Wildly disappointing based off previous reviews. The waitlist was over an hour off of the estimated seating time, and we had a toddler with us. When we finally were seated, we were uncomfortably crammed upstairs in the sun. It was very crowded and loud but eventually died down since we were serviced at the end of brunch. Every waiter looked exhausted, but they tried their best (- honestly where the only two stars came from). Food and drinks were extremely mediocre and parking was an absolute nightmare. I'm thinking it may be a busy weekend because of the holiday, but I unfortunately won't be back to try again. It's too far of a drive for me to take another chance. All in all, definitely not worth the $300 bill for a family of 5. read more

The pesto pistachio Reggaeton with chicken was awesome. And the service size was awesome. My wife ordered the bourbon burger and fries. And she also enjoyed the meal. We got boxes to go so that my wife could order mud pie for dessert, and it was superb. The ambience was great, because we are right beside the Balboa marina. We will definitely be back. read more

Went there this morning for brunch. Nice setting, view of the bay and boats. Parking is good but it's $3.75 per hour. Hostess was very nice and seated us immediately. Hard to communicate with the wait staff due to very heavy accents. My wife ordered eggs Benedict and got an omelet. I got the lobster roll. It was good but way too much bread. The chips were made on site and excellent. Overall it was okay but we won't be coming back. Dave K read more

I've been coming here for years. The view is lovely, so beautiful, peaceful and relaxing. I order the same dishes every time, avocado toast with a side of country style potatoes that never disappoints and a delicious French toast(no longer available, wish they bring it back soon). Service is always nice and welcoming. read more

Wanted to say thank you to our host IGNACIO, had the absolute best experience with a beautiful view. 100% recommend to anyone trying to enjoy their morning read more

Came here the other night for dinner and was impressed by the service and the meal! We had reservations at 630pm and the inside of the restaurant was full. It was a colder night and windy so I don't think anyone wanted to sit outside. Our server was really friendly. I got the blood orange margarita ($13) and it was delicious! Highly recommended this cocktail. I like how you can order breakfast for dinner at this place, but I opted for the burger instead ($18). Little pricey but it does come with a salad and fries. The burger was big and juicy! My friend got the lobster roll ($20) and it's actually 2 rolls. The manager Dewey (sp?) also came in to check on us. So overall the service was really great for us, food was good but a little on the higher pricey side for a "café" but you're in Newport Beach and on the water so what do you expect lol. I would definitely come back here to try the other drinks and menu items. Seems like a great spot to visit during the summer and hotter days so you can sit upstairs on top! Great little park in the area if you have kids and who could forget that harbor view while eating! OH and parking is free after 6pm! read more

Lighthouse - Delicious burger $18 and lobster rolls $20! Great cocktails as well! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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The view outside of the restaurant was EXCEPTIONAL. It definitely was the reason we wanted to dine here. The service was okay. A bit slow, especially considering the restaurant was fairly empty. The portions were massive. Definitely left with some to go boxes. Parking was accessible and easy and the restrooms were public restrooms so not the nicest but we made due. Overall a lovely place and I plan to visit again soon read more

Lighthouse - Crispy Calamari - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California

We went for brunch and was seated right away. Our server was amazing and super attentive. The portion sizes were large and filling. We checked in and got the free beignets and they were super light and airy. Overall it was a good meal and enjoyable. read more

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Outdoor dining was perfect! Even with the gloomy, cold weather the waiter accommodated us by turning on the heater. He was very attentive and gave us everything we needed without having to ask. I appreciated that! Everything we ordered was amazing, especially the beignets! We will definitely be back soon! read more

Lighthouse - Beignets, Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes, Bacon Cheddar Avocado Omelette, Steak Chilaquiles - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Staff were so accommodating and extremely nice. We were late, with a large party. We changed tabled a few times with no problem. The food and views were great quality! Andrew and the full staff are amazing! Will be back 10/10 read more

