Our OC Date Night Spots
There are SO many unreal local places to eat in OC that have a charming and romantic atmosphere, making them perfect for a date night with your boo or BFF. One of our favorite things to do on the weekends is go out to a nice dinner and treat ourselves to a delish meal and some wine.
We usually do a date night dinner with our boyfriends once a week - sometimes it can be a quick to go order of sushi and other times it can be a formal steakhouse dinner where we’re dressed to the nines. Just depends on what we’re feeling / how much we’re in the mood to spend!
We’ve put together a list of our favorite spots for date night but honestly, they’re good spots for any company.
Farmhouse at Rodger's Garden — The ambiance here is TO DIE FOR! Seriously one of the most beautiful restaurants we’ve ever been to with the indoor/outdoor seating in the garden. We’re talking twinkle lights, farmhouse tables and chairs with blankets, and a menu that is all farm to table. The menu is a bit pricier than you’d expect but honestly so worth it because you can truly taste the difference in quality. Also, this is a great spot if you’re with a vegetarian. Our Order: The Harvest Bowl
The Cannery — Okay so if you haven’t been to the Cannery and you live in OC… please open up your calendar and put it as #1 on your to do list this weekend. This is hands down the BEST happy hour we have ever been to - majority of the menu is 50% off and drinks are so cheap, especially if you order a pitcher (we like the Moscow mule pitcher). HH is from 4-7pm everyday and we recommend getting there on the earlier side because this place get’s packed. Tip: HH is only in the upstairs portion of the restaurant! Our Happy Hour Order: Guacamole, Edamame, 911 Roll, Cannery Roll, Teriyaki Bowl
Sol Mexican Cocina — Mexican spot on PCH that’s easy to get to and always good! We like to sit in the bar because they usually have live music and it’s more of an upbeat vibe. Good quality Mexican, fun atmosphere and fire drinks. Tip: order extra bean dip… one of the best things we’ve ever tasted! Our Order: fish tacos or chopped salad
Malibu Farm on Lido — This vibey waterfront restaurant is right in Lido Village, which is one of the cutest spots in all of Newport. If you aren’t able to make it all the way up to Malibu to visit their flagship location, this one is just as delish. We will point out that the service here can be hit or miss, usually because it’s SO packed, but we keep coming back because the atmosphere and food is next level! Our Order: any of the flatbreads and bowls
Zinquè on Lido — Also located in Lido Village just a few doors down from Malibu Farm. This hot spot is also located right on the water with Newport Bay views. If you make a res here, try to request a spot outside so you can sit on the deck. Tip: They only have beer & wine, no hard alcohol, we always order a bottle of wine here! Our Order: Le bowl
Bear Flag — B Flag is definitely more casual than our former recommendations but the best spot to order take out/to go and bring to the beach. This is another Newport staple and if you haven’t been here either, you need to immediately call it in. Right now. Our Order: Poke plate with rice and avocado and LOTS of Tommy Sauce or Poke Burrito (Photo Credit: Bear Flag)
Javier's — Javier’s is another OC staple. The crystal cove location is a hot spot for OC housewives and local celebs. Out of all the restaurants we recommend, this one if probably the most lively and bar-like if you’re wanting to booze it up while at dinner. Great for double dates! Our Order: Chopped salad with shrimp, spicy skinny margs
