Newport Beach’s dining scene continues to improve and expand each year with casual local eateries, farm-to-table fare and high-end epicurean delights.  Numerous group friendly restaurants, catering to a wide range of palates have made a name for themselves in Newport Beach. Whether your group chooses one of Newport Beach’s newest settings or a long time tradition, there are plenty of options, particularly for groups wishing to experience the great taste of Newport Beach, CA.

In this second of two articles on Newport Beach’s group friendly restaurants, we’ll look at coastal favorites among locals and groups alike.

Great taste of Newport Beach waterside

The Beachcomber – The location alone is reason enough to visit The Beachcomber. Hidden below Pacific Coast Highway on a stunning portion of the Newport Beach coastline, The Beachcomber is a consistent favorite of both locals and groups.  Set in one of the historic beach cottages that line Crystal Cove State Park, The Beachcomber is ocean front dining in the purest sense.  Located right at the beach, this popular restaurant has spectacular views of the Pacific and Catalina Island.  Groups will have fun partaking in Crystal Cove’s long-standing tradition of raising the martini flag every evening at sundown signifying the start of cocktail hour!  Groups looking for a private beach party can do so on the strand adjacent to the restaurant and The Beachcomber will gladly cater the event.

Bayside  – Located across from one of Newport Harbor’s many channels, Bayside features delicious American cuisine, including fresh seafood, steaks, creative salads and small plates.  Groups can enjoy water views or a gorgeous Newport Beach sunset while dining al fresco on the large wrap-around patio, complete with built-in heaters and sun drapes.  Bayside offers three dining areas for private group events.  The Tower Room accommodates 32 for a sit down dinner and 75 for a reception. The Terrace is perfect for groups up to 60 and The Main Dining Room can handle groups up to 100.

 Waterline – Set alongside Newport Harbor in Balboa Bay Resort, Waterline is perfect for groups wishing to enjoy water to table dining and scenic harbor views, including the magnificent yachts docked along this stretch of Newport Beach. The menu features a wide selection from the sea as well as the land and serves natural and organic locally grown produce. Waterline has two private dining rooms ideal for small group gatherings.

The Ritz Prime Seafood – Nestled in the harborfront stretch of Newport Beach known as Mariner’s Mile, The Ritz Prime Seafood delivers modern dining with a beautiful waterfront setting.  The menu includes classics as well as eclectic dishes with a twist, sustainable fish and seafood flown in daily, dry-aged steaks, and a skillfully constructed wine list. The restaurant has several private and semi-private event spaces, enabling it to accommodate groups of all sizes for either a seated dinner, progressive dinner or reception.

21 Oceanfront – Reminiscent of a grand, turn-of-the-century dining club, with leather booths and club style seating, 21 Oceanfront specializes in classic continental fare, including fresh seafood and prime meats. Located on the Newport Peninsula, 21 Oceanfront offers spectacular sunset views from its oceanfront location. An award-winning restaurant both its food and its location, 21 Oceanfront was named the best place to watch the sunset.  The restaurant boasts an extensive private wine cellar with worldwide selections and offers seven private dining areas accommodating groups up to 60 or a full buyout for groups up to 200.

Variety adds to the great taste of Newport Beach

 Mastro’s Ocean Club  – While not unique to Newport Beach, Mastro’s Ocean Club’s highly acclaimed cuisine and first-rate service has made it a top pick for groups. Located across from Crystal Cove State Beach, Mastro’s offers private dining rooms and patios in an elegant, sophisticated ambiance complete with ocean views.

Javier’s – Javier’s combines a hip, energetic vibe with the authentic flavors of Mexico.  With the largest selection of premium tequilas in Southern California, Javier’s is perfect for a group tequila tasting or pairing event.  Groups can book one of Javier’s private dining rooms or the semi-private oceanview patio.

Five Crowns – A landmark and a long-time favorite of Newport Beach residents, Five Crowns has been dining destination since 1965. A replica of an English country inn Five Crowns is just what you’d expect once inside, warm, cozy fireplaces and comfortable leather seats along with a greenhouse and colorful English garden. Award-winning food and an extensive wine list combine to make this restaurant a group favorite. Five Crowns’ can accommodate groups from 20 to 200.

Oak Grill – Oak Grill describes itself as a California original; the term seems appropriate given the restaurant’s casually elegant atmosphere. Comfortably chic inside and out, the clean lines of the interiors give way to a beautiful tree-lined deck and festive fire pit.  Oak Grill is known for California cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also offers a large selection of local craft beers and a creative wine list making it a great location for a group beer or wine tasting event. Private rooms can accommodate up to 22 guests, or groups can enjoy a semi private event either inside or out.

When you’re ready to begin planning your next group meeting, contact the Conference Sales Team at Visit Newport Beach, the destination marketing organization for Newport Beach, CA. Visit Newport Beach opens the doors to this Pacific paradise with destination expertise, customized site visits, strong partnerships and resources that ease the planning process. Come experience the great taste of Newport Beach, CA.