The Gilded Bellini's Guide to the Best After-Work Drink Spots in Orange County
I get asked a lot about my go-to cocktail destinations in LA and OC. OC actually has some incredible spots (with even better beach and sunset views than LA does — sorry Angelenos!) that are pretty foolproof, in the sense that when you go, you’ll never be disappointed.
Whether you’re in the mood for happy hour, or just feeling a really strong cocktail after work, these are a few of my all time favorite spots in Orange County that you must hit!
Habana Irvine
Love their coconut water that come served in an actual coconut (you can get it virgin or with rum) and their AMAZING mojitos. Enjoy a refreshing Habana Mojito made with Bacardi Rum, Fresh Mint & Muddled Limes all day Mondays at Habana at The Irvine Spectrum.
The Deck on Laguna Beach
They make a great spicy margarita, but try the Silver Surfer if you’re a tequila fan. Best sunset views - it’s almost too good to be true. ALWAYS bustling crowd. It’s the place to be any day of the week.
The Blind Rabbit
Speakeasy at The Anaheim Packing District! Enter through the sake barrels and exit through the wooden crates. This spot has SERIOUS cocktails, and the atmosphere is dark, intimate and sexy. PS: a reservation is needed to get in here.
The Bungalow Huntington Beach
Cozy, but always bustling spot. Love the Paloma. This location also serves food from Bear Flag, one of my ultimate faves for poke.
Vacation
The aesthetic here is awesome and really does make you feel like you’re on vacay right in the heart of downtown Santa Ana. All the drinks are named after cities and their respective countries. Anyone down for a London, England or a New York, USA?
Hive & Honey Rooftop Bar
Some of the drinks are served in honey bear containers! I mean… does it get any cuter than that? This is a chic spot that Irvine never knew it needed.
The Country Club
All the exclusive vibes. It’s got a 50’s feel and happy hour even starts 2 pm. Everything is sophisticated and sexy.
Offshore 9 Rooftop
This spot has one of the best views of the ocean, the palm trees, and all of Huntington Beach, especially at sunset! Drink rec? The Devil Went Down to Mexico is going to be your new obsession.
Ruin Bar
An extensive craft cocktail list is available in this little rustic gem. Enter through the shabby shutter doors.
Gulfstream
A Newport Beach staple! Elevated spot to unwind with a chilled glass of wine. This place has always reminded me of the places they’d show on The OC.
