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Hours
| Friday | 11:30 AM–2 PM, 5:30–8 PM |
| Saturday | 11:30 AM–2 PM, 5:30–8 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM–2 PM, 5:30–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM–2 PM, 5:30–8 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM–2 PM, 5:30–8 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 3333 Bristol St #3001, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Phone: (714) 266-3388
Website: http://knifepleat.com/
Menu Photos
Order and Reservations
Reservations: tripleseat.com
Photo Gallery
Related Web Results
Knife Pleat | French Restaurant | Costa Mesa
Knife Pleat is a contemporary French restaurant by chef Tony Esnault and restaurateur Yassmin Sarmadi, located in the Penthouse of South Coast Plaza.
Knife Pleat – Costa Mesa – a MICHELIN Guide Restaurant
This elegant little operation, set on the third floor of South Coast Plaza amidst fashionable stores, has plenty of charm. With a gleaming open kitchen …
Knife Pleat – South Coast Plaza
SOUTH COAST PLAZA® and the SOUTH COAST PLAZA Logo are registered trademarks of South Coast Plaza. LOCATION. 3333 Bristol Street Costa Mesa, CA, 92626 1.800 …
Reviews
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.
… moreEach 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.
Sten Sun
We came in with high expectations after seeing the Michelin sticker, and they definitely delivered. Every course was beautifully prepared with high-quality ingredients, and the manager’s detailed explanations made the experience even more special.
The steelhead trout from Washington and the Australian wagyu beef steak were excellent, and the chocolate dessert with tonka beans —something I tried for the first time— was a unique and memorable finish. The perfectly timed table service for everyone was also impressive and kept our conversation uninterrupted.
A great spot for both business dinners and family meals—I’d love to come back with my family next time!
… moreThe steelhead trout from Washington and the Australian wagyu beef steak were excellent, and the chocolate dessert with tonka beans —something I tried for the first time— was a unique and memorable finish. The perfectly timed table service for everyone was also impressive and kept our conversation uninterrupted.
A great spot for both business dinners and family meals—I’d love to come back with my family next time!
Rhose
This was my first Michelin-star experience with my boyfriend, and it was unforgettable. The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented, and the setting was absolutely stunning.
The service was exceptional, and the atmosphere felt truly luxurious. I would 100% go back.
… moreThe service was exceptional, and the atmosphere felt truly luxurious. I would 100% go back.
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.
… moreIt’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.
Roy Dekel
I’ve dined at Knife Pleat several times over the past few years, and this review comes from a repeat guest — not someone reacting to price or a single visit. Unfortunately, the experience has declined, and Valentine’s Day was the tipping point.
From the start, the evening felt disorganized. Despite noting our seating preference in advance, we were initially told we’d be seated outside. As the night went on, service felt inattentive and impersonal, with long stretches where no one checked in beyond basic table maintenance.
The most disappointing moment was an interaction involving ownership. When concerns were raised, the response felt dismissive rather than apologetic. There was no real attempt to reset the experience or make us feel valued. In fine dining, mistakes happen — but how a restaurant responds defines it, and here there was no recovery.
What made it more noticeable was the overall lack of awareness throughout the dining room. Tables around us received attention while ours was repeatedly overlooked. It didn’t feel like an off night — it felt like a broader lapse in hospitality.
This isn’t about price. Diners choose restaurants like this because they’re willing to pay for a special experience. But Michelin recognition implies consistency and service that go beyond the food. Based on multiple visits, that consistency no longer seems to be there.
It’s disappointing to say this because Knife Pleat was once a place I recommended. I hope they take this seriously, but right now the gap between reputation and reality is hard to ignore.
… moreFrom the start, the evening felt disorganized. Despite noting our seating preference in advance, we were initially told we’d be seated outside. As the night went on, service felt inattentive and impersonal, with long stretches where no one checked in beyond basic table maintenance.
The most disappointing moment was an interaction involving ownership. When concerns were raised, the response felt dismissive rather than apologetic. There was no real attempt to reset the experience or make us feel valued. In fine dining, mistakes happen — but how a restaurant responds defines it, and here there was no recovery.
What made it more noticeable was the overall lack of awareness throughout the dining room. Tables around us received attention while ours was repeatedly overlooked. It didn’t feel like an off night — it felt like a broader lapse in hospitality.
This isn’t about price. Diners choose restaurants like this because they’re willing to pay for a special experience. But Michelin recognition implies consistency and service that go beyond the food. Based on multiple visits, that consistency no longer seems to be there.
It’s disappointing to say this because Knife Pleat was once a place I recommended. I hope they take this seriously, but right now the gap between reputation and reality is hard to ignore.
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.
