Canyon to Coast

My friends and I had arrived in Newport Beach, looking to soak up all that Orange County had to offer.  It was a picturesque Saturday evening in 2009, and we laid out our intentions clearly to our longtime friend whom we were visiting in the area: "just take us to the best this county has to offer".  We craved the bright lights, beautiful surroundings, and enchantment he had raved about so much.  "Perfect – We’re going to Javier’s" he said.
 
As we drove along the famed Pacific Coast Highway, the views had lured our attention from uncertainty to anticipation.  We pulled into the Crystal Cove promenade and my friend glanced at me, wide-eyed, as if he’d seen a ghost.  This was Heaven on earth, we both thought to ourselves. The ambiance sent chills through our bodies as we entered the restaurant, bypassing the outdoor lounge that shows as an atmospheric appetizer to the main course, which gleams the moment you walk through the doors.

Families, first dates, 20-something’s, 60-something’s, all packed into this hideaway situated on the beautiful Newport Coastline.  I quickly noticed there was no dance floor, a single television tucked away in the corner of the bar, and no music playing - yet the energy radiating from one patron to another was so undeniable, so contagious that we couldn’t help but beam with delight. For the next few hours, we indulged in the fresh and authentic Mexican cuisine, the sociable company from surrounding tables and of course, the rare and seemingly exclusive vibe that Javier’s possesses. 

7 years later and Javier’s hasn’t changed one bit. A true testament to its enduring uniqueness among Orange County’s food and social havens. The only change is that now I am the one recommending it…

Javier's has locations in Irvine and Newport Beach, find your Javier's at their website.