I love Shelter! I've been going to the Mammoth location for years, so I was excited to check out the new Dana Point spot. The spirits are next level, and Gin the Third is a personal favorite (if you know, you know). The food was just as impressive. I loved that the menu is different from the Mammoth location, with more variety and an excellent selection of seafood. We had the octopus, which was the most tender I've ever had, the fish tacos were fantastic, and the ceviche was absolutely incredible. The space itself is beautiful too. It's open and inviting, with two bars and a laid-back atmosphere that still feels elevated and thoughtfully designed. 10/10. I'll definitely be back. read more

Shelter Distilling - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Dana Point, California

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We had an amazing experience at the Dana point location of Shelter! The drinks were great, as well as the food. We tried the crib, sierra sunrise, Hugo spritz, maple whiskey sour, and some of the beer. We got the garlic Parmesan fries, smash burger, artichoke hearts, fish tacos, and buttered noodles. We would order everything again. The outdoor bar is a great space to enjoy the great weather and catch a game on one of the many tv's. The service was great and they made sure we had everything we needed. We will definitely be back! read more

Shelter Distilling - The crib - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Dana Point, California

We had an excellent experience at Shelter on opening night. It's a major improvement over Stillwater. The food and drinks were fantastic. Pricing was very reasonable considering the area...I felt like our food and drinks were appropriately priced. It is a must try and a welcomed addition to Dana Point! read more

Shelter Distilling - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Dana Point, California

I was SO excited when I heard Shelter Distilling was opening in Dana Point because we visit their Mammoth location all the time. Shelter is hands down my favorite go-to spot in Mammoth for drinks and food, so I already knew they knew what they were doing. And the new Dana Point location did not disappoint! The food is crazy good. Their hot wings are a must, and their tacos are so unique and delicious. They use a naan-style bread instead of a traditional tortilla, which makes them completely different from the tacos you get everywhere else. Their cocktails are also incredible, and since Shelter is actually a distillery making their own spirits, the drinks are a huge part of what makes this place special. The new Dana Point location has such a cool upscale but homey vibe. It feels elevated without being stuffy, and it's the kind of place you could go for date night, dinner with friends, or just sit at the bar for really good cocktails and food. For so many reasons, you just have to go here. Great food, amazing drinks, a really cool atmosphere, and a team that already has a proven concept in Mammoth and knows exactly what they're doing. I'm so happy to have Shelter Distilling in Dana Point now. If you're looking for a great new restaurant in Dana Point, craft cocktails, tacos, wings, or a fun spot for dinner and drinks, this one absolutely needs to be on your list. 100% one of our new go-to spots! read more

Just ok. The food was good. My boyfriend ordered the burger and fries and so I picked on his food and it was fine. My lackluster rating is more so for the vibe. Interior feels a little sterile, not very inviting. Outdoor bar is kind of plain. Feels unfinished for some reason. The bartender was kind of rude. The bar was maybe about half full. I was sitting there for several minutes while my boyfriend was closing out the indoor tab and nothing. No acknowledgement.The bartender did make eye contact with me but she quickly turned away not even a "I'll be with you in a second". So we left. I guess I'm making the mistake of comparing to Stillwater which was one of my favorite places in Dana. I was expecting them to recreate what was there but that's not what happened. Also, they need a better selection of liquor. Just their brand doesn't cut it for me. read more

Excited to welcome this spot to the area! They did a great job with the renovation on this space, if you've been when it was Stillwater you'll see how much better it looks now. The ambiance was great, and there's lots of seating both indoor and outdoor. Our waiter was very friendly and sweet, she helped us pick some cocktails to try and we both loved ours! We were wanting a sweeter cocktail so we ended up getting the Sierra Sunrise which was fantastic! We started with the crispy artichoke hearts which came with a lemon ranch dressing for dipping. Those were solid, I liked the pieces that were softer and cooked more as opposed to the harder pieces of artichoke. For our mains I tried the Smashburger and my friend had the Jalapeño cream cheese burger. My friend enjoyed her meal, but the smashburger was not something I would order again here. I love a good smashburger but I found this one very dry. I also didn't like how loaded the buns were with sesame seeds, now that I know they have other bun options I would recommend getting a plain bun. I loved the sweet potato fries and the ranch they serve it with is insanely good! I'm not even the biggest fan of ranch but this stuff is next level, even better than wing-stop! Definitely worth coming by and grabbing a couple drinks and bites read more

