Starfish Laguna Beach: A Longtime Favorite and The Cove at Sawdust Art Festival

There are some restaurants that become part of your personal history, and for me, Starfish Laguna Beach is one of them.

I’ve been going to Starfish since it first opened in South Laguna Beach, directly across from the Montage. What started as a favorite spot for my parents and I has turned into one of those restaurants I continue coming back to with family and friends! Starfish was founded in 2011 by Archie and Gretchen McConnell and is known for its Asian Coastal cuisine, bringing together flavors and influences from Thailand, Korea, Vietnam, China and Japan.

Today, Starfish has grown beyond its original Laguna Beach location. The Starfish Hospitality Group has locations in Laguna Beach, Newport Beach and Scottsdale, Arizona, bringing its Asian Coastal cuisine to multiple destinations. The original Laguna Beach location remains especially meaningful to me because it’s where so many family meals and memories started.

One of my favorite things about Starfish has always been the daily happy hour, or “Opium Hour.” It’s one of those places where you can stop in during the afternoon, order a few small plates and drinks, and easily turn it into a full meal. The food has always tasted fresh, and there are plenty of options to share.

As for my personal favorites, the coconut rice is a staple for me and makes the perfect side with almost anything. I’m also a big fan of the lychee martini, the Ahi sushi roll, and the Lobster Macadamia Roll, which have been go-to orders for me, my family and friends over the years. More recently, I’ve fallen in love with their wonton soup!

During the summer, Starfish brings its flavors to the Sawdust Art Festival with The Cove by Starfish, creating a pop-up dining experience right in the middle of one of Laguna Beach’s most iconic summer traditions! It’s been fun having another way to enjoy Starfish while walking through the Sawdust and taking in all of the art, music and energy of the festival.

I’ve been eating at The Cove lately, and my current obsession is the Maddog Honey Chicken Bowl with coconut rice and vegetables. Honestly, it’s the kind of meal that stays in your head after you leave. I’ve found myself thinking about it during the summer and already looking forward to having it again.

For me, that’s what makes Starfish special. It isn’t just another restaurant in Laguna Beach. It’s a place that has been part of my family’s dining traditions for years. From the original South Laguna Beach location to its Newport Beach and Scottsdale restaurants, and now The Cove at the Sawdust Art Festival, Starfish has continued to bring its own take on Asian Coastal cuisine to the communities it serves.

If you’re looking for a Laguna Beach restaurant, a good daily happy hour, fresh Asian-inspired food, or simply somewhere to enjoy a meal with family and friends, Starfish is one of my longtime local favorites. And if you’re visiting the Sawdust Art Festival this summer, make sure to stop by The Cove while you’re there!

-Gerson

Written by Gerson Seise REALTOR®  Cell: 949.533.7053
GERSON SEISE REALTY - Real Brokerage Technologies