Watertable at the Hyatt Huntington Beach has been open around three months, and I’ve already visited seven times. To say I am falling in love with this place is an understatement. If you were a regular visitor of The Californian, you won’t recognize the space. There is not a shred of the former decade-old restaurant to be found.
The only way I can describe Watertable is a sprawling hacienda-style mansion featuring Andalusian themes. Regardless of what you call it, the restaurant is a sight for sore eyes and my photos definitely does it no justice. It’s something you will have to step inside to really soak in what I’m talking about.
The metamorphosis is stunning, no expense spared, the intricacies and details are elaborate, but yet, classy and not over-the-top. There are many ways to enjoy Watertable beginning with “the library” to the adjacent gastro-bar, where a different menu may be enjoyed as opposed to the dining room menu offered in the various rooms which lie ahead — including the outside patio and the corridor with iron arches.
I can truly say, during each of my visits, I have sat in different rooms including “Sofia’s Room”, named for the lady in the painting hanging on the back wall. However, my favorites are the “lounge” situated to the right of the namesake watertable extending as high as the ceiling, proudly situated in the middle of the dining room. This is where all the water you drink comes from.
We always begin with a few cocktail selections which you will find featured on Watertable’s interactive menu. It is a difficult task deciding on one because there are just so many of them, all enticing and beautiful — cocktails average $12.
On many occasions we have selected the Old Fashion, or the HB Old Fashion. Then there is the Water Table, also pleasing, leaving a slight sweet finish on the tongue. The one signature tequila cocktail is delicious, with a hint of smokiness from the mescal, but presentation is dated.
On another occasion we have the light but refreshing version of the Moscow Mule, aptly named California Mule.
My favorite thing to do is sit in the bar area. There, you will be able to enjoy Watertable in all its glory. Start with a few selections such as the Bar Jars ($5/each) which are served with piping hot epi baguettes baked in-house and brushed with butter. Make sure you don’t over indulge as it is very easy to do. Leave some room for other delectables.
One of my favorites has been the Herb Grilled Baby Lamb Chops ($14). These succulent chops are served with a sweet onion chorizo-potato hash. Pick them up with your fingers and dig right in. You know I am not able to resist these when I have ordered them on every single visit — well except lunch but I’ll talk about that later.
Creamer Potato Cakes ($9), is a carb-lover’s dream. An alternative to French fries, these twice-fried potatoes are crispy on the outside with a soft interior. Even more delectable with a quick dunk into the rich, creamy truffle dip, it’s more like a “smashed-potato” rather than “cakes”. Regardless, they’re really good!
Baja California Yellowtail Crudo ($12), a vibrant palette of colors from pickled cauliflower, avocado, sweet peppers and micro mustard sprouts, creates a picturesque bounty, but unfortunately needed just a touch more acid and salt.
We were blown away by the sheer beauty of the Iberico and Fig Tart ($11). I’m happy to say, it tasted as delicious as it looked. Iberico ham, crumbled chevre, stone fruit, olive oil and black pepper are laid atop a flaky tart crust. This is a must-try!
In season right now is Organic Melon ($9), featuring compressed watermelon, ricotta salata, ver jus, golden pea shoots, radish, blueberry balsamic and meyer lemon. So simple, yet sublime. The combination of sweet, tart, salty is indescribable on the palate. You’ll just have to try it for yourself.
Don’t forget the Grilled and Chilled Octopus ($16), it is one of my favorites. Make sure you get a bit of the salt sprinkled on to the plate to have the perfect mouthful.
Another item not-to-be-missed item — Grilled White Corn Succotash ($6), an addicting side dish with smoky fire roasted peppers, vibrant baby green peas, and Sriracha butter. It is one of those things I order on every visit.
Delightful servers — memorable ones include Danielle on one visit, and the delightful Ashley on another — help guide and shape a dining experience with knowledge and humor. Impeccable service and attention to detail makes a meal more enjoyable. We converse often, asking questions and trying to gauge which course of action to follow.
If you are still hungry after all of these, there are entrees to choose from such as the Grilled Veal T-Bone ($45) with roasted shallot, arugula greens, soft polenta, tomato pan jus.
Or, create your own from the “Your Menu” section where you can pair a protein of your choice such as Organic Chicken Breast ($19 6oz/$24 8oz), with a house-made scratch sauce — salbaxitada is amazing — and a side.
When it comes time for desserts, there is a good variety of sweet offerings. The best part is that they change seasonally to ensure optimum flavors in everything you put in your mouth.
If you happen to come during lunch, the menu is limited. There are some salads and a few sandwiches. However, the Chilled Avocado Gazpacho ($6) is what you should come for. It is absolutely breathtaking. Silky smooth avocado puree with chunks of blue lump crab makes for an ample lunch, especially when there are those addicting epi baguettes involved.
Orange County has definitely been waiting for Watertable. It may not know it yet, but once you experience this elegant but unpretentious destination, you’ll understand why. Service is stellar, paired with an incredible menu, this is the very best of everything under one roof. Plus, complimentary valet is offered — what more would you ask for?
Watertable
21500 Pacific Coast Hwy
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Tel: 714-845-4776
Hi Anita
Thanks for this post. Going to try it tonight for our Anniversary.
Arlene
Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S™ III, an AT&T 4G LTE smartphone
I hope you enjoyed it Arlene!