News Summary
Il Barone Ristorante has relocated to a new space in Newport Beach and launched a revamped brunch menu. The beloved Italian restaurant, originally opened by Chef Franco Barone in 2009, now offers a family-friendly ambiance and dishes infused with Italian flavors. Notable menu items include Facci Ri Veccia, Sicilian meatloaf burger, and Frittata Campagnola. Despite facing challenges and multiple relocations, Il Barone continues to thrive with its loyal customer base as it embarks on this new chapter.
Newport Beach – Il Barone Ristorante has officially relocated to a new location and launched an exciting brunch menu after navigating a series of challenging circumstances over the past few years. Originally opened in 2009 by Chef Franco Barone and his wife Donatella, the restaurant has been a staple in the Newport Beach area, serving its renowned fine Italian cuisine and becoming a favored destination for business lunches and dinners.
The new location at 6700 West Coast Highway, previously occupied by Cucina Alessa, marks the fourth home for the restaurant, which has developed a loyal customer base despite numerous relocations. Patrons can now enjoy a family-friendly ambiance alongside a diverse brunch menu that is available from Thursday to Sunday, featuring a blend of classic brunch items infused with Italian flavors.
One of the standout offerings on the new brunch menu is Facci Ri Veccia, a delectable dish combining imported crescenza cheese, Parma prosciutto, and truffle oil on a pizza-like base. Other popular menu items include Sicilian meatloaf burger, Frittata Campagnola, and a variety of pizzas and pastas that showcase the Barones’ culinary expertise.
Il Barone has a rich history rooted in the Orange County business community. Prior to opening Il Barone, Franco Barone spent 20 years as the executive chef at Antonello Ristorante in South Coast Plaza, known for hosting VIP dinners and celebrity gatherings. The Barones first established their restaurant in a small business center near John Wayne Airport, where it gained traction and became a favorite among business professionals, including philanthropist S. Paul Musco, who had a reserved table at the restaurant.
Challenges and Relocations
In 2017, Il Barone was forced to relocate after its landlord sold the property for redevelopment. The restaurant moved to a closed Coco’s Bakery Restaurant on Bristol Street, expanding its brand by launching Il Barone Sicilian Street Food at Pacific City’s shopping center in Huntington Beach, which was managed by their eldest son, Jon Barone. During the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, Il Barone faced immense challenges, leading to the temporary closure of locations in Laguna Beach and Huntington Beach, further straining the finances of its flagship operation.
In 2022, the need for yet another relocation arose as another business took over the space previously occupied by Il Barone. However, a loyal customer guided the owners to a temporary location, which was secured through a handshake deal that did not involve a formal lease. This situation ultimately paved the way for the current opportunity at the former Cucina Alessa, which now stands as a significant milestone in Il Barone’s journey.
New Ventures and Management
Jon Barone, who works alongside his father in the kitchen, also oversees the restaurant’s catering services and is available for private chef experiences. Regular reviewers have commended Il Barone’s offerings, which include long-time favorites such as squid ink pasta and pappardelle with wild boar ragu, highlighting the quality and creativity present in their dishes.
Despite the struggles that have beset them over the years, Il Barone Ristorante has managed to maintain a solid footing in the local dining scene. Customers appreciate the restaurant’s ambiance and the high standard of food quality, contributing to its sustained success as it embarks on this new chapter with renewed hope and an expanded menu. With ongoing dedication to providing outstanding service and delicious cuisine, the Barone family looks forward to welcoming both old friends and new patrons to their latest location.
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Additional Resources
- Orange County Business Journal: Fourth Time’s the Charm for Il Barone
- Orange County Business Journal: Il Barone’s Next Act in Newport Beach
- Los Angeles Times: The Crowd: Il Barone
- Newport Beach Indy: Il Barone is on the Move
- Wikipedia: Newport Beach, California
