Best known for a variety of French continental cuisine, Gemmell’s Restaurant in Dana Point is officially closing on New Year’s Eve after nearly 25 years of serving the community.
Chef Byron Gemmell opened the restaurant in 2001 alongside his wife and business partner, Barbara Tagudar-Gemmell, and it quickly became a local favorite serving French cuisine.
“Saying goodbye is never easy. We appreciate the heartfelt support of our beloved patrons who’ve kept us going, and the Burnham-Ward Properties team’s efforts to help us close on our own terms, in our time,” Chef-owner Byron Gemmell said in an interview with Tori Hegner from The Ace Agency. “We look forward to sharing one last meal with each of you.”
After together dedicating more than a half-century to the restaurant industry and serving the Dana Point community, the business owners announced their retirement.
“We are ready to embrace our next chapter. We look forward to seeing what retirement holds for us,” Barbara Tagudar-Gemmell said. “We could not have made it this far without the tremendous dedication of our humble and loyal employees, many of whom have spent more than a decade of their careers with us.”
Tagudar-Gemmell expressed her gratitude for their team, including Edgar, Julian, Jovanni and Kevin.
Known as a great place with great service serving excellent meals, Gemmell’s developed a loyal customer base over the years, some of whom shared their experiences on the restaurant’s website.
Christopher King said, “Have been going here for years. Changes with Managers and staff have taken place, but the food is always good and the service is also good. Their lunch menu has a good selection and is priced right.”
“South Orange County’s best-kept secret. Byron Gemmell, formerly of La Cuisine fame, continues to perform his culinary magic to his discerning clients,” Jeffery V said.
The restaurant also has nearly 500 reviews on Yelp and 3.7 stars overall. Visitors shared photos and said the food was “unbelievable” and “delicious.” Others described the ambience, atmosphere and exceptional service and said it was a true hidden gem.
Jane I. said she dined at Gemmell’s three times last month and enjoyed the filet mignon, Chilean sea bass and angel hair pasta with shrimp.
“Still the best food in Orange County, and the martini pours are to the rim. Every meal is deliciously prepared with incredible sauces and care. Chef Byron never disappoints. Exceptional service, too,” Jane said.
New Dana Point Mayor John Gabbard echoed the sentiments of many. “Gemmell’s has been a staple serving our community in the Dana Point Harbor for the past 24 years,” Gabbard said. “My fellow councilmembers and I thank Byron and Barbara for sharing their delicious and innovative dishes with us and wish them all the best in retirement.”
Bryon Ward of Dana Point Harbor Partners invites the community to order a farewell meal in honor of the Gemmells and their legacy in Dana Point.
“While we are saddened to leave behind the many cherished memories of Gemmell’s Restaurant, we are grateful for the opportunity to have shared the past six years here,” Ward said. “There is no more beautiful or festive time to dine amidst their unparalleled holiday ambience.”
With nutcrackers, lights and garlands all decorating the building for the holiday season, diners can expect the same signature dishes Gemmell’s has always provided.
Gemmell’s is officially set to close on Wednesday, Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve. The restaurant is located at 34471 Golden Lantern St. in Dana Point. For reservations, call 949.234.0064 for parties of six or more. Holiday reservations are limited.
Dining and Cooking