Balboa Peninsula and Newport Beach Restaurants
Newport’s best eateries aren’t the name brands that have been franchised to death but original establishments that have brought locals and visitors alike flocking to them for good food and enjoyable memories.
The Balboa Peninsula is a portion of the City of Newport Beach that is heavily traffic by surfers and sun worshipers. Called one of the best family beaches by Travel Channel, it’s frequented by travelers who return year after year not only for the sun and sand, but also the taste of something original.
Southern Californians travel for miles to have a taste of these Balboa, Newport Beach classics.
The Crab Cooker in Newport Beach
The Crab Cooker, which dates back to 1951, boasts the “World’s Best Clam Chowder” and there are many believers who will testify that claim is true. The original name of the joint was Seafood Varieties and the patrons were the ones who started calling it The Crab Cooker because of the large lobster and crab cookers in front. The name stuck and it has been a landmark ever since. The must try is the tomato-based Manhattan clam chowder with homemade bread sticks.
- 2200 Newport Blvd.,
- Newport Beach CA 92663
- (949) 673-0100
Avila's El Ranchito in Newport Beach
Avila’s is a family owned and operated restaurant which grew out of Mama Avila’s home cooked kitchen recipes tracing back to Guanajuato, Mexico. The Newport Location is always busy with patrons waiting to get a taste of the signature “Cadillac Margarita”, Mama Avila’s chicken and rice soup and a plentiful mound of home make corn tortillas.
- 2800 Newport Blvd.
- Newport Beach, Ca
- 949.675.6855
Ruby’s Diner on Balboa Pier
What was once a rundown bait shop at the end of the Balboa Pier has been transformed into Ruby's a classic 1950s diner. Visitors can enjoy the stroll up the bustling pier for the best chili fries around while literally sitting atop the Pacific Ocean. The views are to die for, and the shakes aren’t bad either.
- #1 Balboa Pier
- Balboa, CA 92661
- P: 949.675.7829
Bluewater Grill on Lido Island
Located on beautiful Lido Island at the site of the former famous location of Newport classic Delany’s, this fresh grill boasts a wide array of oysters on the half shell and house made chowders. Great deals are available during happy hour or on the small plate menu. The Grill is also open for brunch, where the crab cakes Benedict are a featured entree.
- 630 Lido Park Drive
- Newport Beach, CA 92663
- Tel: (949) 675-FISH (3474)
Newport Beach is a place with a unique mix of land and sea which leads to a distinct culture. One of the best ways to experience that culture is through Newport’s favorite restaurants and casual beach eateries.
