Bandera’s Best-Kept Secret: Ruby Red Trout in Corona del Mar
Some of my favorite restaurant finds begin with a question rather than a menu. At Bandera in Corona del Mar, the ruby red trout is one of them. It’s typically an off-menu offering—and one of the best-kept secrets I love sharing with friends.
If you know me from my Bandera kale salad story, you know I have my favorites here. This is another dish worth knowing about: delicate, flavorful fish with a gentle smokiness and a texture that makes you slow down and enjoy each bite.
A little smoke, a delicate flake
The trout arrives with a golden surface crossed by dark grill marks. Beneath that color is the part I enjoy most: tender fish that separates into soft, delicate flakes at the touch of a fork.
The smoky flavor gives it depth without overwhelming the fish. Each bite feels light, yet there is plenty of flavor to savor. That balance is what makes this dish so appealing to me—the grilled exterior, the gentle flake, and the tenderness all working together.
A plate that feels fresh and satisfying
On my plate, the trout came with a green salad, a generous lemon wedge, and a sprig of parsley. The warm color of the fish against the greens makes a lovely first impression, and the simple presentation gives the trout room to shine.
In my experience, Bandera is typically very accommodating when it comes to the side that accompanies the fish. For salad lovers, though, the kale salad is an unbeatable addition. Its fresh flavors are a wonderful match for the delicate, smoky trout.
It’s the kind of meal I reach for when I want something satisfying that still feels light. There is pleasure in a dish this straightforward: a flavorful piece of fish, a fresh accompaniment, and time to enjoy it.
My local tip: ask about the trout
Before settling on your usual order, ask your server about the ruby red trout. Because it’s typically off menu, it’s easy to miss if you don’t know to ask.
That small exchange is part of what I enjoy about returning to a neighborhood restaurant. You become familiar with the room, develop your favorites, and still find something worth telling a friend about. At Bandera, this trout is one of those finds.
Plan your visit
Bandera · 3201 East Pacific Coast Highway, Corona del Mar, CA 92625
About Amanda
I’m Amanda Jones, a real estate agent and Newport Beach resident for 20 years. Through Living Coastal, I share local insight on homes, neighborhoods, dining, and the places that make Newport Beach feel like home.
Whether you’re planning a move or looking for a favorite local spot, I’d love to connect. Feel free to email, call, or text me.
Amanda Jones
License ID: 01964419
Harcourts Place | Newport Beach
2902 W Coast Hwy Unit 120, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Broker License ID: 02222263 - CA
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