HAHAHA 76 PEOPLE WAITLIST 3 hours... If you getting brunch here please please join the waitlist as early as possible or make a reservation. The hosts were struggling telling people waits were 3 hours long. This place is not only popular with big parties but is also socially distancing. However you may order through phone/ to go and that cuts your wait time by a lot. The parking lot is a paid parking for 2.55 an hour and right by mariners Park. This means, a nice view of a bay sort of area, plenty of grass area and lots of tables not related to the restaraunt. But really- people pay for the view and ambience of the cafe so its your choice. I got the lobster roll and beneigts! I think the beneigts are pretty worth it, but my mother said it compares to nothing like the new oreleans ones. To explain- they're like a super light crispy pillow covered in icing. A looot lighter than a doughnut but can still have a slight chew when you condense it all at the end. Super addicting, and if you have someone who likes lightly fried food they will go crazy for it. The sprinkled sugar on top just adds to the lightness feeling of it as your lips get slightly exfoliated when crushing the dough pillow. The lobster rolls were interesting. I like how you get 2 and some fries, however the portions of the fries wasn't that much. The lobster rolls are more mayo than lobster but you do get some caviar looking green bubbles which give a pop of texture and light flavor. The greens balance out the mayo in the roll. I do think I had higher expectations as this was my first lobster roll and tbh probably not the state to get it at. Overall, I think I would come here once or take a parent here just so they can enjoy the atmosphere. For sure make a reservation because the price at this cafe is mostly due to the ambience of it being ocean side. read more

Lighthouse - Lobster roll - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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First time here, and definitely going back! Got on the waitlist through Yelp as we were driving over and were seated as soon as we got to the restaurant. Super friendly staff! Loved looking out at the water! Food was delicious. read more

Lighthouse - Bayside Omelette - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Wifey and I on a recent Saturday morning. About a 30 minute wait, which wasn't bad. This place is hoppin' on the weekends. Good area option if you're looking for food with a view. Located right on the water on the Balboa peninsula. Indoor and outdoor seating. Two levels. Anyway, I went for the fish and chips and Wifey nabbed the steak chilaquiles. The fish and chips were ok. A little soggy. I think they need to up the oil temp. Wifey liked the chilaquiles. We also went for the beignets, which were very good. I would say, all in all, a solid three stars on food quality/price value. But, I gave them an extra star for the service. Our waiter, Mr. Castaneda was on it. He hooked us up and we appreciated it. read more

Lighthouse - Chilaquiles - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Ambiance: My family and I came during lunch time on Monday and there was no wait even though inside was pretty much full. Ambiance of the lighthouse was very peaceful since it overlooks the harbor with all the sailboats. Service: The staff was nice and for anyone who has pets, they're pet friendly! We were greeted and when we sat down our server was quick to help us with some appetizers before we ordered. I did have to consistently wave down our waiter since it was busy but our needs were still met. Food: Price is a bit on the higher side, but you're paying for the ambiance, location, and quick service too. The beignets were super airy and crisp. Doesn't really taste like a regular beignet but it was a unique twist on it for sure. I ordered a virgin Bloody Mary. Flavorful and savory. All our appetizers felt pretty light but was filling like the tostadas and the calamari. Mahi mahi tacos were delicious but I like some hot sauce and lemon on my tacos so I asked for some on the side. Overall good food for brunch with friends and family, pet friendly, quick service, and beautiful view. PSA, check-in via Yelp so you can try the beignets! read more

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The last time I've been there, it was pretty good food with a good view and chill vibe. Feels like the neighborhood cafe.

The food here was amazing! The wagyu burger was very delicious along with the steak and eggs. The portions were just right and the ambiance was great. BUT, the service is above and beyond. Our server, Megan was really nice and I hope to come here again. read more

Lighthouse - Steak and Eggs - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Food was definitely a no ... the view is nice Service it's good .. but we're not coming because of the food read more

Lighthouse - The view - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Honestly wish I could give this place a higher review because it's such a cute spot in Newport, but overall not a great experience. The hostess working didn't smile once and was extremely rude. We were told 15 minute wait but it took over an hour to get us sat. I work at a restaurant as well, so I know how waitlists work especially when it's busy, but to tell us such a low time and not update on why is weird. Hostess with brunette hair and yellow tips was super rude the whole time and gave major attitude when asked about the table. Food was decent but like zero vegan options, especially for being in Newport like what. None of the staff were very nice or smiled at all lol even our server. Don't recommend!! read more

