Restaurants in Costa Mesa
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Best Restaurants
“We stopped by Lemon & Thyme on a whim after our daughter’s swim lesson, and I’m so glad we did. From the moment we walked in, our server, who I believe may have been the owner, was one of the most warm, vivacious people I’ve ever met. He greeted us with the biggest smile and gave us the kind of service that instantly makes you feel at home.
He made us feel so welcomed, like we were family. The level of thoughtfulness was above and beyond,he even brought out extra treats like french fries and ice cream for our toddler, which absolutely made her night. It’s rare to experience that kind of genuine hospitality.
And the food? Incredible. The spicy rigatoni was easily one of the best I’ve had in a very long time. I added shrimp to it and… chef’s kiss. It was rich, flavorful, perfectly spicy. honestly one of the best meals I’ve had since moving to SoCal. My husband ordered the salmon and that was just as delicious.
Between the amazing food and the unforgettable service, this place really left an impression. I already know I’ll be back, next time for a little bestie dinner date. This might officially be my new go to spot for rigatoni, and I can’t wait to come back and try more of the menu.”
“The Duck Confit Spliff is a great representation of the Vietnamese & French cultures “wrapped” up all in one dish. And for a more traditional & fun way to eat it, you definitely have to use your hands. My only wish was for a little more duck in the spliff.
With the Ebelskivers, the concept was again brilliant. The garlic emulsion creates an intense garlic flavor but in a light and airy way. But like takoyaki, I wish there was more escargot in the batter to remind me more of that chewy feel from the traditional dish.
The surprise star of our meal was the Royale with Cheese. The wagyu had great flavor and char. And the sesame seed bun held up well for this napkin-required burger. But those pickles were amazing nuggets of necessity to add balancing acidity to the richness of the dish.
We definitely want to try the Duck Breast, the Spanish Octopus, and the Prix Fixe Meal on future visits. A final thanks to Chef & Curtis for the friendly service and explanation of the menu.”
“My husband and I really enjoyed this visit to Seasons52. It had been a while since we had been there; in fact the last time was for a Thanksgiving dinner shortly after Covid. We were happy we made the choice to go back there. The best part of our visit was our waitress, Bec. She was excellent with her recommendations, and very friendly and attentive. My husband really enjoyed his wine, and I enjoyed my tropical pineapple Cosmo. My husband ordered the white bean soup, which he loved, and the gnocchi, which he said was OK - he wished he'd have gotten the shrimp and grits instead. I had the strawberry and spinach salad, which was good, but I wished they had used blue cheese instead of gorgonzola as the gorgonzola was a little bitter. I chose the Ahi Tower appetizer as my main dish, which was delicious. We each chose one of their small desserts: my husband had the carrot cake and I had the Keylime pie. Neither of us felt they were anything to write him about, but we liked having these small dessert options. We were at the Costa Mesa location but live in Los Angeles, and wish that they had never closed their location in Century city as we don't get to go very often anymore. ”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“Everything we had was so delicious. My 12 year old non vegan son loved it all too!”
“Came and got the chef omakase special and wow was it insane. The majority of the fish were Japanese domestic exotic fish. Would come back in a heartbeat. Service was amazing”
Restaurants with Delivery
“The Duck Confit Spliff is a great representation of the Vietnamese & French cultures “wrapped” up all in one dish. And for a more traditional & fun way to eat it, you definitely have to use your hands. My only wish was for a little more duck in the spliff.
With the Ebelskivers, the concept was again brilliant. The garlic emulsion creates an intense garlic flavor but in a light and airy way. But like takoyaki, I wish there was more escargot in the batter to remind me more of that chewy feel from the traditional dish.
The surprise star of our meal was the Royale with Cheese. The wagyu had great flavor and char. And the sesame seed bun held up well for this napkin-required burger. But those pickles were amazing nuggets of necessity to add balancing acidity to the richness of the dish.
We definitely want to try the Duck Breast, the Spanish Octopus, and the Prix Fixe Meal on future visits. A final thanks to Chef & Curtis for the friendly service and explanation of the menu.”
“I wondered how I could eat well on vacation. Vibe was across the street from my rental and I was so happy to find it! Meal problem solved! I bought a couple of bowls and a wrap during my stay. I even got my mom and two sisters to visit with me. They found something to try, too! Wish you had a store in Utah, I'd try everything on the menu. I actually got to have ice-cream! Thank you Vibe, Dana Point.”
