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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Newport Beach's best

Seafood lunch spots

A seafood lunch that feels like a proper meal rather than a quick tourist stop.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated May 2026
01
Mariposa image 1
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Restaurant

Restaurant occupies a modern, airy space on an upper floor with quiet outdoor balcony seating shaded by mature trees. Atmosphere feels calm and elegant, contrasting with the busy mall below, though interior construction can disrupt the mood. It draws a steady crowd seeking a hidden gem with designer-level cuisine and a relaxed vibe away from the hustle.

Lunch features crisp fresh lettuce and special popovers with strawberry butter. Meals come with consommรฉ and options to enjoy a glass of wine.

Salmon comes with a light and crispy pecan crust and cooks perfectly. Yellowfin sashimi and tuna tartar show top quality fish. The seafood tower and salmon tacos stand out among the dishes.

People are saying

"The American Food desserts, like the gooey cookie, are pure comfort."

"The seafood consommรฉ and popover with strawberry butter are delightful."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was attentive and warm."

Good to know

1

Mariposa gets pretty packed, so making a reservation is recommended.

2

The restaurant closes at 3pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect larger appetizer portions than usual.

02
Poke OC image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Restaurant maintains a setup reflecting COVID-19 restrictions with no indoor seating and limited outdoor space. It offers fresh, customizable poke bowls with generous portions and a variety of toppings and spice levels. Quick service and an easy online ordering system support a fast, budget-friendly experience near a busy airport area.

Quick and friendly service keeps lunch moving smoothly. Using online ordering helps skip long lines. The lunch dishes are satisfying and vanish fast once started.

Bowls come loaded with a great amount of fish. Options include fresh tuna, shrimp, octopus, scallop, and salmon for protein choices.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's poke is so fresh and tasty."

"The food here is fresh and tasty."

"The seafood here is so fresh, I loved my large bowl."

Good to know

1

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long lines during lunch.

2

Expect limited outdoor seating with no indoor seating available.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to Southern California standards.

03
Great Mex Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining room creates a crowded, lively atmosphere with decorative, chill vibes. Authentic Sonoran style cuisine draws a casual crowd seeking wide variety of Mexican dishes and house-made margaritas.

Lunch options include Mexican dishes served quickly. The spot suits casual midday meals after activities like whale watching.

Shrimp tacos come with flour tortillas and offer a delicious, satisfying taste. Fish tacos are affordable and both shrimp and fish options stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is outstanding and tasty."

"You have to try the shrimp tacos; they're the best I've ever had."

"You can get the best fish tacos here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays and Fridays offer $2 street tacos.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long lines.

04
Amarith Farmhouse Cafe image 1

Small shack with limited indoor seating and outdoor stools creates an intimate, cozy vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, often attracting those who prefer takeout or quick bites. Fresh, farm-to-table ingredients define the food experience, setting it apart from typical cafes.

Lunch features a Khmer bowl with grilled chicken, served over vegetables and brown rice. Offerings stay small but great, making it a solid spot for a quick meal.

Fish and chips stand out with a satisfying crunch and flavor. The menu includes clam chowder and a variety of other seafood options alongside diverse dishes like Asian bowls and stir-fry.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"I found the seafood here surprisingly excellent and delicious."

"The Khmer bowl with chicken is enough food for two."

Good to know

1

Indoor seating is limited to two tables each seating two people.

2

Parking is usually hard; consider street parking or getting food to go.

3

They serve breakfast all day, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

05
Bee's Knees Southern Kitchen & Bar image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

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.

Lunch options include excellent dishes served throughout the afternoon, with availability even at 3:00 PM. The spot also offers brunch selections that complement the lunch menu well.

Maine lobster appears in dishes like lobster gumbo sauce and corn chowder comes with cornbread. Shrimp features in shrimp and grits and cheddar jalapeno grits with lobster gumbo sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the southern style dishes."

"I always get the most delicious seafood here."