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Visited for a beer and bite on Sunday. Like the new interior and is a step up from the old place that was there before. They were out of the beer my husband wanted so he had to have something else. I liked my pale ale. We split the chicken sandwich and upgraded to sweet potato fries. The chicken on the sandwich was overcooked and thus very dry. The sweet potato fries were lukewarm and had no seasoning. The bartender on duty was friendly and efficient. So may come back for a beer or cocktail....but probably wont be back for a meal. read more

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When we seated ourselves at the outside bar, the assigned female bartender was energetically engaging with other guests. I consider myself extremely patient; however, it became disquieting when we didn't receive any acknowledgement from her, whatsoever of our presence, yet she cheerfully greeted and acknowledged guests seated after us. We considered leaving if we received the same treatment inside. Moving indoors turned our experience into a fun-&-positive one; the atmosphere, vibe, and clientele was more suitable for us. Stacey immediately greeted us upon sitting, and was a fabulous ambassador for this new restaurant. Their cocktails consist of their own spirits, in which we tried their Vodka & Soda and Old Fashioned. In addition, we ordered Spirit Flights (starting at $12+, based on selection). Off the food menu, we enjoyed: - Mahi Mahi Tacos on their house-made Flour Tortillas (1 Grilled, 1 Tempura), $17.00 - Fish & Chips, $19.00 Fun experience, indoors. We understand that they're working on starting weekend entertainment. Looking forward to returning to try their other menu items. read more

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We came here for a friends & family soft opening. Dana Point is about to get a great new hangout spot that is huge! They have an indoor and outdoor bar area, tons of TVs, comfortable seating, and a cool vibe. The food we tried was fantastic granted they didn't have everything up and running quite yet. The octopus was very tender and creative, the chicken wings had a perfect fry on them, and the pork belly Bao buns had a great flavor. Don't sleep on the Mississippi white bbq sauce with the wings or the ranch. Both of these sauces were amazing! The spirit selection is strong, especially if you like whiskey. Sean got our drinks dialed in for us and the whiskey flight I sampled was very nice. The single malt was delicious and the Embers peaked whiskey was a nice take for someone who likes a Scotch. I'd highly recommend this place, especially if you're looking to catch a game. read more

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Visited opening night and the atmosphere was vibrant. Music was not drowning out the conversations of the nearly full dining room. Outdoor bar and seating were not quite ready for guests but can tell there's a great view of the coast. Outdoor area apppears to welcome your furbabies. We shared the garlic fríes, a burger with fries and I sampled the whiskey and bourbon taster flight. All spirits distilled on sight and they also serve their own beer along a nice menu of drafts from other breweries. Wines appear to be the only non-Shelter item on the menu. I'm sure everything will be worked out by end of summer. Worth a drive, prepare to walk as parking is like a typical beach community. read more

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We came to Shelter on 4th of July and had a great experience! We were walking around the lantern district trying to buy some time before finding a spot at the harbor for the fireworks that evening. They had just opened a few days ago and the inside and outside areas were super clean and welcoming. The staff were very kind and knowledgeable of the menu and the different options for beers/wine. For the area of town, the prices were more than reasonable and the portion sizes were huge! I ordered the fish and chips and it was amazing. The fish was more meat than batter, fried perfectly, and came with a trio of different dipping sauces. I am not normally a beer person, but I figured I had to try some out since it's a distillery. I had the beer flight to try some of the popular beers and they were pretty good and a good price for what you get. I can easily see this place getting packed on football/game nights. Looking forward to exploring the menu some more! read more

Shelter Distilling - Fish and Chips - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Dana Point, California

I have been begging for a good cocktail bar with an outside patio and my dream has finally come true. Was sooo excited to see my favorite cocktail from the Mammoth location in the menu!! Fries and shishito peppers were . read more

Shelter Distilling - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Dana Point, California

We ordered grilled octopus, branzino (grilled fish) and smash burger. Octopus was grilled to perfection. Very tender not chewy. Mini Potato's on the side helped with this appetizer. The branzino was excellent with the perfect amount of spices perfect taste when correctly grilled. No bones at all!!! Double beef Smash burger was surprisingly tasty. I have had many smash burgers and this is one of the great ones for the price. Slightly crispy on the outside juicy in the inside. The buns was just the right amount not soggy pan cooked in the inside helped with the taste. I had some beer (rice and Mexican) and tasted good with no bitterness. Pricing is good for the food and drinks. Service was friendly and courteous. Ambiance is what you would see in a distillery, very clean and organized. Definitely will be back with my family. Parking is ample from side of the road to the inside parking. read more

