For years, my husband and I have frequented Bayside Restaurant in Newport Beach. It’s elegance, sophistication, European-influenced modern-American cuisine and enchanting ambiance has never failed us. Overlooking the harbor in Newport Beach, Chef Paul Gstrein composes his culinary surprises in the Bayside kitchen, while patrons relax and enjoy the view of the harbor and delight in the sounds of nightly live entertainment.
The entirety of the Bayside lounge is draped with white canvas, seemingly appearing to represent the sails of a yacht being harnessed by a driving wind as it carries its passengers out to sea to enjoy a Newport Beach sunset. Wooden support beams complete the look while a stunning collection of spirits and fine wines are nestled among shelves behind the curved bar.
My husband favors Bayside’s burgers, as do I. It’s just a terrific burger made magically delicious. So, when we were informed that “Tuesdays aren’t just for tacos anymore”, as their ad campaign cleverly states, we had to start frequenting one of our top ten favorite places on Tuesdays more often. Starting at 7 PM every Tuesday, their enormous burgers are served in ample form to hungry anticipating patrons.
Speaking of that favorite time of day, Bayside features it’s Happy Hour in the lounge, at the bar or on the terrace daily from 5 PM to close. It’s a fairly extensive menu, including cocktails and small plate fare in a traditional, beautifully presented Californian style.
Glasses of Chardonnay and Merlot are on the Happy Hour menu, while the Cabernet and Seagram’s Vodka martinis include the traditional Cosmopolitan, the Watermelon martini, and their Classic version as well that are shaken poured seamlessly and enjoyed.
A nice touch to Bayside’s table service during their Happy Hour is the warm ciabatta bread delivered to your table…even if you’re just ordering appetizers. These fresh-baked rolls of beautiful baked dough couldn’t be more perfect. Served with small ramekins of chilled sweet cream butter, these compliment any meal that follows.
Now on to those amazing hamburgers we mentioned. Offered with crisp lettuce, sliced tomato, and mayo, you will not believe the incredible flavor that comes from this presentation! Tender, juicy, cooked to perfection…and the crunchy, yet soft toasted ciabatta bun really hits the mark!
We have also indulged in the Bayside Chicken Chop-Chop Salad with Asian slaw and a spicy sesame dressing accompanied by crunchy tortilla strips on top with succulent white meat chicken chunks that scream everything savory!
The Smoked Scottish Salmon was fantastic. Delicate flavorsome slices of smoked salmon, fresh dill, a warm blini (small Russian pancake) on top, onion and a lemon Aioli with traditional capers add additional flavor to this sumptuous selection.
Bayside’s Happy Hour Penne Pasta with its full-flavored lamb ragu and Pecorino cheese sprinkled on top is merely heaven on a plate. Large enough for two, it is one of the many excellent small plates we recommend ordering.
We appreciate the Autumn Salad as well. Prepared with arugula, pear, grapes, blue cheese, onion, and prosciutto, this was a flavorful and light-tasting choice that is almost a meal in itself.
Another item on Bayside’s Happy Hour Small Plates menu we suggest is the Tiger Prawns served over a couscous salad with crisp vegetables. The couscous is cooked just perfectly, and the prawns are a tender and delicious main attraction!
The Cast Iron Seared Salmon with a creamy delectable lemon risotto and asparagus was filling and extremely satisfying.
Finally, an item my husband and I have been enjoying for nearly ten years…Bayside’s classic Tartare of Tuna lightly spiced with soy, chili and ginger, crushed avocado and sensational fresh tuna served on a bed of thinly sliced cucumber. Though this item is not on the Happy Hour Small Plates menu, it is on the restaurant’s lunch menu for a reasonable charge. And trust our many evenings of indulging in this specific appetizer over the years that it’s certainly worth it!
INSIDER’S TIP: If you prefer to dine into the late evening hours, just keep in mind that the kitchen at Bayside closes promptly at 9:30 PM. So if you arrive later than most, be prepared to place your order before then. In the meantime, the bar still serves its patrons until 10 PM.
Attending Bayside from 6 PM to 10 PM Mondays through Wednesdays, you will be rewarded for doing so by heeding the voice of the ivories maneuvered by Grand Piano instrumental artist, Jimmy Felber. Sitting behind the black Baby Grand piano in the Bayside lounge, Jimmy’s musical aptitude luminously shimmers, creating not only a welcoming invitational to dining patrons, but also a reason for remaining in the establishment all night long. Ranging from classic versions of standard favorites to intricate versions of the most popular music today, Jimmy commands the ivory keys reflecting his own personal style and unique variations on favorites most every listener will love.
As a Grand Piano instrumental artist, Jimmy performs a wide variety of musical styles that reflects his impressive list of artistic credits and experience. He has earned both gold and platinum music awards while performing and recording with such renowned superstars as Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, Al Jarreau, and many others. He has worked as a staff writer and producer for Motown Records, contributed to motion picture scores, and has appeared on major network television, concert stages, and festivals across the United States.
ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The towering ceilings and ecru canvas triangles draped above the bar are reminiscent of a vintage sailing vessel afloat on an open sea, while an enlightening west coast beachy feel can be felt throughout. The unique rotating modern art exhibit suspended on the interior walls of the venue also serve as terrific conversation pieces that are also available for sale.
FOOD / DRINK: Without exception, extraordinary. Consistent and inspirational.
LOCATION: Bayside is located at 900 Bayside Drive in Newport Beach, CA 92660.
HOURS: Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM – 5 PM, Sunday Brunch is held from 11 AM – 3 PM, Dinner is offered Sunday through Wednesday from 5 PM – 10 PM, then Thursdays from 5 PM – 10:30 PM, and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 PM – 11 PM. Bayside’s terrific Happy Hour is presented daily from 5 PM until closing in the bar and lounge.
SERVICE / STAFF: Marissa is our usual server, and if you are fortunate to be seated in her section of the lounge, you will not be forgotten. Her excellence in customer service and kind friendly smile emphasizes her genuine persona and tactful concern for her customers.
PRICE / VALUE: Incredibly reasonable price with an unmatched value that you will not likely forget!
CORKAGE FEE: $15 per bottle any day of the week, any time of the day.
CONTACT INFO: Phone: (949) 721-1222, Website: www.baysiderestaurant.com
PARKING: Valet parking at Bayside is complimentary. There is also ample self-parking available beside the restaurant.
Please note, all information for this establishment may have changed or the eatery may have been permanently closed since the article’s publication.