“The high rates reviews tell you everything about it. Fresh fish, great service, generous portions at really fair prices. Good jams too, UB40 was playing.
Never been here before but I know how the poke bowl ordering goes. I still like to hear how they address first timers. Travis was great, he asked if we’ve been here before and we have not. He hit all the points, explained the options and gave his recs. They also have a pretty nice rewards program too, so it makes it even healthier on your guts and wallet to come more often!”
“We found Avila’s El Ranchito on-line and decided to give it a try. We had about 45 minute wait so we knew it must be good. A little mix up in the list to be seated. There was another “David party of 2” that arrived AFTER we did but they jumped at the chance to be seated before us. The staff was very friendly. The portions were large enough that we shared a meal and were plenty satisfied. The food was very delicious. The salsa was not what you would call mild so for those with sensitive palates be aware! The atmosphere was loud inside but relatively quiet outside. We would dine at this restaurant again.”
“My husband and I really enjoyed this visit to Seasons52. It had been a while since we had been there; in fact the last time was for a Thanksgiving dinner shortly after Covid. We were happy we made the choice to go back there. The best part of our visit was our waitress, Bec. She was excellent with her recommendations, and very friendly and attentive. My husband really enjoyed his wine, and I enjoyed my tropical pineapple Cosmo. My husband ordered the white bean soup, which he loved, and the gnocchi, which he said was OK - he wished he'd have gotten the shrimp and grits instead. I had the strawberry and spinach salad, which was good, but I wished they had used blue cheese instead of gorgonzola as the gorgonzola was a little bitter. I chose the Ahi Tower appetizer as my main dish, which was delicious. We each chose one of their small desserts: my husband had the carrot cake and I had the Keylime pie. Neither of us felt they were anything to write him about, but we liked having these small dessert options. We were at the Costa Mesa location but live in Los Angeles, and wish that they had never closed their location in Century city as we don't get to go very often anymore. ”
“It was a very fun experience! The lady was super kind, the food was really good, my friends who hadn't really eaten Viet food before loved it and told me they'd want to come back. Other comments were definitely right about the Vietnamese coffee being super good! I also really loved the Lychee tea.”
“First time trying this place and overall I had good experience. Food was very good. I tried a new dish which is kofte wrapped in eggplant. Also tried lentil soup and their dessert. Service was very good. Restaurant looked very clean. There’s plenty of parking in front of the restaurant.”
“Incredible Brazilian food. Everything we had was fantastic. My only gripe is it is a little pricey, but overall the food and service were top notch. Go on a Saturday or Sunday when they make Feijoada, a national specialty dish in Brazil. I am American and I went with my Brazilian wife and another Brasileira and they both complimented all the food and said it was very traditional and delicious 😋”
“We're celebrating my daughter's birthday and we were surprised the lovely celebration from the staff with confetti on our table a signed card and a lovely dessert. All of the things that were unexpected and just truly made our night so special also, the staff is incredible as well as the food being delicious we will definitely be back”
Outdoor Dining
“After shipping from the South Coast, you may experience a significant increase in hunger. Upon passing by this establishment, you will notice a substantial line of patrons, indicating its popularity. If you enjoy spicy cuisine, I highly recommend trying their ramen.”
“The most notable featurr of this bar (with good food & apps) is the bartenders also work the floor as servers and they are all pretty. But their efficiency and professionalism is equal to their looks, so the women customers, accept them. I know that last sentence was terrible, but it's true and I'm too tired to re-word it.”
“Incredible Brazilian food. Everything we had was fantastic. My only gripe is it is a little pricey, but overall the food and service were top notch. Go on a Saturday or Sunday when they make Feijoada, a national specialty dish in Brazil. I am American and I went with my Brazilian wife and another Brasileira and they both complimented all the food and said it was very traditional and delicious 😋”
“I've now been to the Costa Mesa and Irvine locations. I loooove this spot. The shaved ice is perfect delicate sweetness and texture. Service is pretty quick, even when they're packed. Also tried the mochi waffle this time and wow wow wow. I'll be returning soon with my kids because I want them to be able to share on the epic deliciousness.”
“Nothing fishy about this place. It's a small family run business. Blame covid for the price increases and there are sign posted to make you aware of the increase. it's the best food and most reasonable prices in town. if you cant afford a 11 dish then don't buy or complain about it. These reviews are for the food not whiners.”
