There’s an explosion of culinary flavors occurring in Newport Beach right now, and the latest sampling of seasonal, sustainable, farm-fresh cuisine, Lark Creek Newport Beach, arrives Monday, August 5th.

I know my mouth practically waters when I drive by Fashion Island and see all of the great offerings. For years I have enjoyed Roy’s great happy hour, Fleming’s delicious steaks and True Food Kitchen’s savory menu.

But I’ve also been waiting for those newbies that are under construction.

Lark Creek takes the lead of summer openings, with Fig & Olive, Red O Restaurant, and Cucina Enoteca to follow.

It’s a great time for people who are looking for exciting places to eat in Newport Beach. The dining options just continue to expand.

Lark Creek Newport Beach is the premiere Orange County restaurant from the award-winning San Francisco-based Lark Creek Restaurant Group.

But don’t expect a San Francisco-based menu. Chef/Partner John Ledbetter grew up in Orange County, and he operates Lark Creek alongside General Manager Chad Sisco, who brings over a decade of experience in running some of Orange County’s top restaurants.

These are two locals, who know the palate of Orange County, and the sophistication of the Newport Beach coastal lifestyle.

If you’ve walked by Lark Creek, you will notice the work of nationally recognized Cass Calder Smith Architecture. Like many other of the al fresco options in Fashion Island, Lark Creek will feature an outdoor lounge. There will also be a full bar, and private dining room.

Some of the highlights of the menu:

• Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho with cucumber sorbet and fennel pollen
• White Shrimp Ceviche with avocado, toy box tomato, cilantro, habanero, and lime, and accompanied by plantain chips
• Wild King Salmon with saffron and yellow bell pepper broth, poached baby fennel, and olive tapenade
• Almond wood-grilled steaks like the “1855” New York Strip
• Vegetable-centric sides like Grilled Summer Corn with fava beans.
• Dessert includes Lark Creek’s signature Butterscotch Pudding and a Nectarine Blueberry Crisp.

If you like starting your meal off with a cocktail, Lark Creek Newport Beach offers a sophisticated bar experience.

They offer artisanal, handcrafted cocktails such as the Bye & Bye, made with Hayman gin, Cocchi Americano, Dolin Blanc, Aperol, and grapefruit bitters, and Snake & Sizzle, with Zaya rum, green Chartreuse, St. Elizabeth’s Allspice Dram, lime, and maple syrup.

There is an impressive choice of craft brews and a curated wine list for you to enjoy whether you are making it a romantic evening, or a dining experience with friends.

Lark Creek Newport Beach is at 957 Newport Center Drive, which is next to the Nordstrom. I’d pull into the Parking Structure off of the Santa Barbara entrance.

Fashion Island isn’t the only location where new places are coming. The Winery is seeing its first location at Tustin’s The District thrive. Now it is opening a second location along Mariner’s Mile at the site of the old Villa Nova.

The Winery will be the newest location available for foodies who like to Dock & Dine when they visit Newport Beach.