Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    The Drake

    4.4 (618 reviews)
    Ultra High-EndBars, Music Venues, New American
    Closed 5:00 pm - 10:00 PM

    The Drake Photos

    THE DRAKE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Live music
    Loud
    Trendy
    Intimate

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - The Drake

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Triple chocolate parfait
    Robert W.

    WOWWWWW!!!! Ugh the live music was so good! I got the chicken yucata and the portion size was great for the price!!!! We also got the triple chocolate parfait (i think thats what its called) for dessert and it was absolutely banging. Def the place to go if youre looking for a nice meal in Laguna! The service was also impeccable we had such a wonderful time at the Drake!

    Blue berry sour and I forgot but it taste like old fashion
    Lily T.

    Food was well presented and delicious no complaints ! Service was great they checked on us frequently ! And vibeswell it's live music so also great ! It's for sure a cute date spot

    Ribeye steak with french fries, broccolini, pasta
    Jessica S.

    I visited the Drake with my girlfriends recently, and I was not happy with our visit. From the time we seated, it took 30 minutes to get to order our drinks. Our waitress said she would give us a few minutes to order, but because of how long it took to even get to order our drinks, we asked that she take our food then as well. It took an additional 45 minutes to get our food and while the pasta was delicious, the steak tasted like something I could get at a Chili's. The ambience was amazing and they did have a live jazz band which was a treat. For the price we paid we could have eaten somewhere where the wait staff was a little more attentive to us and the food tasted a little better. It wasn't terrible, but it wasn't the amazing experience we had hoped for.

    Old Fashioned
    Roger C.

    This place is awesome! Not too big but a fair amount of seating. It has a stage for live music and you can watch the chef cook your food! SERVICE: Great! We had a private event (Jan 20) and they took great care of us. Kept our drinks flowing, and were very attentive and friendly. FOOD: Steaks were very tender and flavorful. Their potatoes 3-ways were good (the chip could have been crispier). The sauce was Fab!! And if you have not tried their fries?? Get the fries!! That with their dipping aoli - super yummy!! We enjoyed our evening and recommended this place - great job!

    Unique cocktails, really different
    Rachel S.

    I feel like it's rare a restaurant stands out to me, the way The Drake does. The ambiance & food is 10/10. Don't Miss it!

    Seabass
    Cari S.

    I can't wait to go back!!! Flawless experience, from the food to the service to the atmosphere--it was amazing from start to finish. We eat steak a lot, and this was probably the best filet either of us has ever had. Loaded with flavor and the meat just melted in our mouths. The seabass was incredible, I could eat that every night! We went for our wedding anniversary. My husband is a huge Jazz fan and we both love a good steak house, so The Drake was the perfect choice. The band was playing a mix of cover songs, reimagined in Jazz. It was so cool! They mostly selected Frank Sinatra songs, which we loved. We sat at the chefs table (think at the bar but we're watching them cook) in elevated bar stools, so we not only got to view the chefs hard at work but we had an unobstructed view of the band. The setting was intimate and moody. And if you want an experience without the band front and center, they have patio seating and bar side seating where you can enjoy the music from a slight distance. A five star experience all the way.

    Sorbet
    Kati V.

    What an experience! 12 months ago Incredible live band, Great service, food, and company? What else could you possibly want!? Beautiful restaurant incredible decor and service. We were seated right next to the band, which was a memorable experience. Tiger prawns 8/10 Filet mignon 10/10 Guacamole and chips 7/10 Fig salad 10/10 Sorbet 10/10 Salted caramel budino. 10/10

    Tiger shrimp and Waygu beef stroganoff
    Johny L.

    Romantic, intimate and delicious dishes. Great place for a night out with lovely live Jazz music. Portions are large enough to share. Workers are very friendly and pay close attention to details We order 1.Beet Salad 2.Large Shrimp 3.Wagyu beef stroganoff 4.filet 5.big piece of seabass Parking suck, so just valet for $11

    This was the 1/2 order of the Beets, an "Opening Act" aka salads
    Rie M.

    Love love love the Vibe From start to finish we had a Marvelous time As we entered, we were greeted with a warm welcome and smile. The energy of the place hits you immediately -- upbeat but not overwhelming, classy without being pretentious. Everyone here knows how to have a great. From food to entertainment, it was a dining experience I would recommend you experience at least once a year -- if not more often! I loved that it was fancy, yet you can dress casually. The vibe is that perfect sweet spot between special occasion and just-because-you-deserve-it. This event bécame the yearly (never-miss) birthday celebration for my highschool friend and I. Low lighting, tasteful decor, and just the right volume of music provided by Sharon Marie Cline was just perfect to set the mood without drowning out our conversations. You can tell every detail of the space was thought through, from the cozy, intimate seating arrangements to the elegant table settings. Our server Emilio had an alternate ego named George, who never woke up throughout the entire dining experience (inside joke). Emilio was friendly and attentive to our dining needs. Our water glasses were always full. Our meals delivered at the perfect temperature and pace. And can we talk about the powder room please? When there is wainscotting in the bathroom, you know they mean serious business! Even the restroom felt like an extension of the experience: clean, chic, and clearly cared for. We left full, happy, and already planning our next visit.

