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Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove Reviews List

Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove

The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove provides ocean front dining in the Historic District of the Crystal Cove State Park with breath taking views of the Newport Coastline and Catalina Island. Situated steps from the sandy beach, The Beachcomber's outdoor patio provides the perfect spot to enjoy the ocean's breeze while sipping on your favorite cocktail or enjoying one of the many favorite entrees and appetizers. The Beachcomber's outdoor tropical bar 'The Bootlegger' with thatch roofing provides the perfect spot to escape from the world while enjoying one of many tropical vivations.
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474 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.4 / 5
(474 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 474 reviews
5 stars
(275)
4 stars
(150)
3 stars
(38)
2 stars
(9)
1 star
(2)
Food 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Service 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Ambiance 
4.6 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.6 / 5
Noise Level
2.2 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • great for outdoor dining(389)
  • scenic view(359)
  • neighborhood gem(219)
  • great for lunch(204)
  • special occasion(200)
  • great for brunch(174)
Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove Reviews List
Review 1 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Disappointed and really surprised

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Bar service / server slow and not friendly.
Seating was poor and rushed . No real attention to our needs. Always distracted
Trying to make the belated Mother's Day and birthday special and it turned out to be mediocre at best.
Again, very disappointed.
"
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, special occasion
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Review 2 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This restaurant is always a wonderful place to take out of town guests! Consistently great servicem ambiance and food."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, scenic view, neighborhood gem
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Review 3 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"great view - overcooked seafood"
Dined on 5/02/2013
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Review 4 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

great location

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"great location, great service, and neat experience. food and signs for the location were disappointing. Couldn't find the location because there were no signs across the street from the parking lot. walked around for ten minutes with my sister and 65 year old aunt (who has trouble walking) who were visiting from LA. the shuttle flagged us down on the way back to the car... the drinks and chicken skewers appetizers were good. all three of us ordered the chicken tacos and they were soooooo dry. i caught myself putting ketchup on them! my sister and aunt were a little disappointed especially after how i was told their food was good."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, hot spot, kid-friendly
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Review 5 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Yuck!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The service was poor! The waiter did not offer salad dressing choices. The salad tasted liked globs of mayonnaise were doused on it and the green beans were not cooked. The waiter did not serve tomatoes with the meal as requited and refills for the ice tea were neglected."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 6 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Belated Mother's Day Celebration

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/13/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My son came in after Mother's day to celebrate both his birthday and my day. The dinner at your place made it even more special than the day itself. Food was wonderful, service very personal even though restaurant was full, and back ground sound of waves made it very perfect. Thanks for the memories. My out of town guests were very impressed!"
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 7 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Always a treat to come to this restaurant. You can't beat the location and the burgers are fabulous!"
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 8 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Mothers Day on Saturday afternoon

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I love The Beachcomber Restautant in the Historic District at Crystal Cove State Park! The tomato blue cheese soup is a winner, and the Kobe burgers too. However, the chicken skewers were practically burned-AND the edamame and the sauce doesn't work at all with the chicken. They took it off the bill. The baked feta is delicious, but this is my 2nd experience ordering it and its unpleasantly lukewarm. I just don't want to disappoint myself by ever ordering that again. It's such a fabulous appetizer IF only it were HOT.
It's my goal to try everything on the menu here so when I recommend this restaurant to friends I can tell them what to order and what to avoid.
Please bring sugar when you serve tea. We shouldn't have to ask for it.
"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 9 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Hidden Gem

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"So close to home, a hidden Gem that gives a very refreshing and relaxing setting."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 10 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fabulous

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My favorite place to come to, especially with out-of-town guests!"
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, kid-friendly, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 11 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Great spot - so so food

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"over cooked chicken, but a lovely location"
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 12 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Mother's Day at the Beachcomber

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My husband took me to the Beachcomber for Mother's Day. The ambiance alone is worth the trip. It's such a cute restaurant right on the beach - nestled in Crystal Cove. The food was great, as was the service. I definitely recommend dining there."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, kid-friendly, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 13 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great brunch

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Went there for Mother's Day brunch and it was great. I had kalbi short ribs and eggs which was delicious. And the beignets were delicious. This out of the way restaurant is right on the beach. Parking can be extremely difficult on a nice day as it is a popular beach spot. You can walk down to the restaurant or they have a shuttle. Give yourself extra time for parking as they will hold your reservation for 10 minutes. On a busy day without a reservation wait time can be up to 4 hours. Excellent restaurant, highly recommend. They even have blankets if you get chilly!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, kid-friendly
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Review 14 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Drinks, surf & sand

