🦞 Newport Beach’s tastiest week is back (finally)

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We’re somehow already in the last stretch of January, and Valentine’s season is starting to creep in. From candlelit pasta dinners to mellow jazz nights, Newport Beach is leaning into a cozy, romantic groove.

Throw in the return of Restaurant Week and a packed calendar of local events, and you’ve got every reason to get out and enjoy it!

🍝 A Love Letter to Italian Comfort

With Valentine’s season already almost in the air, il Farro feels especially right to revisit. Just steps from the pier, this cozy Peninsula staple channels the warmth of an Italian family table: candlelit, conversational, and quietly romantic.

Expect organic wood-fired pizzas, farro-based handmade pasta, lobster ravioli, and a tiramisu worth sharing. We love it for intimate dinners and small celebrations, with private events and weddings often filling the room.

Insider perk: join their mailing list for seasonal specials and occasional treats!

🎨 Arts on the Walls, Paired with Coastal Conversations

The Kennedy Contemporary gallery is a favorite for relaxed artist openings, new installation events, and genuinely helpful collecting guidance. The space is bright and welcoming, the curation thoughtful, and the vibe feels very Newport Beach.

Try popping in with a Kean coffee, meeting artists in person, and discovering pieces that feel lived-in, not intimidating.

🦞 Newport Beach Restaurant Week Returns After Four Years

The Gist: After a four-year break, Newport Beach Restaurant Week is back Jan. 15–25, bringing prix fixe menus, discounts, and special bites to more than 50 local eateries. Organized by the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, the 11-day event invites diners to explore everything from casual lunch deals to polished, multi-course dinners across town.

Why It Matters: January is a slow stretch for restaurants, and this gives locals a reason to dine out, try somewhere new, and support Newport Beach’s dining scene. For menus and more details:

🌊 Après Sea: Ready to Keep Us Feeling Bright

The Gist: Just because the calendar has flipped doesn’t mean the fun is over. Visit Newport Beach is bringing back its “Après Sea” winter campaign through March 1, leaning into sunshine, harbor views, and that easy coastal calm we’re lucky to enjoy this time of year. A new ad flips the usual winter script, trading snow gear for yachts, oceanfront dining, and golden afternoons by the bay.

Why It Matters: It’s a festive reminder that winter here still means warmth, beauty, and a little everyday luxury close to home. Seasonal hotel deals and curated itineraries are available now online.

Meet Apollo, a gentle 5-year-old Poodle/Retriever sweetheart.

Weighing 24 pounds, Apollo is a gentle, sensitive boy who can be a bit shy at first however slowly blossoms into a loving, loyal companion once he feels comfortable.

He’s potty-trained, follows commands, and loves car rides, adventures, and long trail walks. Apollo is fully-vetted, including a recent dental, and is neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and ready for his next chapter.

To learn more about this handsome fella…

🎶 Noches Criollas | El Mercado Mexican Kitchen | Newport Beach | 1/24 | More
A festive Saturday celebrating Peruvian culture with música criolla and Angelo Salazar.

🏃 8K Grand Prix Run | Back Bay (The Dunes / Science Center) | Newport Beach | 1/24 | More
An easy-to-love out-and-back 8K with coastal views and a relaxed race-day vibe!

🌙 Pajama Storytime | Crean Mariners Branch Library | Newport Beach | 1/26 | More
Wind down the day with stories and interactive songs at this family-friendly program.

🎉 Family BINGO | Central Library – Children’s Room | Newport Beach | 1/27 | More
A playful hour of BINGO with prizes, laughter, and easygoing fun for younger players.

👗 Bungalow Market | Hyatt Regency | Newport Beach | 1/27–1/28 | More
Feat. emerging & established fashion brands: resort wear, men’s, and kids collections.

🧱 LEGO Wednesday for Kids | Crean Mariners Library | Newport Beach | 1/28 | More
Drop in for hands-on LEGO fun where kids design towers, spaceships, and more!

✨ 24K Magic! Bruno Mars Tribute Show | Lido Theater | Newport Beach | 1/24 | More
A high-octane night of chart-topping hits, vibrant costumes, and crowd-pleasing energy!

😂 Stand-Up Comedy Night | New Port Theater | Newport Beach | 1/24 | More
Pablo Francisco, Jay Larson, Maronzio Vance, & more for an uncensored comedy show!

🔥 ACTV Studio IRL | Vuori Fashion Island | Newport Beach | 1/24 | More
A sweat-first, shop-later morning: an in-store HIIT class and post-workout refreshments.

🥂 Slow Down & Savor Test Drive | Lincoln Experience Center | Newport Beach | 1/24–1/25 | More
No rush, no reservations: just arrive, test drive a Lincoln, and savor a dining reward.

🌿 Healing House Experience | Lido Theater | Newport Beach | 1/25 | More
A soulful, immersive wellness fundraiser with sound baths, breathwork, and digital art.

🎺 An Evening of Jazz with Alex Robinson | Campus Jax | Newport Beach | 1/29 | More
A soulful album release concert blending classic jazz sensibilities with playful lyricism.