A&O Kitchen + Bar

A&O Kitchen + Bar Restaurant Review:

This gastropub concept fits in quite nicely with the rest of Balboa Bay Resort’s redesigned, refined-yet-approachable milieu. The open, uncluttered interior of Anchors & Oceans, the place’s full name, uses light woods and splashy artwork to lend vibrancy. Floor-to-ceiling glass draws the majesty of Newport Harbor inside, so you won’t feel too disappointed if you can’t enjoy a glass of wine, craft beer or cocktail on the lounge-like outdoor patio. The kitchen injects a dose of whimsy into a menu that deftly straddles the line between bar food and upscale bites. Simple starters like the beer-battered fries with carnitas and chicken wings with Indian raita dipping sauce set a nice tone, and entrées range from easygoing classics like chicken potpie with cheddar crust to more upscale fare such as Kobe steak frites. Desserts are also a highlight, especially the "Turtle Jar" concoction of salted caramel, chocolate cake and pretzel crumble.