I was excited to see the new business in the former Stillwater location, and the upgraded interior did not disappoint. The patio area has the same relaxed vibe with new tables and chairs, the interior is beautiful with a huge bar that you'd expect to find in a high end hotel. Our server was fun and lively, we had an Espress Yourself martini and a flight. My boyfriend enjoyed the flight but the espresso martini was very disappointing with no cream layer and a lack of depth of flavor. Our server said they are in the process of refining their recipes; this is not a rare cocktail and they should have done their homework before they offer substandard classics. read more

Shelter Distilling - Espress Yourself espresso martini - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Dana Point, California

This place is rad! Had the best dirty martini in my life! Forget the standard mainstream vodka, this distillery distills their own ultra clean vodka, tastes great and no hangover! Not to mention the cool vibe they have going on. Dana Point is stoked to have an awesome new hang out. Pro tip: Try the Boa Bun tacos read more

Great patio and a solid place to watch sports. Have had a few food items on the menu, overall the food is alright. If you're a wine drinker, the wine list is ok, and something to note is that there is no champagne or sparkling wine yet - I hope they offer that soon. I'll def be back to grab a drink and watch sports. read more

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This is a great new place!! Loved the cocktails The food The service Thank you Weston! You're a gem!!! You never stopped the whole time we were there!!! read more

I was really looking forward having a new place to go to for a few drinks and dinner. I stopped by for a drink to check it out and got the flight of beers, mainly the IPA's. I was really disappointed with the selections. There wasn't one beer that would bring me back here. I get having your own "brand" but if this is the only selections you'll be offering then there are too many choices in Dana to go to. My wife asked for a taste of one of the beers and it cost $4.00! When do you charge for a taste? Changes are needed. I hope you do bring in more of a selection because there is nothing you have, with the opinion of a few others who have stopped by, to bring me back. Good luck. read more

We were excited to check out Shelter Distilling and have already been twice--once for lunch and once for dinner. That's probably the best endorsement we can give after only one week! The food has been consistently excellent. The smash burger was incredibly flavorful with that rich, umami goodness you're hoping for. The meat and mash is comfort food at its best--a meat-and-potatoes lover's dream. And the chopped salad? Honestly, better than most I've had. I cleaned the plate. A heads-up on the bar: since Shelter is a distillery, all of the spirits are their own. Don't expect to order your favorite liquor brand, and some classic cocktails aren't possible because they don't carry every type of spirit. Instead, go in with the mindset of trying what they make, and you'll appreciate the experience much more. The outdoor bar is still the great neighborhood gathering spot it's always been, but the biggest surprise was the indoor bar. It's been completely transformed--larger, brighter, and so much more inviting. Great food, a beautiful space, and a wonderful addition to the neighborhood. We'll definitely be back! read more

We've been to the one in Montrose and MM so had to give this one a try today / Sunday Sat at the bar Food was amazing just like the other two locations I had ceviche and peppers and my husband smash burger with sweet potato Fries. Prices were very reasonable, service was great we'll be back, drinks were great as well, read more

I know I shouldn't let one server ruin my experience, but unfortunately she did. I'll probably give this place another chance and just hope I don't get the same server. They can't make a Moscow Mule or anything not on the drink menu, according to our server. The service was incredibly slow. We waited about 30-40 minutes for our first drinks, and every time we needed something, we had to flag our server down. Completely inattentive. At one point, she even walked away while my boyfriend was still ordering like speaking to her and she just walked away. She later apologized for something (she didn't clarify for what) and offered us complimentary churros, but when she found out our drink orders were correct, she said "oh no free churros tonight then" I was livid at that point. She was completely unaware of how bad of a job she was doing. We were there for two hours and only managed to get two drinks each. So disappointed with the whole experience. read more