    Beef Stroganoff
    Michelle E.

    While on vacation in Laguna Beach, we were looking for a place with great jazz music and a nice vibe, and we definitely found it at The Drake. When we arrived, it was a full house and we didn't have a reservation, so we sat at the bar. Even though we weren't seated in the main dining area, the experience was still fantastic. There was a projector screen showing the performers, and the music could be heard throughout the entire establishment, which made it easy to enjoy the show from anywhere in the room. When seats became available in the main area, the staff invited us to move so we could enjoy the full effect of the show, which we really appreciated. That gesture alone showed how attentive and exceptional their service is. The music was amazing, the drinks were great, and the food was absolutely delicious. We ordered the stroganoff dish and the portion size was generous enough for us to split. What made it even more special was that it was finished in the back of the house before being served, which was such a unique experience I've never seen before. The pictures truly don't do it justice -- I would honestly go back to Laguna Beach just to have that dish again. The service was exceptional as well. I mentioned to the bartender that it was my partner's birthday, and he kindly offered him a drink on the house. I really wish I remembered his name because he was nothing short of amazing. If you're looking for great jazz music, strong drinks, delicious food, and an overall classy vibe, The Drake is definitely the place to go. It's a beautifully run establishment, very professional, and truly a memorable experience.

    Deco theme supper club

    Beautiful deco style supper club. Love that they have live music nightly. Jazz & Blues by Nikki Rose & Dean Grech was a delight. Only wish owners would add noise reducers to their ceiling, as conversation is very difficult between the music and the room chatter. Food quality is excellent, as is chef's preparations. Started with Raspberry Baret martini . 2 Lollipop lamb chops and tiger shrimp pasta were both DELICIOUS!! Finished with another one of those martinis. Rating a 4, as service should be more attentive, noise volume needs attention, and prices are on the high end.

    Ashif D.

    This is a stylish restaurant located in South Laguna Beach, often featuring great live music. The place is not very large but is exquisitely designed, making last-minute reservations difficult, especially on weekends. The hostess was very attentive and suggested we take seats at the counter table, where we could enjoy the same menu and music as the main dining area. My friend, who loves cooking, was delighted with the opportunity to observe the chefs at work up close. We thoroughly enjoyed all the dishes we ordered, and surprisingly, the hamachi of the day was even fresher and tastier than the highly praised tuna tartare. We've decided to visit once a month to explore more of their menu!

    See all

    21 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Niecie L.
    9
    180
    39

    1 month ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kelly P.
    399
    19
    10

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kacy S.
    73
    52
    10

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lily T.
    73
    8
    14

    24 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    28 days ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    17 days ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 4

    14 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Johny L.
    6
    163
    273

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 days ago

    Hate to leave a bad review, but it's very hard to deny the worst service tonight. Simple apology would have been nice.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 2

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Daisy W.
    37
    33
    69

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Emmett F.
    59
    296
    3131

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Trina D.
    561
    3293
    14311

    2 years ago

    Helpful 10
    Thanks 1
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Brenda R.
    538
    45
    113

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    23 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    26 days ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 16

    The Drake Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Drake

    Can you hear music from the outside seating?

    Yes. There are speakers throughout the restaurant.

    Is there a live music schedule?

    https://www.thedrakelaguna.com/events

    How loud is the Drake? Are some areas of the restaurant louder than others?

    Patio is quiet. Sat inside close to the band last visit and it was loud but not intolerable. Could still talk.

    What time does music start daily? Do they have live music every night or only weekend?

    Music is every night usually beginning at 6:30 p.m.

    How do they do with food, allergies, such as gluten or dairy?

    Is this 21+?

    Nope. Kids can dine as well

    Music calendar for January?

    I feel like you should definitely call the Drake. Because of Covid so many things are changing minute by minute

    Will they be open New Year's Day? Looking for something new and exciting when we are out there this weekend :)

    Yes they are but currently have no available reservations until Sunday. I would call though and see if they have had any cancellations. The Drake is amazing! Good luck!

    Is there a specific dress code?

    No, but many there are nicely dressed (business casual +)...

    Are children permitted?

    Yes

    Are you able to see/hear the live music when seated outside?

    yes

    Are they able to accommodate to vegans?

    yes

    Do you have to have reservations?

    yes, usually, but the bar is first come, first serve

    No Happy Hour?

    no happy hour

    Do you need reservations to sit on the bar side?

    sometimes

    View All 22 Questions

    Review Highlights - The Drake

    The seasonal pasta is always on my order, and so is the venison, which I never thought I would love so much.

