Carlos Mexican Restaurant + Cantina

by Dina Scaglione

As we step out and about, dining with family and friends is high on the list of things to do. One of Dana Point’s best scenes for a casual, al fresco experience is Carlos Restaurant in Dana Point. With its sun-dappled Saltillo-paved patio, outdoor fire pit, ocean breezes and savory fare, we’re reminded of what we’ve been missing at this local gathering place.

For more than 50 years, Carlos’s has commanded the ample corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Alcazar Drive as the go-to locale for authentic Mexican food. Known for an incredible array of traditional dishes, including Fajitas, Pollo Ranchero, Chili Verde, Menudo and the hard-to-find Nopalitos – the latter two items are uncommonly served 7 days a week. What began as an intimate, family-owned coffee shop in the early 70’s quickly evolved into a beach city staple for authentic Mexican cuisine. Perhaps a bit lesser known, but every bit as delicious, is Carlos’s abundant and fresh selection of seafood options. Fish Tacos, stuffed Seafood Enchiladas and 7 Mares Soup, made with fish, crab, mussels, clams, octopus, calamari, shrimp and vegetables are just some of the popular offerings. My fave is the Camarones A la Diabla featuring spicy jumbo shrimp delicately sauteed in onions, garlic, tomatoes and bell peppers, served with rice, refried beans, and warm tortillas.

Craving a hearty breakfast? Carlos Restaurant is also home to a traditional Mexican and American-style breakfast, served each day from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The expansive menu boasts all of your morning favorites, including homemade Chorizo and Scrambled Eggs, Huevos Rancheros, Carnitas and Eggs, a selection of freshly-made omelets, breakfast burritos and “choose your size” stack of fluffy pancakes.

Stop by for Happy Hour from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and check out Carlos’s weekly Taco Tuesdays, starting at 2 p.m. Treat yourself to Lobster Wednesdays from 4 to 9 p.m., where mouth-watering garlic, butter-basted whole or half lobsters are grilled to perfection. If you’re celebrating a birthday, baby shower or other special event, call to reserve a cozy corner inside or a tranquil spot on the patio.

Open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Carlos Restaurant is your recipe for relaxation, so take a break from cooking and unwind with a tasty Margarita. Still owned and operated by the same family since 1972, Carlos’s remains a dedicated purveyor of delicious food, always accompanied by warm and friendly service.

Carlos Mexican Restaurant + Cantina
34224 Pacific Coast Hwy in Dana Point
949.496.4470
CarlosCantinaDP.com