We had high hopes for this new restaurant, but unfortunately it was a disappointment, and we probably won't be back. The renovation is absolutely beautiful. The interior is a complete transformation of the old restaurant, and they've created a gorgeous space. We chose to sit outside at the bar to enjoy a warm summer evening, which was probably the highlight of the experience. The biggest letdown was the food and drinks. If I had to rate the food, I'd give it about a 5 out of 10. Even worse were the house-made tequila and vodka. I ordered a vodka martini, and it was honestly the worst-tasting vodka martini I've ever had. The party of three seated next to us had also ordered cocktails, and we ended up talking about how unpleasant the alcohol tasted, so it wasn't just us. I ordered the Asian chicken salad, which arrived with maybe two tablespoons of shredded, overcooked chicken on what was essentially a large bowl of cabbage and lettuce. The spicy Asian dressing was extremely spicy--even for someone who enjoys spicy food. I asked the bartender if the amount of chicken was typical, and he was very kind and brought me additional chicken from the kitchen. His service was excellent and appreciated. My friend ordered the $27 branzino. While the fish itself was nicely presented on a wooden plank and was about 6-8 ounces, that's literally all that came with it--no sides or accompaniments. If you're considering ordering it, be aware that you'll need to order additional items if you want a complete meal. For one of the most expensive entrées on the menu, it was very underwhelming. It's unfortunate because the restaurant itself is beautiful, and we really wanted to love it. Hopefully they improve the quality of the food and especially the cocktails. Until then, we won't be returning. read more

came to shelter distilling for the first time today and was very impressed! To start, we got the buffalo and the bourbon wings, and for the entrée the Portobello mushroom burger. We also got espresso martinis for our drinks! The food and drinks were both AMAZING, tons of flavor and portions were good. But really made this experience above and beyond was our service by megan. She was happy to help with tons of suggestions and made sure that we were more than well taken care of. definitely won't be our last time coming. read more

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My favorite new place in Dana Point! We love visiting Shelter Distilling in Mammoth and are so glad to have one closer to home. The restaurant is beautifully designed with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating - perfect for large groups. The food is delicious and has no seed oils, plus the drinks are spectacular. Fast service and an upscale local vibe. Everyone had a great time. Can't wait to go back! read more

Stopped by in the morning before a walk and it ended up being a great way to kick off the day. I was looking for something light and refreshing, so I ordered the Brew With A View Rice Lager. It was crisp, clean, and had a subtle fruity note that it hit the spot. It's refreshing without being heavy and was exactly what I wanted before spending time outdoors. I'd happily order this again anytime before a walk or on a warm day. The vibe was just as enjoyable as the beer. We chose to sit at the bar since the weather was warm and sunny. I also took a peek inside, and the space is modern and clean for a distillery. read more

Great addition to Dana point! I got the chicken wings and they were delicious! Great atmosphere being outside, has some tvs to watch sports. I'll most definitely be returning! read more

Shelter Distilling - Chicken wings - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Dana Point, California

What a joy discovering Shelter! We decided to try the old Stillwater and we are so happy to find the menu variety and drinks delicious! The outdoor atmosphere is is conducive to conversation and delightful cool breezes! Come and see! The service is superb as we were blessed with Haley providing the perfect balance of attention and distance. You won't be disappointed! read more

My husband and I have lived in Dana Point for 22 years. We tried Shelter Distillery for the 1st time today. Our feedback is, the food is mediocre and the prices are very expensive. This is a brand new place in Dana Point. Even to try a taste of beer it is $4!!! Most places would at least let you taste a small amount before pouring a full glass. Beers are $8.50 for a pint. Not too bad, but if you don't drink beer you might have an issue with ordering a cocktail for $12-$18, most being $16-$18. They also do not have any hard seltzers or ciders. Hopefully they will still have bands play here like they did at Stillwater, but it will probably be more like a singer with a guitar, based on their layout. I was told that even if they have music they will not stay open later than 11 PM. Most nights it will be 9 PM. The staff seems nice, but they do not do a good job of clearing empty glasses and dirty plates. Not good if you are charging $18 for a burger and $18 for a cocktail to go with the burger. Overall, disappointment after waiting so long for this place to open up. Additionally to seal fate, is that they overcharged us each beer we ordered by $.50. The menu states $8.50, but they charged us $9.00. I think it's fair to say that the only way we would come back here is if they have a good band. read more

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Great outdoor atmosphere. Had the ceviche shared plate and mahi tacos. Both were solid!

