Knife Pleat - Costa Mesa

Knife Pleat continues to reach for new heights with every meal. The new weeknight tasting menu is a wonderful experience with several choices within each of the... read more Knife Pleat continues to reach for new heights with every meal. The new weeknight tasting menu is a wonderful experience with several choices within each of the three courses. A new surprise this visit was the addition of an amuse bouche a smoked beet tartare served under glass on a bed of colorful beet dust. It was an impressive start to the meal and really set the tone for things to come. Chef Tony Esnault is a master of bringing out the best flavors in vegetables. A black and white salad with perfectly squared lettuce greens and black truffles was presented with apple, walnut and Parmesan dressed with a light and flavorful vinaigrette. The broccolini soup was prepared tableside over a garnish of beautifully cut baby turnip, broccoli flower and lemon curry. The wine list is carefully curated to offer a variety of compelling pairings with the cuisine, and the list of craft cocktails is equally impressive. Service, as always, is friendly and professional. Although Knife Pleat recently received the coveted Michelin Star, it is obvious they are not resting on their laurels, but continuing to evolve and push themselves to the next level. I look forward to returning as soon as possible.

Fantastic! The service is wonderful and friendly, and the food is simply beautiful. read more Fantastic! The service is wonderful and friendly, and the food is simply beautiful.

We recently tried the Nowruz tasting menu dinner at this restaurant. We had heard about it for years from the LA Times and decided to celebrate Persian New Year... read more We recently tried the Nowruz tasting menu dinner at this restaurant. We had heard about it for years from the LA Times and decided to celebrate Persian New Year at this establishment where the owners are based in LA. In one word: spectacular! The meal started with a dramatic presentation of Caviar and Accompaniments (served with champagne) and ended with the delicious Mignardise (including a saffron mini-macaron). It was truly an incredible culinary experience. Orange County is lucky to have a kitchen of this high caliber, and it's worth traveling from anywhere to dine here.

Our first visit to Knife Pleat was absolutely delightful. read more Our first visit to Knife Pleat was absolutely delightful.

Took a friend for a late Friday lunch and belated birthday and to try the Lunar New Year specials. Place was buzzing--one of the best spots in OC for elevated d... read more Took a friend for a late Friday lunch and belated birthday and to try the Lunar New Year specials. Place was buzzing--one of the best spots in OC for elevated dining and people watching. Everything was truly perfection. The soft tofu LNY appetizer was a work of art and delicious with the delicate broth poured over. Same with the fish stew entree. The menu du jour entree was amazing--chicken was perfectly cooked, flavorful and beautifully plated. Generous portions--something you don't always see in French restaurants. The Lunar New Year dessert was beautiful and light--looked like a red gift box! Talented pastry chef. Superb service. Great to see the owners--Yassmin and chef Tony--on the floor checking with guests. All the management team is personable. Knife Pleat is an experience; if you want to impress someone, this is the place!