Knife Pleat is a one star Michelin restaurant tucked away at the third floor in SCP. First and foremost, the staff are amazing. They are highly attentive and knowledgeable in the dishes that are presented in the tasting menu. The food is exceptional. I think the price is justified given the quality and craftsmanship of the dishes. I would recommend The Preview over the more premium tasting options. The main difference is that there will be no caviar service. Honestly, caviar is pretty overrated so don’t even bother. In addition, simply stick to the original menu. Compared to other high end restaurants I’ve been to, this restaurant has many add ons. The Preview is more than enough food and you will leave full. I also liked that they give a sample of their rosemary salt on your way out. It’s a finishing salt (similar to flaky salt), which is a great addition when I grill steaks at home.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
동구리
Food is good but not artistic as I expected. Probably I over expected because of Michelin star. I’d give 5 stars if it were not Michelin star restaurant. Overall good
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Tejal Brahmbhatt
From the moment we walked through the door, it was clear why this restaurant has earned its Michelin star. The ambiance struck the perfect balance between elegant and welcoming, soft lighting, tasteful décor, and attentive staff who made us feel like valued guests without ever being intrusive.
Each course of the tasting menu was a work of art. The flavors were layered and thoughtful, with ingredients sourced at peak freshness. The wine pairing elevated the meal even further; every selection complemented its dish beautifully.
What stood out most, beyond the exceptional food, was the seamless service. Our server was knowledgeable and passionate, explaining each course with warmth and precision. The pacing of the meal was flawless, we never felt rushed, yet we were never waiting.
The experience was not just dinner; it was a culinary journey. It’s rare to find a place where artistry, hospitality, and flavor come together so effortlessly. I left feeling inspired, and already planning my next visit.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable fine dining experience. Michelin-worthy in every way.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
g
Afternoon tea experience was impeccable. The sandwiches could have been more unique. Loved all the other bites. Especially loved the flexibility of trying all different teas.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Joe Soliman
We came for the Saturday Afternoon Tea. The food and the service were exceptional. It's obvious how they got their Michelin star. The Staff were warm and friendly and really took wonderful care of us. Thank you, Knife Pleat team for a memorable time!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
M A
Knife Pleat is, by far, Orange County’s finest restaurant. Those in the know recognize that Chef Esnault, Yassmin Sarmadi, and their exceptional team deliver Michelin-level artistry—easily in the two- to three-star range—right here in South Coast Plaza. The cuisine is always evolving and innovative. Celeste, the GM, makes every guest feel welcome and is wonderfully accommodating for special occasions. Adrian crafts excellent cocktails, and Victor, the sommelier, excels at thoughtful pairings and recommendations. The entire staff works together with remarkable precision to execute a level of coordinated service that many Michelin-rated restaurants have abandoned due to its complexity and the rigorous training it requires.
It’s clear we dine here often, but it’s always a treat that elevates the entire week.
With the white truffle menu coming up soon, we can’t wait to return.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ashley Wei
It's one of the few restaurants I like
Pamela Buder
⭐☆☆☆☆ I was invited to celebrate my birthday at this so-called “one-star Michelin” restaurant ... and after the experience, I can confidently say the only star it deserves is for existing. The service was as uninspired as the menu, the food was forgettable (and thankfully so), and the portions were so microscopic I needed a magnifying glass to locate my entrée. The only thing served generously was the bill..absolutely stellar in size! If pretentious minimalism and disappointment are your thing, this is your spot. Otherwise, save yourself the hunger.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 1
Service: 2
Monica Heft
Did the tasting menu last night and it did not disappoint! They even had caviar stuffed olives for my dirty martini 🍸
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
王浩禾
While the dishes in the set menu lacked overall harmony (reminiscent of the cacophony of going to a buffet and taking whatever strikes your fancy), the execution of each individual celebration of fresh Californian ingredients was outstanding. Tastes were layered, the freshness of the vegetables was palpable and the presentation was aesthetic. Surprisingly the chewy wagyu was the only weak point. Service was responsive but the mumbled explanations of the food was sometimes simplistic and didn't do the craftsmanship justice.
A delightful lunch. The only negative is it's only available on Tuesdays.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Taylor Wheeler
I had the most amazing experience at Knife Pleat. My mouth waters thinking about how delicious the food was. The staff was wonderful. So personable and pleasant. Chef Tony and Yasmin are so lovely. Beautiful restaurant. I cant wait to go back. My date and I did the lunch tasting menu. I highly recommend it. I agree with descriptions I have read, their concept is an approachable french cuisine. You dont have to be a big foodie to enjoy it but incase you are, you'll definitely be able to appreciate the art and culinary technique. I didnt take too many pictures but here is what I did grab a snap of :) hope youre able to enjoy yourself sometime.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jordan McIntosh
Really enjoyed the afternoon tea. Our server, Sid, went above and beyond by bringing us back to the kitchen to explain how they operate. Very cool experience
Tommy Justice
My wife and I stopped there today for lunch. The experience was absolutely amazing. From the time we walked in the door until the time we left, they treated us like the only people in the restaurant. The food was incredible, the service was unparalleled, everything was perfect. We will be returning again soon.
Bill Woods
This place sucks. We four, all total, had 8 short-pour glasses of wine. For four people, with a fixed six-course Persian dinner, the bill was nearly $1,900. Which included what they had automatically added as their tip. They call it a service charge. What a rip! Anyone who goes to this place is a SUCKER!
