TUSTIN. For a gourmet brush with Mediterranean cuisine, locals recommend Black Sheep, where the distinct flavors of Provençe and Catalonia merge. House specialties span the continent and feature the likes of Grand Aioli, a Provençal-inspired seafood potluck with traditional garlic-and-olive oil sauce; Oveja Negra Paella with shrimp, mussels, and black Valencia rice; and grilled lamb loin with baby portabellos. Streetside dining is available, and Wednesday nights bring "Valenciana al a Veranda!" ­ all-you-can-eat paella on the patio.

LAGUNA BEACH. Recollecting Parisian bistros ­ dark woods, leather booths, pre-World War II posters, and a fireplace ­ French 75 Laguna attracts more than its fair share of Orange County's elite. The "Bistro Classics" section of the menu is always a safe bet, thanks to the likes of "Rich Homme, Poor Homme" (monkfish on lobster mashed potatoes), croque monsieurs with pomme frites, and Alsatian-style pork with apples, cabbage, and peppercorn sauce. Desserts like Callebaut chocolate soufflé and pumpkin cheesecake with molasses crème fraiche are a must, as are reservations.

LAGUNA BEACH. This hotel restaurant's arched windows and doorways, sidewalk seating, and panache render it a huge hit with well-heeled locals. The menu's Mediterranean-Franco-Asian-inspired dishes earn approving nods from regional dining critics, tempting folks with dishes like grilled filet mignon tournedos and flash fried Thai calamari. You can also treat yourself to duck leg confit, spicy curry-grilled ahi, a grilled flat iron steak, and a handful of pastas. More interested in nibbling? An array of small plates is perfectly sized.

BREA. Highly acclaimed by local and regional food critics, La Vie serves traditional French cuisine in a picturesque Normandy farmhouse. Tantalize your palate with classic Gascon and Provençal dishes: sautéed shrimp scampi with fennel cream sauce, roasted pork tenderloin with port wine sauce and St. Agur cheese, and sea scallops sautéed with lemon grass beurre blanc. In addition, the hand-selected wine list features a good mix of Californian and French labels.

LAGUNA BEACH. This attractive restaurant keeps a place in the spotlight, thanks to its cozy, country house setting and romantic atmosphere. The innovative menu changes every month and boasts a delightful array of Mediterranean-influenced dishes, including a shrimp, artichoke, and mushroom-stuffed purse and sautéed foie gras with sherry vinegar sauce. While there's no strict dress code, most patrons opt for business dressy attire. Outdoor seating is available.