Show 204, December 31, 2016: Ben Sabouri, Partner, The Ritz Prime Seafood, Newport Beach

Ben SabouriThe Ritz Prime Seafood launched late last year in Newport Beach. The $5 million update to the previous Chart House location was lavish.

It was a bit of a misfire as long-time guests of the departed The Ritz in Newport Center (famous for elegant Continental dining) were expecting a refreshening of that legendary and venerable establishment and this was actually an entirely new, contemporary concept. Oops…Now let’s meet the totally fresh The Ritz Prime Seafood 2.0.

“Located along Newport’s scenic Mariner’s Mile, The Ritz Prime Seafood offers a fine dining experience harbor side, with a globally influenced menu featuring sustainable fish and seafood flown in daily, as well as dry-aged steaks, chops and Jidori chicken. It’s a reconceived, all new and different incarnation of the past three-decade-old The Ritz. This chic, upscale restaurant has new culinary offerings and its own look, social buzz and vibe – already becoming a Southern California “modern legend” with its own distinctive personality.”

“Dinner is served nightly and highlighted by entrees, including from the Sea: Branzino with sunchoke, pistachio, couscous and sultana; Sea Scallop with cauliflower, pomegranate and hazelnut brown butter; and Alaskan Halibut with red bell pepper, eggplant puree and confit tomatoes. From the Land are Lamb Rack with zucchini mint puree and Israeli couscous; 16oz Tomahawk Steak with bone marrow butter, broccoli potato au gratin and marsala jus; Jidori Chicken; and other entrees.”

The Ritz Prime Seafood is one of the many restaurants participating in the annual Newport Beach Restaurant Week set for January 16 to 29, 2017. This is a prime opportunity to experience the new dinner menu at The Ritz Prime Seafood. It’s 3 courses with choices for each course for $50 per guest. The entree possibilities are Pan Seared Sea Bass, Pan Seared Jidori Chicken Breast and Prime Filet Mignon. (the full menu is posted within their Website.)

Partner Ben Sabourui, a hospitality veteran, joins us with the details.