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21 Oceanfront, Newport Beach, CA

21 Oceanfront

4.8
4.8
2035 Reviews
$31 to $50
Seafood
21 Oceanfront, located across from the Newport Beach Pier, just steps from the sand, offers the ultimate dining experience. Please note the restaurant is in a historical building therefore is not wheelchair accessible.
Due to current restrictions seating is very limited. Reservations are greatly recommended. 18% gratuity will be added to all reservations.
Unfortunately we can not accommodate everyones requests durning this difficult time but will do our best to make your experience perfect in every way possible.

Make a reservation

2 people

10:00 PM


Booked 19 times today

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Seafood, Steak, American
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–9:30 pm
  • Phone number
    (949) 673-2100
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Business Casual
  • Executive chef
    Jesus Mendoza
  • Catering
    We do not offer offsite catering. We do offer private dining events and celebrations onsite in one of our Private or Non-Private dining spaces.
  • Private party facilities
    21 Oceanfront is the perfect venue for your next group Newport Beach event or Newport Beach banquet. Our event coordinators will plan your next family celebration, corporate event, or business meeting in one of our formal dining rooms.
  • Private party contact
    Nicole Hay: (949) 673-2100
  • Neighborhood
    Newport Beach
  • Cross street
    21st street and Balboa Blvd - Newport Beach Pier
  • Parking details
    Valet $8.00 per vehicle or Self-parking Available
  • Entertainment
    Live entertainment in our Oceanfront Lounge
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Wine

What 2,035 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.8Service
  • 4.8Ambience
  • 4.5Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Orange County

    Seafood

  • South Orange County

    Romantic

  • South Orange County

    Seafood

2,035 Reviews
  1. RobertH

    Los Angeles

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Most wonderful thing experience. Amazing views and friendly and attentive staff.

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  2. KateG

    Los Angeles

    29 reviews

    5.0

    29 reviews

    Dined on November 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had shrimp cocktail, wedge salad, bottle of wine, filet, crab legs, asparagus and mushrooms. Every bit of it was excellent. Service was impeccable. We live very the atmosphere. One of our favorite restaurants Will definitely be going back again.

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  3. jamesc

    Los Angeles

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    consistent quality, service, friendly and overbearing. Good value, great sunsets from the bar. Prices are fair considering the quality service and service.

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  4. NathanP

    Orange County

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Celebrating our anniversary at 21 Oceanfront in Newport Beach was an exquisite experience that exceeded all expectations. The ambiance at 21 Oceanfront is nothing short of enchanting. The dim lighting, soft music, and stunning views of the ocean set the perfect tone for a romantic evening. We both opted for the Ribeye and let me tell you, it was a decision we did not regret. The Ribeyes at 21 Oceanfront are nothing short of culinary masterpieces. Cooked to perfection, each bite was a symphony of flavors – juicy, succulent, and bursting with a rich, smoky essence. The attention to detail in the preparation was evident, showcasing the chef's skill and dedication to delivering an exceptional dining experience. Accompanying our main course was an impressive selection of sides that elevated the entire meal. The potatoes were velvety and seasoned to perfection, while the grilled asparagus added a refreshing crunch to complement the hearty flavor of the Ribeye. What truly sets 21 Oceanfront apart is not just the delectable cuisine, but the attention to detail in service. Our server was knowledgeable, and friendly, and made sure our glasses were never empty. The pacing of the courses allowed us to savor each moment and indulge in the culinary journey. The dessert selection provided a sweet conclusion to our celebration. The decadent chocolate lava cake and the refreshing fruit sorbet were the perfect ending to an unforgettable evening. In summary, 21 Oceanfront in Newport Beach is a gem that delivers on every front – from the picturesque setting to the impeccable service and, most importantly, the outstanding cuisine. If you're looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or simply indulge in a memorable dining experience, 21 Oceanfront is the perfect choice. Our anniversary dinner will forever be etched in our memories as a night of romance, exquisite flavors, and unparalleled hospitality.

