Pas.tu in Persian (Farsi) means; "a cozy tiny spot hidden in the far end of your desired spot which holds all treasures and special memories."

Quintessentially laid back Balboa Island got a sophisticated, refined resident in June 2005 that has added a flair of culture to this coastal oasis. The new neighbor is Pas.Tu, a romantic, fine dining French-Mediterranean restaurant in Newport Beach California. You could pass right by this little hideaway on busy Marine Avenue with its surf shops, clothing boutiques and galleries but as the sun sets, many businesses close and hundreds of tiny lights come on outside Pas.Tu making it the focal point of the street.

The light spectacular lures you into an intimate, narrow space with about a dozen tables covered in white linen and waiters in formal attire, while candle lit sconces and hurrican lanterns perched on an aged brick wall set the mood. It is no surprise to find out that owner Mahsa Maali is a former New York restauranteur.

There is an urban feel here deep in beachy suburbia and Mahsa made the most of the small space, as every New Yorker learns to do. Mahsa keeps the cuisine authentic with her native influence, she works very closely with her French chef francois leiutaud and always in search of new flavors.

Of course the search for flavor starts at the beginning.. in the shopping and that is why our menu is seasonal. We always make georgeous presentations and make sure spices burst in your mouth, waking up every single taste bud..

Our wine collection (Californian, French, Italian, Australian and Argentinean wines) specially hand picked for your dining and tasting pleasure. You may also bring your own wine and drink for a reasonable corkage fee. The real treat is Friday and Saturday specials, which we really come up with incredibly flavorful dishes...