"The fried chicken at this Lunch Spot is delicious and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Arriving before 6pm allows access to the happy hour menu.

3

Parking is available on the street, but be sure to pay to avoid fines.

06
Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar image 1

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.

Lunch offers a relaxed coastal elegance with a polished dining vibe. The atmosphere suits both casual meals and more special occasions.

Blackened fish tacos, miso salmon, and mahi-mahi stand out with fresh flavors. Shrimp dishes come tender and well-seasoned, paired with almond rice that adds a delicate, nutty touch.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's seafood dishes, like the shrimp and halibut, were spectacular."

"The crab cakes here are really good."

"I loved dining on the dog-friendly outdoor patio."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6pm with food and drink specials.

2

Seating for happy hour is only available at the bar stools.

3

Parking is usually available nearby.

07
Baja Sharkeez image 1
Restaurant

Sports bar with numerous TVs and an open seating layout creates a lively party atmosphere that fills up later in the night. Unlimited self-serve chips and salsa complement strong drinks like margaritas and Bloody Marys. The decor features a beach theme with impressive art and views toward the ocean.

Seaside lunches feature cheesy birria quesadilla and birria beef burrito as standout options. The lunch hamburger is available but less notable.

Fish tacos stand out with options like lightly fried, blackened mahi mahi, and shrimp tacos. Oysters during happy hour offer a fresh seafood choice alongside an extensive Mexican menu featuring bold flavors.

People are saying

"It's a fun bar with a lively, casual beach vibe."

"The birria tacos at this Lunch Spot are really good."

"The fish tacos here are really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Monday Night Football features happy hour pricing for drinks.

3

Minors are not allowed after a certain time.

08
Bluefin image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a cozy, chill atmosphere with quiet, spacious seating including a great patio for outdoor dining. The vibe is relaxed and not stuffy, with a beautiful view enhancing the experience. Sushi and sashimi are fresh and authentic, presented with care and high quality.

Lunch offers a multi-course Omikase and a sushi combo that provide good value. Outdoor seating on the beautiful patio enhances the midday meal experience.

Fresh fish arrives daily, including varieties like horse mackerel and sardines. Sushi uses top quality seafood from Japan, ensuring traditional and delicious flavors.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is so delicious and fresh."

"The seafood here is so fresh, I didn't want to mask its flavor."

"This lunch spot's sushi is excellent, fresh, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be very challenging, especially during peak hours.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant does not allow babies or strollers inside.

09
Tavern House Kitchen + Bar image 1

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.

Lunch offers a window seat with marina views and a chance to watch boats while sipping cocktails. Service includes attentive staff who enhance the experience during business or family meals.

Fish and Chips come with chipotle tartare sauce and coleslaw. Crispy Coconut Shrimp pairs well with marmalade and mustard sauces. Fish dishes maintain a top-notch quality across visits.

People are saying

"You get a stunning view of the bay from the window."

"This lunch spot has a spectacular oceanfront view."

"The seafood here is outstanding, with thoughtful recommendations from the server."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Prime Rib is served on Fridays and Saturdays, a must-try for meat lovers.

3

Valet parking costs $6, but street parking is limited in the area.

10
La Fogata - Healthy Mexican Grill image 1

Bright, clean space with beautiful interior design and a welcoming atmosphere. Energy is quiet early, growing livelier as the day progresses. Offers health-conscious Mexican cuisine with consistently good chicken, steak, and seafood options.

Offers quick, healthy lunches suitable for casual meals with friends and family. Serves both breakfast and lunch options in a relaxed setting.

Shrimp tacos and shrimp fajitas stand out with fresh, flavorful seafood. Grilled Mahi Mahi comes with black beans, rice, and grilled vegetables, highlighting locally sourced fish.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, with flavorful carnitas and tender chicken."

"The rotisserie chicken is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor."

"This Lunch Spot's rotisserie chicken is so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but can be limited during busy times.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect a variety of healthy options alongside traditional Mexican dishes.

