Clams in Brodo di Birria (littleneck clams and housemade chorizo in a beer broth)
“Although we loved how charming the old space was and how beautiful Balboa Island is, we felt like it was time to expand,” says Giuseppe Accardi, the dashing owner of local hot spot Mr G’s, which recently relocated to the buzzy Newport Peninsula. “We always knew the Balboa Island location would be a starter space, and when I visited our new address, it reminded me so much of my summers in Sicily and Monaco that I knew I couldn’t pass it up.” And with an updated name—Mr G’s at Peninsula Kitchen & Bar—comes a waterfront outpost with expansive views of the boat-filled marina, two full bars and a charming outdoor patio. The signatures remain—Mr G’s Rigatoni with beef and sausage Bolognese and the famous Bistro Burger—with a few new additions like the seafood fra diavolo (octopus, shrimp, clams, mussels and scallops swimming in a spicy marinara or tarragon cream sauce) and the Trofie alla Gricia (with pancetta, garlic and pecorino). “I think guests will appreciate how easy it is to get here, the beautiful views and the cocktails,” shares Accardi, who counts his favorite dish as the charred Spanish octopus with fingerling potatoes. “We still have the same warm hospitality that Mr G’s is known for; we’ve just grown up a bit.” Welcome to the neighborhood. 2406 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.675.4444, mrgsatpeninsula.com
Photography by: anne watson
