7th annual best of dana point people's choice lantern awards

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L O C A L N E W S Y O U C A N U S ETHE RESULTS ARE IN Here are your choices for Dana Point’s best businesses, services, places and events of 2014.

7th Annual BEST OF DANA POINT PEOPLE’S CHOICE LANTERN AWARDS

“Our patio is so popular with diners, for its casual

ambience. People love the come-as-you-are,

laid-back feel.”JAY STILES, GENERAL MANAGER,

WIND & SEA RESTAURANT

Wind & Sea

RestaurantGold: Best Outdoor Dining

Silver: Best HappyHour

Annually we ask you, our readers, to vote for your favorite eateries, watering holes, services, shops, events and attractions. A� er your votes are tallied, the results are presented in this special keepsake issue we hope you will enjoy referring to throughout the year. So here’s to keepin’ it local and enjoying all of the very best Dana Point has to o� er.

Welcome to the Seventh Annual Best of Dana Point People’s Choice Lantern Awards

IN THIS ISSUE

EATERIES AND WATERING HOLESBest …Appetizers 9Bagel 6Bar 14Beer Selection 14Breakfast 6Burger 9Cup of Co� ee 6Donut 9Happy Hour 12International Eats 10Margarita 14Menu for Healthy Choices 8Pizza 10Restaurant for a Date/ Romantic Evening 12Restaurant for Outdoor Dining 12Restaurant Overall 12Sandwich 8Spot to Cure a Sweet Tooth 9Sushi 10Taco 10Wine Selection 14

AT THE SHOPSBest …Bicycle Shop 18Clothing 16Flowers 18Home Décor and Furnishings 16Gi� s for Adults 16Gi� s for Kids 16Jewelry 18Specialty Grocer 18Surf/SUP Shop 18Tackle Shop 20

SERVICES ON THE TO-DO LISTBest …Alternative Health Care Provider 22Barber Shop 20Car Repair 26Customer Service Overall 25Dental Health Care Provider 22Dry Cleaner 26Grooming/Pet Care 25Gym/Workout 26Hair Salon 20Jeweler 26Local Nonprofit Organization 28Manicure and Pedicure 20

Martial Arts Studio 26Medical Health Care Provider 22Spa for Massages, Facials, etc. 22Specialty Beauty Service 25Veterinarian 25Yacht/Boat Maintenance/Repair 28Yoga/Pilates Studio 20

GETTING OUTBest …Beach 30Harbor Recreation/Excursion 32Live Music Venue 28Local Annual Event 30Lodging 30Park 30Place to Take Out-of-towners 28Surf Break 34Wedding Venue 34Whale Watching 32Yacht Club 34

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.danapointtimes.com

ON THE COVER (Clockwise from top left) Browne’s Flowers, Hobie Surf Shop, The Kings Club Barber Shop, Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern, Dana Point Harbor, Harbor Grill, Bella Ba-zaar, Golden Lantern Animal Hospital.

Photography by Allison Jarrell, Alex Paris and Andrea Swayne unless otherwise noted.

The DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustra-tions, 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 2015. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

EDITORIALAndrea Swayne, Jim Shilander, Allison Jarrell,Steve Breazeale, Andrea Papagianis

ART/DESIGNJasmine Smith

ADVERTISINGLauralyn Loynes, Susie Lantz, Debra Wells, Michele Reddick

OPERATIONSAlyssa Garrett, Tricia Zines

CONTRIBUTORSAlex Paris, Dana Schnell, Robyn Wyman-Dill

PICKET FENCE MEDIA

5 DP Times Best of Dana Point People’s Choice Lantern Awards




Eateries & Watering Holes

BEST BREAKFASTGOLDEN LANTERN RJ’S Café RJ’s Café owner RJ Breeden says the eat-ery’s emphasis is on creating a friendly atmosphere for locals. That includes keeping the same wait sta� for years, giving both customers and employees a chance to get to know one another. And of course, there’s the food. “People come up to me all the time to tell me we have the best pancakes in the world,” Breeden said. 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.218.5757, www.rjscafe.com

SILVER LANTERNThe Co ee Importers 34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.co eeimporters.com

dered his bagels from the same Orange County baker and then paired them with fresh ingredients for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.co eeimporters.com

SILVER LANTERNI Love Bagels32545 Golden Lantern, Suite B, 949.443.3300

NOMINEES: Gelson’s Market • Harbor Delicatessen • JC Beans Coff ee House • Monarch Beach Market • Pain Du Monde • Ralphs • RJ’s Café • Starbucks • The Boneyard Café • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli 2013 WINNERS: Gold: The Coff ee Importers; Silver: I Love Bagels

NOMINEES: A’s Burgers • Aurora’s Taqueria • Best Western Plus Dana Point Inn-by-the-Sea • Blue Lantern Inn • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Dana Point Yacht Club • Denny’s • Dippity Donuts • El Torito Mexi-can Restaurant & Bar • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Harbor Delicatessen • Harbor House Café • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Hennessey’s Tavern • I Love Bagels • Jack’s Restaurant • JC Beans Coff ee House • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • McDonald’s • Monarch Beach Market • Pain Du Monde • Proud Mary’s • Stacks Pancake House • Starbucks • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Sunsets Capo Beach • Tavern on the Coast • The Brig Restaurant • The Harbor Grill • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel • The Shwack Beach Grill • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • WhataDish Café & Catering • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: RJ’s Café; Silver: The Coff ee Importers

BEST CUP OF COFFEEGOLDEN LANTERNThe Co ee Importers Roasting co� ee is an art as essential to a great cuppa as the quality of the beans and the preparation. For over 30 years, owner Jim Miller has sourced his top-quality Arabica beans from the same roaster. That, along with highly trained baristas, beans ground fresh daily and the waterside location, has made Co� ee Importers a perennial favorite and an

integral part of the local co� ee culture. 34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.co eeimporters.com

SILVER LANTERNJC Beans Co ee House34114 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.4700, www.jcbeans.com

NOMINEES: Bonjour Café & Bistro • Burger King • Crank & Grind • Denny’s • Dippity Donuts • Harbor Delicatessen • Harbor House Café • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • McDonald’s • Monarch Beach Market • Pain Du Monde • Raya • RJ’s Café • Stacks Pancake House • Starbucks • Sunsets Capo Beach • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • WhataDish Café & Catering • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: The Coff ee Importers; Silver: JC Beans Coff ee House

BEST BAGELGOLDEN LANTERN The Co ee ImportersThe classic “roll with a hole” is taken to new heights. Cra� ed in the traditional boil then bake method to create a so� and chewy interior with a slightly crisp skin, these bagels are bigger and flu� ier than most. For the last 15 of his 35 years in business, owner Jim Miller has or-

“We love our locals and

always do our best to offer

them a quality meal at a fair

price.”

R. J. BREEDEN, OWNER, R.J.’S CAFÉ

BestBreakfast

RJ’S Café



BEST SANDWICHGOLDEN LANTERNTutor and Spunky’s DeliNot only are there dozens of sandwiches to choose from—named for and by the locals, celebs and sta who inspired them—the friendly longtime employees are always eager to build custom creations in an endless variety of com-binations. Hungry diners get just what their taste buds ordered. And from the choice of bread to the ample layering of meats, cheeses, condiments and veggies, the sandwiches never skimp on freshness, size or flavor. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 116, 949.248.9008, www.tutorandspunkys.com

SILVER LANTERN Subway32545 Golden Lantern, 949.248.9933; 34255 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.443.9825; 33489 Del Obispo Street, 949.429.5581, www.subway.com

NOMINEES: A’s Burgers • Albertsons • Beach Hut Deli • Bonjour Café • Bubba Kahuna’s Pizza & BBQ • Dana West Yacht Club • DaVine Food & Wine • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dippity Donuts • Gelson’s Market • Harbor Delicatessen • Harbor House Café • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Jon’s Fish Market • Monarch Beach Market • Pain Du Monde • Proud Mary’s • Ralphs • RJ’s Café • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Tavern on the Coast • The Brig Restaurant • The Harbor Grill • The People’s Deli • The Shwack Beach Grill • WhataDish Café & Catering • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Tutor and Spunky’s Deli; Silver: The Coff ee Importers

BEST MENU FOR HEALTHY CHOICESGOLDEN LANTERN The Co� ee Importers“I do everything I can to o er fresh un-processed and organic ingredients wher-ever possible,” said owner Jim Miller. His e orts have resulted in a varied menu of healthy and tasty items. Choose from nine combinations of fruit and vegetable juice blends or create your own—all with no added sugar. Smoothies, salads and blended exotic fruit bowls—acai or pita-ya with fresh fruit and grains—are but a few delicious options. 34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.co� eeimporters.com

SILVER LANTERNThe Shwack Beach Grill24502 Del Prado Avenue, 949.218.2731, www.theshwack.com

NOMINEES: Beach Hut Deli • Bonjour Café • Casanova Ristorante • Chart House Restaurant • Chronic Tacos • Dana West Yacht Club • Gen Kai Sushi • Harbor Delicatessen • Harbor House Café • Jack’s Restaurant • Jamba Juice • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Jon’s Fish Market • Juicilicious Juice Bar • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • McDonald’s • Monarch Beach Market • Organic Tree Juice Bar • Pain Du Monde • Peking Dragon Restaurant • Proud Mary’s • RJ’s Café • Subway • Tavern on the Coast • Thai This • The Harbor Grill • The HIVE & Co • The Little Kitchen Asian Café • The Wine Bistro • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Waterman’s Harbor • WhataDish Café & Catering • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: The Coff ee Importers; Silver: Subway

BestMenu for Healthy Choices

The Co� ee Importers

“If you’re looking for fresh and organic, we have a lot of really great choices.”

