One of the most memorable evenings during our stay at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach was our dinner at SHOR American Seafood Grill. Tucked away in a cosy corner of the resort, SHOR is an elegant yet relaxed restaurant that celebrates Southern California flavours using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Inspired by Executive Chef Jae Lee, the menu is modern, vibrant, and full of surprises—but for us, it was the whole dining experience that truly stood out.
We chose to dine outside under the soft glow of string lights. The patio was beautifully arranged with wrought iron tables, cushioned chairs, and tall heaters that bathed the space in a warm amber light. It was a perfect Southern California evening—cool but comfortable—and the patio had a peaceful, almost magical ambiance. Our kids felt right at home, and so did we. There was a laid-back coastal vibe, with just the right mix of refinement and relaxation.
What made the evening extra special was our server—a cheerful and welcoming gentleman from Blackpool. It was refreshing to hear a familiar British accent, and he instantly connected with us. Friendly, chatty, and attentive, he made sure the kids had what they needed, offered great suggestions, and kept the atmosphere light and engaging throughout the meal.
Our children shared a vegan burger and fries, and I had the same. The burger was hearty and delicious, with a satisfying texture that made us forget it wasn’t meat. Served on a soft bun with crisp lettuce, tomato, and a generous helping of vegan cheese, it came alongside sweet potato fries for me and classic chips for the kids. Everything was served hot and fresh, and the kids couldn’t stop raving about how good it was.
My wife didn’t opt for a main course—she was still quite full from earlier in the day—but she couldn’t resist the dessert. And what a dessert it was! A layered creation with a moist chocolate cake base, a rich banana jelly layer, and a dreamy butterscotch mousse on top. It was beautifully plated and bursting with bold yet balanced flavours—a decadent treat that she absolutely adored.
Just when we thought the night couldn’t get any better, SHOR offered something truly magical for the little ones. As part of the evening dining experience, kids were presented with a DIY s’mores kit—eight marshmallows, two full bars of Hershey’s chocolate, and eight long roasting sticks. They excitedly made their way to the open bonfire at the back of the restaurant, where they toasted their marshmallows over the flames before sandwiching them between graham crackers and melty chocolate. Their faces lit up in the glow of the fire as they built their own gooey, delicious s’mores. It was such a simple idea, but one that turned a lovely dinner into an unforgettable family memory.
Dining at SHOR felt less like eating out and more like sharing a special moment together. The food was fantastic, the ambiance romantic and peaceful, and the thoughtful touches—from the British staff member to the fireside fun—created an experience we’ll all remember. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a highlight of our trip. We’d return in a heartbeat.
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