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great place to hang out, enjoy a sunset and walk in the sand before an amazing burger or appetizer."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, kid-friendly, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 15 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

First timer at Beachcombers

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"It was my first time to visit this restaurant and took my wife and kids for Mother Day. Great place right on the beach. Let’s just say I got some serious brownie points from my wife on this one. Would highly recommend it for lunch and then kick it at the beach. Food was great and not so expensive"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, kid-friendly, romantic, scenic view, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 16 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Mothers Day at Crystal Cove

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Terrific menu for breakfast/brunch at the Beachcomber, Crystal Cove! A bit pricy but extras and expanded menu justified the expense."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, kid-friendly
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Review 17 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great 50th anniversary experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We were able to reserve a table for late afternoon on short notice using Open Table, even though the restaurant's own web site said none were available. Food was good and servings huge. Service was just right but the iced tea would have been better if sugar were available. (I didn't ask, and did get a refill). Handicapped parking near the shack is usually full. Making it to the Los Trancos parking lot across PCH can be hard for the elderly and infirm. Beans that came with the salmon were a bit too crispy and undercooked. We'll be back."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 18 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

sea side

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Just a fun place to enjoy a casual meal - view is great - service always friendly - varied menu"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 19 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Sunset dinning

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Perfect beach dinning. Food is good/okay but the sunset view right on the beach is second to none.
Should also try having breakfast there with less of a crowd.
Be aware, long wait on summer time. Most people get a buzzer and sit on the beach to wait for their table.
"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 20 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/06/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My fish tacos were delicious, as usual. My husband had a shrimp cobb and the shrimp were mushy. We did not mind paying for it but the waitress took it off the check and I hope she mentioned it to the chef. The last time we were there, we had the clam chowder it it had a lot of potatoes and was thick and starchy."
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 21 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

back to the 50's

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This restaurant takes you back to the past, surrounded by the old cottages and beautiful views. This is a must see, then take a walk after thru Crystal Cove State Park after, there are many trails to discover."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, kid-friendly
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Review 22 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Fabulous location, great food

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Set amid the historic cottages of Crystal Cove, this wonderful spot allows you to watch the sunset while taking in the nostalgia of the area. The tomato, feta and olive tapanade was wonderful to start. A great light combination for dinner is the wedge salad and the chowder."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
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Review 23 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Review

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/06/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Good food...great views. Being in the beach is what make the experience."
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, hot spot, kid-friendly
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Review 24 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Beachcomber Cafe, Very Enjoyable!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The first is to find the place to park, but once you have your first experience, you will learn the parking ropes, and be back again. The computer mapping services will put you about a mile south of where the parking lot is, which is across PCH from the beach, just look for the Crystal Cove Parking sign on the left of the highway while heading south. Parking is $15.00 but validated with a receipt for your meal.
The food was great, and so were the drinks, we had flat iron steak, salmon, clam chowder, and split the wedge (iceberg lettace) with blue cheese dressing, bacon, and tomato. It was so tastey, we ate almost our entire dinner which is super rare for me.
E
"
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 25 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Best Beach-side Experience in OC

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Built on the beach edge in historic Crystal Cove, it's perfect for anyone who appreciates both excellent food and the beach side experience. Very busy -- make your reservations early as it's a wait for a table to open up otherwise but the bar has it's own historic traditions and vibe so you won't mind "waiting a bit".
Be forewarned to come early as there is no parking in Crystal Cove. You park in a lot across the street just off Pacific Coast Hwy -- you can walk down or take a tram to a drop off point ($1 per person). You will be walking on sand so wear appropriate shoes or take them off and go bare foot. A walk on the beach afterwards might be just the thing to finish off your experience.
"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, notable wine list, kid-friendly, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 26 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Always our go to place for out of towers. The view is amazing and the food is always good. Great for breakfast, lunch or cocktails.."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, kid-friendly, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 27 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Special place !

