Lido Island is a cute little area that has been trying to re-renovate itself and by the looks of it, they’re doing a great job. You may be a bit confused looking for this location, however don’t be alarmed as the front of the building is a retail shop, you just have to walk around the corner to find the restaurant right beside the docks.
If you prefer a view make sure to ask to be seated outside, however it can definitely get a bit chilly so bring something warm to cover up. Lido Bottle Works aim is to local and sustainable ingredients while being able to pair it with their specialty craft beer, wine, and cocktails. If you’re a beer lover you will absolutely appreciate what they offer on tap because it’s an endless amount. Don’t shy away from their craft cocktails though, I’m not a vodka person whatsoever and my friend had tried their specialty which was a pink color and it was delicious.
We started off with their Burrata which came alongside crispy lavash bread, roasted squash, pomegranates, candied pistachios. This dish was nice and refreshing, however the flavors were really absent and kind of bland. This dish has a lot of potential as the quality of the ingredients are more definitely there, it just lacks flavor as all ingredients are light items. I also don’t remember seeing any pomegranates.
The next item were the smoked Jidori chicken wings and I have to say I honestly was really disappointed. Once again the flavors were extremely bland, there was no smokiness to it. It felt like the wings were boiled and then glazed really quick in the oven. There was no char, the sauce did not absorb into the wing, but worst of all was the chicken arrived lukewarm.
The last two dishes we ordered, first was the Iberico pork which is a type of black pig from Spain that is only fed Acorns. This dish was listed in the entrees while this should’ve been in the section of appetizers because it was only a few small slices. I understand the pricing of it due to the quality, just don’t list it with the larger dish portions. This is only about 4/5 bites at most and probably the best dish of all due to the foie gras puree, however once again this dish arrived lukewarm if anything.
The last and final dish we went with was the Steak Frites which is a hanger steak, with a side arugula salad, and crispy fries. Out of anything from the night, the fries were the only dish to arrive hot and fresh. The steak had good flavor paired with a blue cheese, however this was overcooked as I requested medium rare, and to my surprise, lukewarm once again. The fry seasoning was delicious, I could’ve had a large bowl of this, and the arugula salad helped lighten everything.
Service was on point, we sat at the bar due to no seating available and our bartender was great and very attentive. I love the location where this restaurant is at and it has so much charm. They just really need to step up their menu if they expect to last in the long run. This review may be harsh but I don’t ever want to mislead anyone, especially for the amount they are charging. Expect to pay for parking meters, it can be a bit tight. If you decide to give Lido Bottle Works a try, let me know your experience, I truly hope it’s better than mine.
Restaurant – Lido Bottle Works
Location – 3408 Via Oporto Suite 103, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Contact – 949.529.2784
Website – http://lidobottleworks.com/
Cuisine – Wine Bar, American New