Nick’s Laguna Beach: The Salad That Keeps Bringing Me Back

At least once a month, I start craving the Kale and Quinoa salad at Nick’s Laguna Beach. I would love for the Newport Beach location to bring it back to the menu. For now, I wait for one of those days when Laguna’s art scene is calling my name, and make the salad part of the trip.

There’s something especially appealing about having a favorite lunch to look forward to while leaving the rest of the day open. A gallery catches your eye, the ocean invites a detour, and suddenly you’re very glad you made time for Laguna.

Nick’s Laguna Beach is at 440 South Coast Highway, right in the heart of town. Its Kale and Quinoa salad brings together red grapes, cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds, red cabbage, red peppers, Parmesan, and champagne vinaigrette. There’s sweetness, plenty of crunch, and enough variety to make it a meal worth craving.

For me, it’s reason enough to head to Laguna. But once I’m there, I like to leave room for the town itself.

If art is calling your name, too, consider planning around First Thursdays Art Walk. It takes place on the first Thursday of each month from 6 to 9 p.m., and admission is free. Lunch at Nick’s can become the beginning of an afternoon by the coast and an evening exploring galleries. Check the Art Walk’s current listings before you go.

While you’re exploring, keep an eye out for Michael Minutoli, Laguna’s modern-day greeter. His expressive, sometimes mime-like gestures fit so naturally into the town’s creative spirit. To me, he is one of those people who makes Laguna feel unmistakably like Laguna.

I encourage you to look him up and learn about his place in the community. The Laguna Beach Historical Society’s history of the greeters is a good starting point. It’s a tradition with a long history, and Michael has become a familiar part of its story.

In May 2026, Minutoli received a key to the city. Read about the celebration here. I love seeing a community recognize someone who brings so much personality to its streets. If you happen to see him, return the greeting.

When I want a craft cocktail with a view, Hotel Laguna gets my vote. Larsen at Hotel Laguna combines cocktails with an oceanfront setting that makes me want to linger. It’s my favorite way to add a little occasion to a day in town.

If you feel like exploring farther south, The Rooftop Lounge atop La Casa del Camino has the relaxed local vibe I enjoy, along with a beautiful view of the coast. It’s another lovely option when you want the afternoon to last a little longer.

For a romantic, picturesque finish, continue farther south toward Montage Laguna Beach and Treasure Island Park. Or stay closer to downtown and head north of Main Beach to Heisler Park. They are two different outings, and both offer a beautiful reason to slow down and take in the coastline.

You don’t need to fit every stop into one visit. Start with the salad, leave yourself time to wander, and see what catches your attention. That’s how I like to enjoy Laguna Beach.