JIM MILLER, OWNER, THE COFFEE IMPORTERS

DP Times Best of Dana Point People’s Choice Lantern Awards 9


BEST APPETIZERSGOLDEN LANTERNJimmy’s Famous American Tavern It is all-American all the time at Jimmy’s where provincial, comfort classics from each corner of the U.S. take on a trendy, yet approachable, twist. Since opening in 2013, creative culinary interpretations like the rarely-seen-on-local-menus pimiento cheese dip, bu� alo-style meat-balls, jalapeño “bedeviled” hen eggs, amber ale battered onion rings and bar-becue whiskey shrimp, along with other starters and shares, have made Jimmy’s a south county favorite for small bites. 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.388.8900, www.j-fat.com

SILVER LANTERNLuxe Restaurant and Martini Bar24582 Del Prado Avenue, 949.276.4990, www.luxedanapoint.com

NOMINEES: 180blũ • Beach Hut Deli • Brio Tuscany Grille • Bubba Kahuna’s Pizza & BBQ • Cannons Seafood Grill • Casanova Ristorante • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Kai Sushi • Dana Point Yacht Club • DaVine Food & Wine • El Torito Mexican Restaurant & Bar • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Gen Kai Sushi • Harbor House Café • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Hennessey’s Tavern • Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant • Jack’s Restaurant • Luciana’s Ristorante • Mahé • Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant • OverVue Lounge • Salt Creek Grille • Stella’s Serious Italian Restaurant • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Tavern on the Coast • Thai This • The Harbor Grill • The Little Kitchen Asian Café • The Point Restaurant and Bar • The Rib Joint • The Shwack Beach Grill • The Surfi n Cowboy • The Wine Bistro • Turk’s Restaurant • Waterman’s Harbor • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Brio Tuscany Grille; Silver: Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant; Wind & Sea Restaurant

BEST BURGERGOLDEN LANTERNThe Shwack Beach Grill Owner Max Fisher says Shwack’s variety of burgers, cra� ed with fresh ingredients and served in a friendly atmosphere, have made the restaurant the perennial choice for the top burger in Dana Point. And each burger, he says, develops its own devotees, from the “man’s burger,” Big Al’s Bacon Burger, to the health con-scious “Low Tide” turkey burger and the consistent and classic “Shwack.” 24502 Del Prado Avenue, 949.218.2731, www.theshwack.com

SILVER LANTERNA’s Burgers34344 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.4460, www.asburgersrestaurant.com NOMINEES: Carl’s Jr. • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana West Yacht Club • Dippity Donuts • Donut World • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Harbor Delicatessen • Harbor House Café • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • McDonald’s • OverVue Lounge • Proud Mary’s • RJ’s Café • Salt Creek Grille • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Tavern on the Coast • The Boneyard Café • The Brig Restaurant • The Harbor Grill • The Point Restaurant and Bar • The Surfi n Cowboy • The Wine Bistro • Turk’s Res-taurant • Waterman’s Harbor • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: The Shwack Beach Grill; A’s Burgers

BEST DONUTGOLDEN LANTERNDippity DonutsDippity Donuts once again tops Dana Point residents’ lists for its breakfast

pineapple ice cream with brownie pieces and raspberry sorbet—even the mean-est sweet tooth doesn’t stand a chance. 34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.co� eeimporters.com

SILVER LANTERNThe Chocolate Soldier34513 Golden Lantern, 949.493.4135, www.thechocolatesoldier.com

NOMINEES: Baskin-Robbins • Bonjour Café • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Point Yacht Club • Harbor Delicatessen • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • It’s All About the Cake • JC Beans Coff ee House • Monarch Beach Market • Pain Du Monde • Rita’s Italian Ice • RJ’s Café • Salt Creek Grille • Stacks Pancake House • Starbucks • Tavern on the Coast • The Boneyard Café • The Brig Restaurant • The Harbor Grill • The HIVE & Co • The Wine Bistro • Turks Restaurant • Waterman’s Harbor • WhataDish Café & Catering • Yogurtland 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Scoop Deck at The Coff ee Importers; Silver: It’s All About the Cake

treats. A fresh product, combined with nearly 30 years of serving city regulars donuts and co� ee—and a number of oth-er breakfast and lunch options, including mu� ins, cinnamon rolls and fritters—has attracted generations of Dippity Donuts devotees. Regulars are also fans of the ham and cheese croissant and lunchtime burger specials. 33621 Del Obispo Street, Suite C, 949.240.6064

SILVER LANTERNDonut World34130 Doheny Park Road, 949.496.2454

NOMINEES: Chevron • Harbor Delicatessen • JC Beans Coff ee House • Pain Du Monde • Ralphs • RJ’s Café • Starbucks2013 WINNERS: Gold: Dippity Donuts; Silver: Donut World, The Coff ee Importers

BEST SPOT TO CURE A SWEET TOOTHGOLDEN LANTERNScoop Deck at The Co� ee ImportersWith 28 flavors of Lappert’s ice cream—soon to be 35—Scoop Deck is once again the favorite for sweet treats. “Lappert’s is a super-premium ice cream, lower in air, higher in fat and hand made in small batches,” said owner Jim Miller. With all the classics plus more exotic recipes such as Hawaiian Sea Salt and Caramel, Lychee or Nuku Hiva—coconut,

“We have a wide variety of appetizers representing great American comfort

food from all around the country … sure to satisfy your cravings.”

STACY MALD, GENERAL MANAGER, JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN

BestBurgerThe Shwack Beach Grill

BestSpot to Cure

a Sweet Tooth

Scoop Deck



BEST TACOGOLDEN LANTERNTaco Surf A trip 90 miles south will find you in Tijuana—the northern-most point in Baja California. It’s a state filled with the vibrant sights, sounds and tastes that inspired Taco Surf’s founders to mingle their passions—surf and chow. Since 1988, Taco Surf has been bringing Baja to the OC through its authentic flavors, in the form of salsas, carnitas, sauces and more, wrapped in flour or corn tortillas. 34195 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.5754, www.tacosurf.com

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Aurora’s Taqueria34146 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.1401, www.facebook.com/taqueriauerora

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Chronic Tacos34255 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.481.3720, www.eatchronictacos.com

NOMINEES: 180blũ Restaurant • A’s Burgers • Buena Vista Market • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Point Yacht Club • Del Taco • El Patio Café • El Torito Mexican Restaurant & Bar • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Jack in the Box • Jon’s Fish Market • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant • Proud Mary’s • Taco Bell • The Harbor Grill • The Shwack Beach Grill • The Surfi n Cowboy • Turk’s Restaurant • Waterman’s Harbor 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Taco Surf; Silver: The Shwack Beach Grill

BEST PIZZAGOLDEN LANTERNStu� PizzaAt Stu� Pizza, imitation is the grandest form of flattery. Others have tried to mimic Stu� ’s thick-yet-crispy crust but no one does it quite the same. These delectable pies are made from a wheat-flour dough that is topped with a zesty sauce of tomatoes, herbs and spices before being slathered with cheese, vegetables and meats, then baked at 500 degrees on an oven platform rotating like a Ferris wheel. 24821 Del Prado Avenue, 949.240.6444, www.stu� pizza.com

Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant • Peking Dragon Restaurant • Salt Creek Grille • Shanghai Charlie’s • Stella’s Serious Italian Restaurant • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Taco Surf • Tavern on the Coast • Thai Dara • The Harbor Grill • The Little Kitchen Asian Café • The Shwack Beach Grill • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Thai This; Silver: Gen Kai Sushi

BEST SUSHIGOLDEN LANTERNGen Kai SushiThree decades. That’s how long chefs at Gen Kai have been producing exotic, culinary masterpieces for local patrons—dishes full of raw, fresh, thinly-sliced sashimi and skillfully-cra� ed sushi rolls imitating the colorful artistry of Japan’s anime scenes. For lunch try the Deluxe Poki Bowl—sashimi salad atop rice and crab meat with ponzu sauce. And whether dinners are sticking with a simple spicy tuna roll or walking on the wild side with the Crazy Gen Kai, these artists are ready to create. 34143 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.240.2004, www.sushiorangecounty.com

SILVER LANTERNMahé24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.240.6243, www.eatatmahe.com

NOMINEES: Choya Japanese Cuisine • Dana Kai Sushi • Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant • Maki Yaki Japanese Restaurant • Ralphs • Sushi Kiyo 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Gen Kai Sushi; Silver: Mahé

SILVER LANTERNBrio Tuscany Grille24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com NOMINEES: Agostino’s By The Sea Ristorante Italiano • Angelina’s Pizzeria • Beach Cities Pizza • Bubba Kahuna’s Pizza & BBQ • Casanova Ristorante • Dana Point Yacht Club • Domino’s Pizza • Harbor Delicatessen/Slice of New York • Jack’s Restaurant • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Kokomo’s Pizza • Luciana’s Ristorante • Papa Murphy’s Take ‘n’ Bake Pizza • Pizza Hut • Stella’s Serious Italian Restaurant • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Tavern on the Coast • The Point Restaurant and Bar 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Beach Cities Pizza; Silver: Stuft Pizza

BEST INTERNATIONAL EATSGOLDEN LANTERN Thai This Chef Jib Roungchug, the innovative gas-tronomic voice behind Thai This, knows the Pacific. Born in Thailand, Jib tested his culinary chops in Hong Kong before moving to the Philippines and eventually Dana Point, where he’s been dishing up traditional, learned-from-mom cuisine with his well-traveled twist since 1992. Let Jib take you on a savory journey as you explore his Appethaizer, Go Hog Wild and Have Wings Will Travel menu items. 24501 Del Prado Avenue, Suite B, 949.240.7944, www.thaithis.com

SILVER LANTERNPeking Dragon Restaurant 34171 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.493.9499, www.pekingdragonrestaurant.com

NOMINEES: Agostino’s By The Sea Ristorante Italiano • Angelina’s Pizzeria • Aurora’s Taqueria • Beach Hut Deli • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Brio Tuscany Grille • Cannons Seafood Grill • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Casanova Ristorante • Chart House Restaurant • Choya Japanese • Dana Kai Sushi • El Patio Café • El Torito Mexican Restaurant & Bar • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Gen Kai Sushi • Har-bor Delicatessen • Harbor House Café • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Jack’s Restaurant • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Luciana’s Ristorante • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • Maki Yaki Japanese Restaurant •

BestPizzaStuft Pizza

“We strive to make our tacos rise above any other you’ve

ever experienced—huge, fresh and delicious.”

