6 Newport Beach Restaurants for a “Girl Dinner” With Your Besties
The “girl dinner” concept has taken the TikTok world by storm, and we must admit, we can’t get enough. Nothing beats grazing with your besties over a glass of vino, so we’re hopping on this trend, too. Lucky for Newport locals and visitors, there are a handful of places for the perfect girl dinner in Newport Beach—from moody bistros to chic restaurants. Consider this the ultimate guide to an unforgettable GNO in our seaside city.
A sleek and modern gem on the outskirts of Fashion Island, JOEY Newport Beach is all kinds of stylish. This upscale hotspot opened its doors earlier this year and is the perfect place to don your chicest ensemble and sip and savor with the girls. Indulge in a round of rosé or craft cocktails like the spicy passionfruit margarita while you wait for your order of roasted corn guacamole or Korean fried cauliflower. From the buzzy ambiance to the curated menu of small plates, you’ll dig everything about this new addition.
If you and your girls are craving a trip to Tulum, Palmilla Cocina y Tequila is the place to be. Perched in the center of it all on the Balboa Peninsula, this open-air restaurant boasts a dreamy indoor-outdoor ambiance enhanced by lush greenery, rattan fixtures and stunning architectural elements. Meet up with your girls for one of their expertly crafted coastal cocktails, or stay a while and indulge in their Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine. If you’re feeling fancy, try the filet mignon fajitas or the Cabo Surf & Turf enchiladas; both are to die for.
Brought to life by Wild Thyme Restaurant Group about three years ago, Shorebird is a breezy waterfront hideaway with a menu of from-scratch dishes. This waterfront gem has quickly become a mainstay in Newport Beach, and we couldn’t think of a better spot for a girl dinner. Take in views of the boat-filled harbor as you snack on A5 Wagyu meatballs, tempura rock shrimp, crispy cauliflower and salmon carpaccio. Oh, and if you love seafood, the oysters will have you hooked.
Velvet blue booths and dimmed lights set a sultry scene at CdM Restaurant—a place that we’d normally recommend for date night but is totally worth of a GNO. This moody eatery harkens back to a foregone era with an irresistible vintage vibe and a menu of upscale American fare. Start with the charcuterie board and an order of the warm Parker house rolls, then finish with a round of espresso martinis for a little post-dinner pick-me-up.
Michelin-recognized and loved by locals, Fable & Spirit quickly earned its place on the Newport Beach restaurant scene as one of the best in town. This culinary gem is everything when it comes to ambiance, but it’s the Irish-influenced menu that will keep you coming back for more. From creative cocktails and an extensive wine list to delectable bites like the grilled bone marrow, beet agnolotti and rabbit fricassee with truffle potato puree, Fable & Spirit is a feast for the senses. Enjoy the enchanting decor as you sip and savor with your posse.
For an intimate girls’ night, head to Royal Hen on Balboa Island’s charming Marine Avenue. This upscale pub is the perfect spot to unwind over a plate of heirloom tomato bruschetta and blistered shishito peppers. Snag a table by the window for some people-watching, and be sure to explore their extensive beer and wine selection. And if you happen to have a sweet tooth, pop down the street to Sugar ‘n Spice for a chocolate-dipped frozen Balboa Bar—the perfect end to any GNO.
Written By: Kaylin Waizinger
