Dana Point Chamber of Commerce

🥂 One final toast to a Dana Point Harbor legend! ⚓️💙

Some places are more than just restaurants or bars. They’re part of the fabric of a community. And for more than four decades, Turk’s Dana Point has been exactly that.

A Harbor fixture since 1984, Turk’s was built on the larger-than-life personality of Turk Varteresian — a bodybuilder, surfer, movie star, fisherman, and above all, a man who loved the restaurant and bar business. Following his passing, his daughter Candy carried on the family legacy, preserving the character, hospitality, and unmistakable charm that made Turk’s so special.

And boy, did Turk’s have character! From its legendary fish and chips and famously spicy Bloody Marys to the familiar faces behind the bar, it was the kind of place where you could always count on a good meal, a cold drink, and a great story.

For our Chamber team, Turk’s holds a special place in our hearts. It was where we’d raise a glass before the annual Turkey Trot, gather with City staff for meetings, grab a bite after whale watching, or simply enjoy some of the best fish and chips around. Like so many in our community, we have our own collection of Turk’s memories, and we’re grateful for every one of them.

As Turk’s closes this chapter at its longtime Harbor home, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Candy, the Varteresian family, and the many employees who made Turk’s feel like home to generations of locals and visitors.

While the future of Turk’s is still being written, its place in Dana Point history is already well established.

So here’s to Turk’s! 🍻 To 42 years of good food, strong drinks, colorful characters, lifelong friendships, and a whole lot of memories.