DOT VIERIA-BLAKE, CO-OWNER, TACO SURF



BEST RESTAURANT OVERALL GOLDEN LANTERNThe Harbor Grill The iconic Harbor Grill has seafood delivered daily and “anything less than the best” is sent back, says co-owner Keegan Hicks. The sauces accompanying the seafood—from Asian and Latin, to Mediterranean and Cajun—are made daily as well. Hicks says the high stan-dards extend to creating a welcoming atmosphere and hiring seasoned sta� . Don’t miss Thursdays, where oysters are served six di� erent ways. 34499 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1416, www.harborgrill.com

SILVER LANTERNBrio Tuscany Grille 24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com

NOMINEES: 180blũ • Agostino’s By The Sea Ristorante Italiano • Angelina’s Pizzeria • Beach Cities Pizza • Beach Hut Deli • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Bubba Kahunas Pizza & BBQ • Cannons Seafood Grill • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Casanova Ristorante • Chart House Restaurant • Choya Japanese • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana West Yacht Club • DaVine Food & Wine • El Patio Cafe • El Torito Mexican Restaurant & Bar • enoSTEAK • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Gen Kai Sushi • Harbor House Café • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Hen-nessey’s Tavern • Jack’s Restaurant • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Jon’s Fish Market • Luciana’s Ristorante • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • Monarch Beach Market • Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant • OverVue Lounge • Peking Dragon Restaurant • Proud Mary’s • Raya • RJ’s Café • Salt Creek Grille • Stacks Pancakes House • Stella’s Serious Italian Restaurant • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Stonehill Tavern • Sushi Kiyo • Taco Surf • Tavern on the Coast • Thai This • The Brig Restaurant • The Coff ee Importers • The Harbor Grill • The Little Kitchen Asian Café • The Point Restaurant and Bar • The Rib Joint • The Shwack Beach Grill • The Surfi n Cowboy • The Wine Bistro • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Vue • Waterman’s Harbor • WhataDish Café & Catering • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: The Harbor Grill; Silver: Luciana’s Ristorante

customers with the feeling of walking into a friend’s house. Luhan achieves this with veteran sta� , flickering fireplaces, shelves lined with wine and old-world family recipes. It’s a romantic atmo-sphere where “you get the feel by walk-ing into it” says Luhan, “and forget the trials of the day.” 24312 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.6500, www.lucianas.com

GOLDEN LANTERN (TIE)Chart House RestaurantFor a romantic evening out, many locals look no further than the Chart House, nestled atop the blu� s overlooking Dana Point Harbor. Guests are treated to fresh seafood o� erings and sweeping vistas of the coast year-round, including seasonal views like the spring gray whale migration, fireworks in July and the Boat Parade of Lights in December. It’s no wonder the chain’s mantra is “seafood with a perfect view.” 34442 Green Lantern, 949.493.1183, www.chart-house.com

SILVER LANTERN The Harbor Grill34499 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1416, www.harborgrill.com

NOMINEES: 180blũ • Agostino’s By The Sea Ristorante Italiano • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Brio Tuscany Grille • Cannons Seafood Grill • Casanova Ristorante • DaVine Food & Wine • Dana Kai Sushi • Dana Point Yacht Club • enoSTEAK • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Gen Kai Sushi • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Jack’s Restaurant • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Luxe Restaurant & Mar-tini Bar • Mahé • Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant • Peking Dragon Restaurant • Raya • Salt Creek Grille • Stella’s Serious Italian Restaurant • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Stonehill Tavern • Tavern on the Coast • Thai This • The Rib Joint • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel • The Wine Bistro • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Vue • Waterman’s Harbor • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Luciana’s Ristorante; Silver: Chart House Restaurant

BEST RESTAURANT FOR OUTDOOR DININGGOLDEN LANTERNWind & Sea RestaurantSailboats just out of arms reach, water on three sides, a crackling fire pit, and mahi mahi fish and chips give the Wind & Sea a magnetic appeal. What you can’t see by peering in over the patio fence is the competitive pricing, consistent cooking and SoCal hospitality of the wait sta� . A casual atmosphere and their famous Mai Tais complete the outdoor dining experience. 34699 Golden Lantern, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com

SILVER LANTERNWaterman’s Harbor34661 Golden Lantern, 949.764.3474, www.watermandp.com

NOMINEES: 180blũ • Agostino’s By The Sea Ristorante Italiano • Beach Hut Deli • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Brio Tuscany Grille • Cannons Seafood Grill • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Point Yacht Club • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Jon’s Fish Market • Luciana’s Ristorante • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • Proud Mary’s • RJ’s Café • Salt Creek Grille • Stack’s Pancake House • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Taco Surf • Tavern on the Coast • The Coff ee Importers • The Harbor Grill • The Point Restaurant and Bar • The Shwack Beach Grill • The Wine Bistro • Turk’s Restaurant • WhataDish Café & Catering 2013 WINNERS: New Category

BEST HAPPY HOURGOLDEN LANTERNBrio Tuscany GrilleIf you want to have a drink where every-

body knows your name, Brio owner Enzo Scognamiglio recommends their happy hour from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., seven days a week. “Everybody knows each other. The bartenders have been here for years,” Scognamiglio said. “It feels com-fortable.” Patrons can enjoy discounted prices on house wines, cocktails and martinis, as well as appetizers like the Tuscany flatbread, calamari fritti and scampi caprese skewers. 24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com

SILVER LANTERNWind & Sea Restaurant 34699 Golden Lantern, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com

NOMINEES: 180blũ • Cannons Seafood Grill • Casanova Ristorante • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching • Dana West Yacht Club • DaVine Food & Wine • El Torito Mexican Restaurant & Bar • Gen Kai Sushi • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jack’s Restaurant • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Luciana’s Ristorante • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • OverVue Lounge • Salt Creek Grille • St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort • Stella’s Serious Italian Restaurant • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Sunsets Capo Beach • Taco Surf • Tavern on the Coast • Thai This • The Harbor Grill • The Point Restaurant and Bar • The Shwack Beach Grill • The Surfi n Cowboy • The Wine Bistro • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Waterman’s Harbor 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant; Silver: Wind & Sea Restaurant

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A DATE/ROMANTIC EVENINGGOLDEN LANTERN (TIE)Luciana’s RistoranteFrom the outside, Luciana’s looks like a charming home, and that’s no accident. Owner Jorge Luhan II strives to welcome

BestRestaurants

for a DateChart House Restaurant

Luciana’s Ristorante

“[My father] wanted a comfortable atmosphere ... he saw seafood as an opportunity to be creative.”

KEEGAN HICKS, THE HARBOR GRILL



BEST BEER SELECTIONGOLDEN LANTERN (TIE)Hennessey’s TavernIt’s a fact: Hennessey’s is Dana Point’s spot. “It’s got that neighborhood feel,” says general manager Natalie Fischer. That ambience, coupled with two bars, $5 happy hour prices, 23 taps and rotat-ing bottled-beer selection make this lo-cal watering hole a go-to stop for malted barley and wheat beverages. Feeling audacious? Join the Beer of the Month Club or tackle a 50-ounce pint of your favorite brew. 34111 La Plaza, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com

GOLDEN LANTERN (TIE)Jimmy’s Famous American TavernWhen it comes to lagers and ales, JFAT sticks with small-batch, micro-brews from hop masters in the 50 states and beyond. Sure, you’ll find the Rocky Mountain choice Coors Light on the “liquids” menu aside Dublin’s own dry stout Guinness, but brews from Los Angeles, Placentia, Solana Beach, San Diego and Fullerton reign supreme—giving libations list consumers a taste of Southern California’s beer scene. 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.388.8900, www.j-fat.com

drinks, no frills and a unique view of the Harbor. Here you can sip your favorite beverage from the bar, watch the fishing boats come in with the day’s catch and swap stories with colorful barflies. Turk’s also o� ers popular bar food staples, such as burgers and fish and chips, to help soak up the libations. 34683 Golden Lantern, 949.496.9028

SILVER LANTERNJimmy’s Famous American Tavern25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.388.8900, www.j-fat.com NOMINEES: 180blũ • Aventura Sailing Association • Blue Dolphin Restaurant & Billiards • Brio Tuscany Grille • Cannons Seafood Grill • Casanova’s Ristorante • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana West Yacht Club • DaVine Food & Wine • El Torito Mexican Restaurant & Bar • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jack’s Restaurant • Luciana’s Ristorante • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • OverVue Lounge • Proud Mary’s • Salt Creek Grille • Stella’s Serious Ital-ian Restaurant • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Stonehill Tavern • Sunsets Capo Beach • Taco Surf • Tavern on the Coast • Thai This • The Harbor Grill • The Point Restaurant and Bar • The Ritz-Carlton • The Shwack Beach Grill • The Surfi n Cowboy • Waterman’s Harbor • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Turk’s Restaurant; Silver: Brio Tuscany Grille

BEST MARGARITAGOLDEN LANTERNEl Torito Mexican Restaurant & BarEl Torito o� ers a wide variety of margar-ita’s from a harbor-side vantage point, providing an opportunity to imbibe within site of the ocean. With a variety of premium and ultra-premium tequila o� erings, as well as chances to choose between blended and hand-shaken op-tions in a long list of flavors, El Torito’s margaritas are “lo mejor!” 34521 Golden Lantern, 949.496.6311, www.eltorito.com

SILVER LANTERNOlamendi’s Mexican Restaurant 34664 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.1005, www.originalolamendis.com

NOMINEES: Aventura Sailing Association • Brio Tuscany Grille • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana West Yacht Club • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • OverVue Lounge • Proud Mary’s • Salt Creek Grille • St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Sunsets Capo Beach • Taco Surf • Tavern on the Coast • The Harbor Grill • The Point Restaurant and Bar • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel • The Surfi n Cowboy • Turk’s Restaurant • Vivo Rooftop Lounge • Waterman’s Harbor • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: El Torito Mexican Restaurant & Bar; Silver: Brio Tuscany Grille

SILVER LANTERNThe Point Restaurant and Bar34085 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com

NOMINEES: Brio Tuscany Grille • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Point Yacht Club • DaVine & Wine • Harbor House Café • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Monarch Beach Market • Salt Creek Grille • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Tavern on the Coast • The Harbor Grill • The Shwack Beach Grill • The Surfi n Cowboy • The Wine Bistro • Turk’s Restaurant • Waterman’s Harbor • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: New Category

BEST WINE SELECTIONGOLDEN LANTERN Brio Tuscany GrilleWith 33 wines by the glass and 100 bottles of vino on their wine list, it’s no surprise that Brio Tuscany Grille can please even the most discerning wine connoisseur. Owner Enzo Scognamiglio said most of their wines can’t be found at your typical grocery store; they come from local growers and vineyards in California’s central and north coasts. To top it all o� , Brio guarantees a 6-ounce pour every time. 24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com

SILVER LANTERNDaVine Food & Wine34673 Golden Lantern, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com

NOMINEES: Cannons Seafood Grill • Casanova Ristorante • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Point Cigar & Wine • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana West

Yacht Club • El Torito Mexican Restaurant • enoSTEAK • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jack’s Restaurant • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Laguna Cliff ’s Marriott Resort & Spa • Luciana’s Ristorante • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • Monarch Beach Market • OverVue Lounge • Ralphs • Salt Creek Grille • St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort • Stella’s Serious Italian Res-taurant • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • Stonehill Tavern • Tavern on the Coast • Thai This • The Harbor Grill • The Point Restaurant and Bar • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel • The Wine Bistro • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Waterman’s Harbor • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Brio Tuscany Grille; Silver: DaVine Food & Wine

BEST BARGOLDEN LANTERNTurk’s RestaurantTurk’s Restaurant in Dana Point Harbor is an institution, known for having sti�

BestBeer

SelectionHennessey’s

Tavern

BestBarTurk’s

Restaurant



“We started 30 years ago selling

pencils to kids. Now we get

visitors from all over the world

coming in to buy our goods.”

