The Blue Beet bar is not easy to find. Its front entrance is located in an alley near the beach and just down the street from the Newport Beach pier. The Blue Beet is in the oldest commercial building in Newport Beach, a building that has stood since 1912. The Blue Beet has survived being a brothel, then a saloon, and finally a live music joint that continues even now. Offering an intimate bar, and a restaurant with fine food, along with great live music, makes the Blue Beet a great evening destination.
The Blue Beet started offering live music back in the 1960’s when the owner Sid Soffer who also owned another Newport Beach restaurant, Whiskey Bill’s bought it and named the place Sid’s Blue Beet. The Blue Beet continues to offer great live music almost every night of the week. One of my favorites is Tuesday nights and 80’s music. My wife and I grew up in Newport Beach during that time and really enjoy the live music.
Many of the items you will find on the Blue Beet menu have not changed since Sid took ownership of the restaurant. Beef stroganoff is a favorite of mine and my wife loves the halibut fish ‘n chips served crispy and not too greasy. For those looking to dine on the lighter side, there are chicken wraps, grilled chicken breasts, and fresh vegetables and wild rice. For the hearty food lovers there are New York steaks, pork chops, or BBQ ribs, all served with great side dishes like garlic mashed potatoes, green beans, creamed corn, french fries, or green salads.
Every bar has a signature drink and the Blue Beet is no exception. The Blue Beet Martini is served with Finlandia Premium Martini Vodka and Chambord, with a lemon twist, a splash of sweet and sour, and pineapple juice. My brother who is a fried calamari lover swears by the combination of both while sitting at the bar and enjoying the live music.
The Blue Beet is a popular bar that has been a favorite of many generations in Newport Beach. Locals all can tell you the first time they came to enjoy the bar and how they have made it a place they return to, time and time again.
