From Appetizer to Dessert — Zero Misses!

📍 Populaire, South Coast Plaza First in my Irvine-area restaurant series! This French spot is a regular for me—I go every week or two, and I’ve pretty much tried the whole menu 😆. Service is great (depends on your server, but mine have always been excellent). Prices are on the higher side, but it’s rarely crowded—almost no wait needed. Here are some of my favorites: 🦆 Duck Breast – Super tender, melts in your mouth. The sauce is a perfect sweet-savory balance. This is my go-to main dish here. 🍅 Ratatouille + Cheese & Egg on Toast – Yes, that ratatouille (like the movie), but with a traditional French touch. They add melted cheese 🫕 and a soft egg 🍳, served with toasted bread. I usually have leftovers—perfect for breakfast the next day! 🥩 10 oz. Prime Chateau Steak – Delicious steak with a savory sauce, generous portion (I couldn’t finish mine). 🧅 French Onion Soup – My must-order every visit! Rich, cheesy 🫕, with bread soaked in the broth. Salt level is perfect for me, though my parents found it a bit salty. 💡 They sometimes offer a chef’s prefix tasting menu—some dishes are amazing, others depend on your taste. That’s it for this week’s share! If you liked this, follow for weekly restaurant recommendations 🍽️. #RestaurantRecommendations #Foodie #HiddenGemEats #California #SoCal