“The food is very fresh, creative and fun! Lots of great drinks to choose from - either with or without alcohol! Cudos to Chef Zachary for his talented culinary achievement.”
“Have been a very satisfied regular @EatChow CM for several years. The menu varies seasonally, selections are plated attractively & are always delicious; love the fried green tomatoes😋. Eric & his crew are cordial with the right balance of attentiveness. Undoubtedly authentic, consistently never fails to please & a local, late night favorite🧘🏻♀️”
Online Reservation Available
“We stopped by Lemon & Thyme on a whim after our daughter’s swim lesson, and I’m so glad we did. From the moment we walked in, our server, who I believe may have been the owner, was one of the most warm, vivacious people I’ve ever met. He greeted us with the biggest smile and gave us the kind of service that instantly makes you feel at home.
He made us feel so welcomed, like we were family. The level of thoughtfulness was above and beyond,he even brought out extra treats like french fries and ice cream for our toddler, which absolutely made her night. It’s rare to experience that kind of genuine hospitality.
And the food? Incredible. The spicy rigatoni was easily one of the best I’ve had in a very long time. I added shrimp to it and… chef’s kiss. It was rich, flavorful, perfectly spicy. honestly one of the best meals I’ve had since moving to SoCal. My husband ordered the salmon and that was just as delicious.
Between the amazing food and the unforgettable service, this place really left an impression. I already know I’ll be back, next time for a little bestie dinner date. This might officially be my new go to spot for rigatoni, and I can’t wait to come back and try more of the menu.”
“We're celebrating my daughter's birthday and we were surprised the lovely celebration from the staff with confetti on our table a signed card and a lovely dessert. All of the things that were unexpected and just truly made our night so special also, the staff is incredible as well as the food being delicious we will definitely be back”
“Have been a very satisfied regular @EatChow CM for several years. The menu varies seasonally, selections are plated attractively & are always delicious; love the fried green tomatoes😋. Eric & his crew are cordial with the right balance of attentiveness. Undoubtedly authentic, consistently never fails to please & a local, late night favorite🧘🏻♀️”
“BEST. GLUTEN FREE PIZZA. EVER. I got the potato pizza and it was absolutely incredible - perfectly salty and sweet and the fresh herbs were perfection. The ceasar salad was also amazing. The owner is sooo nice and funny, and we had really incredible service from everyone in the restaurant”
“Cozy little restaurant by night, coffee shop by day. We had the oysters, pork belly tacos, steak frites, and a few glasses of orange wine—all excellent and service was great. A little funny to walk in and check in at the counter where you’d normally order an espresso, but I appreciate what they are doing. More comfy seating would elevate the dining experience but overall solid place and would recommend. Seldom do you have a place that nails the food, service, and the vibe 👏”
“I don’t claim to be a connoisseur in Asian cuisine. I do like fresh, variety, spices, sauces and appreciate courteous efficient service. My second visit. Was not disappointed. The wait to be seated is long. Would not have waited but one person in our group was visiting from out of state and insisted.”
“BEST. GLUTEN FREE PIZZA. EVER. I got the potato pizza and it was absolutely incredible - perfectly salty and sweet and the fresh herbs were perfection. The ceasar salad was also amazing. The owner is sooo nice and funny, and we had really incredible service from everyone in the restaurant”
“Impressive array of the best ingredients unavailable in most Japanese restaurants in the US prepared in different styles”
“After shipping from the South Coast, you may experience a significant increase in hunger. Upon passing by this establishment, you will notice a substantial line of patrons, indicating its popularity. If you enjoy spicy cuisine, I highly recommend trying their ramen.”
24 Hour Restaurants
“We first discovered Kokonut Costa Mesa while visiting the area for the first time — and instantly fell in love with their original Kokonut pudding! The flavors are so simple yet absolutely delicious, and the fact that it’s vegan-friendly makes it even better.
Back on the East Coast, we couldn’t find anything that even comes close, so I recently ordered some for my husband’s birthday. The owner went above and beyond to make sure the delivery arrived exactly when we were home — such a thoughtful and kind gesture!
This is truly one of the best desserts we’ve ever had — light, creamy, and full of natural flavor. I just wish they’d open a store on the East Coast! Until then, I hope more people discover this hidden gem in Costa Mesa and try all their amazing flavors.”
