A New Seaside Jewel for the Senses

Lantern's Edge is now open at Laguna Cliffs Marriott in Dana Point

Few spots combine land and sea as stunningly as Dana Point. There, the Pacific glints like spilt silver and time appears to waft on the ocean air. It is understated elegance and natural beauty that has yachts moored along the harbor like gleaming pearls and sunsets that appear to be hand-painted by nature. Now, this stunning stretch of Southern California invites a new reason to stay a while. Lantern's Edge, the freshly reinvigorated signature restaurant of the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, is dinner and then some. It is a multi-sensory experience in which ocean views and refined coastal cuisine unite in perfect marriage.

An Environment That Makes Each Bite Better

Perched on a bluff overlooking sweeping vistas of Dana Point Harbor and the boundless Pacific beyond, Lantern's Edge was created to awe without distraction. Its Mediterranean-inspired interiors echo the environment with warm tones, soft furnishings, and ocean sophistication. The ambiance is simply chic and irresistible. Whether arriving in resort dress after a morning spa treatment or dressing up for an evening of romance watching the sunset, guests will be utterly at home.

It's more than a restaurant. It's a destination to arrive at to stop, indulge, and be transported by the hour.

A Menu That Tastes Like Land and Sea

Led by Chef de Cuisine Kristine Davis, the kitchen creativity at Lantern's Edge is as profound as the scenery. The menu is an elegant expression of California abundance with Mediterranean influence, and each dish is a love letter to the freshness of the region and a salute to the coastal lifestyle.

The dinner starts with appetizers such as the Hamachi Crudo, a perfectly balanced combination of the yellowtail tuna that has been kissed with gin and ponzu. A whimsical calpico chili foam is served with charcoal-grilled strawberries, radish, puffed rice, and shiso to produce a stunning and light start. No less intriguing are the Grilled Maitake Mushrooms, earthy umami piled high with smoked whipped feta, bright Fresno vinaigrette, and the delicate crunch of salsify crisps and bonito flakes.

To complement the dish, Wagyu Flat Iron adds rich, satisfying depth, served with pea tendrils and snap peas in a rich au poivre. Seafood lovers will enjoy the Branzino, which comes with guajillo piperade, confit leek, celeriac soubise, and potato. Each dish is masterfully composed, balancing flavor and texture to reflect the harmony of surrounding water and land.

The Art of the Cocktail

To pair with the food, Lantern's Edge boasts a cocktail menu that is its own story. The Smoke and Spice indulges the curious palate in Del Maguey Mezcal, ginger, lemon, chili liqueur, and orange bitters for a smoky, citrusy adventure. The Bananavardier, a Negroni-inspired variation, brings a richer note with Whistlepig Bourbon, Campari, banana liqueur, and Amontadillo Sherry. Each sip is a thoughtful interpretation of the classics, so it is no issue to linger between courses or toast golden hour as it sets the ocean ablaze.

A Destination to Suit Every Occasion Lantern's Edge is not only for overnight visitors. It invites neighbors and visitors alike through its open-door policy to share the good things of life. Whether it's hosting an intimate party, a decadent brunch, or an unplanned dinner with a view, the restaurant's ambiance and service are commensurate with the occasion.

Dinner is available Tuesday to Saturday from 5 to 10 pm, and this is the perfect way to unwind following a hot day on the beach. Brunch enthusiasts and early risers will enjoy the additional benefit of breakfast being available every day from 6:30 to 11 am, with weekend brunch offered Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm. These leisurely brunches promise something greater than eggs and espresso. Visitors will be treated to fresh seafood, prime rib, and bottomless mimosas accompanied by side dishes of sea breeze and sunshine.

The Signature of a Coastal Icon

The incorporation of Lantern's Edge adds another dimension to the extensive history of Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Decades have passed since the resort has been admired for its red-tiled Victorian-inspired buildings and stunning ocean views. As a favorite retreat, the resort offers serenity and refinement. With 378 stylish guest rooms, two oceanfront pools, and a 14,000-square-foot spa, the hotel already offers relaxation with luxury.

And lastly, with the grand opening of Lantern's Edge, the resort brings a world-class dining experience that will be a signature of Dana Point's culinary cuisine.

Where Community Intersects Coastal Sophistication

Ben Ly, Laguna Cliffs' General Manager, speaks to the vision for the restaurant as amenity and community hub. "We're not just pleased to offer an upscale retreat in which to relax and renew, but a distinctive dining experience with the town's finest views," he says. Lantern's Edge' opening shows a commitment not just to the resort guest but to the community at large. This is a table for world travelers and community tastemakers alike. 

A Place to Savor More Than a Meal 

There are eateries that feed you a meal and eateries that feed you memories. Lantern's Edge is going for the latter. Here, the ringing of glasses, the creative way courses are presented, the breathtaking ocean view all come together to give you an experience worth remembering. It is where a meal is a celebration and a sunset is a tale. For those who are drawn by the idea of dining where sea and sky come together and where every detail is a reflection of a commitment to excellence, Lantern's Edge is a one-of-a-kind experience. A new reason to return to Dana Point. A new standard for ocean dining. A new chapter in Laguna Cliffs' luxury lifestyle.

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