DEBBIE FRANKS, OCEAN INSTITUTE

BEST HOME DÉCOR AND FURNISHINGSGOLDEN LANTERNBella BazaarNext time you are on a mission to find special decor, look no further than owner Azar Salehi’s bazaar of beautiful accents. A mélange of coastal-inspired decor with over 1,000 bolts of designer fabrics and lots of pottery, plush pillows, vases, origi-nal art and furnishings to entice the eye and spark the decorator in everyone. To keep it fresh, Salemi stocks new merchan-dise regularly. 34135 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.429.6200, www.bellabazaar.com

SILVER LANTERN2nd Hand Treasures34272 Doheny Park Road, 949.218.7962, www.2ndhandtreasures.com NOMINEES: Art Sea Gallery • Coastal Arcadian • Dana Point Nursery • Downstairs Store • Hobie Surf Shop • Jeddy’s Upholstery & Interiors • JunQies Vintage Boutique • Lantern Bay Carpets • Ocean Institute • The Gift Chateau • Timeless Teak • Upstairs Store • Woody Hut 2013 WINNERS: Gold: 2nd Hand Treasures; Silver: Bella Bazaar

BEST CLOTHINGGOLDEN LANTERNDoheny Clothing ExchangeWhen a style-conscious mother and

NOMINEES: Art Sea Gallery • Bella Bazaar • Bike Religion • Camellia Boutique • Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari • Coastal Arcadian • Country Fox • Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching • DaVine Food & Wine • Dana Point Hardware • Doheny Clothing Exchange • Downstairs Store • Girl in the Curl Surf Shop • Golden Galleon Boutique • Harbor Jewelry • Hobie Surf Shop • Hogans Bait & Tackle • Infi nity Surfboards • Jack’s Surfboards • JunQies Vintage Boutique • Killer Dana Surf Shop • Laura Seeley Studio • Marinelli Fine Jewelry • Massage Envy • Planet Beauty • String Tennis Shop • Sun Salute Yoga • The Gift Chateau • The HIVE & Co • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel • Upstairs Store • Woody Hut 2013 WINNERS: Gold: 2nd Hand Treasures; Hobie Surf Shop Silver: Bella Bazaar

daughter team set up shop five years ago, little did they know that, within months, it would be heralded the “hot spot” to buy, sell and trade gently-used clothing. Today, their business continues to hold its own, and its unusually large demograph-ic. “Our current trends and contemporary wear bring in teens to women in their 80s,” says owner Pamela Vandergri� . 34276 Doheny Park Road, 949.240.4800

SILVER LANTERNHobie Surf Shop34174 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.2366, www.hobiesurfshop.com

NOMINEES: Bella Bazaar • Bike Religion • Boutique Chez Nevine • Camellia Boutique • Carmady Street Boutique • Girl in the Curl Surf Shop • Golden Galleon Boutique • Infi nity Surfboards • Jack’s Surfboards • JunQies Vintage Boutique • Killer Dana Surf Shop • Millie • Monarch Silks Fine Boutique • Ocean Institute • Top Brass • True Desire Women’s Fashions • Woody Hut 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Doheny Clothing Exchange; Silver: Hobie Surf Shop

BEST STORE TO BUY GIFTS FOR KIDSGOLDEN LANTERNThe Wee Lo� Wee Lo� co-owner Annette Garcia said being locally owned and operated and easily reached from all around Dana Point are important parts of the store’s appeal for parents and kids. The store has been doing just that, for 25 years. But, there’s also something else—knowing what cus-tomers really want and need. “We don’t have everything, but we have the best,”

Garcia said. 32585 Golden Lantern, Suite K, 949.489.9202, www.theweelo� .com

SILVER LANTERNOcean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org

NOMINEES: 2nd Hand Treasures • Art Sea Gallery • Bike Religion • Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari • Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching • Girl in the Curl Surf Shop • Hobie Surf Shop • Hogan’s Bait & Tackle • Infi nity Surfboards • Jack’s Surfboards • JunQies Vintage Boutique • Killer Dana Surf Shop • String Tennis Shop • The Gift Chateau • Upstairs Store • Woody Hut 2013 WINNERS: Gold: The Wee Loft; Silver: Ocean Institute; The Gift Chateau

BEST STORE TO BUY GIFTS FOR ADULTSGOLDEN LANTERNOcean Institute Raising awareness of the ocean’s health is a big job and the Ocean Institute em-braces this challenge in everything they do, including their retail store. Debbie Franks, manager of the institute’s Laurena G. Chambers Gallery Book and Gi� Store, curates one-of-a-kind nautical home decor items and ocean-themed specialty gi� s, rugs and apparel for their visitors. Proceeds benefit the Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org

SILVER LANTERN 2nd Hand Treasures34272 Doheny Park Road, 949.218.7962, www.2ndhandtreasures.com

At the Shops …

BestHome DécorBella Bazaar



BEST PLACE TO BUY FLOWERSGOLDEN LANTERNBrowne’s FlowersFrom full-service wedding floral design to special occasion deliveries for loved ones, customers have counted on own-ers Susan and Jim Browne and sta� for the best in service, selection and quality for over 25 years. Freshness is unparal-leled as Jim goes to market three times per week to o� er long-lasting arrange-ments that are tops in value and a joy to give and receive. And their tiered open-air display, makes choosing a visually dazzling and fragrant experience. 31456 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.4748, www.brownesflowers.com

SILVER LANTERNThe Flower Girl24040 Camino Del Avion, 949.248.1570, www.myflowergirl.com

NOMINEES: Albertsons • Dana Point Farmers Market • Dana Point Nursery • Gelson’s Market • Ralphs • The Beach Flower 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Browne’s Flowers; Silver: McCool Flowers

BEST JEWELRYGOLDEN LANTERN (TIE)Harbor JewelerHarbor Jeweler manager Rick Voskerit-chian, a fi� h-generation jeweler and watchmaker, and shop owner Vartan Jiznejian enjoy designing and custom-making their own jewelry and watches—whether it’s a silver, gold or platinum piece. Voskeritchian describes the shop as a “complete service jewelry store,” where they even o� er overhauls of any type of watch. “We do all of the work onsite ourselves,” Voskeritchian said. 34515 Golden Lantern, 949.276.2424

GOLDEN LANTERN (TIE)Marinelli Fine Jewelry

SILVER LANTERNKiller Dana Surf Shop24621 Del Prado Avenue, 949.489.8380, www.killerdana.com

NOMINEES: Dana Point Jet Ski & Kayak • Girl in the Curl Surf Shop • Infi nity Surf Shop • Jack’s Surfboards • OC Surf & Sport • Outrigger Surf • Westwind Sailing 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Killer Dana Surf Shop; Silver: Hobie Surf Shop

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

BEST SURF/SUP SHOPGOLDEN LANTERNHobie Surf ShopHobie Alter pioneered the modern surf-board’s transition from wood to foam and fiberglass, invented the Hobie Cat sail boat and in 1954, opened Southern California’s first surf shop, in Dana Point. In the more than 60 years since, the company has grown, but gearing up for chasing fun on the water has remained as simple as visiting Hobie Surf Shop. 34174 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.2366, www.hobiesurfshop.com

“We are constantly keep-ing up with the trends of

the fl oral industry and are blessed to have a team of very talented designers.”

SUSAN BROWNE, BROWNE’S FLOWERS

SILVER LANTERNSwiss Connection Fine Jewelry & Watches32565 Golden Lantern Street, 949.488.0900, www.jeanjacquesmamie.com

NOMINEES: 2nd Hand Treasures • About Time • Art Sea Gallery • Bella Bazaar • Camellia Boutique • Doheny Clothing Exchange • Girl in the Curl Surf Shop • Golden Galleon Boutique • Hobie Surf Shop • JunQies Vintage Boutique • JW Jewelry Design Inc • Mille Fleurs • OC Beads • Ocean Institute • The HIVE & Co • Upstairs Store • White Pelican Gallery • Woody Hut 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Harbor Jeweler; Silver: White Pelican Gallery

BEST SPECIALTY GROCERGOLDEN LANTERN Gelson’s Market Gelson’s takes the inaugural race in the new best specialty grocer category. With a well-appointed deli section and a wide variety of food items—customers seem to be able to find only there—Gel-son’s has become a Dana Point favorite for hard-to-please shoppers in search of both a good deal and high quality. Started by brothers Eugene and Bernie Gelson in 1961, the Dana Point store is one the chain’s 18 locations. 24 Pointe Monarch Drive, 949.488.8174, www.gelsons.com

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Monarch Beach Market34040 Camino Del Avion, 949.429.8450, www.monarchbeachmarket.com

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Dana Point Farmers MarketLa Plaza Park, 949.573.5033, www.danapoint.org

NOMINEES: Albertsons • Buena Vista Market • DaVine Food & Wine • Marina Ranch Market • Ralphs • The HIVE & Co 2013 WINNERS: New Category

Upon entering Marinelli Fine Jewelry, visitors will find treasures ranging from orange diamonds and a colorful array of pearls to spruced-up coins salvaged from historic shipwrecks. Owner Marty Lungo carefully selects his metals and gemstones from around the world and is known for meticulously fashioning them into one-of-a-kind handcra� ed pieces. Most of the jewelry is custom-made on-site, with Lungo and associates cra� ing at the back of the shop. 32932 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 12, 949.443.4030

