Planning a beach getaway in California? Look no further, Crystal Cove is the best destination if you want to have a wonderful time under the sun. Located directly on the Pacific Coast Highway between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove is one of Orange County’s best spots where you can enjoy a natural seashore, beaches, tidepools, towering bluffs, and wide-open spaces for hiking and camping.
Aside from its gorgeous beaches that stretch over 3.2 miles of coastline, Crystal Cove is also home to excellent restaurants serving delicious food in a romantic setting. After exploring the beautiful beaches and attractions in the area, make sure to try out the many wonderful dining options during your trip.
The Beachcomber Café
This iconic ‘50s-inspired café housed inside a charming, converted cottage is famous for its breakfast and classic Californian cuisine. Some of the best sellers at Beachcomber Café include:
- Coconut Macadamia Pancakes
- Shrimp Chile Relleno
- Crispy Calamari
- Thai Steak Skewers
- Grilled Swordfish
- Blue Crab Stuffed Salmon
Another must-try is the café’s handcrafted cocktails at their Bootlegger Bar, such as the Lemon Ginger Martini and the Big Bad Bloody Mary. You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas for a relaxing vintage beach resort ambiance by the sea.
Javier’s
Javier’s is famous for having the largest selection of fine tequilas on the West Coast and serving elevated Mexican cuisine. It would be best if you tried their:
- Steak Picado
- Ceviche de Ahi
- Trio de Enchiladas Del Mar
- Filete Costeño
Enjoy these delectable dishes with hand-shaken margaritas, rare tequilas, craft cocktails, beer, or wine.
The Cannery
The Cannery is a beautiful restaurant that has garnered numerous accolades over the last two decades for Best Thing I’ve Ever Ate, Best Place for Lobster Rolls, Diner’s Choice Awards, Most Iconic Restaurant, Incredible Waterfront Views, and more. It specializes in preparing delicious seafood dishes using only wild, line-caught fish. Some of the crowd favorites include:
- Mediterranean Seafood Salad
- Crudo Tostada
- Baked Peruvian Scallops
- Grilled Octopus
- Sweet Shrimp Pot Pie
- Venison Steak
Of course, you’ll have to try their delectable sushi and sashimi. The Cannery is also famous for its award-winning wine list and full bar.
Fly ‘N’ Fish Oyster Bar
Owned by restaurateurs Rick and Steve Loomis, Fly ‘N’ Fish is one of the best places to go if you crave fresh seafood. You will be delighted by the award-winning culinary creations prepared by renowned Chef Julio Hawkins, including:
- New England Clam Chowder
- Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
- Caribbean Lobster Tacos
- Saffron Bacon Risotto
Wash it all down with one of their signature cocktails from the full bar, a craft beer, or a selection of fine wine. This is also a fantastic venue to watch the sunset, as it is located on the Boardwalk close to the Newport Beach Pier.
Harborside Restaurant
Experience the award-winning menu at Harborside Restaurant, the most iconic waterfront restaurant located in the historic Balboa Pavilion building built-in 1906. The menu features exquisitely prepared fresh, delicious seafood, including:
- Orange Coconut Crusted Salmon
- Alaskan King Crab Legs
- Mahi Fish Tacos
- Korean BBQ Beef Short Ribs
They also offer beer and wine and have a full bar. This is the perfect place to go if you want to enjoy a casual meal in a friendly setting overlooking the water.
Andrea at Pelican Hill
If you want to indulge in upscale Northern Italian cuisine while enjoying magnificent views of the Pacific, go to Andrea at Pelican Hill. The restaurant is part of The Resort at Pelican Hill, which opened in 2008, near the Pelican Hill Golf Club. They serve delectable dishes prepared by Italian-born Chef Marco Criscuolo from only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. All of the pasta is handmade daily. Some of the bestsellers include:
- Wagyu Beef Carpaccio
- Whole Grain Cavatelli
- Italian Sausage-Stuffed Quail
- Blood Orange Cured Salmon Belly
The restaurant boasts an award-winning wine list as well.
Eat Chow
This charming eatery located right off Pacific Coast Highway close to West Newport Park is famous for its New American cuisine. Eat Chow is where you go if you want to enjoy a casual brunch, lunch, or dinner with your family or friends. Some of the mouthwatering items on their menu include:
- Lemon Mascarpone French Toast
- Huevos Rancheros
- Steak and Eggs
- Spicy Chorizo Hash
- Truffle Parmesan Fries
- The Chow Burger
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
Experience seafood dining at its finest at Eddie V’s Prime Seafood. This restaurant serves exquisitely prepared steak and seafood cuisine in an upscale metropolitan setting. Savor the delectable flavors of these bestsellers:
- Imperial Osetra
- The Shellfish Tower
- Point Judith Calamari
- Maine Lobster Bisque
- Mediterranean Branzino
- Swordfish Steak
Choose from their hand-crafted cocktails with attitude and an extensive wine menu specially curated by their sommelier to complement your meal.
Bluewater Grill
Bluewater Grill is known to serve some of the best, freshest, and sustainably caught or farm-harvested seafood in the Newport Beach area. Patrons come back to this restaurant because of these crown favorites:
- Ponzu Sashimi Sea Scallops
- Chipotle Blackened Swordfish
- Crab “BLTA” Sandwich
- Grilled Mahi Mahi Sliders
- Black and Blue Ahi Tuna
You will have a wonderful experience at Bluewater Grill as you capture breathtaking ocean views while dining.
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
If you’re craving Southern cuisine, hop over at Bosscat Kitchen & Libations. Chef Peter Petro prepares only the most delectable, mouthwatering American comfort food using contemporary flavors and cooking techniques. Treat yourself to these savory dishes:
- Barbecue Porchetta Sandwich
- Rock Shrimp & Hoppin’ John’s Gouda Grits
- Twelve-Hour Beef Short Rib
- Crawfish & Bacon top Ramen Scramble
- Sugar Barrel Steak
This fun and relaxed hip restaurant is just down John Wayne Airport street. They also offer an impressive whiskey list and an extensive selection of beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits.
Crystal Cove is undoubtedly a haven for food lovers. Be sure to bookmark our top ten list of restaurants to visit so you won’t miss out on all the delicious food this place offers!
