12 Valentine’s Day Date Spots in Newport Beach
Love is in the air! Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day 2025 with your significant other, your galentines or your family, Newport Beach has you covered. With our city’s assortment of award-winning, top-notch restaurants, you’re sure to fall in love in more ways than one. Enjoy a cozy evening at Five Crowns in Corona del Mar or a bayside omakase experience at Nobu in Lido Marina Village. The options for date night are endless, but here are 12 of our favorite romantic restaurants in Newport Beach we think you’ll absolutely adore.
A Crystal Cove
A Crystal Cove is another concept by River Jetty Restaurant Group that opened in 2022. The restaurant sits just steps from Pacific Coast Highway and features a timeless, snazzy interior and a showstopping central bar. Treat your valentine to a celebratory dinner featuring elegant dishes curated by Executive Chef Elvis Morales, which include a Crispy Whole Branzino with bagna cauda, soft herbs and charred lemon and a Tomahawk Pork Chop with sweet chili sauce, crispy garlic, roasted peanuts and mustard greens. For a sweet end to your evening, order the housemade chocolate silk pie and an espresso martini.
The Dock
Experience the quintessential charm of old Newport Beach with a seaside dinner at The Dock. With its global wine list, menu of continental fare and heated patio, this classic spot is easily one of the most romantic restaurants in Orange County. Indulge in comfort food delicacies like Red Wine Poached Pears, Japanese Hamachi Sashimi and Crispy Kurobuta Pork Belly with roasted pineapple, mustard maple glaze and CO2 coconut foam.
Louie’s by the Bay
Sleek and sophisticated in every way, this modern Italian steakhouse is a cut above. Louie’s by the Bay boasts 180-degree views of the harbor, so while you and your valentine feast on perfectly prepared plates of fresh pasta, seafood and steaks, you’ll also get to savor a multi-million-dollar view. Make a reservation during Valentine’s Day weekend, and cheers to love at Louie’s over a four-course dinner for $78 a piece!
Nick’s Newport Beach
Make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable with dinner at Nick’s, now open in Newport Beach! Located on Westcliff Drive in the former Gracias Madre space, Nick’s exudes charm with its inviting mix of upscale dining and laid-back vibes. Whether you’re toasting to new love or celebrating years together, this OC favorite offers the perfect atmosphere for a romantic evening. Indulge in signature dishes like the prime rib sandwich and end the night with their decadent butter cake. Trust us—it’s the kind of dessert made for sharing (or not).
Starfish
If you’re dreaming of a date night full of exotic flavors, Starfish Newport Beach promises to be a swoon-worthy destination. Known for its inventive Asian fusion cuisine and sultry ambiance, this local hotspot is one of the best date night spots in Orange County. From sushi rolls and handmade dumplings to over 70 shareable plates, their menu is perfect for couples who love to mix, match and taste it all. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a sake cocktail or a bottle of wine—it’s romance, Starfish-style!
Five Crowns
Built to resemble one of England’s oldest country inns, Five Crowns in Corona del Mar offers lovebirds a cozy and quaint setting to celebrate. This romantic restaurant in Newport Beach has been around since 1965 and takes pride in its fine dining approach. This Valentine’s Day, you and your date can enjoy a prix fixe menu (Feb. 13-16; $75 per person) featuring a series of classic British dishes, including their signature Roasted Prime Rib (a local favorite!), Beef Steak Neptune and Ora King Salmon. Cozy up next to one of the restaurant’s fireplaces or in the string-lit courtyard, and don’t forget to stop by SideDoor, the adjacent gastropub, for an after-dinner cocktail.
The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
Dock and dine this Valentine’s Day at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar! This upscale hideaway is perched on the harbor’s edge and features 650 selections of wine from around the globe. Pair your glass of red, white or rosé with The Winery’s delectable selection of contemporary California cuisine. Valentine’s Day diners will have the chance to enjoy Chef Yvon Goetz’s specially curated Valentine’s Day ala carte menu, featuring dishes like Chili Lime Rubbed Mahi Mahi, Slow Braised Angus Beef Short Rib, Maple Leaf Farms Duck Breast and more.
Arc Butcher & Baker
Show your significant other some love with a decadent date night at Arc Butcher & Baker. Located in the heart of Newport’s historic Cannery Village, this seasonally-inspired restaurant is an ideal spot to sip a glass of European wine and savor an expertly prepared meal. Share plates like the bruschetta, garlic meatballs and the short rib flatbread, then move on to mains like the tuna melt or wild halibut with lemon, broccolini and garlic. See for yourself why Arc is lauded as one of the best date spots in California!
Nobu Newport Beach
Recognized as one of the best Japanese restaurants in the world, Nobu is a safe pick for those looking to impress their date this Valentine’s Day. The menu blends traditional Japanese dishes with Peruvian ingredients, yielding a fusion cuisine you won’t find anywhere else. Take in views from the second-story balcony as you indulge in an omakase meal this Valentine’s Day.
CdM Restaurant
Elevated yet approachable, CdM Restaurant takes pride in its focus on seasonal ingredients and offers a diverse menu of contemporary American dishes. The restaurant is deeply rooted in the community (it was founded by two Corona del Mar High School alums), making it a popular locale for special occasions and intimate dinners. The interior of this romantic restaurant in Newport Beach is chic and swanky in every aspect—the perfect spot for a nice dinner or a round of cocktails.
Bayside Restaurant
Known fondly for its custom-designed space, Newport Harbor views and menu of New American cuisine with a European twist, it’s no wonder Bayside is prized as one of the most romantic restaurants in Newport Beach. And on Feb. 14 this year, lovebirds can cozy up and enjoy a three-course meal ($132 per person) complete with dishes like Center-Cut Filet Mignon, Rosemary garlic New Zealand Lamb Chop, Mushroom Crusted Sea Bass and Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli. Be sure to make your reservation before tables fill up!
SUGARFISH
SUGARFISH is an iconic sushi restaurant originally based in Los Angeles that opened its doors in Newport Beach. To see what the hype is all about, put your name in this Valentine’s Day (they don’t take reservations!), and get ready for an unrivaled Nozawa-style sushi experience! SUGARFISH offers everything from sashimi to hand rolls, all made with the freshest fish in town.