BestSurf/SUP

ShopHobie Surf

Shop

Marinelli Fine Jewelry

GOLDEN LANTERN Bike ReligionBike Religion aims to be a mecca for all cyclists, from the devout to the newly-converted. For the beginners, they o� er a wide selection of bikes, bike fittings and free lifetime adjustments. Avid cyclists will appreciate the shop’s knowledge-able mechanics, guaranteed workman-ship, advanced fittings, Bike Religion jerseys and the only Shimano service center in town. The sta� even practices what they preach with four weekly club rides. 34150 Pacific Coast Highway, 855.433.8806, www.bikereligion.com

SILVER LANTERNCycleogical34102 La Plaza, Suite A, 949.542.4777, www.cycleogical.net

NOMINEES: EZ Green Bikes • Hole in the Fence • Pedego Electric Bikes • Synaptic Cycles Bicycle Rentals 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Bike Religion; Silver: Cycleogical



BEST TACKLE SHOPGOLDEN LANTERNJig Stop Tackle and ToursSpecializing in providing both the tools and the opportunity to enjoy deep-sea fishing, Jig Stop Tackle and Tours is Dana Point’s new favorite tackle shop. In addi-tion to a wide variety of lures and equip-ment, Jig Stop also o� ers fishermen the opportunity to tour the best spots locally and internationally, in the pursuit of the next big catch. 34186 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.3555, www.jigstop.com

SILVER LANTERNHogan’s Bait & Tackle 34320 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite G, 949.493.3528

NOMINEES: Dana Wharf Sport� shing & Whale Watching 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Hogan’s Bait & Tackle; Silver: Jig Stop Tackle and Tours

Services on the To-Do List

BEST MANICURE AND PEDICUREGOLDEN LANTERNPosh NailsOwner Alice Doan and her sta� of 15 know how to keep customers happy with their excellent nail care services. Their Posh Pedicure includes callus removal, a scrub, mask, para� in treatment and a long, luxurious hot stone massage. Equipped with eight top-of-the-line chairs, more than 400 color gel polishes, waxing and other beauty treatments, Posh is the place to go, seven days a week, for the very best in looking your best. 24040 Camino Del Avion, Suite 8, 949.496.7674

SILVER LANTERNSalon Rouge34255 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 117, 949.489.1565, www.salonrougedanapoint.com

NOMINEES: Artistic Nails & Hair Removal by Ilena • Azalea Salon & Boutique • Bella Terrace • Dana Skin & Nails • Design Nails Spa • Diane Tracy/Salon Rouge • Howard Jones Salon • JTC Salon • Laguna Cliff s Marriott Resort & Spa • Le Visage European Day Spa • Mylee Salon • Paradise Nails • Salon De La Mer • Salon Revelation • Salon Rouge • Tic Tac Nails • Top Nails & Hair 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Posh Nails; Silver: Salon Rogue

BEST HAIR SALONGOLDEN LANTERNArtistry Hair SalonLocated above scenic Dana Strand Beach, the talented stylists of Artistry Hair Salon o� er premier customer ser-vice, professional quality of work and top-of-the-line hair products to their clientele. “We really make it our focus and priority to make all of our clients look and feel their best,” said owner

Tina Hager. “We all have a lot of love and passion for what we do, and it shows.” 33971 Selva Road, Suite 105, 949.240.1773, www.artistryatinahagersalon.com

SILVER LANTERNSundara Salon34212 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.487.0992, www.sundarasalondanapoint.com

NOMINEES: Azalea Salon & Boutique • Brenda’s Hair House • Daniel Paul Salon • Dawnielle Jonene Salon • Ego Salon • Howard Jones Salon • JTC Salon • Kelly’s Hair Salon • Luca Shea The Salon • Laguna Cliff s Marriott Resort & Spa • Magical Shears Hair Salon • Martha’s Beauty Salon • Paragon Salon & Studio • Parks Salon • Planet Beauty • Refl ections Hair Design • Salon Connection • Sa-lon De La Mer • Salon Palisades • Salon Revelation • Salon Rouge • Spa Gaucin at St. Regis • The Captain’s Chair • The District Salon • Top Nails & Hair • Vanity Salon 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Artistry Hair Salon; Silver: Salon Revelation

BEST BARBER SHOPGOLDEN LANTERN The King’s Club Barber ShopWhen Mike Swenson bought the place eight years ago, he pledged to keep with tradition by o� ering a classic American barber shop experience. “It got started as a one-chair shop in 1964 and it remains the oldest working barber shop in Dana Point today,” says barber Scott Young. When the beloved landmark was torched by fire last year, the community rallied to rebuild it. It re-opened six months later with four chairs and its large loyal following intact. 34085 La Plaza, 949.496.4644, www.thekingsclubbarbershop.blogspot.com

SILVER LANTERN Sports Barber34221 Golden Lantern, 949.493.6081, www.sportsbarberdp.com

NOMINEES: Aloha Barber Salon • Artistry Hair Salon • Daniel Paul Salon • Ego Salon • JTC Salon • Refl ections Hair Design • Salon Revelation • Salon Rouge • Sundara Salon • The Captain’s Chair • Vanity Salon 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Sports Barber; Silver: The King’s Club Barber Shop

BEST YOGA/PILATES STUDIOGOLDEN LANTERNSun Salute Yoga“Our disciplines are based in strengthen-ing the body and mind and not so much focused on the spiritual,” says owner Troy Cox. Nevertheless, the studio’s new location feels like an enlightened space with its bowed walls, lounge, so� flooring and ample room for eight more students per class. Eight new classes were also added. Slow gentle yoga with essential healing oils is their most popular o� ering. 24582 Del Prado, Suite G, 949.371.6097, www.sunsaluteyoga.com

SILVER LANTERNI Heart Yoga in the ParkLantern Bay Park, 25111 Park Lantern Road, www.iheartyogainthepark.com

NOMINEES: Desa Prana • DP Pilates & Barre • Evolve Personalized Fitness/Kardia Life Fitness Center • Pacifi c Ashtanga Yoga Shala • PCH Pilates & Yoga • Pilates on the Point • Rado’s Fitness • Reform Pilates Studio • Rooftop Pilates • Spa Gaucin at St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort • Laguna Cliff s Marriott Resort & Spa 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Sun Salute Yoga; Silver: I Heart Yoga in the Park

BestBarber

ShopThe King’s Club

Barber Shop

“We want people to feel safe and know that we think safety fi rst

in everything we teach.”TROY COX, OWNER/TRAINER, SUN SALUTE YOGA

“We want people to feel safe and

BestTackle Shop

Jig Stop Tackleand Tours



BEST MEDICAL HEALTH CAREPROVIDERGOLDEN LANTERNMark Ko� ord, M.D.,Ph.D./ Jeannine Ko� ord, M.D./Dana Point Medical Associates/Riviera Laser Studios“We’ve strive to provide patients with thorough care. We don’t rush them and give as much personalized attention as possible,” said Dr. Jeannine Ko� ord, of this husband and wife team of M.D.s. “Mark (Ko� ord) and I genuinely love and care for our patients. And our physician’s assistant Monica Alvarez, PA/C, is caring, competent and goes the extra mile.” The practice includes non-surgical facial aes-thetics and general medicine. The doc-tors travel the world on multiple medical missions each year. 24582 Del Prado Avenue, 949.240.4291, www.rivieralaser.com

SILVER LANTERNThomas Oliveira, M.D. 24672 San Juan Avenue, 949.218.2334

NOMINESS: Anne Luhan, M.D./Elite Medizin • Bob Sears, M.D./Sears Family Pediatrics • Burton A. Lucich, D.C./Lucich Chiropractic • Danuta Delnitz, M.D./Family Medical Center • Dana Point Physical Therapy • Dana Point Urgent Care • Greg A. Brown, M.D. • Irene M. Lin-Dilorinzo, O.D./Monarch Bay Optometry • John C. Spaeth, O.D./Ocean Ranch Optometry • Judy L. Bourget, M.D. • Laguna Dana Urgent Care • Larry Snyder, M.D. • Maya Bidichandani-Kaura, M.D. • Patrick K. Thein, M.D. • Rose Hearing Aid Center • Shilpa Gaikwad, M.D. • Therapy Solutions • Usha Idnani, M.D. • Xu’s Chinese Healing 2013 WINNERS: Anne Luhan, M.D.; Silver: Larry Snyder, M.D.

BEST DENTAL HEALTH CARE PROVIDERGOLDEN LANTERNFrank Godino, D.M.D./Dana Niguel DentalThe key to a great smile is healthy gums and teeth. Frank Godino, who practices family and cosmetic dentistry including fixed bridge work, has witnessed the re-sults firsthand. Godino said his patients are happier a� er he works to improve

BEST SPA FOR MASSAGES, FACIALS, ETC.

the health of their teeth. “One of our pa-tients said he feels so good, he can’t stop smiling,” Godino said. 34190 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.493.7004, www.drfrankgodino.com

SILVER LANTERN (TIE) Gerald Franke, D.D.S.24861 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.6255, www.drgeraldfranke.com

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Je� rey R. Kindseth, D.D.S./Dana Point Dental Care 24721 La Plaza, 949.661.2152, www.danapointdentalcare.com

NOMINEES: Anne Fingal, D.D.S. • Carmen Freiberg, D.D.S. • Charles E. Slone, D.D.S. • Dana Cosmo Dental • Eric Johnson, D.D.S. • Hannah Lewis, D.D.S./Dana Point Smiles • Hemant Patel, D.D.S./Dana Point Smiles • Herbert S. Malmon, D.D.S./Ocean Ranch Dentistry • Ian H. Rodd, D.D.S. • Jeff Briney, D.D.S. • Judy J. Tiff any/Monarch View Dental • Kelly F. McDonough, D.D.S. • Mark Cruz, D.D.S. • Steven Margulies, D.D.S. 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Gerald Franke, D.D.S.; Jeff rey R. Kindseth, D.D.S.; Silver: Hannah Lewis, D.D.S.