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"As usual....this place does not disappoint ! We had visitors from out of state and we wowed them with the view, the existence of this place, the food, the drinks and the service. Thank you BC!"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, scenic view, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 28 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Beachcomber Cafe: "Hidden Treasure"

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The Beachcomber Cafe is a hidden treasure...the most spectacular view...and, of course, I'm sure we had the best table...and the best weather...and the best waitstaff...and the best food!!! I can't stop telling everyone I know that they MUST make a reservation and enjoy this "Hidden Treasure.""
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 29 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Fine food, oceanfront, dour service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/29/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"As always, Beachcomber exceeded our expections for great food, wonderful oceanfront location and marvelous ambiance. However, our opening wait staff person (a mature female) was quite dour, unfriendly; she was succeeded half-way into meal by a younger, much livelier female who turned the service around. After new wait staff, an overall fine evening."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 30 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Husband's Retirement

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We enjoyed a very cool evening (glad the plastic windows were up) . The food was great. We have spent our Anniversary in a cottage there and many afternoons in the restraurant and bar. The free parking and shuttle make it nice. We LOVE it !"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 31 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great "off the beaten track" place!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/29/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Right on the beach, very charming and great food!"
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: scenic view, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 32 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This place has BOTH an excellent

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This place has BOTH an excellent location on the beach and deliciously excellent food. I've used this place to bring my out of town guests to get a real California experience too. I get huge compliments from all those I recommend. This place ia a MUST GO!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 33 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

ROMANTIC BEACHCOMBER

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove was delightful. We enjoyed the ambiance, efficientcy of service, quality of food and presentation. The Mojito drinks were about the best we've had. We look forward to our next visit."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 34 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great view - steps from the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great view - steps from the ocean! Food was very good and service exceptional."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2003
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 35 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing location and terrific

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Amazing location and terrific food and service. Open Table is the way to get for a reservation! Nothing like it (except the Boat House in Santa Barbara)."
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2006
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 36 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Good food, good service, good view

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Most places with not just a beach front but an "on-beach" location seem to rest on their spectacular view laurels. Not Beachcomber. They deliver good food and excellent service on top of the view. The restaurant along with the corresponding Bootleggers Bar transition from day to night organically. No matter what time you go, you will you get the right energy you would expect. Recommended."
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 37 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of my all time favorites.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"One of my all time favorites. Always a winner and the staff are awesome."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 38 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Love being right on the beach

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Love being right on the beach - great place to bring out of town guests - they enjoy the shuttle and the whole scene with great food - good choices on the menu -"
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2005
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 39 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good food, great value. Enjoy

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Good food, great value. Enjoy a walk on the beach before or after your meal."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2010
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Review 40 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great food, drinks, energy,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food, drinks, energy, and the staff and view were super!"
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 41 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing view and the staff

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Amazing view and the staff was very accommodating."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 42 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Even though the place was

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Even though the place was not terribly busy, service was very slow, which meant that my two grandkids had to sit there a lot longer than youngsters should have to do."
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 43 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Carefully Prepared Food

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Both my scallops and my wife's pork chop were excellent. They were cooked to the point of just being done, and not beyond. Presentations are attractive, food is tasty, and it is clear that a sufficient amount of care and attention is given to producing a quality product."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 44 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Always a great experience.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Always a great experience. Love dining on the beach. Very happy with everything. Will always be back."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2011
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic, scenic view
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Review 45 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Loving the beach this is a

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
"Loving the beach this is a gem! Not to many places to eat right on the beach so this
was special. Our reservation was right on time and the food delicious. Will visit again.
"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 46 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Lunch on the beach - doesn't

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Lunch on the beach - doesn't get much better"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 47 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of our favorites! Great

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"One of our favorites! Great food, friendly staff and the local can't be beat!"
Dined on 03/18/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 48 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Slice of Southern California

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Having grown up in Newport Beach in the 50s, Crystal Cove and the Beachcomber Cafe reminds me of the coast as it was before so many people moved to the area and changed the character of the coast. I've eaten at the Cafe several times and the food and drinks have always been delicious. So keep up the good work. I do like being able to make reservations."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 49 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A bit too noisy at 1:30P for

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"A bit too noisy at 1:30P for my taste. The service was good but not excellent. The setting was 5+."
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2010
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 50 for Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Just a lovely spot with quite

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Just a lovely spot with quite good food. With reservation we didn't have to wait one minute. The wait without enervation was an hour and a half. I was very glad I did that. Lovely place to walk after lunch. The dessert was especially good."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, scenic view, great for lunch
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