I will be meeting a friend when I visit. I am staying at the Inn at Laguna. Is there a place nearby for decent wine and lite appetizers? We don't want a full dinner, just a place with good atmosphere. Thanks.

topping

I'm tempted to suggest driving down to south Laguna to get drinks at the Montage Resort, but it sounds like you'd like to avoid a long drive.

Splashes at the Surf & Sand might fit the bill. Claes at the Hotel Laguna has a long, pricey wine list-- but I have no idea what the per-glass selections are. I would imagine they're good; their CA Meritage and Bordeaux selections go for several pages. Either place would have little plates for nibbling. Savoury's, at Casa del Camino, looks pretty good as well. All of these have nice atmosphere.

Thanks rjw~ I expected that you, as resident expert, might reply and have good suggestions. I'm hoping that the weather will be nice by the time we arrive, March 5, and with snow falling in my yard today here in Alaska, I'm sure it will be perfect.

Here is an idea - go to Trader Joe's, but some 2 Buck Chuck and some nice snacks and go set on the beach and watch the sun set.....will beat any bar.

jetset, I wouldn't say I'm an expert on Laguna-- I live in another nearby city and don't get down there nearly as much as I'd like. There ARE some experts from that area, and I'm hopeful they'll have other suggestions.

curt, that's not a bad idea at all. There's a Trader Joe's in the Crystal Cove Promenade, right on PCH just northwest of Laguna Beach (maybe 5-10 minutes driving). However, there are better choices there than the Two Buck Chuck. If they're selling Bear's Lair Cabernet, grab a few bottles; it's good cab at a bargain price. One thing to watch for: There are strict open liquor container laws in most public spaces in California, and you just need to watch out for police while you're noshing on Main Beach....

Hi-one of my favorite places is the outdoor deck at the Hotel Laguna -- looking over the ocean - it's great. Even if it's cool at night -- I recall they have heaters. It's really a peaceful, beautiful spot.

Even though this isn't a "wine" idea as you requested, my wife and I alway enjoy sitting outside on the patio at La Brisas and having a beer/margarita, etc. It has a beautiful view of the coast. Also, we did enjoy wine at the St Regis Monarch Beach Resort on their patio which is where we stayed.

Well, I'm no snob. Margaritas are perfectly acceptable. My friend is more the fine wine drinker, although I certainly appreciate it too.
Thanks for the new suggestions. I will keep them in mind. J.

I agree with the suggestion about the Hotel Laguna. They should have some good wines and the view is awesome. Food is good too! Across the street from Hotel Laguna is a place called The White House. I recommend this place for a fine wine and appetizers as well. It has good atmosphere and bands later in the evening. Las Brisas is also a good place for drinks and the view is awesome there too.
Have fun! Laguna Beach is one of my favorite places.

My friend and I had a nice time at this place; not sure how far it is from your hotel.

http://www.cestlavierestaurant.com/

jayne: Nice suggestion. It's a short walk past Main Beach from the Inn at Laguna.

Thanks to all.. we may have to try a couple and my dh can be the designated "wife walker"!