Small, intimate restaurant with wood interiors and dim lighting creates a cozy, family-like atmosphere. Seating is limited to about 7 indoor tables and a few outdoor ones, making the space feel very personal and exclusive. Chef interaction adds a warm, dedicated vibe uncommon in similar places.
A trio of desserts offers variety with a standout meringue cookies that are delicate and perfect. The dessert selection pairs well with the overall tasting menus featuring multiple courses.
Casual dinners happen with street side seating that suits small groups well. The spot fits date nights, light business meetings, and family dinners with a relaxed vibe.
"The food here is delicious, made with care and top-quality ingredients."
"It's a small, intimate spot with a cozy vibe."
"I loved the delicious dessert trio."
Good to know
Reservations are required due to limited seating with only 8 tables available.
Parking can be challenging on Balboa Island, so plan accordingly.
The menu is small, offering a few carefully selected appetizers and entrees.
Italian restaurant offers authentic family atmosphere with a warm, unpretentious vibe and exceptional homemade pasta. The space features a beautiful view of trees and beach, creating a cozy and genuine dining experience.
Desserts feature less sugar than usual, about one-tenth the typical amount. The bread pudding with vanilla gelato stands out as a very good option.
Good to know
Wine Wednesday offers a great midweek dinner option.
The corkage fee is reasonable for bringing your own wine.
The restaurant is located near major hotels, making it convenient for visitors.
Mediterranean restaurant offers a cozy, calm atmosphere with classical chamber music softly playing, creating a quiet, pleasant dining room. The space includes a great little patio and features clean, cute decor. The vibe suits relaxed lunches or dinners with a peaceful energy.
Desserts include baklava, chocolate cake, and Turkish coffee. The menu blends Persian, Turkish, and Greek sweets.
Relaxing atmosphere suits both lunch and dinner. Dishes like Spicy Garlic Potato, Cheese Borek, and Beyti Kabob feature prominently on the dinner menu.
Good to know
The restaurant offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.
Prices are reasonable for a full-service restaurant in the area.
The menu features many options beyond typical Mediterranean fare.
Mediterranean restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with modern Middle Eastern decor featuring neon signs and artistic lights. The space feels family-friendly and warm, enhanced by friendly staff and a clean, stylish setting.
Baklava stands out as a sweet finish here, often served complimentary or alongside meals. It pairs well with savory dishes like chicken shawarma and fries.
Dinner features perfectly cooked beef and chicken, shaved and lightly seasoned. Chicken shawarma stands out as a solid choice for a quick meal.
Good to know
Expect generous portions, ensuring you won't leave hungry.
Parking is easy and convenient for visitors.
Prices are considered high for the portion sizes offered.
Open space with warm, sunlit glow and intimate booths creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Speakeasy-style bar and members-only cigar lounge add exclusive, private options. House music plays softly, setting a relaxed yet lively vibe.
Corn Madeleines stand out as a favorite dessert choice. The strawberry rhubarb tart offers a distinct flavor. Special touches include a signed card for birthdays from the staff.
Open space allows mingling before dinner. Large groups get big dinner tables set up. The ribeye steak comes perfectly cooked for dinner.
Good to know
Wednesdays is wine night with 50% off wines by the glass and bottles.
Happy hour offers good deals on cocktails and appetizers.
Valet parking costs $7 behind the restaurant.
Outdoor seating offers a tropical vibe with live guitar music enhancing a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. The space combines modern decor with coastal views, creating a resort-like feel ideal for leisurely dining.
Desserts include a piña colada cake large enough to share and a standout pineapple creme brûlée. Cheesecake and chocolate cake also appear as popular choices, all presented with a cute display and rich flavors.
Dinner features live island music and a relaxed vibe with guitar tunes. The menu includes SeaBass and ends with desserts like Pineapple Creme Brulee.
Good to know
Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6pm with food and drink specials.
Seating for happy hour is only available at the bar stools.
Parking is usually available nearby.
Dining happens beside water views with sights of sailing vessels and a marine breeze. Atmosphere blends romantic vibes with spots for singles at the bar. Sound dampening in booths adds comfort to the vibrant setting.
The dessert souffle stands out with its rich flavor and takes about 30 minutes to prepare, so it requires early ordering. Desserts here match the delicious quality of the food and drinks.
Vibrant setting near the bay suits double dates, family dinners, and work meals. Casual vibe fits a Tuesday night watching boats.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.
Prime Rib is served on Fridays and Saturdays, a must-try for meat lovers.
Valet parking costs $6, but street parking is limited in the area.
Open air seating overlooks a private dock with spectacular bay views and passing boats. The atmosphere stays cozy and romantic, with quiet, intimate spaces and no loud music. Small size and attentive staff create a warm, family-like vibe perfect for savoring the moment.
Bread pudding stands out as a recommended dessert by the staff. Desserts come after sharing several first and second courses, making them a sweet finish to the meal.
