Bon Appétit: The Haute 5 French Restaurants in Orange County

Although it may be far from France, Orange County could be considered the “American Riviera”, serving some of the best French Cuisine on the Pacific. Whether you’re in the mood for fabulous Foie Gras or Filet Mignon, these haute eateries are simply a stone’s throw from South Coast Plaza.

Basilic

Cut travel time in half and enjoy French cuisine off the coast of California. Nestled on the secluded Balboa Island, Basilic has been a staple when it comes to a great filet mignon or chocolate soufflé. Their Chef’s Choice dinner is always a great decision because it includes five of the best house dishes such as their Asparagus Mushroom Soup, Pear Salad, Seared Salmon, Filet Mignon and a dessert trio.

Basilic is located at 217 Marine Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92662. (949) 673-0570

Tradition by Pascal

Tradition has been voted the #1 Restaurant in Orange County for the last ten years. Pascal Olhats, owner and chef, grew up cooking in Normandy and worked under Chef Paul Bocuse in Lyon. After cooking in the US, he was voted Best Chef in 1991. In other words, you might want to get an autograph from the man that made your bouillabaisse.

Tradition by Pascal s located at 1000 N.Bristol, Newport Beach, CA 92660. (949) 263-9400 ext1

Marché Moderne

Although it may be a downgrade when a restaurant is attached to a mall, it’s definitely an upgrade when the destination is South Coast Plaza. After a tough day of shopping at Tiffany’s, stop in at Marché for their renowned Parisian menu. It’s always good to try new things! Go for the three course daily menu, which offers a salad, protein and dessert for $25.

Marché Moderne is located at 3333 Bristol St. Ste 3001, Costa Mesa CA 92626. (714) 434-7900

Pinot Provence

First of all, you’ll definitely want to go to Pinot when you find out they have NO corkage fees. Take that aging Cabernet off the rack and enjoy a personal favorite along with your meal. Pinot has a rustic, southern take to French cooking with a more creative presentation less consumed by miniscule cuts and tiny spots of sauce we’ve associated with upscale French cuisine. Try their Tiger Prawns with the Potato Gnocchi Buerre Blanc for a trip to the Mediterranean.

Pinot Provence is located at 686 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. (714) 444-5900

Bayside

If you went only for the view, you would still give Bayside 5 stars. Located on Bayside Drive, a street that rolls alongside the Balboa Bay and private communities of Newport, Bayside offers fine dining with a beautiful view. Always a hit during OC Restaurant Week, be sure to try their 3 Course Fixed Menus for a chef’s recommendation.

Bayside is located at 900 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660. (949) 721-1222