“Food with excellent and fresh, service was excellent good experience compared to the very poor experience I had at the location on Newport boulevard and 17th in Costa Mesa I never leave bad reviews but I had to at that location this one is five stars all the way well worth driving a little further”
“Today, the manager at this place behaved absolutely terribly. Not only does she not speak English, but she also tried to convince me that I owe someone something. I am a customer. And after I paid for the order, it seems to me that I don’t owe anyone anything — I am supposed to be provided with the service. I like all the employees at this place, but the manager behaved absolutely horribly today.”
“This is the real deal! Fabulous food from appetizers to dessert. Comfortable, casually chic, & just right. Enjoyed a bday dinner for 6, but dinner for 2 is next!”
Takeout Restaurants
“Shad from Liquid4Life guided me on a water fast followed by several days of juice cleanse with smoothies.
The quality of the organic cold pressed juices and smoothies is phenomenal. Shad makes everything in house with state-of-the-art machinery, and you can really tell the difference in quality and taste.
The fasting and cleanse experience was an amazing journey and Shad was there supporting and guiding me with his amazing depth of knowledge.
The best part is I’m feeling really good! Amazing in fact! The reset cleanse has made a huge difference with my energy and digestion even as I add clean food back to my diet. It was a reset my body really needed.
Highly recommend!!!”
“Great coffee and chai! My husband and I stopped in while visiting our kids in the area. Adorable place and some of the coffee we have had. He had the Vietnamese Iced Coffee and I had an iced dirty chai. We loved them both. We will be back any time we are in town!”
“First time trying this place and overall I had good experience. Food was very good. I tried a new dish which is kofte wrapped in eggplant. Also tried lentil soup and their dessert. Service was very good. Restaurant looked very clean. There’s plenty of parking in front of the restaurant.”
“Without a doubt… The Flaky Apple Pie Co is the best find ever!! I have ordered all of the different pies and each one is more delicious than the last !! The most wonderful pie was the last one I bought…. The most unbelievable FRESH PEACH Pie!!! Best I have ever had!!! Thank you Brooke and her team! We will be friends forever!❤️”
“Fantastic service with very a friendly and attentive staff.
Went for my son's birthday as he was craving shawarma. He got the lamb and his girlfriend got the beef shawarma. Both of them said it was very tasty.
I had the chicken curry stew and have leftovers. It came with a Greek green salad and basmati rice. So delicious and such deep flavors.
We'd come back again for sure and since my son and his girlfriend live in the area, they are adding it to their spots too.
Highly recommend it.”
“Chef Stanley and the staff served what has been hands-down, the best sushi experience. I’ve had the United States so far.
Words cannot express absolutely delightful. This entire meal was the atmosphere the freshness the choice of ingredients execution absolutely top notch! Not to mention, I have quite a few allergies and they went above and beyond to take excellent care of me and serve me some of the best sushi I’ve ever had”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“Big portions for low prices (considering our economy). The torta cubana was delicious. Packed to bursting with meat, cheese, and all the trimmings. They do the same with their burritos.
My friend says their lengua is the best he’s ever had.
Since this inside North Gate, depending on the time of day/week, it might be much busier and/or harder to find seating. We had to sit somewhere in the market that wasn’t nearby”
“Chef Stanley and the staff served what has been hands-down, the best sushi experience. I’ve had the United States so far.
Words cannot express absolutely delightful. This entire meal was the atmosphere the freshness the choice of ingredients execution absolutely top notch! Not to mention, I have quite a few allergies and they went above and beyond to take excellent care of me and serve me some of the best sushi I’ve ever had”
“One of my favorite family-owned, hole-in-the-wall sushi spots! 🍣 Been eating here for over 10 years and the quality has always been amazing! I usually get the rolls or combination specials (which comes with a lot of food). The owners are very kind and provide great service! If you’re craving sushi, definitely check out this authentic, yummy restaurant!”
“Such a gem of a coffee spot! This cute little neighborhood café has quickly become one of my go-tos. They have a lot of different flavors so you can customize your cold foam. Everything tastes fresh and thoughtfully made. Their cold brew is bold but super smooth no bitterness at all 👏 and they have tons of great milk options from Straus.
