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21
Oceanfront
21 Oceanfront is more than a location, it’s a tradition. On
the ocean, just a few steps from the Newport Beach Pier, this restaurant—with
its leather banquettes, award-winning wine list, and dignified intimacy—is
reminiscent of San Francisco’s grandest old establishments. 21 Oceanfront
serves only “the freshest seafood on the coast” and the specialty
of the house, abalone prime steak, is also featured in addition to rack of lamb.
Wine lovers also know this is a venue for tastings, elaborate wine
dinners, or special events in the private cellar. If one’s tastes for
quality food—like a fine Bordeaux—improve with time, then there
are a few places to be found in Southern California quite as delightful as 21
Oceanfront. Entertainment nightly. 2100 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach. (949)
673-2100.
www.21oceanfront.com
Amelia’s
For 45 years, Amelia and her family have been serving Newport Beach
residents and visitors who cherish the finest in delicious seafood, delectable
pastas, and fine wines. The cozy landmark, tucked away among the quaint shops
on Balboa Island, serves such delicacies as linguini with fresh bay scallops
and baby calamari in marinara sauce, a filet mignon and scampi combination,
a variety of lasagnas, milk-fed veal, and three different fresh fish combinations
daily. Private dining for parties from eight to 28 for business meetings, birthdays,
wedding rehearsal parties, etc. is available.
Lunch is served, with an additional Sunday brunch. Dinner daily from 5 p.m.
311 Marine Ave. (949) 673-6580.
Antonello
Ristorante
Since 1979, the critically acclaimed Antonello Ristorante has been
taking diners on a journey to the Old World with its extraordinary Italian cuisine
and vast wine list. Often considered “Orange County’s Dining Capital,”
this elegant dining establishment attracts those who demand the highest-quality
dining experience. Set amid a warm and luxurious atmosphere, Antonello Ristorante
has been frequented by presidents, foreign leaders, movie stars, entertainers,
industrialists, prominent philanthropists, and scores of other world leaders
including former President Bill Clinton and Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro
Koizumi; and celebrities such as Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis,
and Whoopi Goldberg.
Prepared by award-winning Executive Chef Franco Barone and his experienced
culinary team, the restaurant’s menu features a delicious array of antipastos,
soups, salads, and pasta dishes as well as exceptional fish, veal, chicken,
and beef entrees. In addition, Antonello Ristorante’s own sommelier-extraordinaire,
Steve Ebol, oversees the restaurant’s wine list, which boasts more than
300 foreign and domestic labels. “I am delighted that we have been embraced
by such an extraordinary clientele throughout the years,” said proprietor
Antonio Cagnolo, who credits much of the restaurant’s success to his loyal
and dedicated staff, many of whom have been with him for decades.
“While we often attract notables the world over, Antonello Risto-rante
is an ideal destination for anyone who appreciates a fine-dining experience.”
Located at 1611 Sunflower Ave., South Coast Plaza Village. (714)
751-7153. www.antonello.com
Balboa
Bay Club
For 53 years, The Balboa Bay Club & Resort has maintained its
place as one of Southern California’s premier private clubs.
Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The First Cabin Restaurant
is the main dining room of the Balboa Bay Club & Resort. Enjoy innovative
and seasonal California cuisine featuring fresh Pacific seafood, top-end prime
beef and local ingredients paired to an extensive selection of great wines.
The First Cabin Restaurant offers waterfront dining with intimate banquettes
and romantic tables overlooking the bay as well as alfresco seating on the heated
patio. With its bayside setting, it’s the ideal setting for delightful
dining while watching yachts of every size gliding by on shimmering waters.
Chef Josef Lageder blends several unique and modern flavors designed to tantalize
every palate. An impressive wine selection complements any occasion, ranging
from the top Californian wines to fine French champagne.
In the evening, Duke’s Place, named for the legendary John
Wayne, who was a long-standing member and governor of the club, offers nightly,
live entertainment and dancing. One can also enjoy a refreshing drink on the
patio while watching a magnificent setting sun.
The Balboa Bay Club & Resort is truly the “Host of the
Coast” and a perfect getaway along the California riviera. Located at
1221 West Coast Highway, Newport Beach. For reservations call
(949) 465-5000 or visit the website at
www.balboabayclub.com.
