Dana Point boasts its share of standout fast food joints, and Pacific Coast Highway should be bookmarked if you’re craving the best quick bites in town. That said, there are stellar options tucked inland too. So, whether you’re hunting for the ultimate fish tacos or a drive-thru that can satisfy a hungry surf crew, this updated list has you covered.
El Pollo Loco
$ | (949) 443-0506 | WEBSITE
At El Pollo Loco in Dana Point, the drive-thru steals the show. The efficient service has friendly cashiers and a prompt greeting, and our favourite part of the whole thing is the tasty chicken that’s always presented well. The fast-food restaurant is a pleasant-feeling, clean spot—all soft fun music and attention to customer needs—where the high-quality food matches the reasonable price tag. Get the half chicken too, though be aware the portion can be small with more bone and skin than meat.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (949) 304-1600 | WEBSITE
Just a short stroll from the Dana Point shoreline, Jersey Mike’s Subs is one of the city’s essential fast food stops. There’s often a line snaking through this bright, casual sandwich shop, and its handful of outdoor tables are filled with beachgoers grabbing quick lunches or locals seeking reliable midday fuel. The number seven sub and secret menu item 99 are essential orders. The former is piled high with fresh ingredients and the latter is a consistently satisfying and flavor-packed bite.
Other highlights include the unique CPR cherry pepper relish and the clean, efficient service that makes every visit feel refreshingly straightforward.
Taco Bell
$ | (949) 248-0910 | WEBSITE
We like a formula. And this one’s pretty straightforward, reliably consistent, and all in the name. The Grilled Stuffed Burrito with steak at Taco Bell in Dana Point has got a value that would make for some truly satisfying fast food, and the drive-through processes orders quickly and accurately for consistently speedy service.
It’s a friendly spot with a does-the-job setup (read: basic seating that kind of feels like an afterthought), and is perfect for an in-and-out meal for one, or a casual bite with kids. The staff, especially Kathy V. with her exceptional conversation skills, creates a happy, entertaining environment that makes the cheap eats taste even better.
Subway
$ | (949) 429-5581 | WEBSITE
Mornings at Subway begin with the coffee-next-to-the-sandwich commuter crowd and end with families and friends trickling in to grab wraps and get handsy with veggie toppings. The fast food spot in Dana Point doesn’t go in for bells and whistles when it comes to decor, save for a few bright lights that bounce off fresh ingredients. And despite efficient service humming behind the counter, it’s more calm than chaotic in atmosphere. But the satisfying, customizable sandwiches will lure you back.
Skip basic options like overly simple turkey subs and load up on excellent choices with spicy Italian, balanced veggie delights, and fresh online orders.
McDonald’s
$ | (949) 661-2643 | WEBSITE
When you find yourself near Dana Point Harbor, having just come in from surfing, go to McDonald’s. This convenient fast food spot is easy to find and it’s easy to order, because the drive-thru service is standard. Cheeseburgers with familiar, consistent quality that come with hot fries are non-negotiable, though. The combo meal is filling, and will easily satisfy a hungry surfer who is using the McD app too. The $.99 cent coffee is the one to go for.
It includes a reliable pick-me-up after the waves, plus better deals like accurate orders, and friendly employees who know their regulars.
Las Golondrinas Mexican Food
$ | (949) 240-8659 | WEBSITE
Everyone who pulls up to Las Golondrinas is greeted like a regular, and everyone who drives away is already craving their next bean, rice, and cheese burrito. The Dana Point spot has the unassuming storefront and location of somewhere purely functional, but this is a cherished local haunt. Las Golondrinas’ staff might sometimes seem brusque on ordering, but the kitchen crew works magic, stuffing burritos with tender carne asada, or piling nachos high with the crispiest tortilla chips.
Come for a quick lunch and you’ll find a straightforward counter-service setup, where the scent of sizzling fajitas fills the air. Come hungry, though, Las Golondrinas is a place to feast, so be ready to dig in.
Carl’s Jr.
$ | (949) 661-3955 | WEBSITE
When the craving for a perfect fast-food burger hits, Carl’s Jr. delivers every single time. This isn’t just one of our go-to burger joints, it’s one of our favourite quick meals in Dana Point period. The scent of freshly grilled patties and crispy fries greets you as soon as you walk through the door—which should lead you straight to ordering the classic cheeseburger (obviously) and those perfectly salted fries.
It’s the kind of place you could bring your kids after soccer practice or your coworkers during a lunch break, and everyone would leave satisfied and smiling, thanks to the spotless dining area, amazingly kind staff like Silvestre and Agustina, and that consistently delicious food.
