You have got to go here…The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove – Newport Beach, Calif.
So much to tell…oh where do I start? OK…how do you get there??? The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove is located within the Historic District at Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Beach, Calif. It is an adventure just to get there!
You must park in the Los Trancos lot off Pacific Coast Highway (your parking will be validated by The Beachcomber if you spend more than $15.00.) From there you can either ride the shuttle down ($1.00 each way) or take a short walk, downhill, through the historic tunnel that is filled with amazing art work by local children- totally my suggestion!
After you pass through the tunnel you will enter a historic district filled with cottages from the 1930’s and 40’s. They were originally built as a seaside community, but now can be rented through the state park system. The rumor is that it is extremely difficult to get a reservation, but once you see them you will know why. They are so quaint and cute…it really feels like you are going back in time. You can poke around the outside and even use the restrooms in some of them…investigate – you will be glad you did!
Aren’t you hungry from all of the sight-seeing? Well have no fear…the path you are on will lead you right to the beach and food…The Beachcomber straight ahead!
OK, so there are several cool things about this restaurant… one being the history – it is inside one of the cottages and the decor is so awesome and kitschy!
No matter where you choose to sit…the ambiance is awesome! You can also sit at the bar, but they have a limited menu. If you are more interested in cocktails, that is the place to go…the beignets are amazing!
Before we talk about the food…I highly suggest you make a reservation as on beautiful days the wait can be long – or you could put your name in, go for a swim and come back for some grub when your pager goes off.
So I know what you may be thinking…beach food – gross! Well this place will change your mind. Their menu is extensive, gourmet and changes so that they may use fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Look below at what we had: watermelon/arugula salad, chicken, tomato soup and pork chops!
I suggest sharing so that you can try a few things!
While the gourmet food is certainly a reason to go to The Beachcomber, don’t forget the other things that make it a hidden gem: a walk through an artsy tunnel and strolling through the historic district…but that is not all!
Every day at 5 p.m. the cocktail flag is raised and saluted to – just like back in the old days!
Also, you never know who may join you for your meal…we had a hawk who had just scooped up a fish partake in eating with us!
The final thing that makes The Beachcomber a must visit is the scenary…how could you not love eating by the beach???
My work is done here…go enjoy a nice meal!
Happy Eating,
Crystal
You have got to go here... 