Welcome to The Royal Hen—Balboa Island’s best-kept secret. We’re not trying to be trendy or fancy. We just care—about the food, the wine, the people, and the vibe. Our kitchen is small, our menu is tight, and every dish is made with intention. Guests come back for the famous chicken pot pie, the craveable burger, and that feeling you get when you’re known by name.
With red iron gates out front and Cynthia (our beloved Boss Hen) inside, we’ve created something rare: a neighborhood bistro that feels like home but tastes like nowhere else. Whether you’re sipping a bold glass of wine under the moonlight or tucking into comfort food with a twist, you’ll feel it—this place is different.
Come as you are. Stay as long as you like.
Petite fixture featuring upscale pub eats, craft cocktails & draft beer in a sophisticated setting.
Sahar Meshksar
Such a cozy spot with a warm atmosphere and genuinely friendly staff.
The food was creative and interesting, and every bite felt thoughtful. The bread and butter were absolutely amazing, honestly worth the visit alone.
The burger was also so good, juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.Definitely a place worth trying, and one I’d happily come back to.
… moreGina Wallman
My FAVORITE place to dine! Between Cynthia(owner) and Mickey, i don’t think you can get better warmth, attention and service. I recently hosted my daughter’s baby shower here and it was perfection. The charming atmosphere, their delicious house made “POT PIE” is beyond delicious plus the bread and butter…you can’t get better! I highly recommend the Royal Hen for any special occasion.
… moreLaurie Morrison
Delightful, cozy, date-perfect bistro. Varied menu, comfort food with heart and depth. Also good for groups of 4 to 6; not overwhelming loud. High-traffic location in summer and around holidays like Halloween and Christmas. Allow extra time to park. Use the op to walk a few blocks and enjoy this charming community.
… more3000 Kittens
We were visiting from Seattle and staying on Balboa Island, hoping for cozy neighborhood vibes. Royal Hen did not disappoint! We rolled in on a Saturday evening, saw a cute candle-lit table outside and asked if there was space for us. The owner (I believe) welcomed us like friends/locals and did not hesitate to say there is definitely space. We sat outside, was helped by a wonderful gentleman who also had a cool, casual, comfortable approach to things. Food was delicious. Vibes were immaculate. 10/10!
… moreShakiba Vafai
We went in for New Year’s Eve and had an amazing time at Royal Hen. The owner and servers were incredibly welcoming—it truly felt like walking into a family party. We tried the steak and the short rib fettuccine, and both were excellent. We’ll definitely be back to try more dishes!
… moreAndreola Werner-Velleryd
This is such a cute and cozy restaurant on Balboa Island, great to stop in and grab a bite to eat after a walk around the island.
The Stuffed Zucchini Flowers, RH Mac & Cheese and the Short Rib Fettuccine were the favorites of the evening by far. We could have just ordered doubles of these dishes and been in bliss.
The shrimp and scallop curry risotto and chicken pot pie, for my taste were a bit bland; however, the rest of my dinner party did not agree and for them, the chicken pot pie was up there with the three favorites of the evening.
… moreDenny Batler
My wife and I have been looking for a place like this for a long time. Nowadays, it’s impossible to find a truly original place where the food will be interesting and delicious at the same time. Unfortunately, such restaurants are only present in Europe and large cities in the United States. But the food here, it’s a revelation. Thank you, we’ll be your regular customers.
… moreJohn Petersen
5/5 really just hit it out of the park all the way. Hosts/owners were so kind and welcoming. Servers were great. Attentive but also gave you space (a tricky balance). Beer was ice cold on a warm night. Food was so good! Tacos and fish and chips. I wish I had a bigger stomach so I could’ve eaten more! We were outside. It was lovely. Good people watching too.
… moreJoshua Wartenberg
All around wonderful experience, from the food to the decor. Comfortable and relaxing with some of the best bread I’ve had in a long time. The owner is kind and a pleasure, I really loved this spot.
… moreTaylor Trusty
The staff and people who run this place seem awesome and very welcoming. My steak tacos were just okay, candidly, the fries were just okay, and my wife’s burger was just okay. There’s just wine and beer, no cocktails. I hate to say this since we’ve heard SO MANY good things about this place, but we likely won’t be back as there are just so many good places in Newport
… more