Coffee Importers — Restaurant in Dana Point

We walked out of our way specifically to try this place. On the way we stopped at Beach Harbor pizza and ordered a few things to go. Once we arrived I sat my family down at a table and I stayed with the kids while my husband for in line to start ordering. We started with coffee, because I was tired so while I was waiting and he was ordering I let the kids snack on bread sticks and I tried some of the wrap we had gotten at the previous place. An employee, that seemed to probably be the manager, approached us to inform us that they didn't allow outside food there and that the tables were for paying customers. I was told that since it wasn't busy we could finish up and leave. I mentioned that my husband was in line ordering food and drinks and that we were waiting for him and he informed me again that we were "ok" this time and to just finish up. I packed up and left because honestly I was humiliated with how we were approached and I just wanted out of there. My husband walked up immediately after I started packing and stood back and watched kind of confused about why we were leaving before we had finished ordering. The man who had informed us that we weren't supposed to be there was rather loud about it and people were staring so we rushed out of there pretty fast, beverages in hand, and skipped out on ordering the bagels and acai bowls we had wanted to try. The food looked delicious but I haven't ever been that embarrassed in public before (in my adult life, and believe me kids can be hard to top sometimes). The worst part was that my 3 year old was so confused and kept asking me why we had to go so fast because he was hungry so I cracked and started tearing up in public. Walking past everyone with tears rolling down my face because the whole situation was alarming and uncomfortable. I am sure their food is excellent, the coffee was great but not worth the...

You know a place is the bee's knees when it's absolutely swarming at 9:30 AM on a Wednesday. Coffee Importers is clearly the hottest ticket in town, as evidenced by the intense competition for a table—especially if your dining companion happens to have four legs and a tail.

I can only assume the coffee is the absolute freshest in Dana Point, as it must be delivered daily via cargo ship, straight from the Pacific. It's a real treat to sit and ponder this logistical feat while enjoying the picturesque chaos of the harbor.

The whole ordering process is a masterclass in controlled pandemonium. It's a true test of one's patience and spatial awareness, as you navigate a thrilling obstacle course of dogs, strollers, and a bewildered clientele trying to figure out the mind-boggling concept of two separate lines. (Spoiler alert: one for drinks and pastries, one for food. It's not rocket science, folks.)

Once you've braved the lines, you're rewarded with a hefty #4 bagel sandwich, featuring a truly heroic portion of scrambled eggs—a solid return on your investment. The caramel mocha and iced latte were also very good, and I’m confident they were freshly liberated from their seafaring vessel just moments before. The lox and bagel was a fascinating culinary journey, with a whisper of lemon pepper that truly made it an unforgettable experience.

While there's no table service to speak of, the counter staff was friendly enough and impressively efficient given the circumstances. And a busser was even available to clear our table—a truly VIP touch.

My one regret is that we didn't get to enjoy the interior dining room and its lively fly population, but we made do with a prime patio seat. Be sure to grab a sleeve of day-old bagels on your way out. They’re a pretty good souvenir of your...

After reviewing past posts for Coffee Importers in Dana Point ..I can totally understand the:shocking behavior my family was exposed to this afternoon by Store Owner Jim Miller.

We have been customers of Coffee Traders for 40 years. Many coffees on the Harbor ..and now Ice Cream with the Grandbabies. Never ever anything unpleasant..until today.

We bought coffee and sat down at table. My son was going into left side of Coffee Importers to purchase a BLT. Unfortunately for me..I took a bite out of a burrito I was finishing up..Immediately Store Manager Jim Miller was at the side of our table. His body language was AGGRESSIVE and ANGRY. In a VERY RUDE LOUD voice he told us we could not eat other food there. I was shocked and embarrassed..and threw my food into my purse.

After I recovered from being mortified in public..i went into Coffee Traders to speak to Mr. Miller. He stated that we were the fourth table he had to confront this afternoon. So obviously he indeed was VERY ANGRY by the time he came over to us. He also said it was his business and he makes the rules. WOWWWW.

I am a teacher of small children. One of the first lessons they learn is "Use your nice words" Today would have been so different.. Maybe Kindergarten would be a good place to start ?

Restaurants and hospitality are tough . But they are just That. Hospitable. If you dont have any patience left TO SPEAK WITH RESPECT..its the same as teaching. TIME TO RETIRE.

And here is a picture of the sign you stated was posted so plainly It is on ground level partially behind a serving cart . Had it been in a prominent place..my Family would not have been a victim of anger and agressive behavior today.

Your restaurant requires more prominent signage. And less bullying behavior of its...