Lamb, a seasonal delicacy associated with spring, has a distinctly rich flavor and tender texture. It enjoys decidedly elegant treatments in Newport Beach.

Rack of lamb is the most coveted cut, ideal for intimate dates and special family dinners. The Australian Heritage Whole Rack of Lamb at Fashion Island’s Ocean 48 is a 24-ounce masterpiece, available in limited quantities at market price. Impressive presentation finds the bones of the rack vertically crisscrossed. Enjoy it by the centerpiece reflecting pool.

Marché  Moderne at Crystal Cove Shopping Center celebrates French cuisine both haute and rustic. This season’s lamb dish is listed under little plates, but its impact is anything but. A trio of grilled lamb ribeye tagine, lamb merguez sausage and prawn, $32, is finished with mint emulsion, almond chermoula, harissa couscous, dates, apricots, chickpeas and petite coriander.

Mexican destination Red O at Fashion Island offers its grilled lamb in a distinctive mole negro sauce alongside braised cipollini onions, asparagus, English peas and lemon zest, $45. The resort-style dining room also offers the dish as part of a Baja mix ’n’ match, $52, in which it can be paired with options including pollo asado and shrimp fideo noodles.