused to seat us indoors without a wait. With a child, we agreed to sit outside near very loud music. Asked for a quieter corner table (not reserved, only one table occupied), but were told no again. Service was unaccommodating and disappointing. We love the Costa Mesa location, but this Dana Point one is not recommended. read more

Everything was great . I enjoyed the cioppino and my friend's loved the seafood risotto. Will go again soon!

Nice, new place with a cool vibe. We both ordered the lobster roll. WOW! I am from the northeast where lobster rolls are a staple. These were among the best we have ever had. Will def be back. read more

Hook & Anchor - Seafood Near Me - Dana Point, California

H&A used to be our favorite, but it's progressively gotten worse as they expand. We get cost of everything has gone up, but their cost has gone up significantly and portions have gotten smaller. It is now $50 for a lobster roll that doesn't always come out right. The fish plates have gotten significantly smaller as well. They've also started nickel and diming, charging us for an extra (empty) bowl with our clam chowder order - didn't mention anything, just showed up on our bill. The wait staff is friendly and nice, and this new location has ample parking. They get an extra star for that, but for everything else, this really was a disappointment. read more

My husband and I were in Dana Point driving around here Hennesey's is. There was a restaurant named Hook & Anchor that we didn't know it was there and had not heard of. We walked in found it is a seafood restaurant, and had opened up 2 weeks ago. They are also located in Costa Mesa. We went about 4:30 and we had 30 minutes to place an order. The Happy Hour time is 3 to 5 drink specials. And 4 to 5 appetizer specials. We ordered 2 Tito martinis, Great Value. We ordered the crab cakes. The crab cakes were thick, full of crab, and browned to perfection. Then we ordered the lobster deviled eggs, 3 per order. Splitting the third one was okay but even number serving makes more sense. The deviled eggs were Amazing! The eggs were so filled we use our forks. The topped it with nice size piece of lobster claw. I highly recommend them. They have Oyster Rockefeller on the menu, I love them but the origional recipe is hard to come by. So we asked Dominic, our server, if they are prepared like the original recipe. Dominic confirmed they are so we placed the order. Oh My Gosh! We we're served 6 half oysters with a bechemel white sauce with spinach. The oyster was heated perfectly. Absolutely Delicious! We met some of the staff and they were so polite and they exuded they were having fun working there. We met 4 people of their large staff and they made us feel like we we're part of the family. Sydney is the Hostess. A very important position. We made the decision to give the restaurant a try based on her knowledge of the restaurant and menu. Dominic was our server. Such a nice guy and offered suggestions on appetizerers. We ordered what he suggested and we weren't disappointed. Karina was our bartender and she is a pro. We ordered the martinis and she stirred them to the perfect temperature. Brian is the manager, while we were enjoying or appetizers Brian stopped by and introduced himself and asked if everything was prepared to our liking. And he was at the door when we walked out and he thanked us for visiting. Hook & Anchor is located at. 34091 La Plaza, next door to Hennessey's (949) 488-0121 read more

Hands down one of the best dining experiences I've had in South OC. From the moment I walked in, you could tell this place is dialed in -- the team, the energy, the food -- all top tier. Chef Wayne is seriously doing something special in that kitchen. Every dish that came out had this perfect balance of bold flavor and fresh simplicity. You can taste the care in the details. I had the lobster roll, and it might honestly ruin other lobster rolls for me -- buttery brioche, packed with fresh Maine lobster, and that lemon sriracha aioli? Game over. General Manager Brian runs the floor like a pro. He's present, sharp, and clearly cares about every guest having a great time. The whole staff follows his lead -- friendly, knowledgeable, and on point. Hook & Anchor Dana Point isn't just a seafood spot -- it's a must-visit. Whether you're local or passing through, this place needs to be on your radar. read more

Hook & Anchor - Great tequila selection - Seafood Near Me - Dana Point, California

Great service and quality food! Lobster roll is a must try and the old fashioned was perfect. 10/10 read more

Hook & Anchor - Seating section - Seafood Near Me - Dana Point, California

Sat at the bar with my wife. The drinks and service were spot on! The food was spectacular. Crab cakes and ceviche high quality. I was very close to order another lobster roll for desert! read more

Went there last night for first time and early Valentine's Day. Everyone who works there were really nice, knowledgeable, made us feel right at home. Food was amazing!!! Will be back soon. Thank you! read more

I never thought I'd say this, but the best lobster roll of my life wasn't in Maine--it was right here on the West Coast. This place absolutely nails it. The lobster was ridiculously fresh and sweet, loaded into a perfectly toasted, buttery bun with just the right touch of lemon and warm butter. No mayo overload, no distractions--just pure, clean, East Coast flavor with laid-back California (or PNW?) vibes. The roll was packed (not skimpy!), and every bite felt like a little beachside escape. They even managed to serve it with a craft slaw that somehow didn't feel like an afterthought. I've been dreaming about it since. If you're a seafood lover--or just a flavor chaser--this lobster roll is a must. 1000% worth the hype. West Coast, you win. read more

