Le Chateau is a charming bistro nestled in the courtyard of the European, boutique-style Ayres Hotel in Costa Mesa.  Diners can enjoy Le Chateau’s tranquil garden setting on a beautiful sunny day or its old-world style dining room.

I opted for the garden amongst the thriving greenery and a soothing water fountain.

Items sampled:

Delicious Pan-Fried Crab Cakes with Pesto Cream and Red Bell Pepper Sauces:

A comforting French Onion soup, with just the right amount of gruyere melted on top.

A very lovely Grilled Rosemary Garlic Chicken with Grilled Red Onions, Mozzarella Cheese, and Kalamata Olive Spread on a Sun-dried Tomato Focaccia Bun.

And my favorite (and a Le Chateau signature classic), the Blackened Halibut with Tomato and Caper Veracruz Sauce.

The staff at Le Chateau is friendly, service is speedy, and the prices are reasonable.  While I dined during the lunch service, I’d be interested in returning to try the Split Rack of Lamb or the Calamari Steak Sautéed with White Wine, Lemon, Butter and Capers which are offered during the dinner service.

One warning: Le Chateau is located close to the John Wayne (Santa Ana) airport, so airplanes frequently fly above.  I’d recommend Le Chateau for refreshing mimosas and lunch in the garden on a warm summer afternoon.

Read Carla Snuggs’ food blog.