Il Girasole — Restaurant in Costa Mesa

A Michelin-Worthy Dining Experience

Last night, I had the pleasure of indulging in what can only be described as a Michelin-standard meal, where precision, quality, and impeccable service came together in perfect harmony. Every aspect of the evening, from the carefully plated entrées to the final touch of sauce poured tableside, showcased an extraordinary level of culinary craftsmanship.

The meal began with crab cake and Hamachi crudo, both executed to perfection. The crab cake was pure, delicate, and flavorful, with just the right amount of crispness on the outside, allowing the natural sweetness of the crab to shine. The Hamachi crudo, impossibly fresh and expertly balanced with citrus and seasoning, set the tone for the refined experience ahead.

For the main course, I had the eye of ribeye, and it was nothing short of perfection. The chef’s commitment to excellence was evident—a thermometer is used to ensure the precise internal temperature, and it showed. The steak arrived exactly as ordered, tender, flavorful, and plated with meticulous detail. The sauce, poured tableside, was a luxurious final touch that elevated the dish even further.

Dessert was a showstopper, both in presentation and taste. I enjoyed a trio of sweets—tiramisu, flourless chocolate cake, and a delicate meringue with berry compote. Each had its own special touches, from the rich mascarpone layers of the tiramisu to the velvety texture of the chocolate cake and the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in the meringue and berries.

Beyond the food, the service was as polished as the cuisine—attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable, and passionate about every dish served. The level of detail in plating, tableside sauce service, and the commitment to precision made this meal a true Michelin-level experience.

If there’s a restaurant striving for a Michelin star, this one has more than earned its place in that...

Il Girasole Modern Italian Restaurant provided an absolutely unforgettable dining experience for our 14-year anniversary. Every dish we had was thoughtfully crafted and packed with flavor. The Caesar salad with grilled chicken was a standout—the unique crouton topped with a gelatin-like cream and egg was both creative and delicious. Their warm bread, served with a heavenly combination of cheese, olive oil, and cream, was irresistible.

The pasta with burrata and tomato sauce was fresh, perfectly cooked, and felt authentically Italian. Adding grilled chicken made it even better, and I appreciated the flexibility of adding protein to any dish, which keeps it healthy and balanced. The black cod was another highlight, wrapped uniquely and served in an exquisite Persian saffron sauce that elevated the flavors to a whole new level.

The atmosphere at the bar was vibrant and cool, and the service was impeccable. Mansour and Antonio, the owners, were so kind and welcoming, making the evening even more special. The bartender’s service was excellent, adding to the overall experience.

To top it all off, the desserts were beyond amazing. The pastry chef, trained in France, delivered a warm, flourless chocolate cake with delectable custard that was out of this world. As someone who’s picky about desserts, I was blown away—it far exceeded my expectations and tasted even better than it looked. I can’t wait to return and try some of the seafood pastas and more desserts.

Il Girasole is a perfect spot for any special occasion or simply for an exceptional meal....

I recently had the pleasure of dining at this exceptional Italian restaurant, and it was an experience worth raving about! From the moment we walked in, the warm ambiance and attentive staff set the tone for a delightful evening.

We started with the arancini, which were nothing short of perfection—crispy golden exteriors giving way to creamy, flavorful risotto studded with just the right amount of cheese. Each bite was a comforting, indulgent treat. Next, the striped bass was a highlight, cooked to flaky perfection with a delicate balance of herbs and seasoning that let the fish’s natural flavors shine.

The tagliatelle nero with seafood was a showstopper. The jet-black pasta, made with squid ink, was cooked al dente and tossed with an assortment of fresh seafood in a sauce that was both rich and light, striking a perfect harmony. Every forkful was a burst of oceanic flavor, elevated by the impeccable preparation.

To complement the meal, we enjoyed a delicious French rosé wine that was crisp, refreshing, and the ideal pairing for the seafood-heavy dishes. Its subtle fruit notes and dry finish tied the meal together beautifully.

The service was attentive without being intrusive, and the staff’s passion for the menu was evident in their thoughtful recommendations. This restaurant is a gem for anyone craving authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist. I’m already looking forward to...