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Despite its name, the ubiquitous French fry has all but become an American food icon. After making its way across Europe and to the United States, the French fry largely became a fast food staple before its recent rebirth as the darling of couture comfort food. From truffle-scented to thick-cut and everywhere in between, French fries have grown up – and we’re loving every bite. Coast tracked down OC’s most delicious fries.

The Crow Bar & Kitchen

THE PLACE OC’s original gastropub, The Crow Bar introduced the coast to the culinary world’s latest mega-hit equation: Innovative food, plus classic preparations, plus off-the-beaten-track beers equals the perfect dining experience. With an atmosphere that’s one part social English pub and one part casual OC hot spot, there’s really something for everyone, whether it’s a cold microbrew, a best-kept-secret wine or a gourmet burger.
WHAT’S HOT Where do we start? If you must choose one thing to go with one of The Crow Bar’s burgers (we recommend trying the “grandma Jane” burger with a toasted English muffin, herbed cream cheese, red onion, organic tomato, and sprouts), it has to be the duck fat fries. Exceedingly crispy on the outside, with rich flavor and silky smooth insides, these fries are only improved by the side of truffle allioli. Homemade ketchup is also available for purists.
WHAT’S NOT The Crow Bar can get a bit noisy on weekends. Bring your party voice.
2325 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar
949.675.0070 :: thecrowbarcdm.com

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Valhalla Table
THE PLACE A relative newcomer to OC’s dining scene, Valhalla Table has taken the “great post-battle dining hall” concept from Norse mythology and transformed it into a modern-day urban eating experience that showcases the best of chef-influenced street food. Known mainly for its house-made sausages, craft beers and traditional Belgian fries, Valhalla Table is destined to become an OC favorite.
WHAT’S HOT There’s really nothing better to accompany one of Valhalla Table’s fresh-from-the-grill sausages than their Belgian fries. Thick cut, irregularly-shaped and twice fried, they’re a fantastic base for any one of the side dipping sauces – everything from mango curry mayo to smoky barbecue sauce and beyond. Try the spicy sambal ketchup with the Cajun andouille sausage for a match made in heaven.
WHAT’S NOT Go for the food, not the ambiance. After a sausage, some fries and a beer, it won’t matter anyway.
2981 Bristol St., Costa Mesa
714.549.2960 :: valhallatable.com

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Eat Chow
THE PLACE A casual, under-the-radar spot in Costa Mesa, Eat Chow has arrived with a big gastronomical welcome. Beginning at breakfast, the eatery starts the day right with dishes like eggs with asparagus, gouda and caramelized onions, all topped with Hollandaise sauce, or “simple” fried eggs with truffle and arugula nage. It’s like your favorite diner, taken up a few notches.
WHAT’S HOT The lengthy menu offers everything from salads (try the warm goat cheese salad with sweet red wine gastrique and basil oil) to burgers to fine dining fare (the ancho- and coffee-crusted filet mignon is spectacular). But for authentic, upscale diner fare, always add a side of the truffle-parmesan fries – pungent, rich and more decadent than the usual suspect. There are also classic French fries for traditionalists.  
WHAT’S NOT The menu is very extensive, so if decisions are not your strong point, it may be best to ask your waiter for a recommendation.
1802 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa
949.650.2469 :: eatchownow.com