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  5. OpenTable Diner

    Orange County

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We celebrated our 23rd anniversary at 21 Oceanfront at sunset. It was an absolutely wonderful evening. Our server, Fernando, made the evening. He was extremely professional and accommodating the entire time we were there. The food was amazing, and the ambiance was perfect for our special occasion. We highly recommend this restaurant and will definitely return. Great experience!

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  6. OpenTable Diner

    Los Angeles

    19 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    19 reviews

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had a delightful dinner watching the sun set. Friendly attentive service. The steaks were well prepared. Good cocktails and wine list. No complaints.

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  7. OpenTable Diner

    Orange County

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    21 Oceanfront never disappoints. The service is exceptional. My sister has a mushroom allergy and the staff made sure to verify what she could eat multiple times. Conversation was lighthearted when checking in to see if we enjoyed a food item and all of the suggestions were perfect. The overall feel is luxurious and classic. Still one of my favorite establishments.

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  8. Shanie

    Orange County

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wonderful and festive for the holidays. Excellent service. Food was delicious.

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  9. DaniG

    Orange County

    10 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on November 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    One of our favorite spots in Newport! Loved the live music while having a drink in the bar and watching the sunset. Dinner was outstanding as always and Robert and Carly are amazing!!

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  10. OpenTable Diner

    Minneapolis

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Went for vacation with wife & friends everything was on point

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  11. Nick

    Orange County

    87 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    87 reviews

    Dined on November 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We made a reservation and we were seated on time in the bar area of the restaurant. A little more noisy then the non bar side of the restaurant. Ricky our waiter was very pleasant and took very good care of us. Everything we ordered was fantastic. Escargot, crab cake, lobster Bisque, salad, Fillet Mignon, Capino, cheese cake. Great meal. We will come back for another dinner!

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  12. BG12

    Greater Boston

    12 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    12 reviews

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Outstanding ! Staff is dedicated to high quality service . Food drinks and music were all awesome !

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  13. JenniferB

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    overall2food2service4ambience1
    Overall, we were disappointed in our experience. The local blue-hairs treat this place like their own personal Chili's with cross conversations at a yelling volume level across tables and across the dining area, including getting up and regularly visiting other tables to "catch up" with their friends. It makes for a very disruptive experience for the other guests there just to have a nice, quiet meal. My seabass was overcooked and dry, and the miso-mustard sauce tasted more like a sweet-thai chili sauce (therefore I wouldn't have ordered it had I known). My husband's steak was cooked to his liking. The lobster mac & cheese was also overcooked and dry. The lobster tasted more like jerky and the upper crust of pasta noodles were dry and cracked. I don't mind pouring my own wine from the bottle, but it's kinda expected that a restaurant of this supposed caliber, that the waitress or other staff would notice empty glasses and pour on your behalf. Not the case here. C'est la vie. The quality of this place has gone waaay down over the years. I don't think we'll be coming back again.

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  14. OpenTable Diner

    Dallas

    6 reviews

    2.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on November 7, 2023

    overall2food1service5ambience3
    Our server was very nice and attentive. But the food was not good. Had no flavor order mines well done and I have had well done before and it was nice and tender this was burnt and tough. For the price you pay you would think the food would be a lot better. I will not be back especially for what you paying.

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  15. OpenTable Diner

    Orange County

    1 review

    vip
    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 7, 2023

    overall4food2service5ambience4
    My husband ordered the lamb and he thought it was not trimmed properly difficult to cut to separate. The carpaccio was excellent and my friend had the Asian pear salad and scallops and she said she really liked them. The best part of the dinner was the service. It was excellent. I was disappointed in the seating. The booth would not fit all four of us. There was a table available, but they would not sit at it.

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  16. JOHNL

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Had are Anniversary dinner and it was very enjoyable. You guys made it worthwhile.

