I’m moving further into Orange County because of my job, and to be honest, I’ve been dreading it. I’m currently right in the middle of all of the hotspots in Orange County and Los Angeles, and the thought of being far away from all of the summer food festivals is killing me. However, I’ve been lucky enough to spend more time exploring some OC favorites, and I’m liking what I’m seeing! I was delighted to be invited to an event last week in Newport Beach by a local blogger! The Waffle Affair was hosting a small media event complete with savory waffles, sweet bites, and most importantly, coffee!
Tucked away in a small strip mall off of Bayside Drive, this cafe is whimsically decorated with a black and white color scheme and classic glass chandeliers. It’s a small space, but there is also outside seating available, perfect for a summer morning or sunny afternoon. They can fulfill any sweet or savory craving that you may have.
First, we started off their Bits and Dips, waffle bites stuffed with hot dogs! Yes, you read this correctly, HOT DOGS. I’m not the biggest fan of hot dogs, but when it’s served inside a delicious waffle batter to offset the meaty mysteriousness that I usually have a hard time rationalizing, it’s a nice combo. These were a great option if you have wee ones that you want to please while you enjoy your afternoon latte.
Some of us got to this waffle before I had a chance to take the photo, and that ‘some of us’ may or may not have been me…but, that is besides the point. The one on the left was turkey and havarti and the one on the right was salami and fontina. If you’ve ever had a cheese plate in your life, you know that these are great flavor combinations. Basically, if I need lunch on the go and I’m near this place, I’m picking up the salami and fontina stat!
This photo is huge because the flavor was huge! This carrot cake waffle bite was topped with the most delicious dollop of their homemade cream cheese concoction! I could eat these all day! If you love carrot cake, these bites were absolutely awesome, and the cream cheese topping was a huge hit with everyone! We also enjoyed tastes of their chocolate chip, vanilla bean, cinnamon, and coconut waffles! Many of which were gone before I could get a bright enough photo. That is just a testament to their yumminess!
We were also lucky enough to take some sweets to-go! I also ordered their seasonal latte, Lavender and Honey! They exclusively serve illy’s Arabica beans, which I’ve grown fond of. They have a full range of caffeinated beverage options to pair without whatever waffle you choose!
I can’t wait to come back and try more of their specialty waffle flavors including Cafe au Lait, Earl Grey Tea, and many more! If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot for some savory and sweet options, this is the place to go!
For more information, visit thewaffleaffair.com!
