Top 5 Local-Favorite Steakhouses in Newport Beach

Newport Beach doesn’t do boring — especially when it comes to dining. Between the coastal setting, polished crowd, and high standards, locals know exactly where to go when they want a great steak, a strong cocktail, and a room that feels alive.

If you’re searching for a steakhouse in Newport Beach, this list isn’t about white-tablecloth clichés or tourist traps. These are the places locals actually go — spots that understand the Newport lifestyle: elevated, relaxed, and always worth the reservation.

Here are the top 5 local-favorite steakhouses in Newport Beach, ranked by vibe, food, and staying power.

1. SET Steak & Sushi — A Newport Beach Essential

Just off the coastal buzz and widely regarded as a must-visit Newport Beach steakhouse, SET Steak & Sushi has quietly become the go-to for locals who want more than just a steak.

Yes, the flame-grilled steak in Newport Beach is serious — from the American Ribeye Cap to the Wagyu Tomahawk that commands the table. But what sets SET apart is the balance. You can start with Kampachi Crudo, move into a perfectly grilled steak, and still end the night lingering over cocktails on the garden patio.

Why locals love it:

• Flame-grilled steak done right

• One of the few places where sushi in Newport Beach genuinely belongs on the same menu

• DJ brunches, late-night energy, and a crowd that knows the assignment

Weekend brunch in Newport Beach here is a whole different personality — Crab Cake & Caviar Benedicts, Yuzu Ricotta Pancakes, and espresso martinis before noon.

→ Reservations
→ Reservations

2. A Restaurant — The OG Newport Power Move

If you’ve lived here long enough, you’ve eaten at A. It’s a classic steakhouse in Newport Beach that still pulls a loyal crowd — especially for business dinners and milestone celebrations.

The menu leans traditional, the steaks are dependable, and the atmosphere feels familiar in the best way. It’s less scene, more substance — and sometimes that’s exactly what locals want.

Why it still works:

• Prime cuts with no distractions

• Central Newport location

• A dependable choice for classic steakhouse dining

3. Gulfstream — Steakhouse Energy, Coastal Edition

Technically a grill, but locals count it anyway. Gulfstream hits when you want steakhouse-level dishes without the formality. It’s polished, social, and always buzzing — especially during happy hour.

The steaks aren’t the only draw here, but they’re consistently solid. Plus, the people-watching alone earns it a spot on this list.

Local appeal:

• Lively crowd every night

• Elevated comfort food alongside steak options

• Easy transition from dinner to drinks

4. Nobu Newport Beach — When Sushi Takes the Lead

This one earns its place because locals don’t always want steak. Nobu is proof that Newport Beach sushi can be just as much of a power dinner move.

For nights when Wagyu comes sliced raw instead of flame-grilled, Nobu delivers. Many locals alternate between Nobu and SET depending on the mood — sushi-forward vs. surf-and-turf.

Why it belongs here:

• High-level sushi execution

• A scene that never cools off

• A strong contrast to a traditional steakhouse night

5. Five Crowns — Prime Rib & Nostalgia

Five Crowns feels like a time capsule, and locals keep it around for that exact reason. If you’re craving prime rib, dim lighting, and a throwback steakhouse experience, this is the move.

It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel — and sometimes, that’s comforting.

Local reasons:

• Prime rib loyalists swear by it

• Cozy, old-school atmosphere

• Popular for holidays and family dinners

What Locals Actually Look for in a Newport Beach Steakhouse

After living here long enough, patterns emerge. A great steakhouse in Newport Beach isn’t just about the cut — it’s about the entire night.

Locals care about:

• Quality sourcing (Wagyu, dry-aged, prime)

• Atmosphere that feels social, not stuffy

• Menus that offer flexibility (steak and sushi)

• A place that works for both dinner and brunch in Newport Beach

That’s why modern, hybrid spots are winning right now.

FAQ: Choosing the Right Steakhouse in Newport Beach

What’s the best steakhouse in Newport Beach for locals?
Locals gravitate toward places that balance food quality and energy. SET Steak & Sushi consistently ranks high because it delivers steak, sushi, cocktails, and atmosphere — all in one place.

Can you get good sushi at a steakhouse in Newport Beach?
Yes — but not everywhere. SET stands out by treating sushi as a core offering, not an afterthought, making it a go-to for both steak and sushi lovers.

Are there steakhouses in Newport Beach that also do brunch?
Yes, but few do it well. SET is one of the most talked-about spots for brunch in Newport Beach, especially for DJ brunches and seasonal menus.

Final Take

Newport Beach has no shortage of steakhouses — but only a handful truly understand the local lifestyle. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cut, pristine sushi, or a long brunch that turns into cocktails, knowing where to go matters.

If you know, you know. And if you don’t — you probably need a reservation.