These Elegant Venues Steal the Show in Terms of Ambiance
On the hunt for a spot to host a gathering other than your home? Whether you’re planning a whimsical garden party or an intimate celebratory dinner, this assembly of unique spots will help you easily set the perfect scene. So gather with friends, coworkers or your crazy extended family—bring them all! No matter the occasion, these ten venues in Orange County are sure to take your party’s breath away.
Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
Accommodating up to 50 guests and overlooking Newport Harbor, it doesn’t get much better than Tavern House. Whether you’re looking to host a baby shower, wedding rehearsal dinner or epic birthday party, this tried-and-true Newport Beach restaurant takes the stress off of planning. With multiple seating options, a large stone fireplace and operable windows and skylights, guests will love the elegant, coastal space. From tray-passed hors d’oeuvres to custom menus created by Chef David Wilhelm, all menus offer the highest-quality all natural and organic ingredients. Buyouts of the entire restaurant are available, as well as offerings for corporate events and presentations. Look no further, Tavern House is the Newport Beach destination family, friends or coworkers will all love.
Location: Newport Beach
Skyloft
The sky’s the limit for an elite dining experience when paired with a gleaming seaside panorama. Located in the glamorous yet quaint town of Laguna Beach, Skyloft offers weekly live music and an innovative menu of craft cocktails, small bites and decadent desserts. So when it comes to your next event, Skyloft is the ideal place to elegantly celebrate any occasion, no matter how big your party is. The restaurant’s private rooms can host up to 20 people, and the beautiful rooftop is perfect for around 100 guests (ocean views included). Or, opt for an entire buyout for up to 300 people! With Skyloft’s Early Bird incentive, you can book your December or January holiday event before Thanksgiving and receive a gift card to use for a future visit!
Location: Laguna Beach
EXP 4/4
Mozambique
Hovering above Pacific Coast Hwy, Mozambique provides a stellar setting for your next event. This South African-inspired retreat whisks you away with their live music and zesty plates such as the Durban Curry, a local favorite. Plan a business affair, wedding reception or other celebration in one of their seven spaces available throughout the restaurant. With multiple dining areas and extensive, flavorful menus, guests are sure to be impressed. Mozambique makes being the “hostess with the mostess” easy with its dreamy ocean views and unbeatable ambiance.
Location: Laguna Beach
Trevor’s at the Tracks
All aboard one of the most historic eateries around! Take the scenic route on the train and hop off directly in front of Trevor’s at the Tracks. This San Juan Capistrano restaurant is one of the very first examples of Mission Revival architecture—the building has been around since 1894! Owner Trevor Baird follows his motto, “Locally Acquired | Globally Inspired,” bringing in an internationally inspired food and beverage menu that incorporates locally sourced ingredients. In addition to the fresh fare, Trevor’s at the Tracks is also known for its charming trackside ambiance, which is ideal for any private event. The restaurant features five distinct areas, including Heritage Hall (seats up to 60), the Atrium Greenhouse (seats 25), the Wine Vault (seats 16), the Fireside Lounge (seats 14) and the Trackside Tavern (an outdoor space that can seat up to 20)––and of course, restaurant buy outs are always an option! To book your next corporate, private or family event at this iconic San Juan spot, click here!
Location: San Juan Capistrano
EXP 3/11
Rock & Brews
Cruise on down to Rock & Brews for classic American fare and your next big celebration. This rock-’n’-roll-inspired burger joint can host up to 300 guests in its casual yet fun environment. Crack open one of their local craft brews, and kick back amongst the walls plastered with beloved rock icons while watching video highlights of the greatest rock moments. The beer garden is the perfect place for a private party. Senior marketing manager of Rock & Brews, Katy Connelly, states, “With over 20 TVs playing your favorite classic rock music videos, a vast selection of craft and international beers and specialized menus, we’ve got the details covered—you just bring the party!”
Location: Tustin
Roger’s Gardens
This well-adorned nursery brings natural beauty to the table with it’s on-site restaurant, Farmhouse. The intense yet delicate gazebo that hovers above this serene space is a stellar scene for a more intimate gathering, such as a small wedding or simply catching up with friends. Full dining service is available and provided by Farmhouse, which features a full menu of fresh, farm-to-table cuisine. Your group is sure to love the rustic feel of this indoor-outdoor restaurant, complete with wood tables, suspended chandeliers, surrounding greenery and blankets on the back of each chair!
Location: Newport Beach
The Ecology Center
An organic 28-acre farm, learning center and pop-up stand is what makes The Ecology Center a dreamy space for any occasion. While providing regenerative-organic produce, an intimate summer dinner series was created. Hosted by the chef in residence, this botanical setting is perfect to reserve for up to 40 friends and family celebrating business ventures, birthdays or a milestone anniversary. And if you’re not one to plan your own event, check out the center’s calendar for a variety of upcoming dinners, pop-ups and workshops!
Location: San Juan Capistrano
Rancho Las Lomas
The lovely Rancho Las Lomas, hidden away in the foothills of Silverado, has enchanting views and a dreamy setting for any big or small gathering. Wedding receptions and corporate gatherings are magically brought to life at this spectacular private resort and zoological garden. The possibilities to decorate are endless with their woodland backdrop and ornate structures! So, book a giant farm table for you and your family or friends or relax on velvety couches by the majestic fireplace.
Location: Silverado
Rosewood Farms
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Enjoy a private yet fabulous meal under canopy trees during golden hour at Fountain Valley’s Rosewood Farms! Artfully created by Chef Amy Leburn, a gorgeous farm-to-table experience nestled in a 17-acre farm is just what the doctor ordered. A seven-course menu for you and a few friends is provided and paired with chef-selected wines throughout. Rosewood Farms’ story of sourcing quality ingredients will be shared during this affair along with the importance of food seasonality. So if you’re looking for a seasonal meal with a tasteful touch of education, reserve your spot at the next Chef Table Farm Dinner.
Location: Fountain Valley
Anaheim White House
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The classy and lavishly decorated Anaheim White House combines romantic themes and tasteful artwork that fine-tunes the beauty of each room. The chef’s table is the fanciest wine cellar culinary experience—an exemplary option for smaller groups. Looking to host something bigger? The national historical landmark and restaurant features a broad selection of rooms like the West Wing, which is perfect for casual or corporate gatherings. There’s even an option to rent out the entire property!
Location: Anaheim
The Hacienda
This breathtaking outdoor oasis is quite a choice when it comes to hosting your next event. With a balcony that hovers above a grand seating area, this Spanish-inspired courtyard in Santa Ana features a trickling central fountain and climbing vines along the roofline. Weddings can be held at The Hacienda with an outdoor chapel and a full reception to follow. Meetings and special events are also beautifully accommodated either outdoors or inside, no matter the season!
Location: Santa Ana
The Harper
Channeling timeless European glamour in an industrial setting, The Harper is a creative event space nestled in the heart of Costa Mesa. Whether it’d be the grand dining room with LaCantina accordion doors or the beautifully appointed private suites, each corner of the space provides a lovely backdrop for gathering (and photos!). Fun fact: most of the brilliant paintings hung are designed by Portia De Rossi’s General Public Art studio! Up to 300 guests can enjoy the bar, salon and luscious gardens.
Location: Costa Mesa
