Travel Around the Globe with These 10 Finds
Take your tastebuds on an adventure by exploring the myriad of cuisines Newport Beach has to offer. Every night of the week can be a cultural adventure for your palate. Endless choices from every corner of the world, encompassing every continent imaginable, is yours for the taking. Travel around the globe every night of the week without leaving Newport Beach.
Photo Credit Anita Lau
China: Shanghai Pine Garden – A staple of Balboa Island dining, Shanghai Pine Garden has been offering home-style Chinese cuisine that has been a welcoming comfort to locals and visitors alike. Choose from an array of affordable options during lunch time, or, if you’re looking to host a Chinese banquet, the restaurant is happy to plan a menu that perfectly suits your occasion. Favorites include beef and broccoli, kung pao chicken, and so much more.
England: Five Crowns – Corona del Mar’s iconic landmark is more than just a British pub. Revel in Five Crowns’ traditional roasts such as prime rib, served with delicious airy Yorkshire pudding, washed down with a pint of beer, or a glass of wine. The menu is packed with comfort foods that will bring you the best of Britain without ever getting on an airplane.
India: Mayur – For an authentic Indian, travel down to Corona del Mar’s Mayur, which has been serving delighted customers since 1984. Here, you’ll find a host of familiar Indian dishes such as chicken tikka masala, rogan josh, lamb vindaloo, but also, modern items like quinoa salad, to whet your appetite. The authentic and traditional menu reads like a food bible of sorts, and there is something for every taste. This quaint, romantic restaurant is still holding strong, and continues to satiate Newport Beach palates daily.
Ireland: Muldoon’s Irish Pub – Want to spend an evening enjoying a pint or two Irish style? Then mosey on down to Muldoons, a repeat winner of the Best Irish Pub in Southern California with a 40-year history. This watering hole serves up Irish specialties with an American twist. In addition to the cozy tavern dining room, you can also partake in The Dublin Pub, The Celtic Bar and the relaxing outdoor Courtyard, whatever suits your mood. Dig into savory Irish Stew, or a hearty Shepherd’s Pie, while enjoying live music on the weekends.
Italy: Sapori –A long-standing favorite for authentic Italian cuisine located on Bayside Drive, Sapori has an almost 30 year history in Newport Beach. Bask in the Mediterranean setting, coupled with a remodeled patio, featuring a fireplace for intimate al fresco dining. Enjoy signature dishes such as Penne Otero, Farfalle Salmone, Scallopine Gorgonzola, as well as an array of traditional Italian appetizers and desserts.
Mexico: – SOL Cocina – Inspired by Baja Mexican cuisine, SOL Cocina is all about dining with a view. Arrive by boat dockside, and saunter up to the bar or patio to enjoy some of inspiring house signature craft cocktails such as Cadillac Margarita or Michelada. Nibble on some coastal favorites like tacos and burritos, or choose from an array of entrées like pork carnitas and shrimp chile relleno.
Middle Eastern/Mediterranean: Damasq Café – A local family owned Mediterranean restaurant, Damasq Café located in Corona del Mar serves a fast, healthy Halal-certified menu. Chef Jamal Diab creates mouth-watering selections using fresh ingredients and authentic cooking techniques. The menu includes an array of dishes such as tabbouleh, babaghanoush, falafel, and tender flame-grilled beef and chicken with habanero, tahini and garlic “secret” sauces.
Switzerland: Basilic – Nestled on picturesque Balboa Island is a secret window into the past, a virtual time machine to another era somewhere high in the Alps. Enjoy classically prepared dishes at Basilic, as well as modern selections in one place. Every dish is made-to-order and prepared to perfection, from the Swiss Onion Soup, John Dory Filet, to the Crème Brûlée. If you’re lucky, Chef Althaus will often make a quick appearance in the dining room to greet guests between seatings.
Photo Credit Arshad Hussain
Thailand: Royal Thai –Serving exotic and exquisite cuisine since 1976, Royal Thai is known for its high quality and fresh ingredients, with an array of cooked-to-order traditional Thai dishes. Savor authentic options like Tom Yum Soup and Angel Wings to start, then proceed to entrées such as Panang Curry and Pad Thai before finishing with Mango and Sticky Rice. The restaurant also offers a full bar for those who would like a drink to accompany their meal.
Vietnam: Bamboo Bistro – Revel in the delights of Bamboo Bistro, where you will enjoy an authentic Vietnamese meal within an elegant atmosphere. Owner Chau Haller is no stranger to fine cuisine. Her family owns the renown Brodard restaurant in Westminster, where the fresh rolls have become legendary. At Bamboo Bistro, you can relish in an array of dishes that have been passed down from mother to daughter, promising an authentic experience every time.