Bluewater
Grill Seafood Restaurant
Voted Best Seafood Restaurant in Southern California, Bluewater
Grill Seafood Res-taurant specializes in fresh seafood, house-made chowders,
and pastas with an oyster bar serving oysters and clams on the half shell. Bluewater’s
mission is to provide guests with the highest-quality seafood classically prepared
at a fair price in a friendly, casual atmosphere. Bluewater Grill prints its
menu twice a day and features over 75 menu items and up to 20 varieties of fresh
fish with all the warm San Francisco sourdough bread and butter you can eat.
They also feature free-range chicken, steaks, salads, and a kids menu. Locally
owned and operated, Bluewater Grill offers patio dining, a cozy bar, and an
atmosphere reminiscent of a classic seaside fish house. They even welcome dogs
on their patio! Their servers are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to please.
The Newport Beach location has a boat dock for amphibious arrivals and the South
Coast Plaza Village location provides a free shuttle to the Orange County Performing
Arts Center.
Voted Best Seafood in Orange County by the readers of the Orange County Register
and AOL Cityguide. The Zagat Survey called Bluewater Grill “the ultimate
Newport Beach repast.”
Located at 630 Lido Park Dr., Newport Beach. (949) 675-3474. Other
locations are in Santa Ana and Redondo Beach.
The Bungalow
Recalling the coziness of an early 20th-century craftsman home,
The Bungalow is an award-winning steakhouse nestled along Corona del Mar’s
main thoroughfare, just a stone’s throw from Fashion Island. It offers
only the freshest USDA prime steaks, seafood, and poultry, and boasts an award-winning
wine selection. Executive Chef Tracey Harter combines nearly 30 years of experience
in culinary settings to create delicious menu items such as a 16-oz. porterhouse
pork chop served with merlot demi-glaze and cabernet-poached pear, blackened
rare ahi served with spicy ginger pan-Asian dipping sauce and sticky rice and
prime rib eye steak served with Madagascar peppercorn sauce. Steak toppings
include: Danish blue cheese, sautéed mushrooms, fried onion strings,
or béarnaise sauce. If you have a sweet tooth you will most certainly
enjoy the dessert menu: chocolate soufflé, vanilla crème brulee,
chocolate-croissant truffle cake, and vanilla-bean ice cream garnished with
fresh seasonal berries. Spirit voted the restaurant the “Best Steakhouse
on the West Coast.” Zagat, Wine Spectator magazine, and the Restaurant
Writers Association have also heaped on the accolades.
The two-level restaurant offers 120 seats, a private dining area
for up to 35 guests, mahogany bar, handcrafted woodwork, copper arts-and-crafts
light fixtures, and burgundy-toned velvet booths. Alfresco dining is available
on the 40-seat fireside-heated patio, which is available for private parties.
All major credit cards are accepted. Reservations are recommended. The Bungalow
is located at 2441 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar. For more information call
(949) 673-6585 or visit
www.thebungalowrestaurant.com
Dolce Restaurant
and Steakhouse
“From Italy with love” aptly describes the excellent
cuisine and comfortable ambiance of Dolce Restaurant and Steakhouse. Conveniently
located in Newport Beach, it offers local patrons superb food, fine wines, and
excellent service. A seemingly endless menu features the authentic, traditional
specialties of Italy. Every dish is cooked to order using only the finest-quality,
freshest ingredients. Their menu features such Italian favorites as veal scaloppini,
lobster ravioli, and lamb t-bone, as well as prime steaks, fresh fish, and seafood.
They also feature a fine selection of domestic and imported wines
to complement your meal. Combined with the gracious service from the attentive
staff, you’ll realize you have found a truly unique dining experience.
If you are planning a party, their banquet facilities will accommodate both
small- and large-party groups. With moderate prices, a pleasant setting, and
food that is lovingly prepared according to authentic European recipes, you
don’t have be of Italian descent to enjoy what Dolce Restaurant and Steakhouse
has to offer. Located at 800 West Coast Highway, Newport Beach. (949) 631-4334.
www.dolcenb.com
The Island
Hotel
The Island Hotel Newport Beach offers a complete spectrum of dining
options, including its signature venue, Pavilion restaurant, which specializes
in a globally inspired seasonal menu capitalizing on the region’s abundance
of fresh produce and seafood. While remaining true to its Southern California
roots, “the menu is influenced by many regions of the world, from south
of the border to the Pacific Rim,” says Executive Chef Bill Bracken.
