News Summary
Orange County’s culinary scene is thriving, highlighted by three Michelin-starred restaurants in Costa Mesa: Knife Pleat, Hana Re, and LSXO. Knife Pleat, under Chef Tony Esnault, is famed for its exquisite multi-course meals, including truffle-infused creations. Additional noteworthy eateries, such as The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar, Selanne Steak Tavern, and Bayside Restaurant, further enrich the local dining landscape. The region’s emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and diverse culinary offerings, from fine dining to Bib Gourmand gems, establishes Orange County as a premier destination for food enthusiasts.
Orange County Culinary Scene Flourishes with Michelin-Recognized Restaurants
Orange County is becoming increasingly recognized for its vibrant culinary scene, boasting three Michelin-starred restaurants, predominantly located in Costa Mesa. These establishments include Knife Pleat, Hana Re, and LSXO, illustrating the region’s dedication to fine dining and exceptional culinary experiences.
Experiencing Michelin-Star Cuisine at Knife Pleat
Among the premier dining options in Orange County is Knife Pleat, a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its exquisite multi-course dinners. Chef-owner Tony Esnault designed a noteworthy black truffle tasting menu featuring a series of carefully curated dishes. Guests can indulge in a selection that includes a black and white salad adorned with truffles, Dover sole accompanied by truffle scales, and poached chicken breast alongside roasted thigh. The meal also includes a cheese course with truffles and a white chocolate panna cotta topped with truffles, all paired with perfect wine selections for an unforgettable culinary experience.
The artistry of plating and execution at Knife Pleat is matched only by the delightful flavors that linger well with diners. A particularly highlighted dish is the house-made pasta served in butter sauce, generously topped with shaved truffles, which has become a favorite among returning customers.
Other Notable Dining Experiences in Orange County
In addition to Knife Pleat, several other restaurants in Orange County are worth mentioning. The Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar, located in both Newport Beach and Tustin, is a staple for many due to its delectable offerings crafted by chef Yvon Goetz. Among its standout features is a memorable six-course dinner that showcases an array of flavors, including grilled Spanish octopus, seared Hudson Valley foie gras, thyme roasted squab, wild boar Bolognese, and espresso cocoa rubbed venison loin, all exquisitely paired with fine wines.
Other commendable dining venues highlighted include Selanne Steak Tavern, recognized for its celebratory ten-course meal, and Tavern House Kitchen + Bar, which is famous for offering comfort-food favorites such as fried chicken and French 75 onion soup. Bayside Restaurant is appreciated for live jazz performances paired with seasoned service and classic cuisine, while Il Barone Ristorante garners praise for its authentic Italian experience, with particular recognition for its Facci Ri Veccia pizza. The Vine Restaurant stands out with its Mexicali burger, labeled as the best in the region, while Olea closely follows with its own popular Olea burger.
Micheling Starred and Bib Gourmand Rankings
The rich tableau of dining options extends beyond Michelin star establishments. Orange County also hosts several Bib Gourmand recognized eateries, exemplifying quality and value. Noteworthy mentions include Garlic & Chives, Phở 79 for traditional Vietnamese noodle bowls, and Khan Saab which provides an elevated street food experience. For those seeking diverse cultural options, Poppy & Seed is celebrated for its sustainably sourced ingredients and picturesque outdoor dining, while Phởholic has locations throughout Westminster, Costa Mesa, and Stanton, known for its extensive pho menu.
A Thriving Culinary Landscape
As the culinary landscape in Orange County continues to expand, the emphasis on fresh and seasonal food is a growing trend. Establishments like The Ranch Restaurant & Saloon in Anaheim focus on in-season ingredients sourced from local farms, while Gabbi’s offers locally inspired Mexican dishes that highlight flavor profiles appealing to diverse palates. This thriving gastronomic scene makes Orange County a desired destination for food enthusiasts seeking both fine dining and casual culinary delights, with a strong community of chefs dedicated to the art of cooking.
As the allure of exceptional dining experiences unfolds, Christopher Trela, the Business Journal’s executive dining columnist, will transition to a quarterly column, continuing to highlight these vibrant culinary experiences.
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Additional Resources
- Orange County Business Journal: Dining at Michelin-Star Restaurant Knife Pleat
- Wikipedia: Michelin Guide
- Locale Magazine: Michelin-Approved Restaurants in Orange County
- Google Search: Michelin star restaurants Orange County
- Eater LA: Los Angeles’ 2025 Michelin Stars Mapped
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michelin Guide
- Patch: OC Restaurant Loses Michelin Star Report
- Google News: Michelin star Orange County
- Michelin Guide: California New Additions
- California.com: Complete List of Michelin-Starred Restaurants in California
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
