From cultural fare to local delicacies you won’t find anywhere else, food can often be one of the best ways to get to know a new area. Destinations that appeal to a wide range of palettes are the ones that continue to push the limits, changing their menus and adding new restaurants keeping their food scene fresh and interesting. Newport Beach is one such place, thanks to a number of celebrity chefs and acclaimed restaurants.

With an eclectic mix of cuisine that receives praise from industry experts and guests alike, Newport Beach has quickly emerged as a foodie’s paradise. In an area with growing demands of fresh, diverse, organic, as well as exceptional, chefs are pushing the boundaries of experimental cuisine. Here is sampling of Newport Beach’s group friendly restaurants sure to make your mouth water:

FIG & OLIVE – Combining the flavors and cuisine from the Riviera and coastal regions of the South of France, Italy and Spain, Fig & Olive’s philosophy is based on the notion of clean, healthy and sophisticated ingredients and dishes. The restaurant’s passion for fine olive oil is shared at the beginning of each meal with a taste of three distinct extra virgin olive oils and its signature Rosemary Olive Oil Fougasse Bread. Fig & Olive also boasts an extensive wine list that includes over 30 wines offered by the glass or bottle from Italy, France and Spain.

Red O – Considered an innovator of modern Mexican cuisine, celebrity chef Rick Bayless puts the ‘haute’ in Mexican food. Blending authentic Mexican food with a lighter California approach, Red O sources locally grown and often organic ingredients. Sophisticated and swanky with an energetic vibe, Red O is a definite crowd pleaser.

CUCINA enoteca – What do you get when you take a modern Italian kitchen and blend it with rustic farmhouse flavor? Cucina enoteca. Both spacious and intimate, CUCINA enoteca is 8000 square feet of pure comfort, from its ambiance to its food. Featuring California-inspired Italian cuisine, and locally grown seasonal produce, CUCINA enoteca has fast become a favorite amongst groups and locals alike.

Sushi Roku – Sushi Roku raises the bar when it comes to sushi. Incorporating diverse, non-traditional ingredients from Latin America and Europe into delectable works of art, Sushi Roku offers a truly unique culinary experience. A comfortably sleek location with heated outdoor seating; Sushi Roku has become a huge draw thanks to its extensive menu of specialty appetizers, sushi and upscale Japanese cuisine.

Farmhouse Cafe –Chef Rich Mead has created a sustainable field-to-fork dining experience in the heart of Newport Beach. A spacious, comfortable, open-air restaurant set on the grounds of the lush Roger’s Gardens, Farmhouse Café is surrounded by nature’s beauty. Farmhouse Café sources directly from local farms to offer seasonal ingredients for a fresh, healthy based cuisine.

SOL Cocina – Echoing elements of the Baja peninsula, SOL Cocina blends old world charm and urban comfort. SOL offers a menu of fresh, seasonal ingredients and authentic Mexican flavors. With a bar that honors the flavors of the Baja, California region by serving over 60 artisan tequilas, SOL is a great location for a tequila tasting or tequila pairing group event. The restaurant is committed to the environment, sourcing meat from small packers using environmentally safe and humane methods and serving seafood that is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Seafood Watch, organizations that set standards for sustainable fishing.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar – Pairing contemporary California regional cuisine, with a vast selection of outstanding wines, The Winery delivers a culinary experience matching that of California’s wine country. Located along the water, The Winery offers gorgeous views of Newport Harbor and easy boat access, for those who prefer to dock and dine.

Cannery Seafood of the Pacific – Also located along Newport Harbor, The Cannery has been a mainstay of Newport Beach for years, and a longtime local favorite. The Cannery is known for its delicious menu of fresh seafood, steaks, and chops as well as its vibrant lounge serving small plates, sushi and sashimi. The Cannery has plenty of dock space perfect for those groups choosing to arrive via boat.

Whether you’re craving upscale international cuisine, locally sourced fare or fresh seafood, Newport Beach has a culinary roster that will please even the most discriminating palate. But don’t take our word for it, come taste for yourself.

When you’re ready to begin sourcing a fantastic destination for your next group program, start by involving Visit Newport Beach. As a destination partner, Visit Newport Beach opens the doors to this coastal delight with destination knowledge and expertise that can simplify the planning process.

Come feed your soul and your appetite in Newport Beach, Bon Appétit!