Sunset dinners come with attentive service and personalized recommendations. The setting suits special occasions like birthdays well.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended due to limited seating with only 14 tables available.
The corkage fee is $75, so consider trying their wine selection.
Parking is available and generally not a hassle.
Modern yet cozy space offers indoor and outdoor seating with a beautiful patio equipped with heaters and a fire pit. Atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting, enhanced by hookah service and music in the evenings. Crowd enjoys a chill vibe suitable for gatherings and unwinding after work.
Baklava stands out with its perfectly sweet and flaky layers, served fresh and warm from the oven.
Patient service ensures meals are cooked well. Dinner works well for large groups with delicious food.
Good to know
The restaurant is open until 2 am, making it a late-night option.
Indoor and outdoor seating is available for guests.
The menu features a mix of Persian, Italian, and American dishes.
Italian restaurant offers beautiful, luxurious design with warm, inviting atmosphere and vibrant, stylish vibe. Tables are set close together, limiting privacy, and seating includes hard chairs. Food features exceptional pasta and sandwiches, complemented by outstanding cocktails and wine.
Desserts feature gelato, olive oil cake, tiramisu, and panna cotta. Each dessert tastes rich and well-crafted.
Dinner features Chef's Dinner personally prepared by Sandro Nardone and includes wine dinners with curated selections. Meals deliver outstanding quality and thoughtful preparation.
Good to know
Happy hour is available seven days a week in the bar.
Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.
Wine corkage fee is $30 per bottle if you bring your own wine.
Quaint Southern restaurant with a cozy back patio featuring heaters and an open, airy dining room. Atmosphere feels friendly and down-to-earth, like a neighborhood joint that welcomes guests warmly. Known for creative menu items and standout cocktails like the spicy chipotle Bloody Mary.
Desserts feature huckleberry shortcake, carrot cake, and apple beignets. Options also include a jumbleberry biscuit.
Dinner includes fried chicken served with mashed potatoes and gravy plus roasted corn. Frequent diners choose this spot for its hearty meals.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.
Arriving before 6pm allows access to the happy hour menu.
Parking is available on the street, but be sure to pay to avoid fines.
Quasi brasserie space with rustic French décor and soft candlelight creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Heated patio offers a great view while French music plays softly in the background. Frequented by those seeking an authentic French bistro vibe with a small market selling French products.
French desserts stand out with their authenticity and careful preparation. Ile Flottante offers a unique experience unlike typical desserts.
Four dinner entrees earn five stars each, paired with desserts like Grand Marnier Soufflé and Crème Brûlée. Service includes attentive hosts, creating a setting fit for romantic dinners or special celebrations.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends.
Expect a $30 corkage fee for bringing your own wine.
The restaurant closes early at 8 pm on weekdays.
French restaurant combines classic and modern style with open kitchen views and warm yellow lighting. Atmosphere feels relaxed and inviting, with a Parisian bistro vibe and soft background music. Space is intimate, often busy, with tables placed closely together.
Chocolate soufflé cake stands out as a rich dessert option priced at $16. Waitstaff offer a variety of teas and provide attentive service with helpful recommendations.
Elegant dining room suits a nice dinner or date. Three-course meals feature ceviche, chicken cordon bleu, and honey pannacotta. Service stays impeccable with helpful recommendations on dinner, dessert, and wine.
Good to know
Marché Moderne is suitable for birthday or special event celebrations.
Dinner for two typically costs over $200, so plan your budget accordingly.
Parking is limited, with many spots reserved for valet service.
Mexican restaurant with retractable roof and island-like giant table offers an open-air dining experience with Cabo vibes. Atmosphere is lively and loud, featuring perfect lighting and music with a DJ, creating a cozy yet energetic mood. Comfortable seating includes a communal bar table, attracting a crowd that enjoys socializing and people watching.
Dessert portions often come generous, sometimes more than ordered, with no extra charge. The desserts are amazing and complement the overall meal well.
Lively and trendy atmosphere suits late night dinners and celebrations. Mole and margaritas stand out as dinner highlights. Seating is available even when the dinner crowd starts.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is often crowded.
Valet parking is available for $8, making access easier.
The restaurant turns into a bar at night with house and electronic music.
Indoor and outdoor spaces showcase stunning views with cozy fireplaces and heated patios creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Music plays at a medium volume, supporting conversation without overwhelming the space. Valet parking and thoughtful amenities like blankets add convenience to the relaxed, chic vibe.
Complimentary desserts often arrive to celebrate special occasions. The Dubai chocolate and lobster desserts stand out as delicious options.
Dinner offers an elegant and refined experience. Meals receive consistent positive feedback.
Good to know
Valet parking is available for up to 3 hours with validation.
The rooftop is permanently closed, so plan accordingly.
Both indoor and outdoor bars have limited hours and may be closed.