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  17. NicoleV

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This place was an amazing experience with the staff being phenomenal and the atmosphere being even more phenomenal and romantic, definitely will come back

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  18. OpenTable Diner

    Orange County

    5 reviews

    3.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on November 4, 2023

    overall3food2service5ambience5
    The ambience was really nice. Service was great. Unfortunately the food just fell flat. Lobster Mac and cheese tasted like too much sherry. We had one bite each and couldn’t finish it. Mushrooms were very bland. Lobster bisque also tasted like it was pure sherry. Calamari had no seasoning. Soufflé was dry, if it wasn’t for the ice cream I probably couldn’t have eaten it. The only thing that was decent was the filet and the crab. My filet was Oscar style so I couldn’t tell you what it would be like without it. I Was really excited about eating here but I think I’ll stick to Ruth’s chris.

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  19. SHELDONB

    San Francisco

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on October 30, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This was our fourth and probably final time to eat at 21 Oceanfront (moving to Florida). We have always enjoyed this restaurant. It is very nice inside and the food is always great. I hope to be able to visit again if I get back to California.

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  20. OpenTable Diner

    Pittsburgh

    2 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 29, 2023

    overall3food3service5ambience5
    It’s fine. You are paying for the oceanfront and legacy. But it’s not phenomenal. Just a good steak, great service and nostalgic venue.

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  21. NinaW

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The service and environment was excellent!! I celebrated my husband's birthday with him and the staff also wished him well. The class of this restaurant was outstanding and we will DEFINITELY be back!!

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  22. OpenTable Diner

    Orange County

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food …Great service….excellent ocean view & ambience!! Parking can be a challenge w/o valet.

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  23. DanielH

    Tulsa

    22 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    22 reviews

    Dined on October 28, 2023

    overall3food3service5ambience3
    Great ambiance and vibe of the restaurant. The service was fantastic. My seafood wasn’t just mediocre. I’d still go back and try it again!

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  24. KellyM

    Orange County

    5 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on October 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Our waiter was awesome and very funny. The food was to die for. It was a awesome experience. It was my mom’s birthday and we got drinks served right away and food was all delicious. It was capped off with a chocolate birthday dessert for my mom with a candle. It was a evening of a lifetime. We can’t wait to come back soon.

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  25. GeorgeO

    Hawaii

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on October 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Best place in Newport. Always perfect. Still has that old school professional feel that is hard to find these days.

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  26. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The meal was delicious, the service was delightful, the live music was great, and the view was remarkable! Will definitely be coming back!

    1 person found this helpful

  27. OpenTable Diner

    Orange County

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great experience last night celebrating our son’s birthday—amazing food, unexpected live music, and outstanding service. Our group started with oysters, and ordered the jumbo prawns, filet mignon, and sea bass as entrees. All delicious. Love that they have preserved the rich, historic decor of the restaurant. And the ocean view is phenomenal. We only caught the very end of the sunset so it would be worth planning to get there a bit earlier.

    1 person found this helpful

  28. visitor

    Orange County

    48 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    48 reviews

    Dined on October 22, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience2
    We arrived a little early for our dinner reservation. First time dining here. I had high expectations. The ambiance in the entrance and dining room was a little stale. Carpet needs replacing. We were waiting for our table but were told that there was a table in the bar area that was “very nice.” While it was the same menu and service was very good, I was disappointed to be put in the bar area. We were quite dressed up so it was kind of a bummer to hear people screaming about the various sports games going on and seeing people around us in shorts and baseball hats. Wedge salad was good. The sea bass was very good. The filet mignon was bland and needed a lot of salt. Guess that is why they have a bunch of “sauces” for an additional $15-25 (none of which I got). Fries were pretty good. Potatoes au gratin were tasty. I felt rushed. Food was out minutes after ordering/finishing a course. We were back on the road in less than an hour. I was looking forward to a nice evening out. This was too casual and rushed. Not sure we will be back any time soon.

