High-Value French Dining｜Marché Moderne 🇫🇷

A review three years late— I first ate here at my graduation three years ago, and the steak left such a strong impression that I wanted to revisit before my recent trip. But I couldn’t remember the name! 😅 I ended up forgetting about it and picked a new spot from a list—only to realize when I arrived that it was the same place! Felt like destiny—like I’d fall in love with it all over again, no matter what. 💫 Back to the food: This place is not only great value but truly delicious, with thoughtful, skillful touches in every dish. Starter 1 – A Stunning Entrance Raw scallop on top, dried fruit (like dates) and nuts below, with a mayo-like sauce in between. The scallop was incredibly tender—almost melting—and paired with crunchy fruit and nuts created a wonderful texture contrast. Flavors came from the sauce, dried fruit, and balsamic drizzle on the plate—mildly tangy, aromatic, and delicious. 🍤✨ Starter 2 – A Bit Overshadowed Very fine duck liver pâté with black truffle and a fruit (plum?) jam. Served with sweet-and-sour onions and bread. The jam and onions are meant to cut richness, but the pâté wasn’t heavy to begin with—so their strong flavors overpowered the liver and truffle. Eating the pâté alone with truffle was much better! 🦆🍞 Main 1 – A Rock-Solid Signature I had to order the filet again—it won me over three years ago. Was worried it wouldn’t live up to memory, but no need! Just looking at it showed the skill—perfect sear and pink interior. Though the sides changed (I preferred the older version), it was still incredible. 🥩🔥 Main 2 – A Classic, Well-Executed Duck confit—solid and traditional, nothing groundbreaking. A bit salty, but the plum and apple slices balanced it nicely. 🦆🍎 Didn’t photograph dessert or drinks, but let’s be real—I’ve never had a bad dessert at a French restaurant! 🍮 Final bill for two: 2 drinks + 2 starters + 2 mains + 1 dessert = $220 (pre-tax & tip) High quality at a great price—hard to imagine getting the same level in Seattle or New York without paying much more! 💸 Have you been to Marché Moderne? What’s your favorite French spot in OC or LA? Share your recommendations below! 👇🥂 #Food #Irvine #IrvineEats #NewportBeach #FrenchCuisine #SteakLover #LAEats #FineDining #ValueForMoney #EatLocal #FrenchBistro