Dinner Rec in OC

[vlad]

Anyone out there got any good recs in their little bag of tricks? I would like to explore a new, delicious place in the OC for my b-day this Sunday.

I am game for anything ---- would prefer a place that has both winning food as well as great ambiance.

Sock it to me, please.

[OCKevin]

So Vlad, where did you end up on Sunday?

[karynx78]

Bistangos for Californian, also has great dessert souffle.In Irvine
Onotria for Wine Country/Italian in Costa Mesa
Garlic Joes for Japanese fusion in Newport Beach
230 Forest has great Seafood and Steaks.. Great porkchop with sweet potatoe fries, small but nice and cozy with great martinis.

[New Trial]

Marche Moderne in South Coast Plaza is excellent and attractive--only glitches are service (though they are trying to improve) and oddly uncomfortable chairs. I would also second the recommendation for Blue Fin, though, again, some service issues to be wary of there.

[brekkie_fan]

Marche Moderne all the way. I do not like French food, and yet I managed to have so many options to choose from! It was divine, from start to finish. The chef is from a number of well-known places such as Pascal and Pinot Provence. Wife is the pastry chef, and the staff is friendly all around. Great wine selection...you can even order a half or full glass, allowing for sampling of many.

[karynx78]

brekkie fan,

Where is Marche Moderne. I loved the chef from Pascal. I would love to go try this place.. which dishes were your favorite. Thanks!

[elmomonster]

Marche Moderne is in South Coast Plaza, on the third floor above Tiffany's.

Here's a detailed review:
http://www.ocweekly.com/food/feature-...

[karynx78]

Thanks so much! Can't wait to try it.

[elmomonster]

The place I'd want to get treated out is Bluefin...and that's what happened last year. A blast! Get the omakase.

Here are some pics:
http://elmomonster.blogspot.com/2006/...

[OC Mutt]

Try The Bungalow in Corona Del Mar - great local steak house.

[russkar]

CLAE'S at the Laguna Hotel has been really good lately since new Chef Todd has taken over the kitchen a few months ago. OCEAN FRONT!

[Mando]

Memphis if you haven't been -- http://www.memphiscafe.com/

Everyone I've taken has liked the place. 2 locations 1 in Santa Ana other in Costa Mesa both have pretty good ambiance though you might want reservation as neither is very big.

P.S. I've never eaten at the S.A. one though I have gone by it, but assuming the food should be the same.