A Food-Lover’s Guide to Winter Dining in Newport Beach
Forks out foodies! We know you love to wine and dine—especially during the holidays. Whether it’s a hearty brunch or a sensational seafood dinner, there is no shortage of award-winning restaurants in Newport Beach that are eager to please your palate. So without further ado, we present the ultimate food-lover’s itinerary for a day full of festive deliciousness. Here’s exactly where to savor the season.
Stay at Balboa Bay Resort
Boasting 15 acres of bayfront bliss, Balboa Bay Resort is an idyllic place to call home base this December. Stay in one of the resort’s expertly appointed guest rooms, which all feature private balconies, and take advantage of a variety of on-property rentals, including Duffy boats, paddleboards, kayaks and bikes. And when it comes time to indulge, you’ll be happy to know that the resort is home to a sea-to-table restaurant, A+O Restaurant | Bar, where you can enjoy views of the glistening bay along with signature smoked cocktails and a menu of fresh seafood.
9 a.m. Breakfast at Lighthouse Cafe
Start your day with a salty breeze and a hearty brunch at Lighthouse Cafe on the Balboa Peninsula. This multi-story restaurant sits on the harbor’s edge and boasts postcard-worthy views of the boat-filled bay. Jumpstart your holiday vacation the right way with a Buddy’s Bloody or Pumpkin Espresso Martini, then cure your cravings with the Chicken and Waffles, Avocado Toast with smoked salmon or Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes.
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 The Cannery or Bluewater Grill
Docking and dining is one of the most popular activities in Newport Beach, and for good reason. It’s a great way to experience the bay and the city’s local cuisine! Once you’ve cruised around for an hour or so, pull up to either The Cannery or Bluewater Grill for a tasty seafood lunch with friends. At these Newport Beach restaurants with a view, you can indulge in everything from oysters and calamari to sushi, lobster rolls and chowder.
6 p.m. Browse the Christmas Boutique at Roger’s Gardens
Wil flora and foliage galore, an on-site restaurant with farm-to-table bites and plenty of seasonal decor, Roger’s Gardens is the perfect pit stop for a little holiday magic. Spend some time wandering the grounds of this lush oasis, then pop into the Christmas Boutique to shop all kinds of holiday decorations. This year’s theme is “Sparkle, Shimmer and Shine,” so you can expect everything from twinkling lights to sparkling crystals. The boutique’s handpicked collection of ornaments, wreaths, garlands and gifts is sure to 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. 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 116th year! Celebrate the holiday season with us and watch as decorated boats cruise the harbor from Dec. 18-22. For more info, visit www.christmasboatparade.com.