Bistro-style dining can be found at the more casual Gardens Café,
while the Palapa Bar offers poolside fare and refreshments, and the Gardens
Lounge, a jazzy menu of cocktails and snacks with live entertainment. Bracken
is not new to the property and worked his way up to executive sous chef in the
early ’90s. Most recently, he was the executive assistant manager of food
and beverage at The Peninsula Beverly Hills. In his current position, Bracken
spearheads the overall repositioning of the hotel’s culinary team—lending
his considerable expertise to all food-and-beverage operations, including banquets,
in-room dining, and fine dining.
For reservations and more information, call (888) 321-4752. Located
at 690 Newport Center Dr. www.theislandhotel.com
La Cave
Since its opening on Valentine’s Day in 1962, La Cave Restaurant
has been a treasured Newport/Mesa steakhouse and jazz club. Enjoying an impeccable
reputation for fine food and cocktails in a comfortable underground setting,
La Cave Restaurant remains a romantic hideaway and a perfect place to enjoy
special occasions with friends and family.
Located in a dimly lit, romantic cellar, La Cave Restaurant has
become a staple for the finest steaks, seafood, and lobster. Tender and delicious
filet mignon, New York strip, 16-oz. ribeye and 24-oz. porterhouse are among
the guests’ favorites. Succulent Australian lobster tail and Alaskan king
crab legs are among the popular seafood selections. La Cave features live entertainment
nightly ranging from a live tribute to Frank Sinatra on Monday and Tuesday nights,
“Hard Bop” jazz on Wednesdays, rock ‘n’ roll karaoke
with a live band on Thursdays, and the best in souljazz, fusion, and even rock
on Friday and Saturday nights.
La Cave is a throwback to the days of the Ratpack. A great vibe,
a unique atmosphere, delicious food, classic cocktails, friendly service, and
live entertainment help make La Cave the tradition it has become to so many.
Located at 1695 Irvine Ave., Costa Mesa.
(949) 646-7944.
Mariposa
at Neiman Marcus,
Fashion Island
Take lunching to the next level at The Mariposa, the modern and
elegant restaurant at Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island. Retreat to a fine-dining
atmosphere with an innovative menu selection. Taste one of the exquisite seasonal
entrée selections or experience the famous Neiman Marcus chicken salad
and warm popover with strawberry butter. The chic, posh Bar on 3 is the ideal
setting to sip a cocktail or glass of champagne on any afternoon while enjoying
the best people watching in Orange County. Plus, take in the spectacular view
of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island when you dine on the covered outside
terrace.
The Mariposa is the perfect choice for any special occasion or for
turning an ordinary day into something wonderful. Pamper the glowing bride-
or mother-to-be in your life with the shower of her dreams; or celebrate any
special occasion with a lavish brunch, late lunch, or afternoon tea. Let them
create the perfect ambience and menu for your next party or reception. The Mariposa
also offers entrée trays and special catering services for any sort of
event in their dining room or yours. Add a touch of luxury to a social luncheon
or simply make your office lunch hour more efficient with upscale take-out.
Whether planning for one or for 20, you will encounter the outstanding service
and exceptional quality that are synonymous with Neiman Marcus.
Reservations for lunch are recommended by calling (949) 467-3350.
Located at Fashion Island. To personalize your event or for more
information on catering, contact Cara Mungo at
(949) 467-3361. www.neimanmarcus.com
Morton’s
Sinatra and cocktails set the mood as generous portions of USDA
prime-aged beef, succulent seafood, and classic steakhouse sides arrive at tables
dressed in crisp linens. Everyone who’s anyone indulges in martinis, exceptional
wines, generous porterhouses, and decadent desserts. The buzz, alive at the
bar and in the booths, has continued for a quarter of a century at 69 locations
worldwide. Morton’s is the classic steakhouse experience where “the
good life” is savored nightly.
