A Food-Lover’s Guide to Winter Dining in Newport Beach
Calling all foodies! The holiday season is Newport Beach’s time to shine, and there’s no better way to soak up the spirit than by indulging in its extraordinary dining scene. Imagine leisurely mornings with sparkling brunches, afternoons filled with coastal bites, and evenings that sparkle with seafood feasts by the bay. Every meal is a chance to celebrate, every table a reason to gather, and every bite a little reminder that the season is meant for savoring. To help you experience it all, we’ve curated a festive foodie journey that promises to keep your taste buds tingling from sunrise to starry night with stops at some of the best restaurants in Newport Beach.
Stay at Pendry Newport Beach
Experience the best of Southern California at Pendry Newport Beach, where luxury meets coastal charm. Relax in one of the resort’s chic guest rooms or suites, many with private balconies, and enjoy amenities including a pool, fitness center, and curated experiences. Dining is a highlight, with three on-property venues to satisfy every craving: SET Steak & Sushi serves modern steakhouse favorites and fresh hand-rolled sushi, Bar Pendry offers handcrafted cocktails and small plates in a stylish lounge setting, and Tree Shack Pool Bar & Grill provides Baja-inspired snacks and refreshing drinks by the pool. For an elevated culinary experience, the exclusive Elwood Club features Viamara, an Italian Riviera-inspired spot blending California cuisine with coastal Italian flavors.
10 a.m. Brunch at CasaDami
Nestled in Newport Beach’s lively Peninsula Village, CasaDamí is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Newport Beach or an indulgent brunch with family or friends. The café offers a thoughtfully curated menu featuring freshly baked pastries, vibrant salads, and shareable charcuterie and tapas, all paired with expertly crafted coffee. Specialty espresso drinks like the Nutella-infused Marocchino and creamy Affogato elevate your morning ritual, while classics such as cappuccinos and cortados satisfy traditional coffee cravings. Brewed with premium beans from Brazil and Central America on a state-of-the-art Rocket Espresso machine handmade in Milan, every cup reflects CasaDamí’s dedication to quality and precision. With its all-day European café vibe, it’s the ideal place to savor a relaxed and indulgent brunch in Newport Beach.
11 a.m. Rent an Electric Boat
Take a drive back up the Balboa Peninsula to Lido Marina Village for a breezy boat ride on the bay! Make a reservation online with Vision Electric Boat Rental and choose from a fleet of dynamic vessels that come in a variety of playful colors. Be sure to pick up a gourmet cheese and charcuterie board from Lido Bottle Works, so you have something to snack on while out at sea. Pro tip: If you’re planning on renting a boat during the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, you can add a festive balloon garland for extra decor!
3 p.m. Dock and Dine at Malibu Farm or Nobu Newport Beach
Dock and dine in style at Lido Marina Village, home to two of the most iconic Newport Beach restaurants with a view: Nobu Newport Beach and Malibu Farm. After a leisurely cruise around the harbor, pull up your boat and head straight to shore for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. At Nobu, indulge in world-renowned Japanese cuisine with favorites like miso-marinated black cod and signature sushi rolls, all enjoyed against the backdrop of the sparkling marina. Or opt for Malibu Farm, where farm-to-table freshness takes center stage with dishes like market salads, cauliflower-crust pizzas and seasonal cocktails served on a breezy waterfront deck.
6 p.m. Browse the Christmas Boutique at Roger’s Gardens
With lush foliage, seasonal décor, and a farm-to-table restaurant, Roger’s Gardens is a must-visit for a little holiday magic in Newport Beach. Wander the vibrant grounds before stepping into The Magic of Christmas boutique, where enchanting displays capture the spirit of the season with European elegance, festive grandeur, and artisanal craftsmanship. Inspired by the charm of an old-world toy shop, this year’s collection features heirloom-quality ornaments, wreaths, garlands, gifts, and sparkling trees. From the opulence of holiday soirées to the cozy warmth of a winter lodge, each area is designed to inspire, delight, and help you create lasting traditions that make your home extra merry this holiday season.
7:30 p.m. Dinner at Five Crowns and a Nightcap SideDoor
Take a trip back in time to Old England with a candlelit meal at Five Crowns in Corona del Mar, a must-visit for a little holiday dining in Newport Beach! The cozy restaurant’s warm, old-world ambiance sets the scene for an festive and authentic English meal. Snag a table in the courtyard or cozy up inside and prepare to be wooed by their December menu, which features dishes like Roasted Prime Rib, Spiced Lamb Striploin and Filet Neptune. Once your palate has been pleased, pop into SideDoor, Five Crowns’ cozy English-style gastropub, for an after-hours cocktail by the fireplace.
Don’t Miss! The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is back for its 117th year! Celebrate the holiday season with us and watch as decorated boats cruise the harbor from Dec. 17-21. For more info, visit www.christmasboatparade.com.
