One of the things we were looking forward to in 2023 was visiting OC’s new hottest restaurants. Good news: the time has finally come!

Foodies rejoice! The hottest, most highly anticipated restaurants in Orange County have opened their doors. Read on for a roundup of the top new spots to eat, drink, and be merry.

Bloom Restaurant + Bar · San Juan Capistrano

Here’s one more reason to visit the Mission San Juan Capistrano. Right across the street is Bloom, the city’s hottest new eatery. An American bistro bursting with charm, Bloom is the lastest offering from Russ Bendel. Bendel is known for Laguna Beach’s Sapphire and The Pantry, Newport Beach’s Olea, and more. Try the applewood bacon-wrapped meatloaf or pan-roasted Idaho rainbow trout. To drink, sip the signature Ortega cocktail featuring tequila, Aperol, and grapefruit.
JOEY Newport Beach · Newport Beach

JOEY Newport Beach opened on January 19 — and we’re here for it. Fashion Island® has gained one of the hottest new spots with JOEY, which offers daily happy hour, lunch, and dinner. The modern-casual eatery is led by executive director of culinary Matthew Stowe. Reality TV fans may remember Stowe as the winner of Top Chef Canada season 3. The menu is wonderfully diverse with several different influences, including Italian, Indian, and Japanese. Eat inside or on the spacious 1,992-foot patio, which boasts a lovely fire pit.
Postino Wine Cafe · Irvine

The hottest restaurant to hit Park Place in Irvine? Postino Wine Cafe. This spot is great for group dining thanks to its shareable charcuterie boards and small bites. The wine list is spectacular, which is to be expected at an Orange County wine cafe. Retro boomboxes adorn the space and create a whimsical ambiance for lunch, dinner, brunch, or happy hour.
Breezy · San Juan Capistrano

Ladies who brunch, take note: this is your next favorite spot. Breakfast and brunch steal the show at Breezy, which offers Filipino and island-inspired plates. The pink dining room is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to charm at this eatery. Ube pancakes, adobo breakfast burritos, and acai bowls all delight the palate. You can’t go wrong with any menu items at Breezy!
PUBlic Legacy · Orange

PUBlic Legacy, located at Stadium Promenade, features a 30-seat bar and 40-seat patio. This could be the hottest new spot for vegans and vegetarians, as it offers many plant-based menu options. Meat-eaters will find plenty to enjoy, however, like filet mignon and the Legacy Smashburger. Come hungry, leave happy!

This year is starting out on an amazing culinary foot! We can’t wait to see what other new restaurants turn up. In the meantime, how would you like to live closer to the hottest restaurants in the OC? We can help you find a home in the middle of the foodie action. If you’re ready to upgrade your lifestyle, contact our real estate specialists today at SurterreProperties.com.