Discover OC’s Michelin-Approved Eateries: 10 Hidden Culinary Gems!

Michelin-recommended restaurants are more common than you’d expect in Orange County. 

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious dining experience or quick takeout, the OC has it all! Check out our list of Michelin-approved gems scattered throughout the county.

1. 1. 1. 1. HiroNori Craft Ramen · Irvine

            Hiro Igarashi and Nori Akasaka create mouthwatering shoyu ramen. Their housemade noodle recipe change monthly based on weather conditions.  Don’t miss out on their Tonkotsu Ramen; it’s a taste sensation you’ll be grateful for later!

         2. Knife Pleat · Costa Mesa

            Intimate and elegant, Knife Pleat is the ideal date-night spot. Chef Tony Esnault earned a Michelin Star in 2021 for his contemporary French dishes. Knife Pleat values precision and quality, from the menu to the interior design.  The set menu is straightforward, highlighting each ingredient’s pure flavor.

         3. Poppy & Seed · Anaheim

            Poppy & Seed offers al fresco dining with delightful surprises. Organic gardens are just steps from the greenhouse-inspired lounge and bar. Chef Michael Reed emphasizes sustainably sourced ingredients in his dishes. Don’t miss his earthy-sweet blend of strawberries and roasted beets.

         4. Hana Re Sushi · Costa Mesa

            Hana Re is an intimate art show by Chef Atsushi Yokoyama. Look for the rainbow-streaked exterior and enter for a no-frills interior that lets the sushi shine. Yokoyama’s 10-top counter offers an omakase experience and curates unforgettable moments. The sashimi is almost too beautiful to eat. Don’t forget to leave space for the almond panna cotta!

         5. Fable & Spirit · Newport Beach

            Fable & Spirit’s elegant teal dining room awaits behind its infamous yellow door. Here, Chef David Shofner offers Irish-inspired dining with a California twist. The menu tempts with dishes like roasted cauliflower featuring spicy green harissa. Don’t miss the textbook-perfect short rib dressed in sweet barbeque glaze. Of course, a meal here isn’t complete without a cocktail. Try the Fairy’s Revenge, a gin elixir with blood orange bitters.

         6. Heritage Barbecue · San Juan Capistrano

            Heritage embodies the Old West charm of the city. Here, a rustic barbecue stand tantalizes with the aroma of smoked meats. Michelin heralds it as “the best barbecue in California.” Their melt-in-your-mouth brisket is amazing, while pork ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender. Chef/owner Daniel Castillo’s mesquite-smoked meats draw long lines all afternoon.

         7. El Mercado · Santa Ana

            Discover Michelin-quality dining without draining your wallet. Explore the diverse flavors of Mexico in the velvet-adorned dining room. El Mercado has weekend brunch, happy hour, and Taco Tuesday to suit your schedule. The Mexican-inspired gem boasts both local art and culinary masterpieces. Seafood and pork belly tacos take center stage. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the tequila-glazed octopus.

         8. Oliver’s Osteria · Laguna Beach & Irvine (coming soon)

            Once a Laguna secret, Oliver’s Osteria now graces the list of OC’s top foodie spots. They specialize in authentic Emilia-Romagna pasta. While the veal chop is exceptional, it’s the noodles that truly shine. Don’t miss the separate truffle menu! Try a black truffle creation before leaving.

         9. CHAAK Kitchen · Tustin

            Savor Yucatán flavors under the stars at this Tustin rooftop kitchen. Chef Gabbi Patrick crafts dishes that blend Caribbean influences and Mexican soul. The bright and airy greenhouse-style interior is a gorgeous setting. Begin with Mezcal cocktails and continue with anything, really, from the menu!

         10. Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen · Fullerton

             Khan Saab merges Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India’s flavors into a diverse 100% halal menu. Chef Imran Ali Mookhi adds a gourmet twist to street food favorites. The vibrant decor complements the menu’s colorful flavors. While meat takes center stage, the mocktails shine just as brightly. Enjoy coup glasses filled with negronis inspired by halal traditions.

      There you have it — the best Michelin-approved hidden gems! So many delicious restaurants, so little time. Are you ready to live near your favorite dining destination? Contact our real estate specialists today at SurterreProperties.com.

      Source: LocaleMagazine.com