Basilic

NEWPORT BEACH. Charming Basilic has a definite European ambience, from its window boxes to its cafe tables and gilt-framed artwork. The details come as no surprise, given the chef's Continental heritage. His Balboa Island restaurant has been a favorite for years, and the intimate place is a favorite for special meals, especially romantic ones. While the menu does change, expect options like coq au vin, oven-roasted duck breast, seafood risotto, a house bouillabaisse, and steak au poivre. A five-course prix fixe menu is available as well, and when the weather turns colder, a monthly raclette meal is well-attended.