14 Spectacular Spots To Dine With A View In Newport Beach
With year-round great weather that means a day on the water is in your future. Whether it’s boating around in a Duffy during the day or enjoying a sunset happy hour cruise, there is no better time to relish the sunny springtime weather. But where you dock and where you dine is important and can make your seafaring excursion that much better. Here are 14 spectacular spots to drop anchor and grab a bite in Newport Beach.
A+O Restaurant | Bar
Nothing beats an afternoon spent at Balboa Bay Resort’s A&O Kitchen + Bar. This seafood-centric restaurant boasts an outdoor patio—perfect for a relaxing weekend meal. Sip on hand-crafted cocktails and local brews, and snack on shareable plates that’ll please your palate. Local Tip: Cozy up around one of A&O’s many outdoor fireplaces!
Nobu Newport Beach
Known for its innovative Japanese fare and celebrity following, Nobu remains a staple in the Newport Beach community. Before you embark on your dinner cruise, make a reservation and enjoy a swanky dinner at this stunning, two-story waterfront location in Lido Marina Village. Local Tip: Order the Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño and Black Cod with Miso!
Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
When you “sea” food, eat it! Tavern House makes it easy to enjoy all of your seafood favorites! From Spicy Ahi Poke and Coconut Crusted Shrimp to New England-Style Clam Chowder and Ale-Battered Fish and Chips, there is no shortage of tasty plates at this bayside restaurant. Want to take your food to-go? Tavern House’s new Boater’s Menu allows you to order ahead and have it ready for pick up, so you can enjoy your meal on the water.
The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
With a globally-inspired wine list featuring 650 selections, you’ll be thankful you stopped by this hip, harborside restaurant. Whether you’re in the mood for red, white or rosé, The Winery has it all—and the dishes to go with it. Dig into contemporary California cuisine and sip the day away!
Lighthouse Bayview Café
Situated in the heart of Marina Park, Lighthouse Bayview Café is an airy eatery with floor-to-ceiling windows, unobstructed bay views and a spacious deck with plenty of outdoor seating. Plan a day with the family here and take full advantage of the 120-foot boat dock.
Shorebird
Is there anything better than a decadent brunch with a side of bay views? We think not! And Shorebird delivers when it comes to harborside dining. Sip mimosas with friends and treat your tastebuds to dishes like Lobster Bisque Encroute and Overstuffed Bacon & Eggs!
Rusty Pelican
With harbor views that’ll have you smitten and an esteemed menu of seafood dishes, it’s no wonder Rusty Pelican has remained a culinary staple in Newport Beach since 1972. Relish views of the sparkling water and enjoy happy hour, Sunday brunch, a full bar, an award-winning wine list and patio seating.
The Beachcomber Café
Make the most of your day on the water with a stop at The Beachcomber Café in Crystal Cove. This local hotspot is located just steps from the sand and features an outdoor deck with sweeping ocean views, an on-site tropical bar (The Bootlegger) and a menu chock-full of California favorites and tropical libations.
Crystal Cove Shake Shack
Shake things up with a midday stop at Crystal Cove Shake Shack—an iconic, counter-serve spot that overlooks the Crystal Cove State Park Historic District. Feast your eyes on the waves and treat your taste buds to classic American bites, including burgers, fries and creamy milkshakes.
Newport Landing
Drop anchor and head upstairs to Newport Landing’s iconic Oyster Bar for seafood snacks and a selection of local wines, craft beers and tropical drinks. Perched on the harbor’s edge, this historic spot makes for the perfect waterfront happy hour.
The Cannery Seafood of the Pacific
With sweeping views of the harbor and some of the freshest seafood in town, it’s no surprise The Cannery is a popular spot for a sunset dinner. The menu features a variety of sea-to-table eats like sushi rolls and sashimi, grilled octopus, calamari, oysters, crab cakes and more. Pair your selection with an ice-cold beer or craft cocktail, and cheers to a summer evening well-spent.
The Dock
This waterside eatery embodies the quintessential old Newport style with its menu of continental fare, list of wines from around the globe and charming patio. Take in views of the bay as the boats cruise by and snack on innovative classics like Blue Crab Beignets and Red Wine Poached Pears.
Pelican Grill
Located on the lush grounds of The Resort at Pelican Hill, this swanky restaurant has proven time and time again to be a cut above. At Pelican Grill, diners can relish views of the ocean from the restaurant’s heated terrace and indulge in coastal California dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Talk about the perfect date night!
GuacAmigos
Tequila and tacos on the bay? Yes, please! GuacAmigos is committed to serving authentic Mexican food and fine tequila in an upscale and vibrant setting. Slurp down one of their signature margaritas, and you’ll wonder why this isn’t exactly where you’ve been all day.
Written by: Kaylin Waizinger
