Nestled in the heart of Laguna Beach, The Drake offers a dining experience that perfectly blends coastal charm with innovative culinary artistry. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning ocean views, The Drake’s menu captures the essence of Southern California’s fresh, diverse flavors.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxed brunch, a sophisticated dinner, or a casual gathering spot, the menu caters to a range of palates and occasions. Every dish reflects a commitment to quality ingredients, creative presentation, and a seamless fusion of tradition and modern trends.
From locally-sourced seafood to farm-fresh produce, The Drake’s menu highlights the best of what Laguna Beach has to offer. The culinary team skillfully balances comfort and elegance, creating dishes that are both approachable and exciting.
The menu’s versatility ensures that guests can enjoy everything from light bites to hearty entrees, all crafted with care and passion. As you explore the offerings, you will find an array of thoughtfully curated selections that encourage sharing and savoring every bite.
With an emphasis on seasonal changes and sustainability, The Drake’s menu is ever-evolving, keeping the dining experience fresh and inviting. This dynamic approach means visitors can expect something new and delightful with every visit, making it a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a vegetarian, or someone who appreciates artisanal cocktails paired with gourmet food, The Drake promises a memorable meal that delights all senses.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The Drake’s appetizer section serves as the perfect introduction to its culinary philosophy: fresh, flavorful, and full of character. Designed for sharing or solo indulgence, the small plates showcase a variety of textures and tastes that excite the palate without overwhelming it.
These starters provide a wonderful way to begin any meal or accompany a casual evening with friends.
Many of the appetizers highlight local ingredients, with an emphasis on sustainable seafood and seasonal vegetables. The menu often features items like crispy calamari, ahi tuna tartare, and roasted beet salads, each offering a unique combination of flavors and presentation.
These dishes are thoughtfully paired with house-made sauces and garnishes that enhance, rather than overpower, the main ingredients.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are plentiful in this section, reflecting The Drake’s commitment to inclusivity and guest preferences. Whether you’re craving something light or a more substantial bite, the appetizers provide a satisfying start that sets the tone for the rest of your dining experience.
Popular Appetizer Highlights
- Calamari Fritti: Lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection, served with a zesty lemon aioli.
- Ahi Tuna Tartare: Fresh ahi tuna diced finely, mixed with avocado, sesame seeds, and a soy-ginger dressing.
- Roasted Beet Salad: Roasted golden and red beets paired with goat cheese, candied pecans, and a balsamic reduction.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Button mushrooms filled with herbed cream cheese and topped with toasted breadcrumbs.
“The appetizers at The Drake are a celebration of the ocean’s bounty and the harvest of the land, crafted with an eye for detail and flavor harmony.” – Laguna Beach Food Review
Signature Entrées
The signature entrées at The Drake embody a refined approach to coastal cuisine, marrying classic techniques with contemporary twists. Each dish is thoughtfully created to highlight quality proteins and vibrant accompaniments, resulting in memorable plates that satisfy both comfort and sophistication cravings.
Whether it’s the perfectly seared fish or the tender, slow-cooked meats, the kitchen emphasizes balance and depth of flavor. Seasonal vegetables and unique starches often accompany the main proteins, lending color and texture to every plate.
These entrées reflect the restaurant’s dedication to using fresh, sustainable ingredients sourced from local farms and fisheries.
The menu caters to a diverse array of tastes, offering everything from seafood-centric dishes to hearty vegetarian options. The Drake’s culinary team constantly refines recipes to keep the menu exciting and aligned with current food trends, ensuring guests enjoy innovative flavors with every visit.
Entrée Comparison Table
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Recommended Pairing |
| Pan-Seared Sea Bass | Fresh sea bass, lemon butter sauce, asparagus | Light, buttery, citrusy | Chardonnay or crisp Sauvignon Blanc |
| Grilled Ribeye Steak | 12 oz ribeye, garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed greens | Rich, savory, smoky | Full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Vegetarian Risotto | Arborio rice, wild mushrooms, parmesan, truffle oil | Creamy, earthy, aromatic | Pinot Noir or dry Riesling |
| Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops | Lamb chops, rosemary-garlic crust, roasted root vegetables | Robust, herbaceous, hearty | Syrah or Malbec |
Each entrée is crafted to deliver a carefully balanced dining experience, from the first bite to the last.