Hook & Anchor - Seafood Near Me - Dana Point, California

Absolutely everything was 5 star. Tory, our hostess, was very accommodating, and Max, our waiter was outstanding. Lobster Deviled Eggs, so good. Followed by perfect scallops and a bunless A-Mazing burger... at a seafood restaurant! Yum. read more

Dana Point location is two months old. The hospitality is lacking. Took awhile to get a server to acknowledge us. The food was not the best. The poke seemed like it could use more seasoning and could be made fresher. They also didn't have any oysters or oysters Rockefeller. They apparently ran out the day before. We ordered the Ciopino seafood pasta with lobster and it was decent. Also ordered the New York Steak medium and it came out burnt on the outside and raw on the inside. Sent it back and it came out still scorched but a little more cooked on the inside because they put it back in the oven. The burnt crust left a bad taste. Sadly I didn't enjoy the rest of the dinner. Also it was plated on top off the side of mushrooms and cauliflower mashed potatoes and it was all mixed in so you couldn't really enjoy it separately. The manager didn't even bother to come out and comp the dish or dessert. The only thing I enjoyed was the bread pudding. Oh and they don't serve hot tea! Ambiance is okay but is leaning more towards a casual eatery than a fine dining experience. Also the food to go was wrapped like a rolled paper lunch bag A lot of work still needs to be done before this place can get a 5 star rating. read more

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The food was incredible! Absolutely in love with their lobster roll, and the fried green tomatoes were delicious. Our waitress Taylor was a rockstar. Super attentive and accommodating, and the sweetest young lady. We can't wait to come back! read more

We have been about 10 times always fantastic! I highly recommend the Dana Seafood Salad! It is fantastic with crab lobster and shrimp!

Great service, good was ok. We did some appetizers but not super flavorful. Tried crabcake was kinda blah, not a lot of flavor. Oysters were good, ceviche was ok. I'd give it another chance and try some other items, it's new maybe just need to try some other items, the service was great. read more

Wanting to try this trending resto, but we were booted out due to 'no reservation' policy. At that time, there were so many available tables, but won't give it to us, because we didn't have a reservation. What the heck!? It seems to me that the hostess were not very welcoming. Besides, it's too noisy that it's impossible to make a conversation. So, to hook & anchor admin, you lost a good customer, because of your non-sense policy. Definitely, I won't recommend this resto for a pleasant experience. Adios! read more

The oysters and lobster roll were delicious. So many items on the menu that I still want to try. Will definitely return for more. The service was great and fast. Indoor and outdoor tables. I ate indoors and it felt very clean. read more

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The lobster roll was everything they said it would be and more. I've only been here once because I can't have all of that rich butter all of the time but it was spectacular! read more

Delicious food! That was my first time ever. My friends go there a lot! The waiters were wonderful ! And the food so good!

First time here great vibe, service was great! We had the fish & chips delicious, shrimp cocktail and clam chowder very good. I'll definitely come back! The gem salad was underwhelming too much lettuce and it seemed to be missing the goat cheese. Overall it was very good, I would recommend this restaurant! read more

Terrific HH and inside looks great too. Service is very quick and polite. Love this place.

Excellent strip, lobster roll, clam chowder and crab cakes. Kaysha our server was an attentive sweetheart. We will return! read more

Hook & Anchor - NY strip. - Seafood Near Me - Dana Point, California

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We love the Costa Mesa location, but our experience here was not so good. My snapper was over cooked, over seasoned and broken into 6 small pieces. The vegetables portion was minuscule. Halibut was cooked properly, but under seasoned. Small vegetable portion too. Bread pudding was tough and dry..... hockey puck consistency. Was told by server that she would let mgmt know. Never came by our table. Not sure if we will give them another chance or not. read more

Had our anniversary dinner tonight and the food was excellent as was the service (Kaysha) couldn't have been better. Bread pudding dessert with ice cream was the best and the espresso martinis, perfect! read more

Food was great, and server, Kasha (probably spelled wrong‍) was outstanding. Highly recommend going here for a great meal and good atmosphere. read more

Delicious - the lobster mac and clam chowder were great. Excellent happy hour from 3-5 with good deals too - worth checking out!

