Top 7 Places to Eat in Balboa, Newport Beach, CA

1) Harborside Restaurant

Waterfront • Seafood & Steaks • Lunch/Dinner
For quintessential harbor views inside the historic Balboa Pavilion, Harborside is my standby. I love the relaxed vibe, plentiful seafood choices (think coconut shrimp, fish & chips), and sunset-friendly patio seating.

View menu & hours

2) Wilma’s Patio (Balboa Island)

Cozy Cafe • Breakfast/Lunch • Family-Friendly
A quick ferry hop lands you at Wilma’s for hearty breakfasts and Tex-Mex comfort. My move is a benedict or a big omelet early, then a stroll along Marine Avenue.

See the menu

3) Newport Landing Restaurant

Seafood & Oyster Bar • Harbor Views • Dinner
When I want a slightly dressier night out—oysters, chowder, a great seafood pasta—Newport Landing fits the bill. Ask for a window table upstairs for views of the ferry and harbor lights.

Book a table

4) Ruby’s Diner (Balboa Pier)

Classic Diner • Burgers & Shakes • Breakfast/Lunch
Nostalgia meets ocean breeze at the end of the pier. I’m a burger-and-shake traditionalist here, but their breakfasts hit the spot after an early walk on the boardwalk.

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5) Shorebird

Modern American • Seafood & Steaks • Dinner/Brunch
For something a bit more contemporary, Shorebird blends polished service with coastal flavors—wood-grilled fish, a great pork chop, and a lively bar program.

See menus

6) Lighthouse Café

Casual Waterfront • Brunch/Dinner • Marina Park
A relaxed harborfront option for brunch with mimosas or a breezy dinner after beach time. It’s airy, family-friendly, and right on the water at Marina Park.

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7) Irv’s Burgers (Beachside Stand)

Old-School Stand • Burgers & Dogs • Budget-Friendly
When I want fast, simple, and sandy-toes casual, a beachside burger stand hits the spot. Think griddled patties, hot dogs, fries, and a picnic bench—perfect after a few hours on the beach.

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Why I Love Dining in Balboa

Variety and views. You can start the day with a cozy island breakfast, grab a burger on the pier, and finish with oysters overlooking the harbor—all within a few walkable blocks.

Natalie Boyle
REALTOR®, Founder of Verso Homes (DRE #01329012)
Helping buyers and sellers find their perfect Orange County community.
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