Fable & Spirit, Newport Beach

Fable & Spirit, located in Newport Beach, offers a progressive dining experience that combines imaginative cuisine with a setting steeped in the rich mythology of Irish culture. Created by husband-and-wife team Darren and Jean Coyle, also known for their beloved Dublin 4 Gastropub and Wineworks for Everyone, this upscale restaurant elevates their culinary vision to new heights. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and innovative menu, the restaurant feels like a revelation—one we can’t believe we hadn’t discovered sooner.

Upon stepping inside, guests are immediately enveloped in an environment that is both captivating and sophisticated. The design pays homage to Irish lore with an artistic and modern twist, creating a space that feels magical yet approachable. Darren and his family welcomed us with open arms, making us feel like part of their extended family as they introduced us to what may now be our favorite dining spot in Orange County.

Every dish reflects a commitment to creativity, quality, and flavor, showcasing a menu that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in tradition. Among the standout items we sampled, the Guinness Brown Bread set the tone for the meal. Served with European butter, clover honey, and Jacobsen sea salt, this dish offered a perfect balance of rustic comfort and refined simplicity. The bread’s rich, malty flavor paired beautifully with the silky butter and subtle sweetness of the honey, making it an ideal start.

Next, the Beet Agnolotti took center stage with its vibrant presentation and nuanced flavors. Delicate pasta parcels filled with earthy beets were accompanied by chèvre espuma, toasted hazelnuts, oak barrel-aged balsamic, a hint of lemon, and crispy kale. This dish was a symphony of textures and tastes, where the tartness of the balsamic and the creamy chèvre perfectly complemented the sweet and savory notes of the beets.

Seafood lovers will love the Hawaiian Blue Prawns, a dish that exemplifies the restaurant’s innovative approach. Sweet corn, pickled shallots, roasted bell pepper, and a bright citrus mojo enhanced the prawns’ natural sweetness, creating a plate that was as visually appealing as it was delicious. The combination of flavors offered a refreshing and vibrant take on a classic seafood dish.

The meal reached its pinnacle with the Smoked Short Rib, a decadent and hearty entrée that epitomized comfort food with a gourmet twist. Served alongside marble potatoes, bacon cabbage, and whole-grain mustard, the short rib was perfectly tender and infused with smoky richness. The horseradish gremolata added a punch of brightness, while the BBQ jus tied everything together in a deeply satisfying harmony.

This establishment isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience that feels both personal and transcendent. The Coyles have created a space where guests can explore bold flavors in an enchanting setting, all while enjoying the genuine hospitality that has become their hallmark. Whether you’re indulging in their creative dishes for the first time or returning for another visit, Fable & Spirit promises an unforgettable journey for the senses.

Photo Courtesy of Fable & Spirit/Credit: Kyle Fierro