… moreAmber Steeves
We came for the afternoon tea on a Saturday. The tea selection was unique with a good variety of black and white teas, they also have a great drink menu with cocktails, wines and a good selection of champagne. Service here is impeccable, our server was absolutely amazing, with great suggestions and perfect timing. Absolutely loved the tiered presentation, not only was our tea service beautiful, it was absolutely delicious. Garnished with the most adorable edible flowers, truly a tea service fit for a queen
… moreTaylor 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.
… moreJustin K
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.
… moreZoe Tamara
This review is exclusively for the service.
WOW. I’ve honestly never experienced such poor customer service, it’s really astonishing to me that this is a Michelin star restaurant.
I actually tried to share my feedback privately but no one responded to my email, which I know is working because “Anna” responded to an event inquiry email.
I came for the afternoon tea, which was a Christmas present to my mom. We had a reservation and were sat outside in the mall. No problem, but clearly someone forgot about us.
We watched several other parties be sat and receive service while no one came to us with water or menus for over 15 minutes. We finally asked to be moved inside.
It was another 10-15 minutes before we had to flag someone down AGAIN to ask to move inside.
We’re now about 35 minutes in when we finally get water, no menus. In fact, the waiter blamed us (suggesting we left the menus outside) when we asked for them. No, we never received them.
The service from this point forward was fine but I can’t help but feel that this was just not a stand out “Michelin star” experience. My mom has a crustacean allergy so couldn’t have the lobster eclair. They replaced it with an extra cucumber sandwich. Fine but not really on the same level.
The tea is served in the aluminum canisters you’d find at an airport hotel breakfast buffet, no individual pots. The champagne by the glass isn’t included and the least expensive option is $37/glass PLUS auto-gratuity of 23%, making two glasses almost $100, on top of the $300+ tea.
Frankly, if you’re going to charge auto-grat – at 23% no less – the service should be warm, friendly, exceptional.
This is just not at all what we experienced. We left feeling like this was an expensive experience that wasn’t commensurate with the level of service one would expect.
On top of everything, we were charged for something we didn’t order.
I normally like to give places the benefit of the doubt that maybe it was an off day. But when I emailed TWICE and didn’t get a response, even just to say “sorry you didn’t enjoy your experience,” it’s a bit poor.
If you have an extra couple hundred dollar to blow and don’t care how you’re treated then fine, but if you’re looking for a special experience then I would avoid this place.
I could have dealt with being mildly disappointed in the food and ambiance if the service was exceptional but it wasn’t and now I just feel screwed out of $400 when I could have taken my mom to any other place in LA and had a better experience.
I would still appreciate someone reaching out to rectify this situation but its clear they’re not interested in doing that.
… moreWOW. I’ve honestly never experienced such poor customer service, it’s really astonishing to me that this is a Michelin star restaurant.
I actually tried to share my feedback privately but no one responded to my email, which I know is working because “Anna” responded to an event inquiry email.
I came for the afternoon tea, which was a Christmas present to my mom. We had a reservation and were sat outside in the mall. No problem, but clearly someone forgot about us.
We watched several other parties be sat and receive service while no one came to us with water or menus for over 15 minutes. We finally asked to be moved inside.
It was another 10-15 minutes before we had to flag someone down AGAIN to ask to move inside.
We’re now about 35 minutes in when we finally get water, no menus. In fact, the waiter blamed us (suggesting we left the menus outside) when we asked for them. No, we never received them.
The service from this point forward was fine but I can’t help but feel that this was just not a stand out “Michelin star” experience. My mom has a crustacean allergy so couldn’t have the lobster eclair. They replaced it with an extra cucumber sandwich. Fine but not really on the same level.
The tea is served in the aluminum canisters you’d find at an airport hotel breakfast buffet, no individual pots. The champagne by the glass isn’t included and the least expensive option is $37/glass PLUS auto-gratuity of 23%, making two glasses almost $100, on top of the $300+ tea.
Frankly, if you’re going to charge auto-grat – at 23% no less – the service should be warm, friendly, exceptional.
This is just not at all what we experienced. We left feeling like this was an expensive experience that wasn’t commensurate with the level of service one would expect.
On top of everything, we were charged for something we didn’t order.
I normally like to give places the benefit of the doubt that maybe it was an off day. But when I emailed TWICE and didn’t get a response, even just to say “sorry you didn’t enjoy your experience,” it’s a bit poor.
If you have an extra couple hundred dollar to blow and don’t care how you’re treated then fine, but if you’re looking for a special experience then I would avoid this place.
I could have dealt with being mildly disappointed in the food and ambiance if the service was exceptional but it wasn’t and now I just feel screwed out of $400 when I could have taken my mom to any other place in LA and had a better experience.
I would still appreciate someone reaching out to rectify this situation but its clear they’re not interested in doing that.