Olamendi's Mexican Restaurant

34660 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point - 92624
470 reviews
Mexican New Mexican Cuisine
(949) 661-1005

I ordered the carnitas enchilada with red sauce. One of the best enchiladas I have tasted. They didn't skimp on the filling like some restaurants are doing these days, so I appreciate that. The meat was tender, juicy & tasty.The corn tortilla they used for their enchilada was top gun. Thick, fresh and really made all the difference in the overall taste & enjoyment of eating my enchilada.The salsa was fresh, and I wanted to eat more, but it was too hot for my taste buds. It would be nice if Olamendi's would offer two different types of salsa that includes a medium heat.All said, I had a pleasant dining experience, servers + staff were friendly & attentive, + a nice relaxing atmosphere.

This iconic restaurant used to be one of my favorites. It is now operated like a fast food restaurant. The only thing that feels like a full-service restaurant are the prices.

COMPLETELY UNSATISFIED! I am a real Mexican and this food was not. Unfortunately this place would be a disappointment to any authentic Mexican. The food lacked all the flavor. I got the potato and the carnitas tacos. My husband had carne asada and not even the most basic food was good, the meat had absolutely no seasoning. $57 for 2 plates and regular drinks is definitely over priced for this restaurant. The food was horrible I will never go back ! don’t waste your time and money on this. Bad representation of what Authentic Mexican food is. And the service was also terrible, the waitresses showed no friendliness, they look disappointed to be there as well. Bad service ? they need new waitresses and definitely a new cook!

Stopped by for dinner tonight since we ended up staying in the area. We were going to stop regardless, because 17 years ago when we stayed next door, we went for dinner and had a great meal. Tonight was just as good. Last time they had servers, but some time over the last 17 years, they went to counter service; you order at the counter and they bring it to you. My wife wasn't very hungry so she had the cheese enchilada which was good. I had the pollo a la Veracruzana, which was the dish they made for Nixon. It was excellent! Prices are not bad and swing by if you are in the area.

Great service and great food and drinks ??

We stayed right next door and ate here twice. The staff was friendly with prompt service. The interior is totally decorated with photo's of President Nixon and other celebrities who have been there. There are extensive decorations with the "Day of the Dead" theme. The food however was a disappointment. It was dry and did not seem very fresh. I saw delivery trucks from Tijuana Produce Co. Hmmm.

I rarely get up to this part of town anymore but had my S.O. with me so we stopped on the way back from Placentia. Amazing food. And they have their own signature tequila! The bartender gave us a free taste so we ordered some drinks it was so good.

It’s understandable how this place has been in business since 1973. Good authentic Mexican food… the kind Nona use to make. Right along the roadway. Sweet dog friendly patio. And a great place to watch the sunset. You go in, order your food at the counter, and they bring it out to you. Chips and salsa are included. We didn’t get a chance to try the margaritas… However, people around us were enjoying them and had no complaints but many laughs. I highly recommend stopping by here For the food and the ambience and the beautiful surrounding of the great Pacific Ocean. Great customer service too!!

One of the best places! Even being understaffed on a weekend, they were quick and friendly and accommodating. The owner's son/bartender was an amazing influence on the good vibes from this place. The salsa was delicious and tasted very fresh. And our food was DELICIOUS. Im not a tequila drinker, but the margaritas were goooood. Definitely coming back!

I can tell the place has a local reputation. I love that they have a good amount of vegan options. Food was very sub-par though. Nothing special. Service was also inadequate. I was expecting a sit-down restaurant but it felt more like a Rubio’s. Disappointing overall.