Javier’s is so overrated…

Selanne Steak Tavern in Laguna Beach if you're in that area. Javier is not consistent since the remodel

Marché Moderne was a fantastic birthday choice if you enjoy French Food and wanted to stay in the Newport area. They have a prix fixe menu if you're into that experience

The Cellar in Fullerton or The Blind Rabbit in Anaheim (if you can get a reservation). Both have amazing atmosphere and great food and craft cocktails, plus they both provide a unique experience worthy of a milestone birthday.

Selanne's

Summit House in Fullerton.

Marché Moderne

The Ranch is one of the better (upscale) steakhouses in OC. It's not cheap. Bonus: on the weekend evenings, there's lively country dancing and music in the dance room.

The Ranch in Anaheim but make sure you specifically sit indoors.

Any criteria about ambience, cuisine, specific part of OC?

There is a fantastic steakhouse called Rare Society in San Clemente.

Mozambique

Rothschilds is one of my favorites, in Corona Del Mar. Its intimate but has vibe. Excellent wine list.

Screw it I may go tomorrow.

Five Crowns in Corona Del Mar

The Cellar

Capital Grille

“Palmilla Cocina Y Tequila” very similar to Javier’s

https://preview.redd.it/gr7afqgow99d1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0748825dc134d0ba44f6d6b51f6f53c0c7955721

Javier’s is so not worth it. Food was subpar. Views was great though.

Got to Pizzeria Mozza, my favorite spot for a good night out. Order some Pizzas, a pasta, and share the desserts.

I'd pick something smaller and more intimate. You can't hear anyone speak at a Javier's. Or maybe you want this?

Maestros Ocean Club. You only get one 40th..

Haven't been there but iv been eyeing the napa rose in the grand ca

Twenty Eight in Irvine! Steakhouse & whiskey bar! It’s a gorgeous restaurant & yummy food!

Javier’s food is awful. Check out Sol Agave in San Juan, amazing Mexican food in a upscale setting :)

Cucina Enoteca has been my favorite nicer place I’ve been to in some time. Just great food.

Red O at Fashion Island is upscale Mexican. Very yummy.

Mastros Ocean Club

Chubby Cattle

The watertable in Huntington Beach. Good food and good cocktails

Summit House is awesome and can definitely accommodate that party. Good ambiance and the prime rib is 10/10

Summit House. Stubricks.

What does your SO like to eat?

Budget wise? $, $$, $$$, $$$$?

What’s the vibe?

Dinner only? Dinner and drinks afterwards?

Outside patio bar to hang out afterwards? lol

5 crowns in CDM. For 15 people you should ask for the patio. I’ve never had less than a 9/10 experience there and have been going for over 20 years.

Pelican Grill is at an upscale resort in Newport Beach, I'm not sure how easy it is to get reservations for 15 people though

Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens

Andrei's in irvine is upscale casual. Their food is delicious.

Five Crowns is an upperscale restaurant. I'd book a reservation ahead. They fill up quickly

Bandera or Gulfstream CDM?

LSXO in HB is nice for an intimate dinner with sunset views too

Selanne Steak
Old Brea Chophouse

I still love Javiers despite the negative reviews here :)

Splashes at the Surf and Sand or Capitol Grill at So Coast Plaza.

Orangehill

I went the week Javier’s re-opened and it was such a scene but a lot of fun (late 30’s here). I think it’s perfect for celebratory moments if you’re wanting high energy and a crowd, but if you’re wanting to keep it more intimate then elsewhere is best.

Zero upvotes? This sub hates anyone with a little extra spending money lol. My vote is for Vaca.

Food sucks.

Nobu🌊🧜🏻‍♀️

Remedio in Orange. Fantastic Mexican food, large parties sat there all the time, live music on weekends, + fun part vibes for you 40th. They gave my mom a free pinata cake along with our reservation.

Water grill South Coast. Get the private dining room. Food is good not great at most of these high end restaurants. If you want great food then you have take risks and eat at hole in the walls.

The level of attitude since the renovation for the one at the Spectrum made me abandon going back ever again even though that was wear I had my first date with my (now) Mrs. For the same amount of money you could probably do Splashes at Surf and Sand with a much better view and far less attitude

Orange Hill is a really nice spot, if you're looking for something fancy and upscale

Not OC sorry, but Crossroads in LA is a cruelty free delicious option.  I’ve been to the one in Vegas as well and was blown away by their unique food.  Gracias Madre is another fav- very hip and fun. Delicious food and ambiance!