Sophisticated elegance, privacy, and the classic steakhouse experience
mark every function held in Morton’s Boardroom. Business or pleasure,
high energy or laid back, the feeling is always comfortable amid rich mahogany
and crisp white linens for corporate dinners, celebrations, and special occasions.
Groups of 15 to 140 are welcome.
In addition, Morton’s is now open for lunch, Monday to Friday.
Soups, salads, sandwiches, the daily special, and, of course, steak are all
perfectly proportioned and priced for lunch. Located at South Coast Plaza Village
(714) 444-4834.
www.mortons.com
The Ritz
Restaurant & Garden
As one of the country’s leading restaurants, The Ritz Restaurant
and Garden is characterized by understated elegance, extraordinary cuisine,
and outstanding service orchestrated with a genuine warmth. The cuisine is a
beautifully balanced blend of the classic and the contemporary. From family
occasions to business dinners to moments of the heart, this is where memories
are made.
For more than 20 years, The Ritz Restaurant and Garden has been the place to
go for those who appreciate fine food and wine served in an atmosphere of refined
elegance. The Ritz offers a European dining experience where patrons can linger
over a splendid meal in comfort. The high level of service extends to receptions,
parties, and business functions as well.
The menu includes Russian cav-iar; Bouillabaisse pasta; surf and
turf and crab; Hawaiian ahi; Pacific swordfish; rotisserie-roasted duck; filet
mignon and Maine lobster tail; roast rack of Colorado lamb; veal chop; porterhouse
steak; rib-eye steak; and New York Steak. Appetizer choices include Maryland
crab cakes, calamari, seafood cocktails, Maine lobster bisque, several salads,
and much more. For dessert, try the souffle, raspberry créme brulée,
or the “chocoholic” martini. Located at 880 Newport Center Dr. (949)
720-1800.
www.ritzrestaurant.com
Skosh Monahan’s
Skosh Monahan’s is a dream brought to reality for owner Gary
Monahan. It was his family’s annual St. Patrick’s Day party that
served as a blueprint for his restaurant. With the theme of good food, good
drink, and good cheer, Skosh Monahan’s intends to bring a little of St.
Patrick’s Day to every day.
Ever since opening in June of 2000, a loyal gathering of locals have flocked
to Skosh Monahan’s for the tasty food and warm atmosphere. In addition
to traditional Irish dishes such as corned beef and cabbage, the restaurant’s
most popular dish is the pepper-seared New York strip steak. Originally introduced
as a weekly special, the entree was so well-received that it became a permanent
menu item. The ever-growing wine list is another reason so many people love
the restaurant. Wednesdays and Saturdays are wine nights, which means all bottles
from the impressive collection are 20-percent off. Also, every Sunday is family
night, so kids 12 and under eat free after 4 p.m. With two separate dining rooms,
Skosh Monahan’s can even accommodate parties of up to 60.
As it says on the menu, Skosh Monahan’s is a place “where
travelers and home folk join to celebrate the day.” Discover this hidden
gem for yourself and you won’t be disappointed. Located at 2000 Newport
Blvd., Costa Mesa.
(949) 548-0099.
Tradition
by Pascal
If you are looking for a touch of Provence, step into contemporary
France and be welcomed to an elegant, subtly modern, and warm country restaurant
owned and operated by award-winning chef Pascal Olhats. Lavish your taste buds
with fabulous country dishes from Normandy, Lyon, and Pro-vence. Explore the
vast selection of wines and “Pascal’s Finds” at great prices
and special theme nights such as “Wine Series Dining,” tableside
service on Thursday nights by Chef Pascal himself, and a Sunday prix-fixe evening
menu for only $40. Zagat rated, Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, rated number-one
restaurant in Orange County for over 10 years, Tradition by Pascal is still
one of the most popular eateries and a must-try in Orange County. Located at
1000 Bristol St., Newport Beach. Rave reviews for Olhat’s Café
Jardin at Sherman Gardens, featuring a succulent lunch menu with French and
California influences, and “Summer in the Garden” Sunday Brunch.
Catering and gourmet take home available. 2647 E. Coast Highway, Corona del
Mar.
(949) 263-9400 for all locations.
www.pascalnewportbeach.com