    Mentioned in 42 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    The Saloon

    The Saloon

    3.8
    (175 reviews)
    1.9 mi
    $$

    My guy and I went here after having dinner at a location nearby. I didn't feel like ending the…read morenight, so we decided to find a spot for drinks. We initially wanted to go to another place, but the line was too long and we didn't feel like waiting. We walked a few doors down and found this spot. When we ordered our drinks, I immediately noticed that the two bartenders looked agitated for whatever reason. It was as if they both didn't want to be there. No smiles, just angry faces, like they didn't want to be there. I read the other reviews and totally agree with the ones that mentioned the same thing. We still stayed for a while longer and ordered a few drinks. At one point, my guy and I were standing and talking at the bar, practically chest to chest, because it was a little crowded. This blonde guy who apparently was supposed to be a bouncer came right in between us to put away a glass at the bar. I thought it was rude and unusual of him to do that when there was actually room behind my guy or me for him to do that. Yeah, I won't be coming here again and don't recommend. Three are plenty of much better bars in Laguna Beach where the staff are friendly and the vibe is awesome.

    ONE OF A KIND EXPERIENCE - Intimate, Small, Perfect Drinks, vibes of a small English pub - but…read moreyou're in DT Laguna Beach!!! Right next to Nicks with an easy to miss entrance. Don't miss this incredibly special Gem! Locals know and love the Saloon where the motto is: "Be nice or go to Newport."

    Photos
    The motto says it all ... it's the real deal here.
    The motto says it all ... it's the real deal here.
    Bar shot
    Bar shot
    Great gear!!

    See all

    Great gear!!
    The Cathedral

    The Cathedral

    5.0
    (3 reviews)
    37.3 mi

    Mosh for Youth is one of my favorite music fests around. You get to see tons of great bands and…read moreprofits go towards scholarships for less fortunate students. This year we got the usual great lineup but instead of the DIY style show in a parking lot, Professor Vic moved it to the Cathedral. Located right off Garey, The Cathedral is tough to miss. There's plenty of street parking on Center St and there's also a small parking lot across the street. This used to be a YMCA but it looks like an old church with dark wood flooring, high ceilings and stained glass windows. A very cool venue. How did it sound? Loud. Extremely loud. They also had a huge video board which gave each band a little extra hot sauce. There were a couple of bars in the back and you could also order food. It's air conditioned in there but between the heat (100+ outside at the time) and the amount of bodies inside, it was at least bearable. Mosh for Youth was great as always and while I loved the DIY ethos in the past this felt like a leap forward. The sound, look and venue made this feel big time. I hope future MFY shows take place here...until they maybe outgrow this place too, which would mean more scholarships for the kids. Highly recommended!

    Great spot for a concert. I've seen the Red Pears, E Arenas, The Silvertones, Tropa Magica, and…read moremore here. They also host quinces, weddings, proms, and other special events. I love the stain glass windows and the historic building. Lots of free parking.

    Photos
    Today's entertainment!
    Today's entertainment!
    The Cathedral
    The Cathedral

    See all

    The Deck On Laguna Beach

    The Deck On Laguna Beach

    4.0
    (2.3k reviews)
    1.7 mi
    $$

    The Deck is one of those places we have to come to every time we're in Laguna, which is usually at…read moreleast once a year :) And once again, it did not disappoint! Grilled Cheese - Seriously a MUST order. My picture doesn't even come close to doing it justice. So so good! Shrimp & Chorizo Tacos - We've loved these for years! They took them off the menu for a while and we're so glad they're back because they're sooo good. Burger - 10/10. Juicy, cooked perfectly, and really flavorful lots of fresh ingredients. Ceviche - A little on the small side, but super fresh and flavor is You can't beat the location, it's right on the beach with ocean views and that makes everything better :) We had a group of 7 and our server was awesome. She was really sweet, kept checking in on us, and made everything easy even with a bigger group. If you're in Laguna and looking for a spot with good food, great views, and a chill vibe, The Deck is always a great choice. There's so many options and haven't had a bad dish here ever. I didn't order them this Time but we normally get the dozen oysters and they are delicious

    Order the burger and it came with potato chips and ketchup. No fries because no fryers for them…read more Air fryer would have been a good solution for these guys. No more ciopino so we ordered the ahi poke. Was good. This place is set to close September 7, 2026 to make room for the new hotel setup. So sad to see this place close down as the location and vibe was so nice! Food was ok. Not the best, but okay. And they had a bar too! Byeeee if we don't meet again and thank you!

    Photos
    The Deck On Laguna Beach
    Tuna Tartare
    Tuna Tartare
    Ice Water for the table

    See all

    Ice Water for the table

    The Drake - bars - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...