Four New Restaurants to Open at South Coast Plaza

Costa Mesa, Calif. (June 2018) – Four new restaurants, including three fresh chef-driven concepts, will open in the next 10 months at South Coast Plaza, enhancing the unparalleled shopping experience at the international luxury center. They will join a collection of 40 eateries offering a multitude of cuisines to shoppers and foodies from all over the world.  

• Knife Pleat is a French restaurant by chef Tony Esnault and restaurateur Yassmin Sarmadi opening in early 2019 in the exclusive Penthouse, level 3. The power couple is highly regarded for Spring and Church & State, sought-after downtown Los Angeles restaurants that have earned stellar reviews from top critics and are consistently ranked in Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Jonathan Gold’s “101 Best Restaurants” in the Los Angeles Times. Esnault, a native of the Loire Valley, worked with chef Alain Ducasse in restaurants in Monte Carlo and Manhattan, earning a combined total of five Michelin stars. The couple envisions Knife Pleat as “elegant yet approachable,” designed to complement South Coast Plaza’s contemporary style while incorporating elements of tradition. The cuisine will feature Esnault’s modern interpretation of classic French techniques, drawing from his 25 years of fine dining experience in Europe, New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

• The Hall Global Eatery by “Top Chef” finalist Amar Santana and business partner Ahmed Labbate will open in early 2019 in Carousel Court, level 1. The fresh concept will feature European food stands selling French baked goods, sandwiches, salads, Mediterranean dishes, coffee and fresh juices. Food will be made to order in a fast casual setting. For those desiring a full service experience, an extensive seafood and charcuterie bar will be complemented by artisanal cocktails and wines from around the world. Santana’s and Labbate’s restaurants in the South Coast Plaza collection include the critically acclaimed Spanish-influenced VACA and the former Charlie Palmer at Bloomingdale’s.

• TERRACE by Mix Mix, a restaurant with internationally inspired cuisine by chef Ross Pangilinan, will open in summer 2018 in the Crate and Barrel/Macy’s Home Store Wing, level 3. Featuring well-priced, market-driven small plates, the cuisine will showcase Pangilinan’s refined technique and eclectic style, which is influenced by French, Italian, and modern Filipino flavors. An approachable wine list will have varietals by the glass and bottle as well as rotating craft beers. True to its name, the restaurant will showcase full-service dining in a beautifully designed covered terrace off of Bridge of Gardens. A small wine bar, additional seating, an open kitchen and a counter offering a weekday lunch quick-service menu will be inside.

• Marugame Udon, Japan’s premium udon shop, will open an exclusive Orange County location in late fall 2018 in the Sears Wing, level 1. The innovative, fast casual concept features authentic made-to-order udon noodles created in full view in an open kitchen. Guests approach the large circular counter to make their selections such as various types of broth, proteins, garnishes to top hot or cold udon, as well as tempura and rice balls (musubi). The well-priced menu and quick service approach create a bustling ambience.

ABOUT SOUTH COAST PLAZA
Renowned as a leading international shopping destination, South Coast Plaza is home to more than 250 prominent boutiques, critically-acclaimed restaurants and the adjacent celebrated Segerstrom Center for the Arts. It is the West Coast’s premier shopping experience, with its proximity to beaches and John Wayne Airport, customized concierge services, and unparalleled collection of diverse retailers — from Gucci, Hermès, Cartier and Harry Winston to Dolce&Gabbana, The Webster, Dior, Alexander McQueen and Givenchy and more. South Coast Plaza is located in Orange County, California, in the city of Costa Mesa. Information: southcoastplaza.com or 800.782.8888.