Spring is almost here! And there’s no better way to kick off the season than Mardi Gras. Celebrate this gluttonous holiday at some of our favorite hot spots in Newport Beach.

Yes, we are bringing NOLA to the OC. Channel your inner-south and head to Newport Beach this Fat Tuesday, we have your itinerary covered!

APPETIZER:

Cannery Seafood of the Pacific

First, start at the Cannery where a Mardi Gras celebration will commence all day long!  Take advantage of the gorgeous seaside views and enjoy their specialized Fat Tuesday menu during lunch and dinner hours. The menu features 3 A la Carte items and $5.00 Cocktails with a southern twist!  Check out the special menu here!

DINNER:

Bluewater Grill

Bluewater Grill celebrates Mardi Gras, “Fat Tuesday” and the arrival of spring with a March tasting event and month-long celebration pairing the restaurant’s famously fresh sustainable seafood with savory flavors and hot spices from the Bayou. Pairing California-inspired Crawfish, Gumbo and Crabcakes with Oysters Rockefeller, Bananas Foster and New Orleans Fizz!

What’s the New Orleans Fizz?
Also known as the Ramos Gin Fizz, it was created in the late 1800’s by New Orleans favorite son Henry C. Ramos. As legend has it, the cocktail became so popular that by the 1915 Mardi Gras celebrations, Ramos’ 35 “shaker boys” had trouble keeping up with demand. Bartenders will be demonstrating the drink’s famous vigorous shaking ritual to give it its unique fizz.

The cost of each pairing event is $29.95 per person, and advance reservations are required for seating beginning at 6:30pm. Bluewater Grill chefs and servers at each restaurant will be available to discuss the culinary implications and recipe possibilities of Cajun and Creole cuisines..

Reserve your seats today! Call (949) 675- 3474

AFTER-DINNER BEVERAGE:

Still hungry or looking for an after party? Then head over to Balboa Peninsula to El Ranchito. Always packed and always a great time, El Ranchito is offering
$5 ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT TACO BAR
$4 Margaritas
$3.75 Beers
$5 Liquor Specials (changes weekly)

DANCING:

If you still want more action, Sharkeez is celebrating Mardi Gras till 2am! They will have FREE BEADS and contests all night long! The girls who collects the most beads will be crowned Queen of Mardi Gras! Oh, and just a head up, if you dress in Gold, Purple & Green you get front of the line privileges!

Written By: Rachel Brady