This past weekend, the hand model and I celebrated our 9 year anniversary. Trying to figure out where to dine was actually quite amusing, considering we've been almost everywhere in OC. We asked friends & coworkers, consulted various dining media outlets, and after 25+ reluctant "No's", we finally said "Yes!" to The Dock.
One thing that intrigued me most about this restaurant is how people couldn't quite remember how they discovered it. Was it word of mouth, or that one duffy ride cruising on by?
Either way, we're glad we found this little hidden treasure. The service was impeccable, in fact outstanding. The wait staff was super attentive. Our napkins were quickly folded after getting up from the table. And our finished plates never lingered.
The atmosphere felt like we had just arrived on an upscale yacht with everything from white linen table cloths to round porthole windows, and even a fire & ice pit right next to the most bay-view coveted table in the house.
The food was exquisite and refreshingly whole. Unlike most restaurants these days in which everything is ordered a la carte, The Dock combines complex sauces & sides all in one perfectly balanced plate.
The Grubdown:
- sweet 'n tender, umami, citrus 'n pesto, Main Diver Scallops with Squid Ink Risotto, Blistered Tomatoes & Passion Fruit Vinaigrette $38
- everything you ever wanted, hearty, cheesy 'n creamy, Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with Potato Gratin, Swiss Chard, Petite Carrots & Mushroom Coulis $38
- creamy coffee, cinnamon 'n citrus, Espresso Creme Brulee with Cinnamon Sugar Beignets, Blackberries & Passion Fruit Sauce
- melts in your mouth, stinky 'n sweet, Humboldt Fog Goat Cheese & Apricot Compote Amuse Bouche
From the food to the service and bay views, The Dock really impressed. Enjoy this treasure trove nightly Wednesday thru Sundays, or for prix-fixe Sunday Brunches.
2816 LaFayette Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92663. 949-673-3625.
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