BEST ALTERNATIVE HEALTH CARE PROVIDERGOLDEN LANTERN Burton A. Lucich, D.C./Lucich Chiropractic“I focus on reducing cellular inflamma-tion to improve one’s quality of life,” says Lucich. “It reduces neck and back pain and disease.” Since 1996, Lucich has been improving the community’s health with traditional adjustments and heal-ing therapies, using advanced infrared therapy systems and high frequency ma-chines. Lucich has also served as an of-ficial chiropractor to professional surfers during World Championship Tour events. His mission is to coach his clients, from kids to adults, on the “how-tos” of excel-lent health. 24721 La Plaza, 949.240.7423 SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Pacific Acupuncture Center34255 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 114, 949.489.1911, www.pacificacupuncture.com

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Xu’s Chinese Healing24692 Del Prado Avenue, 949.493.0962

NOMINEES: Angela Goldstein, N.D. • Dana Point Bodycentre • Dana Point Physical Therapy • Dr. Blake Medical Marijuana of San Diego/Orange County • Judy L. Bourget, M.D. • Pack Physical Therapy • Ocean Ranch Chiropractic • Susan Jeff ries, L.Ac. 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Lucich Chiropractic; Silver: Pack Physical Therapy

“We continually work toward staying current with the latest technology and training, to help our patients look and feel their best.”

JEANNINE KOFFORD, M.D., RIVIERA LASER STUDIOS

BestDental

ProviderFrank Godino,

D.M.D.

GOLDEN LANTERNMassage Envy SpaSince its launch in 2009, Massage Envy manager Darcey Holdt says the spa has been promoting a culture of integrity, honesty, excellence and teamwork, while o� ering convenient and a� ord-able massage therapy and spa services. Massage Envy is open late nights and on weekends to accommodate busy schedules, making it the perfect stop for a stress-relieving facial or customized massage session. 32585 Golden Lantern, Suite C, 949.545.0444, www.massageenvy.com

SILVER LANTERNDana Point Bodycentre24629 Del Prado Avenue, 949.487.0891, www.danapointbodycentre.com

NOMINEES: Dawns Day Spa • English Rose Skincare • Laguna Cliff s Marriott Resort & Spa • Planet Beauty • Pure Clover Skin Spa • Rescue Skin Care and Wax-ing Studio • Riviera Beach & Spa Resort • Skin Diva Day Spa • Spa Alana • Spa Gaucin/St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort • Sundara Salon • Thai Body Works Dana Point • The Eyelash Spa • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel • White Lotus Day Spa 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Bodycentre; Silver: Massage Envy Spa

Since its launch in 2009, Massage Envy

DP Times Best of Dana Point People’s Choice Lantern Awards 25


“We have been individually owned for 26 years and are not a chain.

We’re proud of that. But we also know we have a job to do and must represent

Dana Point as one of this city’s outstanding businesses.”TOM BLAKE, OWNER, TUTOR AND SPUNKY’S DELI

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE OVERALLGOLDEN LANTERNTutor and Spunky’s Deli Sandwiches made to order and with a smile has been the order of the day since 1988. “Not be clichéd, but the customer is always right—even when they’re wrong,” said owner Tom Blake. “Every time someone walks through the door or calls it’s a chance to win over a new customer or please a regular—many of whom we know by name and know their usual order. Every employee knows this and does everything they can to make a good impression.” 34085 Pacific Coast High-way, 949.248.3851, www.tutorandspunkys.com

SILVER LANTERNCaptain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com NOMINEES: 2nd Hand Treasures • 949hometeam • Anthony’s Shoe Repair • Art Sea Gallery • Artistry Hair Salon • A’s Burgers • Beach Cities Pizza • Beach Hut Deli • Bella Bazaar • Best Western Plus Dana Point Inn-by-the-Sea • Best Western Plus Marina Shoes Hotel • Bike Religion • Blue Lantern Inn • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Brio Tuscany Grille • Burton A. Lucich, D.C./Lucich Chiropractic • Camellia Boutique • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Choya Japanese • City of Dana Point • Cox Communications • Crank & Grind • CrossFit Dana Point • CVS Pharmacy • Cyclelogical • Dana Point Aquatic Foundation • Dana Point Auto Service • Dana Point Bodycentre • Dana Point Chamber of Commerce • Dana Point Foreign Car Service • Dana Point Grooming and Pet Spa • Dana Point Hardware • Dana Point Jet Ski & Kayak • Dana Point Marina Inn • Dana Point Nursery • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching • DaVine Food & Wine • Dawgy Style Groom Shop • Doheny Builders Supply • Doheny Clothing Exchange • Downstairs Store • Ed Reiner Diving Company • Edward Jones • Edward Jones, Tammy McKennon • Elaine LaVine/State Farm Insurance • El Torito Mexican Restaurant & Bar • Evergreen Realty • FedEx • Gelson’s Market • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Girl in the Curl Surf Shop • Golden Galleon Boutique • Harbor Delicatessen • Harbor House Café • Hogan’s Bait & Tackle • I Heart Yoga in the Park • Infi nity Surfboards • Jack’s Restaurant • Jack’s Surfboards • JC Beans Coff ee House • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Jon’s Fish Market • JTC Salon • JunQies Vintage Boutique • Killer Dana Surf Shop • Laguna Cliff s Marriott Resort & Spa • Lantern Bay Interiors • Leo Chade Real Estate • Luciana’s Ristorante • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • Massage Envy Spa • Mike Plouff /Allstate • Mission Hull • Monarch Beach Market • OC Dana Point Harbor • Ocean Institute • Outbound Yacht Services • OverVue Lounge • Pacifi c Acupuncture Services • Pacifi c Cleaners • Pacifi c Western Bank • Paul’s TV • Performance Haus Volkswagon • Proud Mary’s Restaurant • Ralphs • Raymar Cleaners • RJ’s Café • Royal Cleaners • Salon Revelation • Salon Rouge • Salt Creek Grille • Ship To Shore Insurance • Sign Lingo • Smart & Final • South Coast Fire Protection • St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort • Stack’s Pancake House • State Farm, Ted Bowersox • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • String Tennis Shop • Sun Salute Yoga • Sundara Salon • Sunsets Capo Beach • Surterre Properties • Taco Surf • Tavern on the Coast • The Brig Restaurant • The Coff ee Importers • The Gift Chateau • The Harbor Grill • The HIVE & Co • The Little Asian Kitchen Café • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel • The Shwack Beach Grill • The Surfi n Cowboy • The UPS Store • The Wee Loft • The Wine Bistro • Threads Cleaners • Timeless Teak • Turk’s Restaurant • Vintage Marina Partners • Waterman’s Harbor • Westwind Sailing • White Pelican Gallery • Wind & Sea Restaurant • Woody Hut 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Tutor and Spunky’s Deli; Silver: The Coff ee Importers

BEST VETERINARIANGOLDEN LANTERNGolden Lantern Animal HospitalOwners Bob Stone and Tom Saunders can expect many more years to come as the community’s top choice for all their pets’ medical needs. Last year, the hospital went above and beyond typical pet care practices by adding anesthesia-free dental cleaning. “We are so grateful to our clients for the last 24

BEST SPECIALTY BEAUTY SERVICE

years of continued service,” said man-ager Rhonda Bell of the hospital’s loyal customer base. “It’s very humbling.” 32545 Golden Lantern, 949.493.1370, www.goldenlanternah.com

SILVER LANTERNDana Niguel Veterinary Hospital34249 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.6375, www.dananiguelvet.com

NOMINEES: Gary Johnson, D.V.M./Dana Niguel Veterinary Hospital • James W. Bridge, D.V.M./Dana Capistrano Animal Clinic • Tom Saunders/Golden Lantern Animal Hospital • Wendi Browne, D.V.M./Estrella Veterinary Hospital 2013 WINNERS: New Category

BEST GROOMING/PET CAREGOLDEN LANTERNDana Point Grooming and Pet SpaIn this happy environment, pet stylists

quite enjoy pampering their four-legged clients. The pets seem to like it too—relishing the special treatment while being groomed to perfection. The driv-ing force behind such harmony in DP’s animal kingdom is owner Tamara Muslin, whose enduring passion for animals is still going strong a� er 10 years in busi-ness. “It just seems to work,” she said. 34102 La Plaza, Suite B, 949.429.7297, www.ocgroomer.com

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Dawgy Style Groom Shop34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 112, 949.496.3315

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)OC Happy Tails Dog Grooming32802 Crown Valley Parkway, 949.370.6033, www.ochappytails.com

NOMINEES: Beach Dogue • Dana Niguel Veterinary Hospital • Estrella Pet Grooming • Estrella Veterinary Hospital • Golden Lantern Animal Hospital • Paws for a Tail 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Grooming and Pet Spa; Silver: Dawgy Style Groom Shop

GOLDEN LANTERNThe Lash Spa of Orange CountyLong lashes are an enduring sign of beauty for many cultures, with the prac-tice of enhancing eyelashes dating as far back as the Bronze Age. Owners Kristy Johnson Armijo and Noelle Mathieu are licensed professionals in modern lash extensions with nearly a decade of experience. Inside their serene space, brow and lash tinting, body waxing, hair extensions, makeup application and other beauty services are also o� ered. 34071 La Plaza, Suite 130, 949.661.1200, www.thelashspa.com

SILVER LANTERNThe Sculpted Brow24422 Del Prado Avenue, 949.293.3193, www.thesculptedbrow.com

NOMINEES: Artisty Hair Salon • Azalea Salon & Boutique • Dana Point Bodycentre • Dawns Day Spa • English Rose Skincare • Glycelene • JTC Salon • Kelly’s Hair Salon • Magical Shears Hair Salon • Planet Beauty • Posh Nails • Pro Nail • Salon Revelation • Salon Rouge • Spa Alana • Sundara Salon • Tic Tac Nails • Top Nails & Hair • Vanity Salon 2013 WINNERS: New Category

The Lash Spa of Orange County

BestCustomer

ServiceTutor and

Spunky’s Deli



BEST GYM/WORKOUTGOLDEN LANTERN Fitness TogetherFitness Together provides one-on-one personal training, small group training and nutritional guidance tailored to fit each individual. Whether your aim is to lose weight, tone and tighten muscles or simply work toward better health, owner Debbie Peters has an expert team of trainers ready to provide motivation and guidance to meet your wellness goals and get the results you want. 34255 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 107, 949.488.0005, www.fitnesstogether.com

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Evolve Personalized Fitness24582 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.1213, www.evolvefitnessdp.com

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)I Heart Yoga in the Park Lantern Bay Park, www.iheartyogainthepark.com

