From life-changing ramen to mouth-watering Mexican, Orange County bursts with Michelin-approved eats!
Michelin honors top chefs — a culinary dream come true. While not all eateries get stars, many are still recognized by Michelin for their amazing food. Bib Gourmand picks offer delicious value too! Find your local favorite or a special occasion spot. Keep reading for our picks for Michelin-approved Orange County gems.
CHAAK Kitchen · Tustin
Tustin’s skyline gets tastier! This rooftop restaurant brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Chef Gabbi Patrick, raised on her family’s traditional recipes, blends Mayan spices with Caribbean flair for a truly unique experience. Imagine dining under the stars in a bright, airy space overlooking the bustling kitchen. Start your journey with mezcal cocktails infused with mole bitters. Then, savor the smoky chicken salad with a citrusy kick, followed by the unforgettable crispy duck tacos crowned with chicharron.
Phởholic · Costa Mesa
Pho cravings got you down? Phởholic has the cure! This Costa Mesa staple (with locations in Westminster and Stanton too) is a favorite for all ages. Choose your noodle and meat combo, then sip on a refreshing Vietnamese iced coffee. Their giant bowls of pho are steamy, fragrant, and packed with high-quality ingredients. And for the spice lovers, sriracha is always on standby.
HiroNori Craft Ramen · Irvine
HiroNori isn’t your average ramen shop. Founders Hiro Igarashi and Nori Akasaka brought their dream of ramen perfection to America. Now boasting 15 locations across Orange County, HiroNori satisfies the cravings of ramen enthusiasts everywhere. Discover housemade noodles with a weather-sensitive recipe for peak quality. Sip slow-simmered pork bone broth that elevates every taste. Experience a unique shoyu sauce combining a 20-hour stock with soy sauce aged in 300-year-old barrels.
Bello by Sandro Nardone · Newport Beach
Craving authentic Italian with a twist? Look no further than Bello by Sandro Nardone. Chef Nardone, renowned for his fusion of Italian classics with Asian influences, brings a piece of his Italian heritage to your table. Fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers’ markets are the heart of Bello’s magic. Every dish transports you to a charming Italian trattoria, with the quality to match. Feeling adventurous? Opt for the chef’s pre-fixe omakase menu — a curated fine dining experience. Or, choose from a selection of signature and seasonal dishes on the lunch and dinner menus.
LSXO · Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach’s culinary scene boasts a hidden gem: LSXO, nestled within the airy Bluegold restaurant. This modern Vietnamese and French speakeasy may not be a secret anymore (thanks to its Michelin star!), but the intimate ambiance remains. Step through the discreet entrance and discover an edgy sanctuary. Ocean views peek through heavy drapes, adding a touch of elegance. The menu is a curated masterpiece, featuring home-style Southeast Asian fare with an inventive twist.
Habana · Irvine + Costa Mesa
Fable & Spirit · Newport Beach
Step through a sunshine-yellow door and be greeted by an elegant teal haven. Sparkling chandeliers mimic a starlit sea overhead, setting the stage for a truly enchanting dining experience. This Newport Beach gem, helmed by Executive Chef David Shofner, takes inspiration from Irish comfort food. Then it reimagines it for the California palate, emphasizing fresh, plant-forward cuisine. The menu is a love letter to deliciousness. Don’t miss the showstopper: roasted cauliflower. Pair this vegetarian delight with melt-in-your-mouth short rib, glazed to perfection. And of course, no night is complete without a signature cocktail. We highly recommend the Fairy’s Revenge, a delightful elixir featuring Roku Gin and blood orange bitters.
Heritage Barbecue · San Juan Capistrano
SJC’s historic charm extends to its food scene, with Heritage Barbecue embodying the town’s Old West spirit. This rustic stand might look unassuming, but the aroma of mouthwatering meats will draw you in from blocks away. Step past the saloon-style exterior and discover what the Michelin Guide hails as “the best barbecue in California.” Chef and Owner Daniel Castillo reigns supreme here, crafting melt-in-your-mouth brisket. Be prepared to join the line of eager fans all afternoon, waiting to savor Castillo’s mesquite-smoked masterpieces. Heritage isn’t fancy, but it’s an experience that will leave you wanting more.
Hana Re Sushi · Costa Mesa
This hidden gem isn’t for the faint of heart. Look past the rainbow exterior and embrace the minimalist magic inside. Chef Atsushi Yokoyama curates an intimate culinary experience right before your eyes at the 10-seat counter. Prepare to be wowed. The sashimi is a masterpiece, often called “art on a plate.” This no-frills haven boasts a top-notch sake list and a must-try almond panna cotta for dessert.
El Mercado Modern Cuisine · Santa Ana
Michelin dining doesn’t have to be a splurge! At El Mercado, you can embark on a delicious journey through Mexico without blowing your budget. This vibrant restaurant, adorned with plush velvet and local art, seamlessly blends into the historic downtown district. But the true masterpieces here are found on your plate. El Mercado offers something for everyone: weekend brunch, happy hour, and legendary Taco Tuesdays. Their menu shines with fresh seafood and melt-in-your-mouth pork belly tacos. Craving comfort? Opt for the classic blue corn tortillas filled with Oaxaca cheese. Feeling adventurous? Dive into the tequila-glazed octopus. El Mercado is Michelin-recommended for a reason. It’s an explosion of flavor and affordability that deserves a spot on your restaurant rotation.
Knife Pleat · Costa Mesa
This isn’t your average dinner date! Intimate and elegant, Knife Pleat is a Michelin-starred haven for romance. Chef Tony Esnault brings French classics to life with modern flair. Imagine buttery halibut, perfectly crisp, bathed in a decadent white wine reduction. Here, presentation is precise, and quality reigns supreme. Discover the amazing menu and chic, open-kitchen space perched atop South Coast Plaza. Request a table on the quiet patio and savor the impeccable wines. Each bite celebrates the pure essence of the ingredients. It’s a night to remember.
Todos Santos · Rancho Santa Margarita
Forget your average Mexican cantina. Todos Santos elevates the experience with a vibrant atmosphere and food that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Think steaming flour tortillas embracing perfectly tempura-fried goodness or glistening halibut. This cheerful, open-concept eatery draws inspiration from the Baja Peninsula. Their menu is a mishmash of smoky mezcal cocktails, tempting taco trios, and fresh raw bar delights. This is Mexican cuisine reimagined, perfect for a night filled with memorable bites.
As you can see, Orange County offers a Michelin-approved adventure for every palate! Thinking of buying or selling a home in the OC? Let our local experts at Surterre Properties® guide you through the process. Our team knows the area inside and out. We can help you find the perfect home to complement your love for exceptional food! Visit SurterreProperties.com today to turn your dream home into a reality!