I love this restraunt! Me an my family will come here numerous times! The servers are sweet and thoughtful! The vibe is chill and they have nice decor. I love the food as a seafood lover! Totally recommended this restraunt read more

So impressed with the menu here! Great chowder and the lobster Mac n Cheese is insane. So happy to have a great seafood option in Dana Point

service was impeccable. staff members Hayden and Renny were so friendly. Renny is one of the best servers we've ever had. happy hour was fantastic, we will absolutely be back! read more

Brand new sea food restaurant in Dana Point! Amazing food, service, cocktails and location! My husband and I were so excited to find this gem and can't wait to go back. The flavors in each dish were perfectly balanced and our fish was incredibly fresh and cooked to perfection. The service was impeccable. Our waiter went above and beyond to make our dining experience memorable, was extremely knowledgeable about the menu and offered great recommendations. We were very well taken care of. The restaurant's decor is modern beachy and chic, creating a relaxing atmosphere. The prices were very reasonable for the quality of food and service. Definitely worth every penny! A great spot for lunch or dinner. families, girls day/night out, special occasion or a fu date night. I highly recommend this restaurant! read more

Just tried this place and already know I am going to be a regular here! The food is SO good and the cocktails are very well-made. Plus the service was awesome! Our server was Remy and he was very helpful since it was our first time. The decor is fresh and inviting too! I highly recommend giving this new place a try!! read more

What a wonderful surprise to find this new fish house here in Dana Point. The food was amazingly flavorful and plentiful in portion size. They are just getting started here but making a very strong showing. The Service was on point and appreciated, Kelly stayed focused on our table and ensured the experience was memorable We found the ambiance upscale and fresh. The wall hangings of petrified coral were very cool and appropriate for the nautical theme. The paint and fixtures are comfortable and new. Staff Food Ambiance Very strong opening and a very enjoyable experience. read more

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Love this place! 5-star all the way! Always the best food, best service and a positive vibe. Wayne & Mercedez have created an amazing place where every dish and drink served is a great experience. read more

Disappointing first-time experience! Our order came early on both the first course soup and main halibut dish and was cold! When I brought it to the manager's attention, they re-heated both courses. The halibut was dry, and I didn't finish my "market price" halibut. When I brought it to the manager's attention on the dryness of the fish, I wasn't offered any courtesy other than a dessert, which I don't care for. Very disappointing given this location has only been open for two months...... read more

Went to the lobster fest this afternoon, came late as someone in my family is not feeling good, wow, totally disappointed! We got sat and no one explained until I asked hot we get the food. People with trays of food giving all the other guest but no one came to our table to give us food. I had to flag a guy and said we haven't gotten any food. So in the end we weren't able to try all the dishes. So for you folks, next time it's advertised, don't do it. They fill you up with mac n cheese, fries, veggies and risotto and very minimal lobster. You have to wait in line to get a lobster tail, except some people that knew the owners, they got served. We were in line and saw that some people have preferred treatment. So it really is not all you can eat lobster. It's all you can eat Mac n cheese, ravioli, fries, risotto and veggies. The guys next to us is prob a friend of the server as they even got to go lobsters after prob having several servings while we just go one. We had to ask for lobster roll as we didn't try any. In the end, it would have been better if we ordered off the menu, not get in line, got more food for less than what we paid. Big mistake. Upon speaking with the owner, they screwed up. It should have been a tasting on 1 of each of the entrees which would have been better as you can try everything instead of us not able to try the other dishes that we paid for. The food was good but felt ripped off. read more

Outstanding Experience! The food was absolutely delicious, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. The service was top-notch--attentive, friendly, and professional. The ambiance was warm, stylish, and incredibly inviting. A perfect spot for a memorable meal! read more

We keep coming back to their happy hour. The best in Dana! We had the crab cakes (best on the West Coast), and the clam chowder is to live for. The deviled eggs with lobster are fantastic, but ask for butter and Sriracha. The staff provides service with a smile and quickly. We will be back read more

Food was excellent! I had the crab cakes and they are FULL of crab not fillers. My husband had the Risotto with shrimp, mussels and scallops and clams, he ate every bite. Service was very good, our server was wonderful. I think her name started with an A. She was attentive but not overbearing. Our wait for the food was a tiny bit long but they were very busy. We will definitely be coming back. read more

I've been waiting for it to open. Hoping that finally a good restaurant going into that space. I was not disappointed. I liked the ambiance. Upscale but comfortable. Very friendly staff. Good menu, had a hard time deciding so we tried several items. The chowder was thick , creamy and really good. Ceviche had a lot of fish and was tasty. Crab cakes were delicious. The lobster roll was a bit on the expensive side but chock full of lobster. My favorite was the lobster Carbonara. Overall, a very good meal although a bit on the expensive side. Definitely will be back. read more

Second time here- did not disappoint. Local to dana point, walking distance from hook & anchor- we have been waiting for something great in Dana point again. First experience we had the ciopinno, seafood salad and the lobster spaghetti. Loved everything however noodles and seafood are not my thing. Second time was yesterday. We went all out and ordered the seafood tower and ciopinno again. The seafood is so fresh. Amazing. Hands down the ciopinno- 2x in a row- is the star. Great taste, wonderful broth, fresh fish. The $$ is worth it. Can't find much better quality in Dana point. Cheers read more