Fresh Seafood and Shellfish
Laguna Beach’s coastal location makes The Drake a natural destination for seafood lovers. The menu’s seafood offerings highlight the freshest catches, prepared with respect for the ingredients’ natural flavors and textures.
From delicate shellfish to rich, meaty fish, the seafood section offers a variety of options to satisfy every craving.
Special attention is given to sustainability and seasonality, with many items sourced from local fishermen and trusted purveyors. The culinary team uses simple yet effective preparations such as grilling, steaming, and pan-searing, allowing the quality of the seafood to shine through.
Accompaniments often feature citrus, fresh herbs, and light sauces that complement rather than mask the delicate flavors.
The seafood dishes are perfect for those seeking a light and refreshing meal or a more indulgent culinary adventure. The Drake’s creative approach ensures that even classic dishes like clam chowder or fish tacos are elevated to new heights of flavor and presentation.
Seafood Specialties
- Oyster Rockefeller: Fresh oysters topped with spinach, parmesan, and breadcrumbs, baked until golden.
- Grilled Pacific Swordfish: Marinated in citrus and herbs, served with a mango salsa and jasmine rice.
- Seafood Cioppino: A hearty tomato-based stew with clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish, served with garlic bread.
- Crab Cakes: Lump crab meat blended with herbs and spices, pan-seared and paired with a remoulade sauce.
“The seafood at The Drake captures the very essence of Laguna Beach’s coastal flavors, fresh and vibrant with every bite.” – Coastal Dining Magazine
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
The Drake’s menu thoughtfully caters to vegetarian and vegan diners, offering a range of dishes that are as flavorful as they are wholesome. By leveraging fresh, seasonal produce and creative cooking techniques, the kitchen crafts meals that appeal not only to those avoiding animal products but to anyone seeking vibrant, nutrient-packed food.
These plant-based dishes emphasize texture and depth of flavor, using ingredients like roasted vegetables, legumes, grains, and nuts. The menu frequently rotates to reflect what is freshest and most flavorful throughout the year.
This approach keeps the options exciting and ensures that each visit offers something new to try.
Whether you’re in the mood for a light salad, a satisfying grain bowl, or a rich pasta dish, The Drake’s vegetarian and vegan selections deliver on taste and presentation. This commitment to inclusivity makes it a fantastic choice for groups with diverse dietary preferences.
Top Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes
- Quinoa-Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices, topped with avocado crema.
- Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff: Creamy cashew sauce with wild mushrooms and fresh herbs over gluten-free pasta.
- Grilled Vegetable Platter: Seasonal vegetables marinated and grilled, served with a tangy balsamic glaze.
- Roasted Cauliflower Tacos: Spiced cauliflower with cabbage slaw and vegan chipotle sauce in warm corn tortillas.
Each dish is designed to highlight the natural flavors and nutritional benefits of its plant-based ingredients.
Craft Cocktails and Beverage Selection
The Drake’s beverage program is an integral part of the dining experience, featuring a curated selection of craft cocktails, fine wines, and local beers. Mixologists focus on fresh ingredients, artisanal spirits, and balanced flavor profiles to create drinks that perfectly complement the menu’s dishes.
The cocktail list includes both classic concoctions and innovative creations unique to The Drake. Seasonal ingredients are often incorporated, reflecting the same commitment to freshness found in the kitchen.
Guests can expect everything from light, citrus-forward sips to rich, spirit-forward masterpieces.
Wine enthusiasts appreciate the carefully curated wine list, which emphasizes California vineyards while also offering international selections. The beer menu highlights local craft breweries, providing options for those who prefer a more casual drink.
Non-alcoholic options, including house-made sodas and fresh juices, round out the beverage offerings.
Featured Cocktails
- The Laguna Breeze: Vodka, fresh grapefruit juice, elderflower liqueur, and soda, garnished with a sprig of rosemary.