NOMINEES: Billy Blanks Ancient Arts Studio • CrossFit Dana Point • Dana Point Headlands Nature Park • Dana Point Physical Therapy • Dana Strand Beach (Stairs) • Desa Prana • DP Pilates & Barre • FIT Club Outdoor Bootcamp • Gracie Barra Dana Point • Jazzercise Dana Point • Kardia Life Fitness Center • Laguna Cliff s Marriott Resort & Spa • Palestra Gym • PCH Pilates & Yoga • Rado’s Fitness • Reform Pilates Studio • Rooftop Pilates • So Cal Boot Camp • Sun Salute Yoga • Tennis Club at Monarch Beach • The Dragon Institute 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Fitness Together; Silver: Rado’s Fitness

BEST MARTIAL ARTS STUDIOGOLDEN LANTERNThe Dragon InstituteThe Dragon Institute is Dana Point’s choice for the city’s top martial arts studio in this category’s Lantern Awards debut. Specializing in the Wing Chun school of kung fu, the school provides self-defense classes for adults and kids alike, while also providing help with

BEST CAR REPAIRGOLDEN LANTERNDana Point Auto ServiceDana Point Auto Service owner Richard De� enbaugh said the key to running his business over the last 46 years has been providing exceptional customer service. Dana Point Auto is a complete auto re-pair facility and California STAR certified smog station, servicing both foreign and domestic cars. “Customers come to us for our service, our honesty and our ties to the community,” De� enbaugh said. 34342 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.496.1086

SILVER LANTERN Rubens Imports 34134 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.493.5050, www.rubensimports.com

NOMINEES: AAMCO Transmissions • Dana Point Foreign Car Service • Dana Point Shell • OC Smog Center 2 • Old Town Garage • Performance Haus Volkswagen 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Auto Service; Silver: Dana Point Shell; Rubens Imports

focus and determination of its students. Founder Adam Williss has been teaching Wing Chun for more than 20 years. 34241 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.542.8470, www.ocwingchun.com

SILVER LANTERNBilly Blanks Ancient Arts Studio34207 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.542.4348, www.billyblanksancientarts.com

NOMINEES: Gracie Barra Dana Point • United Studios of Self Defense 2013 WINNERS: New Category

BEST DRY CLEANERGOLDEN LANTERNRaymar Cleaners For more than 50 years, Raymar Cleaners has been providing Dana Point residents with high quality, environmentally safe dry cleaning. Owner Ann Chung said she enjoys being a part of the community and is proud of their customer service, which includes services like alterations and shoe repairs. “Our customers are like family to us, and that’s what keeps us go-ing every day,” Chung said. 34085 La Plaza, Suite B, 949.496.2640, www.raymarcleaners.com

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Royal Cleaners 34119 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.661.0988

SILVER LANTERN (TIE)Threads Cleaners24839 Del Prado Avenue, 949.388.6900

NOMINEES: Celebrity Cleaners • Crown Cleaners • Dana Point Cleaners • Elite Cleaners • Monarch Bay Cleaners • Pacifi c Cleaners • Sparklean Laundry • Sunny Fresh Cleaners 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Raymar Cleaners; Silver: Elite Cleaners; Royal Cleaners

BEST JEWELERGOLDEN LANTERN Marinelli Fine Jewelry“Customer Service is our main goal,” says founder Marty Lungo. “We’ve never

had a customer walk out of our store unhappy.” In addition to good service, their one-of-a-kind designs cra� ed from platinum, gold, pearls and gemstones are truly a delight to behold. Every year, Lungo travels the country acquiring precious gems and stones. And Marinelli cra� s 80 percent of their merchandise onsite. 32932 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 12, 949.443.4030

SILVER LANTERNHarbor Jeweler 34515 Golden Lantern, 949.276.2424

NOMINEES: 2nd Hand Treasures • Art Sea Gallery • Jean-Jacques Mamie • JW Jewelry Design Inc. • Monaco Jewelers • Swiss Connection Fine Jewelry • White Pelican Gallery 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Harbor Jeweler; Silver: Marinelli Fine Jewelry

BestGym/

WorkoutFitness

Together

BestCar

RepairDana Point Auto

Service

“Our motto, ‘No egos, no competition, just superior self-defense,’ says it all.”

ELISABETH WILLISS, CO-OWNER, THE DRAGON INSTITUTE



BEST YACHT/BOAT MAINTENANCE REPAIRGOLDEN LANTERNEd Riener Diving Company Hooray for rust busters. These are the frogmen who dare to dive deep to provide hull cleaning and maintenance. For 36 years, ERDC has been busy down below, preventing algae-growth and rusting on the underbelly of every kind of boat from diesel motor yachts to quaint sailboats. A team of three industrious divers work year-round, servicing clien-tele from Huntington Beach to Oceans-ide, including many happy Dana Point Harbor customers. 34571 Golden Lantern, 760.721.1928, www.edrienerdiving.com

SILVER LANTERNDana Point Shipyard 34671 Puerto Place, Suite A, 949.661.1313, www.danapoint-shipyard.com

NOMINEES: American Yacht Service • Aqua Tech Yacht Services • Captain’s Choice Marine Tech • Dana Harbor Marine Service • Dana Point Jet Ski & Kayak Center • Dana Point Yacht Maintenance • Dana West Yacht Club • Dick Simon Yachts • Dolphin Divers • Harbor Boat Rentals • John Ross Marine Diesel & Mechanical Repairs • Marine Care & Repair • Mariner’s Yacht & Ship Brokerage • Mission Hull, Inc • Nordhavn • Orange County Outboards • Outbound Yacht Services • Ricardo Vega Marine • Sea Wolff Canvas • Tony Cozad Yacht Services • West Marine • Yacht Ready Consultants 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Ed Riener Diving Company; Silver: Dana Point Shipyard

BEST LOCAL NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION GOLDEN LANTERNOcean InstituteThe Ocean Institute’s passionate and knowledgeable sta� utilizes local history, science and natural resources to teach adults and kids alike—including more than 100,000 students last year. The recently-added Maddie James Seaside Learning Center is the first in a two-phase expansion that will vastly increase the institute’s public accessibility and educational opportunities. “There are

Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant • OverVue Lounge • Peking Dragon Restaurant • Proud Mary’s • RJ’S Café • Salt Creek Beach • Scoop Deck at The Coff ee Importers • South Shores Church • St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort • StillWater Spirits & Sounds • The Coff ee Importers • The Gift Chateau • The Harbor Grill • The HIVE & Co • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel • The Shwack Beach Grill • The Surfi n Cowboy • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Waterman’s Harbor • Westwind Sailing • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Harbor; Silver: Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

BEST VENUE FOR LIVE MUSICGOLDEN LANTERNBrio Tuscany GrilleFive days a week, patrons swarm the dance floor at Brio Tuscany Grille to enjoy the restaurant’s vibrant live music scene. Owner Enzo Scognamiglio said the nightly entertainment rotates between local bands, talented open mic performers and Latin music like salsa and meringue on Wednesdays. On Thurs-days, Brio caters to the younger crowd with “Club Brio,” featuring popular Orange County disc jockey, DJ Johnny. 24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com

SILVER LANTERNStillWater Spirits & Sounds24701 Del Prado Avenue, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com NOMINEES: 180blũ • Aventura Sailing Association • Dana Point Yacht Club • Doheny Blues Festival • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana West Yacht Club • DaVine Food & Wine • Harbor Music Cruise/Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Hennessey’s Tavern • Heritage Park • Laguna Cliff ’s Marriott Resort & Spa • Lantern Bay Park • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • Ocean Institute • Ocean Institute Jazz Festival • OverVue Lounge • Salt Creek Grille • Sea Terrace Park • Stella’s Serious Italian Restaurant • Summer Concerts in the Park • Taco Surf • The Point Restaurant and Bar • The Rib Joint • The Surfi n Cowboy • The Wine Bistro • Waterman’s Harbor • Wind & Sea Restaurant • WhataDish Café & Catering 2013 WINNERS: Gold: StillWater Spirits & Sounds; Silver: Brio Tuscany Grille

always new things happening here,” said CEO Dan Stetson. “There’s no place like this in the U.S.” 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org

SILVER LANTERNDana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support GroupP.O. Box 471, 949.373.5373, www.danapoint5thmarines.com

NOMINEES: Acoustic for a Change • Adopt-a-Class/Ocean Institute • Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley • Canine Companions • Dana Point Aquatic Foundation • Dana Point Boaters Association • Dana Point Chamber of Commerce • Dana Point Harbor Youth Foundation • Dana Point Historical Society • Dana West Yacht Club • Dana West Youth Sailing • Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association • Festival of Whales Foundation • Fish for Life • Gulf of Catalina Gray Whale Preservation & Education Foundation • Hearts 4 Africa • Hope 4 Kids • I’m a Shoe Angel • Lighthouse Thrift Store • Mariners 936 Sea Scouts of Dana Point • Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club • Pet Project Foundation • Read to a Dog/Dana Point Library • Refl exion Connexion • Relay for Life of Dana Point • Skatepark of Dana Point • Surfers Healing • Trauma Intervention Program • Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 • Welcome Inn • Zero Trash 2013 WINNERS: New Category

Getting Out

BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWNERSGOLDEN LANTERNDana Point HarborSince its opening in 1971 Dana Point Harbor has been an important center for recreation, shopping and dining. Its location—with the Pacific on one side and the majestic cli� s of the Dana Point Headlands on the other—provides one of the world’s most scenic locales. A trip to Dana Point would not be complete without a visit to the Harbor. 34624 Golden Lantern, 949.923.2255, www.danapointharbor.com

SILVER LANTERNCaptain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com NOMINEES: 180blũ • 2nd Hand Treasures • Artistry Hair Salon • Aventura Sailing Association • Baby Beach • Beach Cities Pizza • Bella Bazaar • Bike Religion • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Brio Tuscany Grill • Bubba Kahuna’s Pizza & BBQ • Cannons Seafood Grill • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Point Aquatic Foundation • Dana Point Bodycentre • Dana Point Headlands Nature Preserve • Dana Point Jet Ski & Kayak Center • Dana Strand Beach • Dana Point Tide Pools • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana West Yacht Club • Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching • Doheny Clothing Exchange • Doheny State Beach • El Torito Mexican Restaurant • Gelson’s Market • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Harbor House Café • Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant • Heritage Park • Hogan’s Bait & Tackle • I Heart Yoga in the Park • Jack’s Surfboards • Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern • Jon’s Fish Market • JunQies Vinatge Boutique • Laguna Cliff s Marriott Resort & Spa • Luciana’s Ristorante • Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar • Mahé • Maki Yaki Japanese Restaurant • Marina Ranch Market • Marinelli Fine Jewelry • Monarch Bay Club • Monarch Beach Market • Ocean Institute •

