Best French Restaurants in Irvine

Came for Valentine’s Day and was half expecting the possibility of subpar service as is usually the case with many restaurants on Valentine’s Day. But my worries about service were quickly put to rest, as we had a wonderful time dining at little sister. The service was great! I wish I could remember our waiters name cuz he was on top of everything. Orders were taken promptly, but not pushy by any means. They were attentive with drinks, water glasses and clearing of plates. Food was tasty and delivered hot in a timely fashion. I enjoyed the complimentary cold cucumber bites and chocolate at the start and end of our meal respectively. We ordered the pork/shrimp spring rolls, papaya salad, shaky shaky beef, carmelized prawns and garlic noodles. I enjoyed all the dishes, except for maybe the beef. I didn’t love the sauce, as it was reminiscent of a thick soy sauce with not much else going on flavor wise. But my husband enjoyed it, so different strokes for different folks. In any case, next time I want to try the lemongrass beef instead. Anyways, overall I enjoyed my dining experience there, as did my husband. It is a bit on the pricier side for Vietnamese/southeast Asian food. But I guess you’re also paying for the quality of the ambience and service, which may not be as nice at a more authentic hole in the wall type of place.

Over-delivered my expectations. Every course was delicious and honestly one of the best steaks I’ve had. GM checked in personally with us on a busy night, another good sign of a well-run place.

It was a rainy night. We were met at the door by several members of staff, who handled everyone's coats and hats efficiently. This staff is excellent on every visit, and tonight was no exception. Do you avoid dining out on Valentine's day or near the 14th? Are the restuarants generally overburdened? Forget about that and dine at the Hobbit. Their routine for Valentine's day, while offering a slightly different menu, remains the same. They are not overwhelmed, because they only handle as many people as will attend one seating. The experience is preceded by a cocktail hour - then to table at 7 p.m. An amuse bouche of "three perfect bites", which are accompanied by a complimentary glass of champagne. The opening this time was a Hamachi crudo, that was plated perfectly, and delivered a wonderful amalgam of green apple, cucumber, tangerine and a tarragon oil opening. The second course, a crepe a la duck confit, worried my partner who does not favor duck. She loved the crepe and the duck confit! Very smooth and subtle. My filet with a bone marrow bordelaise was perfect, rare, as I love good beef. We accompanied our meal with an excellent 2005 Bordeau from Pauillac purchased from the well stocked wine cellar. The service was impeccable, and the entire serving staff assisted at one time or another to insure prompt service without hovering. I have been here many times, and you cannot go wrong dining at the Hobbit on any occasion.

We were celebrating our 48th anniversary and everyone from the host to the bus boy to our server and the manager greeted us and wished us a Happy Anniversary. Even some of the other guests did as well. Our server, Dane, made our special outing a wonderful experience. He was very engaging and a lot of fun. The food was amazing to eat and perfect to look at. We have a fantastic time and we wish to thank Marche Moderne and their wonderful staff for making it so.

Had the most amazing experience for our Sweet 16, Sharron was amazing with her caring for all the girls! Merci Beaucoup!