- Smoky Paloma: Mezcal, fresh lime, grapefruit soda, and a salted rim.
- Herbal Gin Fizz: Gin infused with basil and mint, lemon juice, and a splash of tonic water.
- Seasonal Sangria: Red or white wine, mixed with fresh seasonal fruits and a hint of brandy.
| Beverage Type | Flavor Profile | Ideal Pairings |
| Craft Cocktails | Varies from light and citrusy to bold and smoky | Appetizers and light entrees |
| Wines | Dry, fruity, earthy | Seafood, steak, vegetarian dishes |
| Local Beers | Crisp, hoppy, malty | Casual dishes and bar snacks |
Desserts and Sweet Treats
The dessert menu at The Drake offers a delicious conclusion to any dining experience, combining classic favorites with inventive twists. Each dessert is crafted to provide a balance of sweetness, texture, and presentation that delights the senses.
Many desserts incorporate seasonal fruits and house-made elements like custards, sauces, and baked goods. The offerings include rich chocolate creations, light fruit-based options, and indulgent pastries.
For those with dietary restrictions, there are also gluten-free and vegan sweet treats available, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying finale.
The dessert selections are ideal for sharing or savoring solo, often paired with dessert wines or specialty coffee drinks to enhance the flavors. The Drake’s pastry chefs take pride in creating visually stunning and palate-pleasing desserts that leave a lasting impression.
Popular Desserts
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm, gooey chocolate cake with a molten center, served with vanilla bean ice cream.
- Lemon Panna Cotta: Silky custard infused with lemon zest, topped with fresh berries and a mint garnish.
- Berry Crumble: Seasonal mixed berries baked with a crunchy oat topping, paired with whipped cream.
- Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding: Creamy coconut milk-based pudding with toasted coconut flakes and mango compote.
“Desserts at The Drake are a masterclass in balancing indulgence with freshness, perfect for ending a meal on a high note.” – Sweet Tooth Laguna
Special Dietary Accommodations
The Drake prioritizes guest comfort and inclusivity by providing a variety of options for those with special dietary needs. The kitchen is well-versed in accommodating allergies, gluten sensitivities, and other dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor or creativity.
Menu items are clearly marked for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan preferences, and staff are trained to guide guests through their choices with care. The restaurant also offers customizable dishes and substitutions to ensure everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.
This dedication to accommodating diverse dietary requirements enhances the overall dining experience, making The Drake a welcoming and accessible destination for all visitors.
Accommodations Overview
- Gluten-Free Options: Multiple appetizers, entrées, and desserts are available or can be modified to be gluten-free.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes: Clearly marked and thoughtfully prepared with fresh ingredients.
- Allergy Awareness: Staff trained to handle common allergens such as nuts, shellfish, and dairy.
- Customizable Plates: Options to adjust dishes for personal dietary needs upon request.
The Drake’s attentive approach ensures that dietary restrictions never hinder the enjoyment of a memorable meal.
Conclusion
The Drake in Laguna Beach offers more than just a meal; it presents an immersive culinary journey that celebrates the region’s rich flavors and vibrant culture. Its menu reflects a harmonious blend of fresh, sustainable ingredients and innovative cooking techniques, catering to a wide variety of tastes and dietary preferences.
From the thoughtfully crafted appetizers to the indulgent desserts, every dish exemplifies the restaurant’s passion for quality and creativity.
Whether you’re drawn by the enticing seafood, the inventive vegetarian options, or the expertly mixed cocktails, The Drake promises an experience that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Its attention to detail in accommodating special dietary needs and the commitment to seasonal freshness ensure that every visit feels personalized and special.
The Drake stands as a testament to Laguna Beach’s culinary excellence, offering a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where guests can savor exceptional food and create lasting memories.
For those seeking a destination that combines coastal beauty, innovative cuisine, and impeccable service, The Drake’s menu is a compelling invitation to indulge in the very best that Laguna Beach has to offer.
Each dish tells a story of passion, craftsmanship, and respect for the ingredients, making every meal here a true celebration of food and community.