BestLive Music

Brio Tuscany Grille

BestPlace to

Take Out-of-Towners

Dana Point Harbor



BEST LODGINGGOLDEN LANTERNLaguna Cli� s Marriott Resort & Spa The Laguna Cli� s Marriott Resort’s seemingly endless list of amenities and services, sweeping ocean views, close proximity to the beach and location ad-jacent to a sprawling park give this hotel a leg up on the competition. But what sets them apart, according to General Manager Jim Samuels, is their employ-ees. “We’re really focused on creating an environment and culture of friendly service,” Samuels said. 25135 Park Lantern, 949.661.5000, www.lagunacli� s.com

SILVER LANTERNThe Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel1 Ritz Carlton Drive, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com

NOMINEES: Best Western Plus Dana Point Inn-by-the-Sea • Best Western Plus Marina Shores • Blue Lantern Inn • Dana Point Harbor Inn • Dana Point Marina Inn • Doheny State Beach Campgrounds • DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Doheny Beach • St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Laguna Cliff s Marriott Resort & Spa; Silver: Dana Point Marina Inn

BEST BEACHGOLDEN LANTERNDana Strand Beach Nestled at the foot of the Dana Point Headlands on a crescent-shaped cove, Strand is one of the area’s most sce-nic stretches of sand. From surfing to sandcastle building, it is a favorite place for locals to enjoy a day at the beach. Four walkways and a funicular inclined elevator o� er easy access from parking at

Point Chamber of Commerce, celebrated the event’s 37th year in 2014. 949.496.1555, www.turkeytrot.com

SILVER LANTERNDana Point Festival of Whales 949.496.5794, www.festivalofwhales.com

NOMINEES: Annual Charity Regatta/Dana West Yacht Club • Ante Up for Autism • Billabong Cosmic Creek Surf Contest • California Wine Festival • Dana Point Food Wine & Music Festival • Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling • Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights • Dana Point IlluminOcean • Dana Point Lobster Fest • Dana Point Oktoberfest • Dana Point State BBQ Championships • Dana Point Symphony • Doheny Blues Festival • Doheny Days Music Festival • Doheny Surf Festival • Doheny Wood • Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular • I Heart Yoga in the Park • Movies in the Park • Ocean Institute Jazz Festival • Shakespeare in the Park • Rainbow Sandals Jerry Lopez Battle of the Paddle • Richard Henry Dana Charity Regatta • Summer Concerts in the Park • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel Tree Lighting • Toshiba Tall Ships Festival • Wag-A-Thon • Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook Off 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Festival of Whales; Summer Concerts in the Park; Silver: Dana Point Turkey Trot

Strand Vista Park to the beach below. A network of paths completely encircles the beach making it popular among walkers. Access from Strand Vista Park on Selva Road

SILVER LANTERNSalt Creek Beach 33333 S. Pacific Coast Highway, 949.923.2280, www.ocparks.com

NOMINEES: Baby Beach • Capistrano Beach Park/Hole in the Fence • Doheny State Beach • Monarch Beach 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Strand Beach; Silver: Doheny State Beach; Salt Creek Beach

BEST PARKGOLDEN LANTERNLantern Bay Park Its high blu� top location makes Lantern Bay Park the perfect spot for taking in the panoramic view of the coast whether just on a stroll or enjoying live music at summer concert events. With a basketball court, barbecues, picnic tables, restrooms and a playground, it is a great place for families. The expansive lawn o� ers picturesque views of Doheny Beach and the Harbor and is a popular spot for couples to tie the knot and kids’ birthday parties. 25111 Park Lantern Road, 949.248.3557, www.danapoint.org

SILVER LANTERNPines Park34941 Camino Capistrano, 949.248.3557, www.danapoint.org

NOMINEES: Baby Beach • Creekside Park • Crystal Cove Park • Dana Crest Park • Dana Woods Park • Del Obispo Park • Doheny State Beach • Dana Point Headlands Nature Preserve • Harry Otsubo Community Gardens • Heritage Park • Lantern Village Community Park • La Plaza Park • Louise Leyden Park • Palisades Gazebo • Salt Creek Beach Park • Sampson Overview Gazebo • Sea Canyon Park • Sea Terrace Community Park • Sea View Park • Shipwreck Park • Strand Vista Park • Sunset Park • Thunderbird Park 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Lantern Bay Park; Silver: Heritage Park

BEST LOCAL ANNUAL EVENTGOLDEN LANTERNDana Point Turkey Trot A longstanding Thanksgiving Day tradi-tion, the Dana Point Turkey Trot, with its 10K, 5K and kids’ Gobble Wobble, draws a crowd of participants and spectators estimated at 15,000. Runners—many in costume—come for the physical challenge, fun, camaraderie and the satisfaction of knowing their entry fees are going to support local charitable organizations. Event organizer, the Dana

BestAnnual Event

Dana Point Turkey Trot

BestLodging

Laguna Cli� s Marriott Resort

& Spa



BEST HARBOR RECREATION/EXCURSIONGOLDEN LANTERNDana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching The first business in operation when the Harbor opened 44 years ago and the originators of whale watching in Orange County, Dana Wharf o� ers daily excur-sions to observe the majestic ocean mammals, as well as year-round sport-fishing, kids’ camps, specialty cruises and more. “We do our best to o� er an array of fun and exciting ocean adven-tures that appeal to all ages,” said Donna Kalez, who owns and operates the business alongside her brother Michael Hansen. 34675 Golden Lantern, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com

SILVER LANTERNWestwind Sailing 34451 Ensenada Place, 949.492.3035, www.westwindsailing.com

NOMINEES: Aventura Sailing Association • boat racing • boating • Capo Beach Watercraft • Catalina Express • Curlew Charters Inc • Dana Point Aquatic Foundation • Dana Point Jet Ski & Kayak Center • Dick Simon Yachts • Dream Catcher Yachts • fi shing • geocaching • Harbor Boat Rentals • kayaking • Music Harbor Cruise/Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching • OC Wine Cruise/Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching • Ocean Institute • Riviera Burial at Sea and Boat Charter • sailing • scuba diving • Spirit of Dana Point/Ocean Institute • stand-up paddleboarding • Toshiba Tall Ships Festival 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching; Silver: Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

BEST WHALE WATCHINGGOLDEN LANTERNCaptain Dave’s Dolphin& Whale Watching Safari “People want a peak experience, and my goal is to give them that,” said owner, Capt. Dave Anderson. 2015 will be his 20th year operating whale and dolphin safaris out of Dana Point Harbor and he says he feels blessed to be able to share the majesty of the ocean’s mammals while he and his team are doing what they love. “Everyone on my crew loves the work too,” Anderson said. “We put our hearts into it and I think it shows.” His four boats—sailing and power catamarans—o� er special features, such as underwater viewing pods and hydrophones. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com

SILVER LANTERNDana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching 34675 Golden Lantern, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com

NOMINEES: Aventura Sailing Association • Ocean Institute 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari; Silver: Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching

“The cornerstone of our success is giving back to the community. We are happy to support local organizations by donating ocean adventures that create lifelong memories.”

DONNA KALEZ, CO-OWNER, DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING & WHALE WATCHING

Best Whale

WatchingCaptain Dave’s Dolphin

& Whale Watching Safari

Photo: Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching

Photo: Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari/Barry Curtis


BEST WEDDING VENUEGOLDEN LANTERNDana Point Yacht Club Dramatic entrances and grand ocean vistas are the hallmark of the Dana Point Yacht Club, and “where else can you ar-rive by boat?” says Danielle Hunt, event director. But it’s the accommodations that make it the best wedding venue, Hunt says. “It’s like a beach wedding without the hassle.” Their strength is personalizing weddings, with a 200-per-son capacity ball room and a versatile in-house chef. 24399 Dana Drive, 949.496.2900, www.dpyc.org

SILVER LANTERNOcean Institute24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org

NOMINEES: Aventura Sailing Association • beaches • Cannons Seafood Grill • Chart House Restaurant • Dana Strand Beach • Dana West Yacht Club • Doheny State Beach • Heritage Park • Lantern Bay Park • OC Sailing & Events Center • Palisades Gazebo • Pines Park • Sampson Overview Gazebo • Salt Creek Grille • South Shores Church • St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church • St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort • Strand Vista Park • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel • Waterman’s Harbor • Wind & Sea Restaurant 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Laguna Cliff s Marriott Resort & Spa; Silver: Dana Point Yacht Club

BEST YACHT CLUBGOLDEN LANTERNDana West Yacht Club “It’s a place where everybody knows your name,” said Vice Commodore, Brian Lintz of the club known throughout its more than 35 years of operation as “the friendliest little yacht club on the West Coast.” Lintz attributes its popularity to their programs—junior sailing, racing, fishing, ladies auxiliary and more—so-cial gatherings, togetherness among members, a full bar and kitchen serving delicious meals Thursday through Monday. The club hosts several public open houses yearly. 24601 Dana Drive, 949.661.1185, www.dwyc.org

SILVER LANTERNDana Point Yacht Club 24399 Dana Drive, 949.496.2900, www.dpyc.org

NOMINEES: Aventura Sailing Association 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Dana West Yacht Club; Silver: Dana Point Yacht Club

BestWedding

VenueDana Point Yacht Club

BestSurf Spot

Salt Creek Beach

BEST SURF BREAKGOLDEN LANTERNSalt Creek Beach Oriented to pick up swell arriving from most directions, Salt Creek is an experi-enced surfer’s playground. Its combina-tion of both a point and beach breaks covering three distinct sections—The Point, Middles and Gravels—o� ers fun, fast and steep waves, not recommended for beginners. While Creek o� en serves up long, hollow, glassy barrels, it is also notorious for its heavy shore break. 33333 S. Pacific Coast Highway, 949.923.2280, www.ocparks.com

SILVER LANTERNDoheny State Beach25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.6171, www.parks.ca.gov

NOMINEES: Killer Dana • Dana Strand Beach 2013 WINNERS: Gold: Salt Creek Beach; Silver: Doheny State Beach Photo: Jack McDaniel

Photo: Dana Point Yacht Club

7th annual best of dana point people's choice lantern awards

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