Fine Dining
Culinary artistry meets renowned elegance for an unforgettable experience at any of our fine dining restaurants. From a Top Chef alum to a Michelin-starred chef, you can experience the highest quality dining at any of these destinations.
Please contact the individual restaurants for days and hours of operation.
Knife Pleat
Knife Pleat, the contemporary French restaurant located in South Coast Plaza’s Penthouse, is Michelin-starred chef Tony Esnault’s modern interpretation of classic French cuisine. Restaurateur and partner Yassmin Sarmadi oversees the front of the house with gracious hospitality. Named for a fashion design technique, Knife Pleat is a nod to the presence of cookery amidst luxury apparel.
The approachable restaurant has been lauded for its refined, subtle décor. A courtyard patio is the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.
Chef’s insistence on sustainable, pasture-raised and organic is reflected in his focus on vegetables and cooking with the seasons. Pastry chef Germain Biotteau’s desserts have received high praise from restaurant critics. Caviar service, chic cocktails and a wine list spotlighting French imports round out the restaurant’s luxurious amenities.
“Knife Pleat is worth the trek from almost anywhere in Southern California.”
Patricia Escárcega, Los Angeles Times
$$$ Dinner/Outdoor Seating/Catering
714.266.3388
Level 3, The Penthouse
The Capital Grille
An experience of comfortable elegance awaits guests of The Capital Grille. The refined design includes mahogany paneling, art deco chandeliers, and commissioned portraits of Orange County notables.
The Capital Grille is renowned for dry-aged steaks. The process is done on premise for a minimum of 18 days, resulting in incomparable flavor and texture. Next, in-house butchers hand-carve the beef to exacting standards, which are cooked to guests’ specifications. Fresh seafood, a notable wine list and gracious service make for the ultimate indulgence in fine dining.
“The kitchen keeps getting better with age. The dry-aged, bone-in New York strip is as good as it gets.”
Brad A. Johnson, Orange County Register
$$$ Lunch/Dinner/Outdoor Seating/Catering
714.432.1140
South Coast Plaza: Level 2, Bloomingdale’s Wing
Vaca
Vaca’s critically acclaimed menu is inspired by Top Chef alum Amar Santana’s travels to Spain. His creative interpretation of the country’s diverse cuisine yields whimsical tapas, robust paellas and wood-grilled, natural Angus steaks, served family-style. An impressive offering of imported Spanish cured meats and cheeses is the perfect starter.
The food is complemented by an equally innovative cocktail menu featuring the signature Vaca Tonic as well as a thoughtfully curated list of Spanish wines and sherries.
Located across Bristol St. from South Coast Plaza and adjacent to Segerstrom Center for the Arts and South Coast Repertory, Vaca attracts an international clientele of sophisticated diners, shoppers and theater-goers. The restaurant offers both intimate indoor dining and a picturesque patio overlooking the greenery of Town Park.
“You won’t find better tapas within a two-day drive. And the paellas are superb.”
Brad A. Johnson, Orange County Register
$$$ Lunch/Dinner/Outdoor Seating/Catering
714.463.6060
Park Tower: Center Park Drive
Water Grill
Located directly across from South Coast Plaza and steps from Segerstrom Center for the Arts, the family-owned and operated Water Grill is a mecca for seafood lovers. The stunning, contemporary design of the dining rooms and spacious lounge blends indoor and outdoor space seamlessly. It is one of OC’s most sought-after reservations.
Water Grill is respected for the superior quality and freshness of its seafood, the result of an exclusive in-house distribution center. This ensures the best of the season, sustainable and locally sourced, all presented on a menu that changes daily.
Imaginative cocktails and an impressive wine cellar are matched by Water Grill’s warm service, creating a memorable experience that brings guests back time and again.
“These are the best lobsters and crabs money can buy. If you like oysters, Water Grill offers a better selection than anywhere else.”
Brad A. Johnson, Orange County Register
$$$ Lunch/Dinner/Children’s Menu/Catering
949.208.7060
3300 Bristol Street at Anton Boulevard
