Brunch in Newport Beach/Laguna

[univ2257]

I've narrowed down a few places for sunday brunch in Newport Beach/Laguna to celebrate my husband's birthday.

I need help making the final decision. I want good food and nice views which seems incredibly hard to find! Here's my list: Beach House, The Dock, Javiers, Back Bay Bistro, Bayside Restaurant, Blue Water Grill, Sapphire Laguna. Any feedback would be most appreciated. Thanks!

[Searching4Dunny]

Try Splashes at the Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach

http://www.surfandsandresort.com/spla...

[revets2]

Another vote for the Beachcomber on a nice day! If your party is large, it can be problematic. Wait times can be long and reservations few. BTW, lunch is NOT the same. The breakfast menu is much better.

Alternatively, we've had a nice brunch at Sapphire (no ocean view). In Costa Mesa, Old Vine has a terrific brunch (no view, but nice atmosphere).

[univ2257]

Thanks for the tip. We do have a large party and there are no breakfast reservations until the end of feb! I called and they suggest walking in before 10am but wait times could be an hour plus:( otherwise.

[revets2]

Here's what we usually do with a largish party say 8-10 peeps:

- make Beachcomber Plan A and another restaurant Plan B (Sapphire, Cannery, Old Vine).
- about 5 days out if the weather still looks good, we seal the plan for the Beachcomber.
- someone arrives early to put in our name.
- invite folks to hang out, walk on the beach or gather for drinks.

On a nice day, it's a great way to pass the time. Would not advise on a holiday weekend. January is a good month to try this. The only meal worth having there is brunch. Lunch and dinner...not so good.

[Searching4Dunny]

Also, the service has been less than keen on my previous visits. YMMV.

[univ2257]

Thanks for the tips

[set0312]

I second Beachcomber. The location is incredible and the food is good. Plus, it's fun to either walk down to the beach of take the little trolley they run from their parking lot

[BubblyOne]

I have been to all of the spots on your list with the exception of The Dock, and would suggest you add The Beachcomber to your list. Good (not great) food, but right on the sand and part of CA history.

http://www.thebeachcombercafe.com/_cr...

[univ2257]

Thanks- will do!

[Lau]

the food at the beachcomber is pretty lackluster, it has a great view since its right on the water, but the food is pretty whatever

javiers is a bit of a scene, but the food is pretty decent and it is a decent bday spot

the food at bayside is pretty decent

maybe the restaurant at the st regis monarch bay, its a nice place to have brunch and the food is decent

[BubblyOne]

St Regis seems out of OP's desired range at $70 a person.

[Lau]

oh sorry forgot about that

[univ2257]

I liked the menu at Bayside, maybe will reconsider