One of the best places to eat in the OC is Modo Mio. When you arrive the maitre d' is VERY nice and provides you a very accurate estimate of when your table is ready (if you made reservations) or how long the wait till one is available. The restaurant is very comfortable and seats are not too close as to cause you to hear others conversations. The menu has a wide range of dishes - all of them amazing to say the least. You can taste the quality in the food - and there's plenty of it. The price is VERY good for what you are getting. Some places in the OC are big $$$ and you do not receive the quality and quantity of food they provide. The wait staff is very helpful and attentive - even when the restaurant is packed. During our meal the maitre d' came over to ensure the meal was good and made light conversation. That's excellent service in my book. Don't forget to order dessert. The warm apple tart is like fireworks in your mouth. When the bill arrives you'll be pleasantly surprised at the cost. For 2 people a three-course meal (appetizer, main course and dessert) with 2 sodas came to $50. That's a great deal and remember it is Crystal Cove. Dress is casual (jeans are okay) but dressing up is a good idea. Reservations are recommended for the weekends when they are very busy.
Pros: Food is AMAZING, service is top notch, located in Crystal Cove so it's very easy to get to
Cons: Can sometimes get a bit loud on weekends when it's very busy but not to take away from the ambience
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