Buzz Offers a Carnival Atmosphere, Parade of Diversions

Newport Beach is abuzz with talk of the latest hot spot. Orange County’s twentysomethings have found a fresh source of twilight merriment in the Buzz, where no night of the week goes without some sort of celebration.

House, disco and dance music bestowed by disc jockeys--and sometimes live bands--set the party vibe. What makes the Buzz different from other nightclubs is its vastness. The patio alone isn’t full until 250 people are plopped on its chairs. Curiously, there’s only about 30 square feet in which to dance. This doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do.

The Buzz is equipped with video games, virtual-reality booths, shuffleboard, pool and more. And a prize redemption center allows you to trade tickets for rewards such as stuffed animals and other cool toys. (Kids can have fun, but after 9:30 p.m., patrons must be 21 or over to enjoy the Buzz.)

This pseudo-carnival ambience helps lessen the pretense that is common to most night life environments. Still, there are hordes of folks who worry about fitting in--or standing out. In this age of meatless burgers, liposuction and silicone, plenty are eager to show off their bounty. It seems that the Buzz’s Gen-X crowd shares the same motto when it comes to clothing: “The tighter, the better.” The only dress code-banned items are thongs (of the shoes variety!) and tank tops on guys.

The human parade isn’t the only eye feast at the Buzz. Works by local artists (including a few Buzz employees) adorn the walls. The building itself is a spectator’s delight. Stylish ironwork twists along the ceiling, up the staircase and throughout the interior.

Added to these visual treats is a gorgeous view of the Newport Beach Harbor. Huge windows make up the entire back wall and furnish a panorama from almost any point in the place.

The Buzz, which is open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. weekly, made its debut March 17. The restaurant, which serves up vittles like tacos and seafood or chicken plates ($10-$20), is open until 1:30 a.m. Promotions such as “Fat Tuesdays” ($2.50 margaritas, $2.95 nachos, $3 well drinks, $1.50 drafts from 4 p.m. until closing) are offered Sunday through Thursday.

Though it’s only been in business a few months, the Buzz already has an established clientele. Be prepared for a 30-minute to two-hour wait on Thursday through Saturday nights. And bring lots of cash! The cover is only $5, but drinks average the same.

Whether you’re up for some carousing or you wish to amuse yourself via virtual reality, the Buzz will accommodate.

BE THERE

The Buzz is at 3450 Via Oporto, Newport Beach. Hours of operation: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. weekly. $5. After 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 21 and over only. (949) 673-4700.