From Smooth Jazz to Salsa, These Restaurants Are Serving up the Hottest Tunes in Town
Shorter days and cooler temperatures can make it easy to catch a case of the blues. If you’re looking to lift your spirits, going out and listening to live music might just do the trick. Now, pair that with a delicious meal and well-balanced cocktail and you’re in for a real treat. Lucky for you, we have curated a list of the top restaurants in Orange County that offer live performances, ranging from soulful jazz to electrifying rock ‘n’ roll. Whether you’re looking to hit the town for a night of dancing or go on a romantic date, this list has you covered with all the best local spots to get your groove on while dining.
Skyloft
Sip on handcrafted cocktails while listening to live music at this hot spot located in the heart of downtown Laguna Beach. Candlelit tables overlooking the charming town below set the mood as the Tom Dante Trio and featured guest artists take the stage every Wednesday from 7-10 p.m. for Jazz Nights. Start the evening with Skyloft’s popular blueberry-coconut mojito, or if you’re in need of a pick-me-up, opt for the Cinnamon Latte cocktail prepared with Fugu vodka, Frangelico, Bailey’s and Modern Times cold brew. Make sure to bring your appetite because dinner at this coastal smokehouse does not disappoint! Try the pan-seared Chilean sea bass drizzled with fennel beurre blanc or build your own barbecue plate by choosing from a variety of meats, which are smoked fresh daily. And if you haven’t had your fill of saxophone, don’t miss out on Skyloft’s Blues Nights, which take place every Sunday from 8-11 p.m.!
Location: Laguna Beach
Mozambique
Calling all brunch lovers! Mozambique has a Sunday jazz brunch that you won’t want to miss. Enjoy classic selections like eggs Benedict or a Belgian waffle with warm maple syrup and fresh strawberries while talented vocalist Mando Cordova performs from noon-3 p.m. For those looking to enjoy a night out, Mozambique also has artists performing everything from reggae to ‘90s rock Thursday through Sunday night. The dinner menu is inspired by the bold flavors of South African coastal cuisine, including their signature Peri-Peri chicken and an impressive selection of wood-fired steak and seafood dishes. With sweeping ocean views and a festive atmosphere, this multi-level restaurant boasts the perfect vibes for any occasion.
Location: Laguna Beach
3/22
SOCIAL Costa Mesa
It’s time to get social! Head to Social Costa Mesa on Friday nights at 6 p.m. for live music, refreshing cocktails like the L.L. Koolaid (made with Juniper Citrus Gin and sour cherry rhubarb jam) and flavorful dishes like smoked bone marrow and chicken tinga empanadas. Expect chill and catchy performances by David Rosales, Joanna Gerolaga and “American Idol’s” Adam Lasher. Whether it’s date night, hanging with your crew or catching up with your best friend, expect nothing but good vibes at Social Costa Mesa.
Location: Costa Mesa
@socialkitchencraftbar
Cafe Sevilla
This Orange County hot spot has a Spanish ambiance that is so authentic, it’s easy to forget you’re still in Costa Mesa. Cafe Sevilla is a restaurant and tapas bar specializing in shareable Spanish small plates. This style of dining is special to Spanish culture because it brings the table together in a fun and flavorful way. In addition to their award-winning menu and wide selection of Spanish-style wines, what makes Sevilla special is their nightly music at “Tapas Bar Live!” Seven nights a week, you can enjoy everything from live Latin, salsa and flamenco music to rumba, Gipsy Kings-style music and more. Get serenaded by the Spanish guitar on a romantic date night or spice things up with some Saturday night rumba. Party like the Spaniards do and make a reservation for some fun at Cafe Sevilla!
@localemag #sevilla #costamesa #orangecounty #newportbeach #ocdatenight #ocdateideas #localemagazine 🎥: @Laila | SoCal Life Style ♬ Flamenco – Flamenco All Star Band
Local Insight: Cafe Sevilla has supported the local music scene for over 30 years. The Costa Mesa location alone features over 700 shows spread between 50 local artists per year!
Locations: Costa Mesa, San Diego, Long Beach
@sevillaoc
Live Music in Orange County
Descanso
This modern taqueria brings the flavor and charm of a traditional Mexican taco stand into a full-service setting! Experience the sounds, smells and flavors of classic Mexican cuisine as you gather around the table with loved ones and watch as the chefs prepare your food right in front of you on a traditional plancha. It’s a one-of-a-kind restaurant with all kinds of entertainment. Enjoy some live music during their Wine Wednesday special, Saturday night dinner or Sunday brunch!
Location: Costa Mesa
Semi Tropic Wines
Unwind with a glass of vino and the sounds of smooth jazz every Thursday from 6:30-9 p.m. at Semi Tropic Wines. This trendy Costa Mesa wine bar features a rotating selection of wines hand-picked by the crew on a daily basis, so there is always something new to enjoy. Among the wide variety of vino, perfectly curated charcuterie boards and sexy sounds of the saxophone, it’s safe to say Semi Tropic Wines is a full-on vibe.
Live Music in Orange County
The Drake
This legendary location is a replication of the famed Drake Hotel in New York City. The Drake Hotel was home to iconic artists like Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and Frank Sinatra. So of course, The Drake in Laguna Beach is keeping the tradition alive by featuring the finest in musical entertainment. Stop by any day of the week and revel in the smooth sounds of jazz or the best blues beats that Orange County has to offer!
Location: Laguna Beach
@thedrakelaguna
11/21
Bayside Restaurant
One of Newport Beach’s favorite gathering places, Bayside is the perfect place to meet with friends over a bottle of wine. Their talented musical artists cover everything from Latin, jazz and R&B to legendary classics and contemporary cover tunes. If there was one day out of the week you had to visit, hands down it would be Sunday for their bountiful brunch!
Location: Newport Beach
@baysidenb
Live Music in Orange County
Trevor’s at the Tracks
Trevor’s at the Tracks’ menu motto is “locally acquired, globally inspired,” and the same goes for their music. This established eatery takes great pride in providing an avenue for local musicians to perform. With live shows taking place seven days a week, the patio is the ultimate ambiance for dinner and a show. Trevor’s menu also offers a variety of vegan and gluten-free options, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Location: San Juan Capistrano
@trevorsatthetracks
Peninsula Lounge
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Perched on the harbor’s edge, the Peninsula Lounge serves up its signature Cali Riviera cuisine in a bayside setting that can’t be beat. Their coastal-influenced menu pairs perfectly with the live reggae music that happens every Thursday from 7-10 p.m. Although they do have an in-house sommelier, you can’t beat their Reggae Night drink specials–we’re talking $5 Red Stripes, $8 Malibu pineapples and $10 Jamaican rum punches!
Location: Newport Beach
@thepeninsulalounge
Live Music in Orange County
Iva Lee’s
If you’re craving traditional Creole and Cajun food with some music for the soul to go with it, then head down south to Iva Lee’s in San Clemente. Their menu is made up of Southern-style recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Their live music happens every Thursday through Saturday, and tables fill up fast, so do yourself a favor by making a reservation for their lounge before visiting.
Location: San Clemente
@iva_lees_restaurant