First time here with my love, foods are awesome and best service, addition for the cocktails is very good if you are a read more

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Great Food Great Views Would recommend this for early morning brunch spot. Friendly atmosphere read more

Went in for brunch and enjoyed my view from upstairs. The restaurant does have free parking but gets pretty packed because of the park/Beach. The calamari was a little tough but not bad overall. I didn't like the old bay seasoned aioli; it was too thick- it was basically just seasoned mayo. My avocado toast was pretty good but my poached eggs were overcooked, so no yolk oozing out when cut in half. Lastly, the parmesan herb fries were nice and crispy, but I think they forgot the herbs LOL Service was good and staff was friendly. I'll definitely be back to try other menu items. read more

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Views were great despite the rain. We checked in for the free beignets. The beignets are crispy, and had pastry puff texture. We ordered fried calamari, the lemon blueberry ricotta pancakes, and a breakfast burrito. The lemon blueberry ricotta pancake was so flavorful and had a good balance of sweet and citrus. The breakfast burrito was okay to me, it was definitely smaller than I thought. read more

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Thank you to our server Carlo! He took care of us with flying colors! The whole staff was speedy, polite and the food was great! read more

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Stopped by with my husband for breakfast. Carlos was our server and he provided such excellent service. The food came out quickly and was delicious. 10 out of 10 will definitely be back. read more

After a fun morning whale watching we had brunch at Lighthouse Cafe. We made reservations through their website and was seated promptly. The restaurant is nicely decorated and the waitress was friendly and efficient. Our only minor complaint was the old fashion was not made properly. Other than that the food was very good and came out at the right time. We sat inside but still had a nice view of the waterfront. You do have to pre-pay for parking in the lot at a pay station. The restrooms are located in a separate building within the complex. read more

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Lighthouse Cafe has beautiful views of the bay, especially from the second floor deck where my friends and I were seated. It was easy to get a table since I joined the waitlist on Yelp an hour and a half before we wanted to meet. While the location and ambience are great, the food and drinks are just good. To start, we all ordered drinks (see photo). The Bloody Mary was huge and I ended up taking half of it to go. I left with an entire to go cup (16oz?) filled. It had a little kick to it. If you like it spicier, just ask. For food, I did the restaurant week special. For $20 I ordered the cinnamon sugar beignets and the breakfast burrito. The three of us shared the beignets and I was pleased with the amount of sausage and eggs in the burrito. My friends ordered the clam chowder, crispy chicken sandwich and the steak and eggs dish. We all agreed we liked the food, but we wouldn't call it phenomenal. It's the view and ambience that you're there for! read more

Lighthouse - A huge Bloody Mary (I took half to go and it filled the entire to go cup so it's really 2 drinks), a froze and the spicy mango margarita - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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To start with let's talk parkingLarge parking lot with pay stations that tell you to down load the app. Know your plate number and have your smart phone This app is used all over Newport so know which area you parked ParkMoble does allow you to add time and will let you know how much time you have left in the spot but beware park with out the app and pay the 75 dollar fine. The Resturant is on the water at the harbor so it is relaxing and has a great view from both first and second floors. We came for breakfast and the seafood omelet was filled with lobster and crab. The Obrien could have been crisper. We had a large group and food was served quickly and everyone meal at the same time. Service was great The rest of my group had arrived first and while I was finding out how to park I was asked what I would like to drink and the hot coffee was waiting when I came back. Bloody Mary and other drinks are available I would come back with out question. When we were done we played in the park and you could also go for walks. For the most part if you are staying on Balboa Island and do not mind walking or biking you can leave the keys in the room. read more

We had never been to the Lighthouse but saw the reviews and we thought what the heck. We had the clam chowder which was excellent great flavor. The service is spot on everyone on there team is not only friendly but genuine and attentive. For our main dish we ordered the fish and chips the fish was good the chips where ok would have lived some steak fries. The fact that you can practically sit in the beach to dine makes the ambience super inviting and comfortable. Overall I would definitely come back. read more

The actual restaurant is gorgeous! Went here for a birthday brunch. The beignets are to die for! My Benedict was pretty good. Service was great, our waiter was really nice. read more