11
Palmilla Cocina y Tequila image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Shrimp dishes stand out with shrimp taquitos and Diablo shrimp offering unique and flavorful options. The shrimp and lobster chimichanga and halibut fish tacos also deliver rich seafood tastes.

People are saying

"You have to try the crab enchiladas; they're amazing."

"You have to try the fresh seafood, especially the shrimp taquitos."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing enchiladas and delicious drinks."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is often crowded.

2

Valet parking is available for $8, making access easier.

3

The restaurant turns into a bar at night with house and electronic music.

12
Newport Beach Pier image 1
Fishing pier

Fishing pier offers amazing ocean views and a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with live music and fire pits on the beach. Amenities include bike rentals, volleyball courts, and nearby restaurants. The area attracts people for surfing, fishing, and relaxing while enjoying scenic sunsets.

Offers a variety of lunch options including spots like George's and Ruby's. The area provides a pleasant atmosphere for eating or grabbing a drink while enjoying the surroundings.

Fresh seafood arrives early with live crab, shrimp, and lobster caught right on the beach before sunrise. The historic Dory Fishing Fleet and fish market offer fresh fish throughout the day, with good catches even at the pier by noon.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing."

"The seafood here is phenomenal, with stunning ocean views."

"It's a nice, clean Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Parking payment machine requires cash; cards are not accepted.

2

Parking is very limited and fills up fast near the pier.

3

Public restrooms are available but may not be well maintained.

13
Bristol Farms image 1
Grocery store

Upscale grocery store with tight aisles and dated fixtures offers a clean, well-organized layout and fresh, high-quality products. Busy atmosphere combines with ample seating including outdoor and indoor areas near a buffet station. Known for fresh sushi, fresh bread, and a varied beer selection.

Prepared foods section offers gourmet options that match restaurant quality. Great spot to grab a quick, effortless lunch or dinner.

High-quality seafood stands out with a wide selection at the fish counter. Friendly, knowledgeable butchers offer custom cuts and cooking tips. Crab-stuffed salmon is one notable option available.

People are saying

"This grocery store has beautiful, fresh, and vibrant produce."

"I found the seafood selection to be high quality and well-organized."

"This lunch spot has gourmet prepared foods that rival restaurant fare."

Good to know

1

The annual Hatch Chili roasting event occurs in early September.

2

Parking can be challenging, especially around midday on weekends.

3

Bristol Farms offers a wide selection of high-quality fresh foods.

14
Bello by Sandro Nardone image 1
Italian restaurant

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.

Four sandwich options serve as the main lunch offerings. Walk-in seating is usually available, making it a lowkey lunch spot.

Lobster pasta balances seafood flavor with sauce and pasta well. Shrimp pasta offers a delectable taste.

People are saying

"The pasta and pizza here are exceptional and authentic."

"The seafood pasta was perfectly al dente and packed with flavor."

"You have to try all the sandwiches at this Lunch Spot; they're the best."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available seven days a week in the bar.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

3

Wine corkage fee is $30 per bottle if you bring your own wine.

15
Bear Flag Fish Co. image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers stunning Pacific Ocean views with newly remodeled indoor and outdoor seating that includes a garden-like ambiance and corner bar. Atmosphere stays chill and clean, blending casual vibes with a beautiful beachside setting. Outdoor heaters keep the space comfortable when it gets chilly.

Quick lunches come with tasty breadsticks from the pizza spot next door. The spot offers a casual vibe and solid flavors for a midday meal.

Seafood here is consistently fresh and high quality, with standout dishes like fish tacos and grilled shrimp cooked perfectly. Sushi and oysters also impress, offering a casual spot with great fish plates and a nice ocean view.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos and poke were really good."

"The bar seating offers friendly, accommodating service from Chris and Matt."

"The lunch spot has great food and outstanding service."

Good to know

1

The line can sometimes be a little too long.

2

Be prepared to order yours to go.

3

Seating can be hard to come by.

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Newport Beach, California

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