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  29. OpenTable Diner

    Portland

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on October 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wry nice location in the water with very good food, nice wine selection, and elegant decor. Food was excellent and service awesome with constant attention, timely serving, and order accuracy.

    1 person found this helpful

  30. SusieW

    Seattle

    9 reviews

    5.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on October 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    There is never a disappointment when having dinner at 21 Oceanfront! We even sat where Nicholas Cage usually sits!! The only down side was the end of the evening when we left. The food, wine list, ambiance, people...everything thing is perfect and that's why we always go to dinner there when in Newport Beach!

    1 person found this helpful

  31. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Very enjoyable and delicious food. Service was friendly and attentive.

    Is this helpful?

  32. Ojertlf

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Myself and my wife had our 45th wedding anniversary dinner here. The lobster & king crab were prepared to perfection. The service was excellent, everyone is extremely attentive. The music was great, we had an ocean view. We will definitely have our 46th wedding anniversary here, but will definitely be back before then.

    1 person found this helpful

  33. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 13, 2023

    overall2food1service5ambience5
    The view of the ocean and sunset was excellent. It’s a nice spot

    Is this helpful?

  34. RobertH

    Orange County

    17 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    17 reviews

    Dined on October 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Simply put if you have never been to 21 Oceanfront you should go NOW or at least put it on your bucket list. I have been a customer since way back when when it was transitioning from being the Ritz. Food, service, theme atmosphere are all five star, This time we enjoyed escargot, seared ahi, pan fried scallops and a Grand Marnier souffle. Early in the evening the sunset was spectacular, the live music was low key but welcome. 21 Oceanfront is well deserving of the accolades it receives!

    1 person found this helpful

  35. KennyM

    Pittsburgh

    5 reviews

    4.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on October 7, 2023

    overall4food3service5ambience5
    The ambience and vibr was exceptional. Service was excellent. Filet was was very tender and perfectly looked, but was a little lacking in flavor. Dessert and wine was also very good. Great date night location!

    1 person found this helpful

  36. HarryC

    Orange County

    14 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on October 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great location right by the Newport pier and with ocean view. Good service and good food. Great place for a fancy date night.

    1 person found this helpful

  37. Angelina

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 30, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing people, view and of course food! Greatly recommend

    1 person found this helpful

  38. MichaelL

    Sacramento

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on September 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food and service was great. Prices are pretty steep, even for the area.

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  39. OpenTable Diner

    Los Angeles

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This place is amazing really romantic with great ocean views, really satisfied with food and drinks, my Fiancée was too, my steak was in the right temperature just how I ask for, I would definitely keep restaurant in my wishlist to again.

    1 person found this helpful

  40. OpenTable Diner

    Orange County

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Ricky the server helped us choose entrees, sides, drinks, and more. 5 star waiter.

    1 person found this helpful

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

21 Oceanfront is rated 4.8 stars by 2035 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

10:00 PM


Booked 19 times today
Google Map for 21 Oceanfront

2100 West Oceanfront, Newport Beach, CA 92663

Additional information

  • Cross street
    21st street and Balboa Blvd - Newport Beach Pier
  • Neighborhood
    Newport Beach
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–9:30 pm
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Seafood, Steak, American
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress code
    Business Casual
  • Parking details
    Valet $8.00 per vehicle or Self-parking Available
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Jesus Mendoza
  • Entertainment
    Live entertainment in our Oceanfront Lounge
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Wine
  • Phone number
    (949) 673-2100
  • Catering
    We do not offer offsite catering. We do offer private dining events and celebrations onsite in one of our Private or Non-Private dining spaces.
  • Private party facilities
    21 Oceanfront is the perfect venue for your next group Newport Beach event or Newport Beach banquet. Our event coordinators will plan your next family celebration, corporate event, or business meeting in one of our formal dining rooms.
  • Private party contact
    Nicole Hay: (949) 673-2100
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