I don’t go to the beach very often despite the fact that I’ve lived in Orange County all my life. Maybe I take it for granted, but every time I’m even CLOSE to the beach, I manage to get sand everywhere. Dory Deli is a coastal restaurant on the famous ocean front of Newport Beach. It’s a casual restaurant just meters away from the beach. The menu focuses on burgers, sandwiches, and salads with a decent bar. One of the cool things about restaurants in this area is that the whole front opens up, so you get a chance to take in the ocean air. There is also ample outdoor seating to comply with the current Covid orders.
The views and people watching here is great, but most people don’t seem to be into wearing their mask around here, so take that into account.
The Dory Deli Ahi Burger
Bread
I’ve been eating a TON of brioche buns lately. It seems like every place is using them now. Quite frankly, it’s boring at this point. Dory Deli’s Brioche bun is one of the better ones that I have had. It’s buttery flavor and light texture worked very well with the seared rare ahi.
Filling
There are a lot of familiar flavors in this sandwich, I especially liked the pickled carrot and daikon. The seared ahi tasted as it should have, although I think I would’ve liked to have a little more bite from the wasabi crust. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the butter flavors from the bun mixed with the fish and pickles.
Sauce
The star of the show in this sandwich is the fish and pickles. The Sriracha Aioli that Dory Deli uses is mild and nicely balanced. I appreciate the fact that it doesn’t draw you away from the Ahi. If you like a little more sweetness, try the carrot ginger dressing. I had it on my side salad and it was great.
Price
The Sandwich al la carte is $12, with a side salad and drink the bill comes close to $20. Dory Deli’s prices are a little higher compared to places more inland, but you are paying for a dynamite view. I imagine all the restaurants around here are going to be pricier for the same reason. Either way, if you decide to check out Newport Beach, Dory Deli is a a good lunch with a view.
-Vy
Dory Deli
2108 W Oceanfront, Newport Beach, CA 92663