The vibe is welcoming, perfect for grabbing a quick morning coffee or hanging out for a bit. You can tell they care about quality and the small details. Highly recommend if you’re in the area and want something that feels local and special! 🌿☕️✨”
“I have been on an elimination diet for 11 months (AIP) and have had to give up eating out because no one serves anything I can have without completely changing the menu item! Chixy Natural’s Paleo Bowl was absolutely delicious! Such simple and yummy ingredients! Best of all, I didn’t have to cook it myself. We will be going there again!”
“Best customer service ever and the tacos was amazing just like big boy said the best tacos and we couldn’t get enough we had to get more tacos and she took very good care of us and I am a very big fan of big boy from strength cartel she made me feel very welcomed and took very good care of us we came all the way from Oklahoma City”
“Hands down BEST Pit Builders in California! I spent 5 years researching and slowly deciding who and when to get my pit and after a lengthy process I’m more then thrilled to have my 120 Gallon Harper Pit! It’s a no brainer they are often imitated but never duplicated with their ingenuity and craftsmanship is second to none.”
“Fresh homemade pasta. Lovely atmosphere and excellent service 😍”
“Updated review, in all fairness!
So my last review was 3 stars 🌟 because it was not a positive experience, bad service etc... but giving it another chance I've gone back with friends 3-4 times in the past 2 months, had to see if it was a trend in anomaly. I'm happy to say that the service has been great, even greated at the front door, and a thank you on the way out, the food was great, came during Happy Hour and portions are the same, no games! No short order kinda deal, place was packed and food was great! Ill be back for sure and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND”
Cheap Eats
“Wow everything we tried was top notch and service was amazing. Sesame tofu was a pleasant surprise that had everyone wanting more. Shabu shabu udon was seasoned to perfection and it even came with ponzu for the meat! Nabeyaki udon was spot on as well. You can tell they take care to make the dashi very well. Tempura chicken curry udon broth was also not too thick and not too salty, which was very pleasant too. Of course the chicken kaarage was super well seasoned and not heavily battered. Perfection. I’d love to come back to try more. Very few places do udon so well.”
“I was able to try these out in California adventure park during the Chinese be year celebration. These were delightful fresh and fruity treats. We tried the lychee panda cream dessert that was paired with a green tea matcha dessert. We also tried a mango grapefruit crepe cake. They were fun to eat and look at. Highly recommend!”
“My favorite place growing up they NEVER disappoint 🙈 the plates are affordable and always yummy. And they have a good atmosphere where you can either sit inside with games playing on the tv or you can sit outside. Customer service is always great too. The girls in the front are always so friendly as well. I always order the shrimp tacos with pinto beans 🤌🏼”
“Our go-to restaurant when we are starving at night. Authentic Chinese street food with right-on-the-spot seasoning. Location is in a shared kitchen facility together with many other small businesses. Clear window showing their kitchen so you know all the food are made fresh for you. A must try place overall!”
“The Harp Inn is a gem. Great live music, super friendly staff (including the owner), and an all-around welcoming vibe. I’ve been going here for over 10 years and it never disappoints. The Irish food is excellent — highly recommend the Irish breakfast. They also have a great outdoor patio.”
“Birdie’s Açaí bowl is my absolute favorite, hands down. Unlike most other places that use premade sorbet, Birdie actually blends the berries. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming, making the experience even more enjoyable. I highly recommend the peanut butter Açaí bowl; I get it almost every day.”
“Found by accident great food and service excellent. Patio and in four dining. Had beef teriyaki with tempura and miso soup and salad and California roll. ReAsonable priced too”
“This is an excellent spot for date night. Drinks are great and the ceviche was so good - very refreshing with so much flavor. We also couldn't pass up on the papa rellenas!”
“Delicious Food amazing customer service If you love Thai this place is a most”
“This place is perfection. We've eaten here so many times and it just keeps getting better and better. Wonderful friendly attentive staff, and lovely lo-fi chillout music to relax to. Honestly one of my favourite dining experiences is at this restaurant. Long May they reign.”
“This is my favorite restaurant! I loved it back when it was on Bristol, but I have been back to the new Red Hill location twice now and it is even more of a special dining experience. Massimo has come out to explain the history of the wine and food and the sources of his ingredients. He tells wonderful stories with a great sense of humor, and his daughter who helps serve is also very knowledgeable and delightful. I feel transported and hosted in a way I have never experienced in a restaurant. The food is amazing. The fresh handmade pasta melts in your mouth. We have eaten every dessert and they are all spectacular. Every wine and appetizer we have tried has been extraordinary. I couldn't recommend this place more.”
