I try not to use the word “staple” too much, when I’m talking about dining, or the community, a coffee shop, etc.

There aren’t too many places in my vocabulary that can live up to the standard of being a “staple” in my life, the lives of my husband and kids, my friends. Bistango, however, is a staple. In November this year, the restaurant and the incredible family that founded it celebrated 35 years of service to the Newport Beach community, and let’s be honest - to the greater Orange County area as well.

The menu showcases extensive offerings in inventive New American fare (think starters like sweet garlic soup, charred Spanish octopus and panko fried calamari strips with sriracha aioli). On a recent date night, my husband Tim and I opted for the grilled bacon wrapped petit filets – flavorful, cooked-to-perfection and enhanced by green peppercorn sauce – that was almost a meal unto itself.

I lean toward seafood when dining out so I didn’t deviate from the norm when selecting my entrée for the evening. The tamarind-chili glazed King Salmon accompanied by thyme-garlic crispy potatoes, broccolini and lemon caper butter sauce was delicious while Tim’s grilled grass-fed filet mignon was equally delectable.

Other popular picks range from the Parmesan Shrimp Risotto (bacon-wrapped Mexican shrimp, white corn, Parmesan, chives) and the Wagyu-Beef Black Truffle Ravioli (mushrooms, truffle zest, onion marmalade and Parmesan Veloute) to the Oven-Roasted Chilean Sea Bass with exotic mushroom risotto and the marinated New Zealand Lamb Chops marinated in garlic curry.

Visit online and get lost in the photo gallery of , or even reading descriptions of their gorgeous and varied dining areas. Ten thousand square feet of elegantly appointed options for your dining pleasure. Available for booking large parties or intimate gatherings, Bistango has an option for everyone.

The Atrium, Sky, Patio, Galleria, Main Dining Room all boast a combination of locally curated fine art, twinkling bistro lights, live entertainment, and more. And that’s all before you peruse their Wine Spectator award-winning wine list, New American fare, and hand-crafted cocktails. Come for the ambiance and stay for the food, or vice versa. Neither will disappoint. A testament to Founder John Ghoukassian’s legendary vision so many years ago.

19100 Von Karman Avenue
Irvine
(949) 752-5222
Bistango.com