Today, three generations of the Olamendi family proudly serve Orange County, continuing the legacy Jorge and Maria began over 50 years ago. While they've adapted to new tastes and earned national and international recognition, they remain true to the flavors and traditions that define their story. Olamendi's has become a cherished part of Dana Point's culture a place where everyone can experience the vibrant taste of Mexico, served with love and authenticity.
We found this adorable, classic Mexican restaurant within walking distance of our hotel and were so glad we stopped in. We were able to get a great table on the outdoor patio, although the interior looked beautiful and full of character as well. Our waiter was friendly, attentive, and very helpful throughout the meal. The food was delicious! I ordered the enchilada suizas, and Erik had the shrimp Olemenda’s, which he thoroughly enjoyed. I also tried the hibiscus margarita, which was refreshing and flavorful. One standout was the meatball soup—it had incredible flavor and was one of the highlights of the meal. My only suggestion would be regarding the napkins. We had to ask twice, and each time were only given two small paper napkins. If waste reduction is a concern, perhaps cloth napkins would be a better option and would fit the restaurant’s charming atmosphere. Overall, the food, service, and ambiance made for a wonderful dining experience, and we would happily return.
It had been over 20 years 😬 since I'd patroned this place. I was so thankful they hadn't lost their charm and warmth I felt the first time I visited. The food was delicious, our server was attentive and the atmosphere is on point. Walked away with 2 bottles of Olamendi's custom tequila and mezcal, both were worth the visit! This is what defines restaurants, Olamendi's feels like dining at a friend's house. 🥰
Beautiful beach setting, art museum interior, delicious drinks. I got a couple hibiscus mezcalritas that were beautiful and delicious. For dinner I got a tostada thinking it'd be small like they usually are, but it was massive. The size of a dinner plate. It was also the most delicious tostada I've ever had. We also bought a beautiful painting.
Great location and atmosphere, but the food (in our recent pickup order) did not justify the prices. My wife received the wrong item, I called to let them know we received the wrong entree and the Olamendi's team member told me to call back the following day. The steak in our other entree was way overdone and came with only three, small flour tortillas. The pozole rojo, refried beans, rice, salsa, and guacamole were all disappointingly bland. Chips were slightly stale. Overall, it felt like the flavors had been watered down rather than celebrating the depth, spice, and richness that make Mexican food so good. Disappointingly, not quite what we remember Olamendi's to be.
The server wasn't very friendly. We never received our soup with our meal. Luckily they gave us a flan for free in place of the soup. The pozole verde wasn't even green and had no flavor. None of the food had much flavor. Then while my daughter was eating her birria burrito there was a giant bay leaf left in it which made her end up getting sick later on our way home. When I showed it to the employee after my daughter found it there was no apology.We got the premium margaritas and they were very watered down and little flavor. All of the glassware was plastic and looked very tattered. Overall the food was tasteless and the service was not good. The only thing that was nice about this place was the decor and the hostess who was very kind and welcoming. The prices were high for the quality you get. I will not be returning and would not recommend this place to anyone.