Combine a visit to your neighborhood state park with a meal on the beach at Beachcomber Cafe.
By Micaela Myers
Leave your heels behind, and head down to the sand at Crystal Cove for a casual meal right on the beach with something for everyone. This past November, Beachcomber changed 95 percent of the menu for a completely new take on coastal cuisine.
“We’re a unique beach restaurant on the sand, where everyone feels comfortable,” comments General Manager Chris Seevers, adding that the seasonal menu’s focus is all about fresh ingredients, with sauces and such made by hand on-site.
To start, don’t miss the ahi tacos topped with crisp wontons, pickled cabbage and Sriracha aioli—one classic that stayed on the new menu from the days of yore. Beachcomber’s take on the crabcake features a crispy brioche crouton foundation, sunflower sprouts, ruby red grapefruit and yuzu aioli garnishes. For lunch, the frutti de mar linguini with clams, PEI mussels, wild Mexican white shrimp, sweet basil and arrabbiata sauce is a tasty choice. The grilled salmon is another option for seafood lovers, while vegetarians can opt for the pappardelle pasta made with asparagus, mushrooms, roasted pearl unions, chives and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheeses. Soups, salads and sandwiches also populate the lunch menu, with heartier items, from pork chops to petite filets and short ribs, making an appearance on the dinner menu.
The Beachcomber classic s’mores sundae (served in a martini glass) stayed on the menu and is a tasty way to get your s’mores fix with vanilla ice cream topped with whipped cream, marshmallow sauce, chocolate sauce and graham crackers. But if you only have room for one dessert, don’t miss the beignets—absolutely mouthwatering, soft, flakey and irresistible. The beignets also make an appearance on the breakfast menu.
In addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings, the restaurant features a full bar and extensive wine menu. The Beachcomber’s Bootlegger Bar sits adjacent and is a great place to grab an appetizer and drink before your meal.
When you want to combine beach time with meal time—not to mention a visit to the historic cottages and famed state park—Beachcomber proves a great choice. Start the day off right, watch the sunset or bring out-of-town guests for a unique SoCal experience. But if the weather is nice, don’t forget to make a reservation! LBM
Beachcomber Cafe
15 Crystal Cove; 949-376-6900; thebeachcombercafe.com
Hours:
Monday – Sunday,
7 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Price: $10 – $30
