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The talk of the table.

Want to brag a little about your dinner plans? We approve. Costa Mesa’s Michelin-recognized restaurants serve up bites you’ll remember in settings that feel as special as the dishes themselves. Whether you’re in the mood for a tasting menu or a bold, beautiful plate that hits every note, this is where flavor and finesse meet to take your Eatcation® up a level.

Knife Pleat

Knife Pleat brings French elegance to the top floor of South Coast Plaza. Recognized by the Michelin Guide, this culinary gem offers lunch, dinner, and high tea in a setting that feels as chic as the food is remarkable.

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An overhead view of a wooden table set with plates of gourmet dishes reminiscent of Michelin star restaurants in Orange County, featuring fish with sauce, vibrant salads, a dessert, elegant garnishes, and neatly placed cutlery and napkin.

Hana re

Part theater, part ritual, all experience. Chef Atsushi Yokoyama’s intimate omakase offers just 10 coveted seats and a private table, with seafood flown in daily from Japan. It’s sushi, elevated to art.

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A gourmet Japanese dish inspired by Michelin star restaurants in Orange County, featuring a sea snail shell filled with seafood, a clear glass of soup with vegetables, and a delicate arrangement of sashimi and garnish on a white plate.

Vaca

Vaca is a the latest restaurant from executive chef Amar Santana, who has competed as a front-runner on Bravo TV’s award-winning “Top Chef” series.

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A table set with assorted gourmet dishes reminiscent of Michelin star restaurants in Orange County, including grilled steak, sausages, vegetables, salad, and elegant cocktails and wine on rustic plates and wooden boards.

VOX Kitchen & Bar

VOX Kitchen & Bar serves creative Asian-Latin cuisine with bold flavors and a modern twist, including signature dishes like garlic noodles, Chifa-style fried rice and filet saltado.

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An overhead view of various dishes, including noodles, grilled meats, fried appetizers, salad, and a pot of soup with shrimp and vegetables, all arranged on a wooden table—reminiscent of the artful presentations found at Michelin star restaurants in Orange County.

Explore what’s happening around town.

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A person with long hair and a red hat smiles while holding a cheeseburger with toppings, shown up close in a casual indoor setting.

September 20, 2026–September 26, 2026

Orange County Burger Week

A man wearing a white cap and dark jacket shops at an outdoor market, holding leafy greens in one hand and a reusable bag in the other, surrounded by fresh vegetables.

January 10, 2026–December 26, 2026

Farmers Market at SOCO & The OC Mix Every Saturday

A person in dark clothing holds a rectangular white plate with several small appetizers made of crispy potato chips, garnished with chopped chives.

October 2, 2026–October 4, 2026

Relish: A Food, Wine and Spirits Experience

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