Did you know that charcuterie dates back to a 6000-year-old process involving the art and science of cooking and preserving meat through the use of salting, poaching, curing and slow smoking?
For those of you who haven’t heard of Charcuterie before, it’s generally a collection of cold cured meats presented on a wooden board, and is served with a variety of cheeses, pickled vegetables, mustards, breads, crackers etc. Not one board is treated the same. In fact, at most restaurants you are given the option to customize your board, so you can pick and choose how much you want to eat, and how adventurous you want to be. It’s not everyday you come across the option of enjoying a nice piece of Speck with a glass of Pinot Noir.
In an economy where we are more conscious of our consumption etiquette beyond the table, we have more locally-sourced, organic, sustainable options becoming available. Not only are we seeing this in our restaurant concepts, but also from the chefs who make all of the magic possible. We can see chefs actively participating in the “nose-to-tail” butchery as a means of not only keeping their food-cost down, but being mindful of those opportunities where we can avoid waste.
After enjoying a couple of spreads at various restaurants, you’ll come to notice that it’s not just the quality of meats and cheese that has us ordering this appetizer again and again, it’s the experience. The presentation is effortless, yet impressive. The portions are on point — just enough to have you debating skipping your meal and just ordering a second round of charcuterie. It tastes better if enjoyed al fresco, with a glass of wine in hand, and in good company. Plus, this way you can be as adventurous as you want while discovering your favorites, then go home and recreate them!
The practice of old-school charcuterie is a natural outlet for this philosophy. As old world traditions continue to cross the seas, we’re delighted with the surge of cured meats.
Oak Grill
690 Newport Center Dr
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949.760.4920 | oakgrillnb.com
After a day of shopping with your girlfriends at Fashion Island, a well deserved cocktail hour is in order. You can ooh and ahh at all of your amazing finds from your shopping trip over an artisan cheese trio and charcuterie plate, featuring pickled vegetables and coarse stone mustard. Pair with a bottle of Opolo Sangiovese, 2012 Paso Robles, for the perfect end to your evening.
Andrea
22701 S Pelican Hill Rd
Newport Coast, CA 92657
844.445.2183 | andreanb.com
End your day bar-side at Andrea, where you can enjoy your daily recap with a local craft beer and a salumi board, made with Bresaola, Chorizo, Coppa, Duck Prosciutto and pickled vegetables. Pair your meats with a cheese board featuring cheese and more cheese, including cow, sheep, goat and queso fundido.
Five Crowns
3801 East Coast Hwy
Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
949.760.0331 | lawrysonline.com/five-crowns
Talk about the ultimate charcuterie experience — Five Crowns has a whole list of options! You are given the choice between Chef’s Plate (3 choices) and the Sidedoor Sampler (5 choices). Just a heads up, the charcuterie board may not be listed on their menu, but it is definitely available, although items are always subject to change. They do a great job describing the different flavor profiles of the meats and cheeses, making it easier for you to explore outside of your comfort level and try something new.
Settebello Pizzeria
7864 East Coast Hwy
Newport Coast, CA 92657
949.715.2072 | settebello.net
Transport yourself to Napoli, Italy when you dine at Settebello Pizzeria. The restaurant is stunning! Living Olive trees dot the interior, inviting you in, yet still emanates elegance and luxury. Most people come for the pizza, but they stay for the charcuterie. Enjoy 3 crostini with Salame Gentile, Soppressata, Roseda and Felino, with the option to add a Buffalo Mozzarella ball or Burrata for an extra charge.
The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
3131 West Coast Hwy
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.999.6622 | thewinerynewport.com
Executive Chef Yvon Goetz pairs artisan cold cuts, chicken liver pate, whole grain mustard, cornichons and grilled baguette slices with an ocean front view for your charcuterie experience. This sophisticated setting is just what you need when you wind down at the end of the day. Additionally, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar provides an impeccable wine list, which currently offers 650 selections that changes weekly.
A Restaurant
3334 West Coast Hwy
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.650.6505 | arestaurantnb.com
Experience a piece of Newport Beach history when you dine here. A Restaurant has been a long-standing member of our community a reminds us of a fine wine, with age it keeps getting better and better. Needless to say, their charcuterie menu is very impressive. From Prosciutto San Daniele to Iberico de Bellota, you are given eight different types of charcuterie to choose from. Additionally, you’re given an impressive cheese menu to peruse to enhance your palate’s experience.
Moulin Bistro
1000 Bristol St N
Newport Beach, CA 92660
844.376.6243 | moulinbistro.com
French music fills the air and the occasional French film plays on a television screen at the bar. You’ve only just started to get a taste of this Parisian paradise that’s committed to delivering an authentic French bistro experience. Order the Plateau de Charcuterie et Fromage, featuring a variety of French cold cuts and artisan cheeses.
Cucina Enoteca
951 Newport Center Dr
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949.706.1416 | urbankitchengroup.com/cucina-enoteca-newport-beach
Featuring California-inspired Italian cuisine, CUCINA enoteca offers the best of both worlds. Enjoy some of the best charcuterie in Newport Beach in this visually stunning setting. Just by looking at the interior you can tell that whatever is on the plate is sure to be a work of art. Their charcuterie features Formaggi, Salumi, condiments and crostini. Whether you’re having an intimate meet up with a friend, or your dining with the whole family, they have boards in different sizes to meet your needs.
