Montage Laguna Beach’s signature dining room has always carried an air of exclusivity, perched above the Pacific with sweeping views and a reputation for world-class hospitality. After opening quietly this summer to resort guests only, the reimagined Studio Mediterranean will officially debut to the public on October 10 — with reservations now live.
Helmed by esteemed Greek native Executive Chef Dennis Efthymiou, the restaurant reflects his culinary journey from Michelin-starred kitchens in Europe to celebrated global destinations such as Central in Lima and The Fat Duck in the UK. Efthymiou brings his heritage to the forefront, curating a seasonal menu rooted in sustainability, with responsibly sourced seafood from the Mediterranean Sea and California coast, complemented by produce flown in from Greece and grown locally in California.
Standout dishes include a tableside horiatiki salad of heirloom tomatoes, barrel-aged feta, and oregano; coffee salt–baked branzino carved tableside; charred octopus with saganaki sauce; and a whimsical baklava ice cream sundae with pistachio ice cream, honey, and pastry shards. Mezze such as edamame bean hummus with basil oil, garlic tahini with raw vegetables, and house-baked yogurt pita set the stage for meals that blend authenticity with innovation.
The beverage program mirrors the menu’s Mediterranean spirit. Under the guidance of Sommelier Gary Sullivan, the wine list emphasizes Greek and European vineyards alongside California standouts. Cocktails highlight regional flavors and local ingredients: the Cyclades Martini with Mediterranean herbs, the Odyssey with ouzo and kumquat-cello, and the Palia Plaka with rye, Metaxa, and vermouth.
The dining experience extends beyond the menu. Studio Mediterranean’s refreshed design features natural woods, coastal hues, and modern furnishings, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing unobstructed Pacific views. The intimate Chef’s Table returns, seating just 14 guests for multicourse tastings guided by Efthymiou himself.
For those planning a coastal getaway, Montage has introduced a Culinary Escape Package, which includes a $300 dining credit at Studio Mediterranean, a complimentary view upgrade (based on availability), overnight valet parking, and a special food and beverage amenity.More than a renovation, this debut represents a new vision for Montage’s most iconic dining space. With its Mediterranean-influenced menu, robust wine and cocktail program, and a guest experience rooted in meaningful connection, Studio Mediterranean marks a new chapter in Coastal Orange County dining. Reservations are now open — just in time for its October 10 public unveiling.
