Where are you staying? I assume you will have a car?

My favorite local restaurants "that might be unique to Newport" are Rothschild's, the Quiet Woman, The Side Door and Port Restaurant & Bar. These are all in the Corona del Mar area of Newport Beach, close to Newport Center/Fashion.

On Balboa Island I'd look at Basilic Swiss French Restaurant and save room for a Balboa Bar or frozen banana afterwards.

On the Peninsula, Pescadou Bistro, 21 Oceanfront and Newport Landing would be my top picks.

But you are willing to expand your horizon a bit, Irvine has some great Chinese spots, Garden Grove/Westminster has great Vietnamese, Santa Ana great Mexican and an emerging gastropub scene.

Laguna Beach has many fine restaurants including 230 Forest Ave, Three Seventy Common and the exceptional restaurants with exceptional views and setting at the Montage Resort Laguna Beach.

More low key down home places in Corona del Mar, Bamboo Bistro (Thai fusion), Crow Bar, Summer House, Mayur and Panini Cafe.

You just HAD to mention those BALBOA BARS again didn't you scott?????!

Now I'll be craving one for days and will sleep with visions of BBars in my head.

thank you both. Great info so far, have already visited the websites for most/all of what you listed. We are staying on the peninsula, somewhere in the middle I think. Not sure how much of a difference it will make to us....I think Corona Del Mar, Balboa Island, and even Costa Mesa are reasonably close. If you can think of any others at all, don't hesitate. I take all recommendations seriously!!

thanks again

Matt

What we mentioned is just a start Matt. If you have any more specific cravings, let us know and we can find a place for you. Orange County is at no loss for great food.

we always eat at the Cannery, which is on Lido Isle at the start of the penninsular

Bluewater Gril, http://www.bluewatergrill.com/, is casual and has a nice waterfront deck. They serve fresh seafood, yummy bread, and good cocktails.

Pelican Grill at Pelican Hill (or the Coliseum at the same location) has wonderful food and a beautiful golf course and ocean view. www.pelicanhill.com/Dining_Pelican_Grill

Javier's has good Mexican food in an impressive location that also has an ocean view. It's quite a scene, though. I like going there for a late lunch and avoiding the crowds and noise, but the people watching during busy times is unbeatable! http://www.javiers-cantina.com/

Bluefin is my favorite sushi spot. http://www.bluefinbyabe.com/

I agree with the suggestion of Sapphire in Laguna and most of the Corona del Mar recommendations.

Gulfstream near Fashion Island is pretty good for a chain.

Thank you all, already come and gone ate at Basilic was great. Will remember all recs for next month appreciate it!

Matt