Top Restaurants in Balboa Island
Balboa Island Food Guide: 10 Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Balboa Island
Discover the best restaurant in Balboa Island, United States including The Cheesecake Factory, Wilma's Patio, Rose Bakery Cafe, Mama D's Italian, Dad's Donut Shop & Bakery, Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee, Panini Cafe, Crocker's, Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens, Fly N Fish Oyster Bar and Grill
Things to do in Balboa Island
1. The Cheesecake Factory
Overall Ratings
4 based on 248 reviews
The Cheesecake Factory offers something for everyone featuring a wide variety of over 200 menu items prepared fresh to order each day, plus over 30 legendary varieties of the Finest Cheesecake.
Reviewed By Drbinoche - Dublin, Ireland
My boss and I ate at the Cheesecake Factory at Fashion Island on our last evening in California.
She had always wanted to eat at the Cheesecake factory and as I knew the food would be reliable it made sense.
The service was good with friendly and chatty staff. We only ordered mains to leave room for a cheesecake slice at the end. The mains were massive; easily enough to feed for starter and main course with the result that we ate as much as we could and the rest went into a doggy bag.
The cheesecake selection is extensive and you really should ask the server for suggestions as they can normally steer you in the direction of a good one. As with the mains, the cheesecake slice was huge and went into a doggy bag.
Definitely worth dropping into if you are at the Fashion Island - its dependable, decent food.
2. Wilma's Patio
Overall Ratings
4 based on 347 reviews
Reviewed By Lasa88 - Los Angeles, California
This restaurant is very friendly and therefore very much a fun place to be with friends and family (friends in my case). We had a lovely lunch, as it was a bit cooler I had an incredible soup, one of my friend's had an amazing crab salad, the other one a burger. The restaurant is very homey and everything was well done and we were very grateful this friendly place exists.
3. Rose Bakery Cafe
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 209 reviews
Reviewed By DawgBuzz - Athens, Georgia
We were in Corona Del Mar for a few days, and this quickly became our go-to restaurant spot. We tried it all, and everything we had was great! The first day, I tried a breakfast sandwich on a toasted croissant. YUMMM!!! It was honestly one of the best croissants I have ever eaten. The next day I tried a muffin, which was also delicious. Of course we also tried a few different donuts as well (of course across different days - haha). They had several varieties of coffee. I stuck with the hazelnut version each day because it was so good. The service was quick and friendly, and the food was top-notch. I would highly recommend this place!!!
4. Mama D's Italian
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 599 reviews
Reviewed By Stuart S
I just have to say that ll of the reviews does not give this restaurant then recognition it deserves. We had the pleasure of talking to the restaurants owner who told us his story. It was incredibly inspiring and showed through within each and every one of his workers. The food was amazing and we were fortunate to not have to wait too long (no reservations). A quick tip, see if there are any seats at the front counter and say hello to Keith, you will not be disappointed.
5. Dad's Donut Shop & Bakery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 95 reviews
Reviewed By SoCal_kz - Newport Beach, California
Whether you live on Balboa Island, or are stopping by for a walk around the Island, always stop by Dad's Donuts! You will find the locals here in the early morning standing around visiting with their coffee, or we will stop by anytime throughout the day. This is a family run business with top-quality treats, and very pleasant and happy people.
Imagine this: trays of fresh donuts with their fantastic aroma available all day, adorable hand-sized and colorful animal sugar cookies, a kids' favorite, plus ice cream, coffee, treats, and
⭐️the BEST frozen bananas and Balboa Bars⭐️ anywhere in Newport Beach!
As a native of Newport, my brothers and I grew up with "Dad" and his treats, and for the past 30 years Yam and their family have been continuing with the same recipes and wonderful California hospitality! We find any reason to drive by Balboa Island now and then, to visit and get a frozen banana.... and our kids do the same.
The tradition continues.
6. Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 202 reviews
Reviewed By MandC0218 - Riverside, California
Outstanding unique donuts! We went here today around 10ish on a Saturday morning. The line was long but moved quickly. Service was very friendly and efficient. This is a small doughnut store with very few outdoor small tables and chairs and no indoor seating. We had the following flavors: Basil Egg Benedict, Maple Bacon, Butter & Salt, Southern Honey Cornbread, and Passion Fruit Matcha. Very innovative donuts with a creative flair. The shop is located inside 17th Street Promenade in Costa Mesa, and is between Pie-Not Bakery and Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant. Don't miss this decadent doughnut place!
7. Panini Cafe
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 102 reviews
Reviewed By jd068 - Boston, Massachusetts
This diner-like restaurant offers quick service, huge portions, and good food, all at a very reasonable price. Can't beat it!
8. Crocker's
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 53 reviews
Reviewed By Goodness4you - Newport Beach, California
There is a tiny table outside the place that seats two. Go on a sunny morning and sit outside. Order whatever you like...my wife and each had oatmeal, which was quite good. It's delightful, and the price was fair.
9. Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 126 reviews
Reviewed By markinRB - California
I met my daughter and her husband for brunch / lunch on a Sunday around noon. I have liked Roger's Gardens for many years, and a restaurant there seems perfect. All tables are outdoors, and it was comfortable (in February) because of the heaters. I had a lunch entree, my daughter had a fusion taco meal, and my son-in-law had brunch food. All were delicious and well presented. Good value - I will go back.
10. Fly N Fish Oyster Bar and Grill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 183 reviews
Reviewed By travelgal617 - New York, New York
Walking along the waterfront we found this wonderful restaurant with delicious new england clam chowder and oysters to start. Followed by a delicious and ample fish stew that came with great bread to "Sop" up all of the delicious juices! Great spot and friendly staff added to the great experience!