We were really looking forward to this place opening but we're sadly disappointed. The ambiance is fairly simple and lacking in the wow factor. The drink menu is very limited. They can't and won't make anything other than what is on the menu. We want options. Couldn't get an apple martini.....that is a standard drink. The cocktail I did have was nothing to write home about. And the price for it, wow! You charge that much and it was underwhelming. Food? Yeah the menu is lacking too. So much for a cool neighborhood spot. They need to up there game if they want repeat customers. Also don't bother with their Instagram, they don't reply to anyone at all. Please do better! read more

I had signed up for Shelters email list several months ago so I would know when the Dana Point location would open. I had sent 2 replies to emails asking the progress on the restaurant - no reply. I went to their website and filled in the contact us page 3 times asking about the Dana Point location - no answer. I read that Shelter Distilling had opened a couple weeks ago and was glad. I went to their website, specifically to the Dana Point location and looked for a phone number or reservation link, none found! I dropped to the the bottom of the page and saw an email for Dana Point, so I sent an email asking about a phone number and where to make a reservation - no reply. I went to their Instagram page and left a private message asking the same question - no reply! I can't understand why a business like this refuses to contact a person wanting info?! I will not show up at a restaurant in DP without a reservation. I find the lack of courtesy by this business is inexcusable! read more

Just the spot Dana point needed - if you like food or drinks, this is the place you need to go to! Can't wait to see all the success it has and not to mention a great location! Also, try the smash burger! read more

Great lunch spot. We had salads and white wine and they were great. Also, the artichoke hearts are a must try. Service was a bit slow but the patio was awesome. They also do not use seed oils read more

We're local and loyal to this location, so we'll be back when they have real alcohol. Update: Appreciate the reply and we look forward to the upcoming changes. read more

Super disappointing. Sat at the outside bar and ordered two cocktails and the fried artichoke appetizer. Cocktails came fairly quickly. After that no one check on us and 30 minutes later we flagged down the bartender and asked about the appetizer. She had someone chase it down and it came out piping hot so seems the order had been over looked. Sadly, they were so tasteless, we thought they were pieces of potato. I see a few other reviewers loved them so maybe in the rush to get our order out perhaps didn't season them. Unfortunately, we'll never know because we won't be returning. read more

As longtime Stillwater customers from the very first day they opened their doors, we were excited to experience this new restaurant and distillery--but we also came in recognizing that this is an entirely new concept, with a fresh identity, vision, menu, and atmosphere. After giving them a little time to work through the normal growing pains that come with opening any new restaurant, my wife and I stopped in for lunch today, and they absolutely nailed it. Everything we experienced--from the food and drinks to the service--was top-notch. Megan was our server and she was extremely attentive and very friendly. The transformation of the space is incredible. The interior design, attention to detail, and overall energy have completely elevated the atmosphere. They did a fantastic job utilizing the space, and the finished product definitely has a wow factor. I highly encourage everyone in the community to give this new establishment a chance and experience it with an open mind. This is not the old Stillwater--it is something completely new, and that should be celebrated. I truly believe it will continue to get even better as they grow, listen to the community, and bring their bigger plans to life. We are excited to see what is ahead and are absolutely here for it. Today was a lunch date for my wife and me, but next time we will definitely be bringing the kids! read more

I have now been here 4 times. The restaurant is very nice inside and out. The outdoor bar is fun unless you are in the sunny part, then it can be quite uncomfortable. There was no happy hour menu last time I was there. As noted in previous reviews they make their own beers and spirits and a sample of these will cost $4 a piece. I had the tempura shrimp tacos which were ok but I would probably not have them again as they were smothered in cream-a. I am not a fan of the beers and their vodka has an unusual flavor. Freddy is the best bartender there and the service from the other staff is hit and miss. Overall this place is ok and they have only been open about a month so some of these things will probably be resolved in the near future. read more

It's a new place in town, so they have could improve going forward. They only their own liquor - no top shelf or name brands. For those folks that enjoy cocktails this is definitely not the place for you to enjoy a few drinks at the outdoor bar with friends. Chicken wings were over overcooked. Fried artichoke were hearts quite yummy. A few bartenders didn't appear classy. New places need to meet the standards of local competition to provide a welcoming atmosphere as well as good food and drinks. read more

Looked forward to the opening since it was announced. They did a nice job refreshing the old Stillwater as it needed a face lift. That said, food was flavorful. I enjoyed the octopus, but paying $20 for 1 tentacle was a little pricey. The smash burger and fish and chips were good. Recognizing that they are a distillery, they need to expand liquor offerings beyond their own brand. Having to leave and go down the street to another establishment offering a full bar to get a Grey Goose martini is a bad look. If you are looking for an Aperol Spritz, don't go to Shelter, they don't have Aperol or champagne. read more

Great food! All the whisky you can think of and great place to sit outside to enjoy the evening!