Winter Menu Items in Newport Beach
The chilly temps (and by chilly, we mean in the 60s) have us craving all kinds of comfort food. Whether it’s a hearty and warm seafood bisque or a sizzling steak with creamy mashed potatoes for dinner, it’s safe to say we aren’t counting calories this winter. And no matter what you have a hankering for, Newport Beach’s assortment of top-notch restaurants is sure to please your palate this season. So slip on your stretchy pants because we’ve rounded up our favorite dishes to enjoy this winter!
Must-Try Seasonal Dish: Venison Loin Medallions
For cozy vibes and harbor views, head to Bayside Restaurant this winter, where you can dig into winter delicacies like the Venison Loin Medallions—a flavorful and tender meat-forward dish. Crafted with a five-spice red wine reduction, housemade gnocchi, Brussels sprouts and a hint of carrot purée, this creation will warm you up from the inside out. Make a reservation on the heated waterfront patio and pair your meal with a full-bodied glass of red for the perfect winter dining experience.
Must-Try Seasonal Dish: Glazed Scallops + Crispy Pork Belly
Served with roasted spaghetti squash, walnuts, Swiss chard, brown butter gastrique, celery root and fennel purée, A+O Restaurant | Bar’s Glazed Scallops + Crispy Pork Belly is a decadent way to start any evening out. This seasonal dish is a seafood lover’s delight and pairs perfectly with a glass of J. Lohr Riverstone chardonnay, which features notes of apricot, ripe peach and honey. Sip and savor this pairing on the restaurant’s heated patio during sunset, where you’ll get to take in bay views and watch the boats cruise by.
Must-Try Seasonal Dish: Olive Oil Poached Salmon
Much like the stylish hotel it’s a part of, The Mayor’s Table is sophisticated in its approach, offering guests an elevated destination for a seafood-centric meal. And while sea-to-table dishes like the Seared Diver Scallops and Braised Jidori Chicken shine, the Olive Oil Poached Salmon is a must-try this winter. Prepared with two peas, a pod cassoulet, sofrito and French beans, this entree is both flavorful and filling.
Must-Try Seasonal Dish: Not Your Mama’s Meatloaf
When it comes to fresh, seasonal dining, True Food Kitchen takes the cake. This eco-chic restaurant at Fashion Island serves up health-conscious fare in a contemporary setting. Dig into winter delicacies like their Roasted Butternut Squash Soup, Southwest Bison Sausage Pizza, and Not Your Mama’s Meatloaf made with grass-fed organic beef, mushroom jus, honey-roasted carrots and fingerling potatoes. This is comfort food you can feel good about eating!
Must-Try Seasonal Dish: Giant Meatball
Known for its fresh seafood, prime cuts of beef and stellar wine list, it’s no wonder Olea is a go-to spot for some fine dining. Each dish is prepared daily from scratch and made with exceptionally fresh and seasonal ingredients, including handpicked local produce. On the winter menu (and now available seven days a week!), you’ll find Olea‘s housemade Giant Meatball, which features herb pappardelle, spicy pomodoro, pecorino romano cheese and a blend of American Wagyu beef, Jidori chicken and Duroc pork. Pro tip: Be sure to order the Toasted S’mores cocktail for dessert!
Written by: Kaylin Waizinger
