Fennel Kitchen & Bar

Staffing seemed to be an issue as our waiter seemed to be taking care of half the restaurant. Could've been a great meal. Might or might not give it another chance. It's definitely loud in there

We were there on a Friday night which happened to be Halloween, so probably not the usual crowd or ambiance. The staff was super friendly and helpful. However the food really didn't have much flavor. The hummus, their signature appetizer, and the tabbouleh had no garlic taste at all! The steak bowl was delicious and cooked perfectly. Very pricey for two people - nearly $200 for two for apps, two mains and a glass of wine.

Very consistent delicious food. All the food we have ordered has been great. I love the hummus trio and pita. I always order the salmon bowl.

The Mediterranean menu at Fennel is simply a cut above the rest! We especially like their pesto hummus with pita wedges as an appetizer... MMMMmmm, delicious! And our kabob platters are always flavorful, moist, and tender. Our OpentTable reservation guarantees immediate seating, and our server was cheerful and attentive. Thank you Fennel for another wonderful dining experience!

Looking for a great Mediterranean meal this is a good place for it. I stopped by Fennel kitchen for lunch just on a whim and I did not regret it. They have some really great entrées. The chicken kabobs were amazing and the salmon bowl was delicious and the service was awesome(Quick and friendly). I will have to visit again when I’m back in the area. If you’re visiting Aliso Viejo or the surrounding cities give them a try. You won’t regret it.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

We had been wanting to try Fennel for a few weeks and this was our opportunity. Service was good and what you would expect from an upper scale OC restaurant. We had to send back the lamb chops- we ordered rare and they came well done. The replacement was quick and quite tasty. The barley risotto however was flavorless paste. OTOH, the chicken kabob plate and the beet salad were excellent. Last but not least, we were originally seated inside but asked to be moved to the patio. The thumping base of the background music was a little too much.

Loved this dinner with my work colleagues. Chuche(not sure of the spelling) was the most friendly and energetic server I've ever experienced. Truly made the dinner memorable. The Salmon bowl was epic. The Cucumber cocktail was great.

I’m not sure why the food quality has declined so much. I used to come here often and enjoy different dishes, but recently the quality has dropped significantly. For example, the koobideh used to taste great and was always served hot with well-cooked rice. Now, the rice is cold and undercooked, and the koobideh lacks flavor and quality. I’m not sure what has changed—maybe new ownership?

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 1

Service: 2

Really liked this place. Good was great. Cocktail was delicious but not worth it. Service was decent. Would go back.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

Always enjoy eating here! Brought a new friend, hopefully she will become a regular too! The food is so delicious! Today we had th spicy kale and shrimp bowl and the salmon bowl which were very good! We also shared the trio appetizer with fennel humus, yogurt and eggplant dips. The eggplant dip is the best I have ever tasted and the fennel humus is creamy with an even flavor. The staff is always attentive and great on the drink refils! Thanks as always!!!

It was my worst kebab experience ever. We waited more than 20 minutes for a drink and 40 minutes for a burnt chicken kebab. I like it when it’s well done, but this was inedible some parts were like stone. I asked them to change it, and after another 15 minutes they brought the same food, but this time they replaced a burnt chicken piece with burnt onions and tomatoes. I don’t want to argue with people, but you should definitely fix the problem in the kitchen.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 1

Service: 2

The food is quite good and beautifully presented. It is more casual bistro with interesting choices that aren't run of the mill. The service was friendly and welcoming. I had an Old Fashioned to drink and it was delicious, an opinion shared by my friend who also ordered one. I enjoyed my salmon bowl and our friends loved the lame sandwiches. I've had the medium-chop salad before and it's wonderful. Just a little slow between ordering and receiving our meal last night. And that was even though we were happy to be chatting and relaxing. We all noticed.

Great place for dining. Vibe is good and prices are reasonable.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

I really liked Fennel! It was my first time there and the service was wonderful.Really enjoyed the food! I would recommend it! My dessert was enjoyable and I have been there 4 times in August and celebrated a birthday on Labor Day. Also, the children's menu is delicious!Claudia one of the waiters was a great hostess! Lots of great memories for my family and friends!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Wow, a hidden gem!!! I was looking for a spot to enjoy a drink and appetizer and ended up finding an Amazing Restaurant.

I was pleasantly surpriced by the ambiance, the fantastic customer service and the quality of the food.

Jacob made me feel like I was sharing the moment with family, warm, welcoming and attentive.

You can tell this restaurant is managed with love for their craft and their customers.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5