You don’t need a plane ticket to experience a breadth of international and exotic cuisine. Whether you crave authentic Italian pizza, Japanese sushi or Baja-style street tacos, Newport Beach is home to a melting pot of global cuisine that’ll transport you beyond the states. With that said, prepare to ignite your palate with an array of delectable worldly cuisine! We’re taking you on a flavorful journey around the world, one bite at a time. No passport necessary!

Italian Eats

From fresh pasta and sizzling pies to dishes like risotto, chicken piccata and more, it’s no wonder why Italian food is so popular in the states. As the great Italian film director Federico Fellini once said, “Life is a combination of magic and pasta”—and we won’t argue with that!

Lucky for locals and visitors of Newport Beach, the city is home to several authentic Italian restaurants including, Cucina Alessá, Il Farro Restaurant, Ciao Balboa and CUCINA enoteca! Each of these spots provides its own spin on Italian fare and a unique setting to enjoy it. If you like thin-crust pies and a rustic-chic setting, make a reservation at Cucina Alessá or CUCINA enoteca! If you prefer to keep things casual and family-friendly, Il Farro Restaurant and Ciao Balboa are your best bets.

Mexican Classics

Us SoCal natives love our tacos and tequila. And with proximity to the Mexican border, it’s no surprise our Mexican fare is as good as it gets. From classics like sizzling fajitas, tasty street tacos and saucy enchiladas to innovative eats like tropical ceviche and coconut calamari, you’re sure to love Newport Beach’s wide selection of Mexican food. Not sure where to start? Don’t fret! These are a few of our favorites: SOL Mexican Cocina, RED O “Taste of Mexico”, Wild Taco and GuacAmigos.

French Fare

When it comes to brunching and lunching, nobody does it quite like the French do. They sure love their quiches, croissants and crêpes (and so do we)! If you’re looking to start your day on a sweet note, head to MOULIN for fresh-baked pastries or Zinqué for a tasty breakfast and bay views. For those looking to sit down to an elegant dinner, Marché Moderne and Basilic both offer a cozy, wite-tablecloth setting—perfect for date night. Plus, you’ll love the assortment of authentic French dishes like bouillabaisse, braised flageolet and duck and rabbit terrine.

Japanese Delights

With its seaside location, Newport Beach has become a hotspot for all types of seafood, including sushi. Restaurants like Nobu, Sushi Roku, Cafe Sakana and Buddha’s Favorite have taken advantage of our coastal abundance, pairing it with Japanese culinary traditions. And whether you prefer your fish nigiri-style or rolled in rice, these three restaurants will not disappoint! You’ll enjoy everything from warm miso soup and garlic edamame to signature rolls and fresh-sliced sashimi.

A Taste of Thailand

Check out these tasty Thai food options in Newport Beach. Mint Leaf Thai Cuisine, located near the Balboa Fun Zone, is a contemporary, laid-back spot that serves up artistic takes on classic Thai cuisine. Try the drunken noodles made with stir-fried flat rice noodles, bell peppers, basil and chilli sauce! You also can’t go wrong with one of their eight curries! Zabb and Vegetarian Thai on West Coast Highway is also a great spot for Thai food enthusiasts. They even have a full vegan menu!

Gourmet Greek

Get your grub on at one of Newport Beach’s tasty Greek spots like Blue Mediterranean Cafe, Forte Kabob or Nick The Greek and see what the hype is all about. Each of these restaurants features an informal, counter-serve setting where you can get in and get fed quickly! Plus, with menus chock-full of mouthwatering dishes like pork gyro pitas, falafel and fresh-chopped salads, you won’t want to wait around for a waitress—trust us.

Written By: Kaylin Waizinger