Newport Beach, a picturesque coastal city in Orange County, California, is a foodie’s paradise. With its stunning beaches, vibrant downtown area, and rich cultural heritage, Newport Beach offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From fresh seafood to gourmet burgers, and from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, the city’s culinary scene is a true reflection of its laid-back, beachy vibe. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through Newport Beach, highlighting the best places to eat, drink, and indulge in the city’s culinary delights.
The Best Seafood Restaurants in Newport Beach
Newport Beach is renowned for its fresh seafood, and there’s no shortage of excellent seafood restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the top seafood spots in the city:
The Crab Cooker
Located on the waterfront, The Crab Cooker is a Newport Beach institution when it comes to seafood. This casual, family-friendly restaurant has been serving up fresh, sustainable seafood for over 30 years. Their menu features a wide range of options, including fish tacos, seafood paella, and of course, crab legs. Be sure to try their famous “Crab Cooker” cocktail, made with blue curaçao and a splash of lemon.
| Menu Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Fresh Fish Tacos, Seafood Paella, Crab Legs | $15-$30 |
The Fish Camp
For a more upscale seafood experience, head to The Fish Camp, located in the heart of downtown Newport Beach. This stylish restaurant offers a seasonal menu featuring the freshest seafood available, including oysters, lobster, and fish. Their menu is designed to be shared, making it perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner.
| Menu Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Oysters, Lobster, Fish, Seafood Tower | $25-$50 |
The Best Burgers in Newport Beach
Newport Beach is also famous for its gourmet burgers, and here are some of the top spots to try:
The Burger Bar
Located in the trendy Newport Beach neighborhood of Fashion Island, The Burger Bar is a popular spot for burger lovers. Their menu features a wide range of creative burgers, including the “Elvis” (peanut butter, banana, and bacon) and the “K-Town” (Korean BBQ beef and kimchi). They also offer a variety of toppings and sides, including truffle fries and sweet potato tots. (See Also: Where to Eat in South Bend Indiana? Best Local Favorites)
| Menu Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Elvis Burger, K-Town Burger, Truffle Fries | $10-$15 |
The Counter
For a more laid-back burger experience, head to The Counter, located in the heart of downtown Newport Beach. This casual eatery offers a build-your-own burger bar, where you can choose from a variety of toppings, sauces, and cheeses. They also offer a range of salads, sandwiches, and sides, including sweet potato fries and onion rings.
| Menu Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Build-Your-Own Burger Bar, Sweet Potato Fries | $8-$12 |
The Best Brunch Spots in Newport Beach
Newport Beach is a popular weekend destination, and there’s no better way to start the day than with a delicious brunch. Here are some of the top brunch spots in the city:
The Beachcomber
Located in the historic Newport Beach Hotel, The Beachcomber is a stylish brunch spot with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their menu features a range of creative dishes, including eggs benedict, avocado toast, and quiche. They also offer a variety of cocktails and bloody marys to start your day off right.
| Menu Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Eggs Benedict, Avocado Toast, Quiche | $15-$25 |
The Coffee Importers
For a more casual brunch experience, head to The Coffee Importers, located in the heart of downtown Newport Beach. This cozy coffee shop offers a range of delicious pastries, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a variety of specialty coffee drinks. Their menu is designed to be shared, making it perfect for a group of friends or a family brunch. (See Also: Where to Eat in Sandy Springs? Foodie Delights)
| Menu Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Quiche, Sandwiches, Salads, Coffee | $10-$15 |
Recap
Newport Beach is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of delicious dining options to suit every taste and budget. From fresh seafood to gourmet burgers, and from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, the city’s culinary scene is a true reflection of its laid-back, beachy vibe. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a family brunch, Newport Beach has something for everyone. Be sure to check out some of the top spots we’ve highlighted in this article, and don’t forget to try some of the city’s famous seafood and burgers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to get to Newport Beach?
A: Newport Beach is easily accessible by car, with several major highways and freeways nearby. You can also take the Amtrak train or the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus to get to the city. If you’re flying in, the nearest airport is John Wayne Airport (SNA), which is about 15 miles from Newport Beach.
Q: What is the best time to visit Newport Beach?
A: Newport Beach is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer is peak tourist season, with warm weather and long days perfect for beach activities. Spring and fall are also great times to visit, with mild weather and fewer crowds. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting during the off-season (winter).
Q: Are there any kid-friendly restaurants in Newport Beach?
A: Yes, there are many kid-friendly restaurants in Newport Beach. Some popular options include The Crab Cooker, The Fish Camp, and The Counter. These restaurants offer a range of options for kids, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also have outdoor seating areas and play structures to keep kids entertained.
Q: Can I get takeout or delivery from Newport Beach restaurants?
A: Yes, many Newport Beach restaurants offer takeout and delivery options. You can check the restaurant’s website or call them directly to see if they offer these services. Some popular delivery options include Grubhub, UberEats, and DoorDash. (See Also: Where to Eat in Delhi India? Best Kept Secrets)
Q: Are there any vegan or gluten-free options in Newport Beach?
A: Yes, there are many vegan and gluten-free options in Newport Beach. Some popular restaurants that offer vegan and gluten-free options include The Beachcomber, The Coffee Importers, and The Counter. These restaurants offer a range of dishes that cater to these dietary needs, including salads, sandwiches, and bowls. Be sure to check the menu or ask your server for options that fit your dietary requirements.
