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Best French Restaurants in Mission Viejo / Rancho Santa Margarita

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14 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Little Sister - Irvine restaurant
1. Little Sister - Irvine
4.3
Awesome(1435)
$$$$
• French • Irvine
Booked 36 times today
Little Sister - Irvine is a culinary gem that masterfully celebrates Southeast Asian cuisine, offering diners an authentic taste of the region with a modern twist. Located in the vibrant Irvine Spectrum, this restaurant impresses with its "beautiful presentation" and creative dishes that blend Southeast Asian spices with European culinary techniques. Guests rave about the Shaky Beef, Lemongrass Pork Chop, and addictive Papaya Salad, often calling it "the best darn Viet restaurant in Orange County." The atmosphere is lively yet elegant, making it perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. A visit to Little Sister promises a memorable and flavorful journey through Southeast Asia.
A photo of Marché Moderne restaurant
2. Marché Moderne
4.9
Exceptional(5841)
$$$$
• French • Newport Beach
Booked 38 times today
Marché Moderne, one of Southern California’s most celebrated French restaurants from chef-owners Florent and Amelia Marneau, has now opened the doors to its new home at Crystal Cove Shopping Center.Marché Moderne’s truly exceptional cuisine marries classic French cooking techniques with modern sensibilities, along with world-class service and hospitality for an unparalled dining experience.Guests can now enjoy an oceanfront setting, with a brand new restaurant design featuring a stunning exhibition kitchen, an outdoor patio and an expanded bar.
A photo of Bon Appetit restaurant
3. Bon Appetit
4.7
Exceptional(76)
$$$$
• French • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 16 times today
Bon Appetit is more than a restaurant — it’s a flavorful experience rooted in family, hospitality, and community in the heart of Dana Point. As a family-owned establishment with generations of experience, including Citrus City Grille and Pandor Bakery, we’ve built our reputation on quality, consistency, and connection.With Bon Appetit, we’ve brought that legacy to life with a fresh coastal vibe and a menu designed to delight. Meaning “enjoy your meal” in French, our name reflects our mission: creating moments worth savoring. Inspired by European tradition with a modern twist, we offer comfort food with a coastal California soul — vibrant salads, inventive small plates, hearty entrées, indulgent desserts, and a full bar featuring craft cocktails, local wines, and curated brews.At Bon Appetit, every meal is a celebration of flavor, family, and togetherness. From our family to yours, welcome.
A photo of Brussels Bistro - Laguna Beach restaurant
4. Brussels Bistro - Laguna Beach
4.7
Exceptional(1425)
$$$$
• French • Laguna Beach
Booked 2 times today
Brussels Bistro in Laguna Beach is a hidden gem that masterfully blends Belgian cuisine with an authentic French flair. Celebrated for its delightful Beef Bourguignon and Steamed Mussels, Executive Chef Thomas Crijns crafts dishes that transport diners straight to Europe. Guests rave about the "phenomenal Belgium-French cuisine," highlighting the exquisite escargot and the irresistible Belgian fries. With a vibrant selection of Belgian beers, the culinary experience is both comprehensive and unique. The inviting atmosphere, both on the terrace and in the chic underground setting, makes Brussels Bistro a standout choice for those seeking a genuine taste of French-inspired dining.
A photo of L'Hirondelle French Cuisine restaurant
5. L'Hirondelle French Cuisine
4.7
Exceptional(67)
$$$$
• French • San Juan Capistrano
Booked 4 times today
Nestled in the charming town of San Juan Capistrano for over 40 years, just steps from the historic Mission and Basilica, our family-run restaurant offers a warm, European chalet-inspired escape. Inside, cozy wood beams, a roaring fireplace, and old-world charm set the tone for an intimate dining experience. Outside, our rustic garden patio overlooks the Mission’s iconic bell tower, where you can hear the Mission bells ring as you sip wine and savor your meal by the garden fountain.Our menu celebrates classic French cuisine—think rich Beef Bourguignon, Duck, Escargots, Frog Legs, and tender Lamb. For lunch, we offer elegant salads, baguette sandwiches, and other classics. Sundays bring a beloved brunch featuring timeless favorites like Eggs Benedict.We proudly serve an extensive selection of Belgian beers and a thoughtfully curated wine list, perfect for pairing in our relaxed enjoyment.Owned and operated by our family—we specialize in curating a warm and inviting experience.
A photo of Zinqué - Newport restaurant
6. Zinqué - Newport
4.6
Exceptional(1229)
$$$$
• French • Newport Beach
Booked 43 times today
Zinqué - Newport is a treasure trove for aficionados of authentic Tapas and Small Plates cuisine in the heart of Newport Beach. This charming eatery, inspired by the zinc countertop bars and cafés of Paris, is celebrated for its exquisite small plates that captivate with both flavor and presentation. Diners rave about the "tuna tartare tartine with avocado" which is described as "sooo delicious!" and the "blistered green beans" which are a must-try. The atmosphere is as delightful as the food, offering breathtaking views of the marina, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a sophisticated dining experience.
