Having lived in Newport Beach for over 10 years (and being what our friends have coined “Walking Yelp’s”), it’s increasingly rare when we stumble upon a local restaurant that we haven’t tried. Finding hidden gems and family-run restaurants is one of our favorite activities. We’ve been to them all… or so we thought!

Tucked away in the corner of an Eastbluff shopping center, is the “Napa Inspired, Ingredient Driven” Provenance. It surprised us from the moment we stepped inside, with its inviting wine country farmhouse decor, and lush patio and garden. We had no idea such a place was in Newport Beach! We were instantly intrigued – and we hadn’t even seen the menu yet!

Famed Orange County chef and restaurateur Cathy Pavlos (also well known for her restaurant LUCCA in Irvine) puts a great importance on high quality, healthy, and seasonal ingredients. Her grandfather was a commercial farmer in Huntington Beach, so utilizing and glorifying fresh and tasty produce is what Chef Pavlos does best! Whether it’s the fresh tomatoes being used for a caprese salad, or the muddled mint in a cocktail, much of Provenance’s menu is comprised of fresh vegetables and herbs from their own 1,300 square-foot organic garden. Their contemporary Napa-influenced menu changes monthly, based on what the garden has to offer. It’s truly farm to table at its finest!

While we were tempted by everything on the menu, the two dishes that we decided to try were the Butternut, Acorn Squashes and Crispy Artichoke Platter and the Lasagna Bolognese. The vegetables were incredibly fresh and flavorful, and topped with Applewood Smoked Bacon, Fried Cage Free Egg, Roasted Shallots, Arugula, Torched Rosemary, Pine Nuts and a Chipotle-Maple Oil. The combination was delightful and surprisingly decadent. As for the Lasagna Bolognese, it’s delicious, hearty, and fresh! Made with Kobe Beef and All Natural Pork Ragu, Bechamel, and Parmesan Cheese, it’s in our opinion, the ultimate comfort food. We licked the plate clean.

Beyond the fresh, farm-to-table dishes, Provenance also boasts superb hand-crafted cocktails, as well as an extensive wine list. If you’re only in the mood for drinks, the bar is both intimate and lively. Whether you’re looking for a brunch, lunch, or dinner spot, head to Provenance. We can’t think of a prettier place to be on a warm, summer night than their picturesque garden. It’s hands down one of Newport Beach’s best kept secrets. And whatever you do, make sure you stay to catch the sunset from their patio!

Watch our Culinary Journeys featuring Provenance here.

Written by: The Traveling Newlyweds