A Refreshing Escape to Newport Beach: Work, Waves, and Two Incredible Restaurants
Every once in a while, work trips give you a little more than just meetings and presentations—they provide a refreshing break from the ordinary. My recent trip to Newport Beach for a work conference was exactly that: a much-needed escape from the sweltering heat of Las Vegas. Between the productive sessions and the gorgeous coastal views, there was also time for some fantastic dining experiences. Two restaurants in particular stood out: Javier’s and Ocean 48. Both brought unique flavors to the trip, leaving me with memories of more than just the California sunshine.
Javier’s: Where Flavors Meet Ocean Breeze
After a long day of networking and absorbing information, we headed to Javier’s, a place that perfectly blended upscale dining with the relaxed, breezy vibe of Newport Beach. Walking in, you’re immediately struck by the stunning atmosphere—a chic yet inviting space with rich wooden accents, ambient lighting, and a backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. It was the ideal spot to unwind and recharge. (P.S. I know this is a travel blog, but the designer in me can’t help but notice that the details of these restaurants could have made for a wonderful design blog!)
The food was just as memorable. Javier’s is known for its sophisticated take on Mexican cuisine, and it did not disappoint. We started with tableside guacamole, a must, and it was the perfect balance of creamy avocado and fresh ingredients. The main courses were equally impressive. From their savory, perfectly seasoned empanadas to fresh seafood dishes that tasted like the ocean breeze itself, everything was delicious. Each bite was bursting with authentic Mexican flavors, elevated to an entirely new level.
Ocean 48: Luxury Dining Meets the Sea
Ocean 48 was another highlight of the trip—a restaurant that feels like a love letter to the ocean. The ambiance was sleek and modern, yet warm, making it the perfect spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
Seafood is, of course, the star of the show at Ocean 48, and they offer some of the freshest dishes I’ve had in a long time. Their Seafood Tower Appetizer was a standout! The appetizer let us try a little bit of everything- from king crab legs, lobster escargot, to hamachi AND later…red velvet bread pudding was of another world. Every dish was thoughtfully crafted and expertly prepared.
The service was impeccable too—attentive without being overbearing, making sure every detail of our dining experience was perfect. It was an experience that felt indulgent yet approachable, much like Newport Beach itself.
A Perfect Break from the Vegas Heat
Beyond the incredible food and the stunning ocean views, what made this trip special was the simple fact that it was a break from the relentless desert heat of Las Vegas. Newport Beach, with its cool breeze and laid-back coastal charm, was the perfect antidote to the daily grind. Whether we were walking along the beach or enjoying the cool evening air at an outdoor restaurant, the entire trip felt like a refreshing pause—a chance to catch my breath before diving back into work.
Overall, the Newport Beach work conference was not just productive but also a rejuvenating getaway. And while the meetings and presentations were insightful, the true highlight was the chance to experience some of the best dining that Southern California has to offer. Between Javier’s bold, upscale take on Mexican cuisine and Ocean 48’s fresh, luxurious seafood, this trip was the perfect mix of work, relaxation, and indulgence.
Newport Beach, you’ll see me again soon!
XOXO- Style Nation