A photo of C'est La Vie Restaurant and Bakery restaurant
7. C'est La Vie Restaurant and Bakery
3.9
Excellent(229)
$$$$
• French • Laguna Beach
Booked 5 times today
Established in 1982C'est la Vie Restaurant and Bakeryoffers patrons a truly unique dining experience Centrally located on Pacific Coast Highway in the heart of Laguna Beach, our California French Cuisine is just feets from the Pacific Ocean . Locals and visitors alike are drawn to the ambiance and relaxed atmosphere of our indoor bistro and are delighted to discover the best outdoor patio dining in Orange County. To complete the evening, try one of our house-made desserts with a glass of 10-year-old tawny port. C'est La Vie invites you to dine with us for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends or family!Merci et Bon AppetitAntonio Mecheri (Restaurateur)
A photo of Brussels Bistro - San Clemente restaurant
8. Brussels Bistro - San Clemente
4.6
Exceptional(840)
$$$$
• French • San Clemente
Booked 4 times today
Brussels Bistro in San Clemente offers an exceptional French culinary experience, delighting patrons with authentic flavors and outstanding service. With a menu that boasts exquisite dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon and mouth-watering mussels, diners frequently praise the restaurant for its "fantastic food" and "excellent service." The ambiance evokes a charming European bistro, creating the perfect backdrop for savoring the best of French and Belgian cuisine. Guests rave about the "authentic and delicious" offerings, with many noting that the fries are "the best ever." This beloved establishment is a must-visit for anyone seeking true French culinary mastery in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
A photo of The Cellar - Fullerton CA restaurant
9. The Cellar - Fullerton CA
4.7
Exceptional(3707)
$$$$
• French • Fullerton
Booked 33 times today
The Cellar in Fullerton, CA, is a culinary gem that seamlessly blends Contemporary French and American cuisines with unmatched elegance and flair. Nestled in an enchanting setting reminiscent of a romantic rendezvous, diners are privy to a “cozy fancy dinner spot” where the ambiance is as captivating as the food. The restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its “amazing food” and “wonderful drinks,” with dishes that are both innovative and steeped in classic French tradition. Guests rave about the “service that almost outshines the food,” ensuring every visit is a memorable experience. Discover why The Cellar is a standout for fine dining enthusiasts!
A photo of The Wild Artichoke restaurant
10. The Wild Artichoke
4.8
Exceptional(156)
$$$$
• French • Placentia / Yorba Linda
Booked 13 times today
DiRōNA Awarded Dining Experience.The Wild Artichoke is a chef-driven modern French restaurant in Yorba Linda, shaped by Japanese precision and subtle Asian-American influence. Created and personally overseen by Chef Andrew Joo, the restaurant offers refined seasonal cuisine focused on seafood, craftsmanship, and intimate hospitality.With limited seating and a boutique dining room atmosphere, The Wild Artichoke has become a destination for date nights, celebrations, and guests seeking a more personal and elevated dining experience in Orange County.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MaryGold
    Orange County •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We love Bon Appetit! The food is excellent and the service is great. The atmosphere is really nice and friendly and up beat. It is one of our favorite Sunday breakfast choices. Were there 2 to 3 times a month. Definitely a good choice! .
    More info
    Bon Appetit$$$$• French• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.7
  • Wendy
    Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great lunch spot in down town SJC. Had another great experience at this lovely restaurant.
    More info
    L'Hirondelle French Cuisine$$$$• French• San Juan Capistrano
    •
    4.7
  • KellyGold
    Los Angeles •22 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Amazing as always. From the staff, food and ambiance, there is nowhere better in Orange County.
    More info
    Marché Moderne$$$$• French• Newport Beach
    •
    4.9
  • TinaGold
    Orange County •53 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on 31 May 2026
    The Vietnamese Crepe was delicious and I would definitely order again. The both of chicken pho was rather tasteless and the temperature was only lukewarm when it reached out table which was not desirable. For the cost, I was a bit disappointed with the pho which is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine and should be done well.
    More info
    Little Sister - Irvine$$$$• Vietnamese• Irvine
    •
    4.3
  • Hung
    New York City •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 26 May 2026
    My family and I had such a great experience here. We had originally made reservations at their other location, but due to renovations we were relocated to this location. The staff made the transition incredibly smooth and we were accommodated from the start. We were here for my kids' college graduation and the staff all made sure this occasion was special. Cody was very attentive and a thrill. I believe it was the owner, but she was so kind and made this experience amazing! Would definitely recommend this place and would love to go back next time we are here.
    More info
    Brussels Bistro - Laguna Beach$$$$• Belgian• Laguna Beach
    •
    4.7

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