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A Compendium of OC Restaurants Reviewed in Past Fifi's Best Sections
Here is a directory of restaurants I've reviewed over the years. I hope you find the list a useful guide to dining adventures here in OC. I've certainly had a wonderful time researching it! The second half of the list will appear in the Fifi's Best coming up July 1.
21 OCEANFRONT
2100 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach
(949) 673-2100
Seafood
The charisma and patina of old San Francisco permeate this lovely place overlooking the Pacific. Wonderful seafood and California-style dishes dominate the menu. The platter of cracked crab and French fries is tasteful simplicity.
ACCENTS
4500 MacArthur Blvd., Newport Beach
(949) 476-2001
Creative French
Classic French dishes are sometimes tweaked with the use of international herbs and spices, and sometimes they're allowed traditional simplicity but presented in masterful ways. The architectural charm of the restaurant itself is like having dessert throughout the meal.
AMELIA'S
311 Marine Ave., Balboa Island
(949) 673-658
Italian seafood
While there are a few meat and poultry dishes on the menu of this legendary restaurant, it is the fresh seafood, prepared in the home-style Italian manner, that is the star. The sauces on the pastas deserve their own accolades. Convivial atmosphere on this homey island is a plus.
ANAHEIM WHITE HOUSE
887 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim
(714) 772-1381
Ultra-sophisticated Italian
High-class food as it is prepared in Italy today, some of which has subtle French touches. Best example: lobster ravioli in citrus beurre blanc. Presentations are gorgeous, tastes refined and compelling. The courtly historic home in which it is served adds dimension.
ANTONELLO RISTORANTE
1611 W. Sunflower Drive, Santa Ana
(714) 751-7153
Refined Italian
Beautiful food served with class. From tiny ravioli to succulent roasted meats and delicately dressed pastas, this menu is impressive. The surroundings, reminiscent of a magnificent village scene in Italy, are drop-dead gorgeous.
ARCHES
3334 W. Coast Highway, Newport Beach
(949) 645-7077
Serious Continental
Steaks, shellfish, curry, Italian specialties and classic European and American dishes are legendary. Tableside cooking is an art retained. Others try to replicate the warm, clubby 1940s atmosphere, complete with red leather booths, but fall far short. Our favorite late-night dining spot.
ASIA NOODLE CAFE
4724 Barranca Parkway, Irvine
(949) 654-1801