Knife Pleat is a one star Michelin restaurant tucked away at the third floor in SCP. First and foremost, the staff are amazing. They are highly attentive and knowledgeable in the dishes that are presented in the tasting menu. The food is exceptional. I think the price is justified given the quality and craftsmanship of the dishes. I would recommend The Preview over the more premium tasting options. The main difference is that there will be no caviar service. Honestly, caviar is pretty overrated so don’t even bother. In addition, simply stick to the original menu. Compared to other high end restaurants I’ve been to, this restaurant has many add ons. The Preview is more than enough food and you will leave full. I also liked that they give a sample of their rosemary salt on your way out. It’s a finishing salt (similar to flaky salt), which is a great addition when I grill steaks at home.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Food is good but not artistic as I expected. Probably I over expected because of Michelin star. I’d give 5 stars if it were not Michelin star restaurant. Overall good
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
From the moment we walked through the door, it was clear why this restaurant has earned its Michelin star. The ambiance struck the perfect balance between elegant and welcoming, soft lighting, tasteful décor, and attentive staff who made us feel like valued guests without ever being intrusive.
Each course of the tasting menu was a work of art. The flavors were layered and thoughtful, with ingredients sourced at peak freshness. The wine pairing elevated the meal even further; every selection complemented its dish beautifully.
What stood out most, beyond the exceptional food, was the seamless service. Our server was knowledgeable and passionate, explaining each course with warmth and precision. The pacing of the meal was flawless, we never felt rushed, yet we were never waiting.
The experience was not just dinner; it was a culinary journey. It’s rare to find a place where artistry, hospitality, and flavor come together so effortlessly. I left feeling inspired, and already planning my next visit.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable fine dining experience. Michelin-worthy in every way.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Afternoon tea experience was impeccable. The sandwiches could have been more unique. Loved all the other bites. Especially loved the flexibility of trying all different teas.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We came for the Saturday Afternoon Tea. The food and the service were exceptional. It's obvious how they got their Michelin star. The Staff were warm and friendly and really took wonderful care of us. Thank you, Knife Pleat team for a memorable time!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Knife Pleat is, by far, Orange County’s finest restaurant. Those in the know recognize that Chef Esnault, Yassmin Sarmadi, and their exceptional team deliver Michelin-level artistry—easily in the two- to three-star range—right here in South Coast Plaza. The cuisine is always evolving and innovative. Celeste, the GM, makes every guest feel welcome and is wonderfully accommodating for special occasions. Adrian crafts excellent cocktails, and Victor, the sommelier, excels at thoughtful pairings and recommendations. The entire staff works together with remarkable precision to execute a level of coordinated service that many Michelin-rated restaurants have abandoned due to its complexity and the rigorous training it requires.
It’s clear we dine here often, but it’s always a treat that elevates the entire week.
With the white truffle menu coming up soon, we can’t wait to return.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
It's one of the few restaurants I like
⭐☆☆☆☆
I was invited to celebrate my birthday at this so-called “one-star Michelin” restaurant ... and after the experience, I can confidently say the only star it deserves is for existing. The service was as uninspired as the menu, the food was forgettable (and thankfully so), and the portions were so microscopic I needed a magnifying glass to locate my entrée. The only thing served generously was the bill..absolutely stellar in size!
If pretentious minimalism and disappointment are your thing, this is your spot. Otherwise, save yourself the hunger.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 1
Service: 2
Did the tasting menu last night and it did not disappoint! They even had caviar stuffed olives for my dirty martini 🍸
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
While the dishes in the set menu lacked overall harmony (reminiscent of the cacophony of going to a buffet and taking whatever strikes your fancy), the execution of each individual celebration of fresh Californian ingredients was outstanding. Tastes were layered, the freshness of the vegetables was palpable and the presentation was aesthetic. Surprisingly the chewy wagyu was the only weak point. Service was responsive but the mumbled explanations of the food was sometimes simplistic and didn't do the craftsmanship justice.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Restaurantji Recommends
A delightful lunch. The only negative is it's only available on Tuesdays.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I had the most amazing experience at Knife Pleat. My mouth waters thinking about how delicious the food was. The staff was wonderful. So personable and pleasant. Chef Tony and Yasmin are so lovely. Beautiful restaurant. I cant wait to go back. My date and I did the lunch tasting menu. I highly recommend it. I agree with descriptions I have read, their concept is an approachable french cuisine. You dont have to be a big foodie to enjoy it but incase you are, you'll definitely be able to appreciate the art and culinary technique. I didnt take too many pictures but here is what I did grab a snap of :) hope youre able to enjoy yourself sometime.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Really enjoyed the afternoon tea. Our server, Sid, went above and beyond by bringing us back to the kitchen to explain how they operate. Very cool experience
My wife and I stopped there today for lunch. The experience was absolutely amazing. From the time we walked in the door until the time we left, they treated us like the only people in the restaurant. The food was incredible, the service was unparalleled, everything was perfect. We will be returning again soon.
This place sucks. We four, all total, had 8 short-pour glasses of wine. For four people, with a fixed six-course Persian dinner, the bill was nearly $1,900. Which included what they had automatically added as their tip. They call it a service charge. What a rip! Anyone who goes to this place is a SUCKER!
Food: 1
Service: 3
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