Social • February 20, 2025
Karen
Where we Ate in the OC
Freshness at its Best
Cara and I spent an awesome 5 days in Laguna Beach. We had a couple sunny and a couple rainy days, but we didn’t let that get in the way. We were out exploring and tasting all of the amazing food and drinks along the way. Eating in California is a real treat, given how much fresh produce is available.
We came across a few of these on our own and others came highly recommended. So we thought you might like to tuck this away for a future trip to the OC. We were primarily in Laguna Beach, but spent one day in Newport Beach.
Breakfast:
I made a trip to the farmers market the day before Cara arrived, so we enjoyed breakfasts at home. I am obsessed with kefir from The Frenchy, especially the fig flavor. We felt like we were on a European vacation sitting on the balcony enjoying coffee, olive bread with the best french salted butter, fruit, nuts, cheese. Sometimes making the little moments feel special makes all the difference.
Lunch:
La Sirena (Laguna Beach) great for casual Mexican food - we had the avocado lime salad, but have also tried several other things there and they are all fantastic
Montage (Laguna Beach) poolside
Zinc (Laguna Beach) awesome for a casual brunch or to pick up prepared foods to go
Malibu Farms (Lido Marina - Newport Beach) fun spot along the marina for farm to table food. Good after a Duffy boat rental (sadly our trip was canceled due to rain)
Dinner:
South of Nick’s (Laguna Beach) for Mexican or just a few doors down is Nick’s - both excellent options
Larsen at Hotel Laguna - (Laguna Beach) perfect spot for sunset right on the beach with great food. The brussel sprouts with burrata and figs were incredible!
The Loft - (Montage Laguna Beach) Good spot for a cozy dinner with views
Oak - (Laguna Beach) Great menu to satisfy a lot of different tastes. Please do not pass on the blue cheese chips!
Nirvana - (Laguna Beach) Delicious farm to table - lots of vegetarian options