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Went here for Valentines weekend and got a reservation because we thought it would be packed but it was pretty empty when we got there. Very understaffed they tried their best. Super friendly but ended up forgetting about me and my fiancée. The food was mid I think people mainly come for the bottomless mimosas. We got the sangria it was not good at all. Tasted like they just put wine with random fruit. I liked the view but it was nothing special. I wouldn't come here again personally. read more

We had a reservation for brunch and were promptly seated and greeted by our waiter. He was a bit overbearing for my taste, but I won't hold that against him. He was attentive, friendly and accommodating. The restaurant is very trendy and cute, comfy benches with pillows around the windows, and a lovely view of the backbay. The food was inventive and delicious. Their special twist on eggs benedict was super yummy. I enjoyed every bite of it and will be back for brunch soon. read more

Lighthouse - Their special Eggs Benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California

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Let me just say Kim at Lighthouse Cafe turned a regular meal into a five-star experience. She's got that rare talent of making you feel like the most important person in the room. Spot on with her suggestions, and she somehow knows exactly when you need a refill before you even ask. Kim's service isn't just great it's pure magic. Don't miss out on her amazing hospitality! If Yelp had a six-star button, I'd be smashing it right now. Kim, you're a legend! read more

Kim was so awesome! And the professionalism was unmatched! She made sure our food was how we wanted it! Definitely coming back

Everything was fantastic, Sophie our server was great, she took the time to go over the menu with us and give us suggestions. We sat outside with a beautiful view of the water. My husband had the salmon, my brother the steak special, my sister the lobster roll, and I had the burger, everything was prepared well, it was one of the best birthday dinners I have ever had. We would definitely recommend, our new favorite place in Newport Beach. Ask for Sophie she is the best. read more

Conveniently ordered here while spending time at the near by beach. Overall everything looked great, however most of the food was either bland or not properly prepared Ordered: - the Lighthouse burger with fries (okay) - the nachos (they used marinara sauce? Hope this was by mistake) - bowl of clam chowder topped with bacon (pretty good) - bread boule (tasted like it was microwaved, but had good flavor) - cinnamon Beignets (tastes like funnel cake) - powder sugar with chocolate beignet (delicious!) - pina colda (they add the shot of rum on the top after blending the other ingredients, looked like flan) - Moscow mule (very little ginger beer but good) read more

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OMG. Great, great place. Great food. Even greater service!! Our waiter was Damien and he was just awesome. I brought my mom here to have a nice bite by the water. I heard lots of good things about it and it didn't disappoint. Very clean, airy, beautiful. We got the fish and chips, lemon blueberry ricotta pancakes and clam chowder. Everything was beyond delicious. Thanks Damien for a wonderful dining experience for me and my mom. read more

Lovely spot on the marina for cocktails and food. Great for outdoor seating, especially on the 2nd floor. Enjoyed the beignets, which were pretty darn delicious. Light, fluffy, and sweet. Also enjoyed a couple bloody Marys. For our entrees, we had the clam chowder and lobster rolls with roe. Lovely location, great service, and decent food and drinks. Would recommend this spot for anyone in search of good food and drinks with a good view on a sunny day. read more

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Mary and Riley our servers were very efficient and professional, making our time very enjoyable while we embraced the spectacular view. My clam chowder soup and fish and chips were delicious. The battered cod fillets were perfect. My husband said his steamed clams were perfect, delicious and abundant. We were so hungry and ready to eat I forgot to take photos, I owe these to you. read more

Sometimes you a visit a place that everyone else likes but you didn't find all that great. Such was my experience at the Lighthouse Cafe. The food isn't flavorful - the potatoes in particular tasted like no spices or seasoning was added - and the servers seemed overworked and unfriendly. The outdoor views are okay, but not exceptional. I won't be returning here. read more

This cafe is in an amazing location - right off the beach. The line had a long wait so make sure you get on the wait list ahead of time or have something to do near by. I had the beignets as a starter and the lighthouse Benedict for a entree. The Benedict was great if you like a sweeter take on a Benedict. I definitely recommend taking the time to go out here - especially for the amazing view of the water! read more

Lighthouse - Lighthouse Benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Newport Beach, California