“I don’t claim to be a connoisseur in Asian cuisine. I do like fresh, variety, spices, sauces and appreciate courteous efficient service. My second visit. Was not disappointed. The wait to be seated is long. Would not have waited but one person in our group was visiting from out of state and insisted.”
“The service was great and the sushi was delish! Great job redecorating and the music was nice too! 👍✌️🍣”
“Was pretty blown away by the ambition and quality of the drinks. Definitely experimental. Healthy sized menu with quite a bit of variety. Some very bold combinations that basically work.
Atmosphere wise, it's not that loud given how tiny the space is.
Edit came back a year later. Too sweet mist though ok”
“This is an amazing restaurant with fantastic food and truly incredible owners who give back to the community. I recently learned that they’re one of the diamond sponsors supporting Tzu Chi USA, a nonprofit humanitarian organization that has provided significant disaster relief here in the U.S. — including over $2.5 million in cash aid to wildfire survivors in Los Angeles and ongoing support efforts for Maui wildfire survivors and other disaster-affected communities. Thank you for your generosity and leadership.🙏🙏🙏”
“Love the restaurant and sushi is outstanding. Unfortunately last night the service was terrible. I've been many times and won't let one bad server keep me from going back.”
“Love the Chilaquiles and the protein pancakes. Great service of Lucia �”
“Delish and great staff. The staff IS family and they treat not only their customers like family, but the other staff as well. That means a lot. We had a fun time with DJ and Pleng. About the food... We had 4 dishes... Hanuman's ceviche, Tom Kha Gai, Massaman, Pad See Ew and a nice glass of Malbec. My favorites were the ceviche and Massaman. But everything was so good. Hubs liked everything. There was literally no wait at 3 pm but come soon... Once word gets out this place will have a 45 min wait just like the mother location on Bristol.”
“Still my go to sushi spot in Costa Mesa. Great quality, warm atmosphere and suck friendly and kind service. You can't go wrong. Try it out. I think you'll be surprised”
“We absolutely love working with and also dining here at VOX Kitchen Costa Mesa. It’s always a pleasure to support a business that not only serves amazing food, but also treats people with genuine kindness and professionalism. From both a business perspective and as customers, our experience with VOX has been nothing short of excellent. The staff here are always very kind, cordial, welcoming, and respectful. Whether we are working with them directly or coming in to enjoy a meal, they consistently make us feel appreciated and taken care of.
One of the biggest reasons we love coming here is because of their friendly service and, of course, their incredible food. The food at VOX Kitchen is always consistently delicious and has truly never failed us. Every visit has been a great experience, and now that the Costa Mesa location is open, VOX is definitely one of the top places to eat, unwind, and enjoy a great atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to come for lunch, dinner, happy hour, cocktails, or just a fun night out.
Their happy hour and specialty cocktails are another big reason why we enjoy coming here. They have a great variety of unique drinks, and you can tell there is real attention to detail in both the food and beverage program. It really adds to the overall experience and makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy yourself.
Our personal favorites are the Lomo Saltado and the ceviche, both of which are absolutely amazing and a must-try. The Lomo Saltado is always packed with flavor, cooked perfectly, and incredibly satisfying every single time. The ceviche is fresh, perfectly prepared, and one of the standout dishes on the menu. Along with that, they offer many specialty cocktails that pair perfectly with the food and make the dining experience even better.
If you’re in the Costa Mesa area and looking for a place with excellent food, amazing service, kind and professional staff, great cocktails, and an all-around enjoyable atmosphere, VOX Kitchen Costa Mesa is definitely a place you need to visit. We truly enjoy both working with them and being customers of theirs, and we highly recommend them to anyone looking for a top-quality dining experience.”
“Pricey but we ate deliciously.
Left in the picture: belly roll (amazing, soft fish that is so soft it melts in your mouth)
Right in the picture: Yummy Roll. (With a smokey touch, perfect combination of flavors)
I also recommend the crispy rice and the edamame.”
“Great food !! Had no chance to take a picture of the food but I got the chipotle rice bowl! Delicious, big portions. Dad got the pull pork he said it was yummy ! The desserts were AMAZINGLY DELICIOUS! Will definitely be back out next trip to Cali. You will also see the owner greet every table, I think that’s amazing! Makes you feel well taken care of. Thank you !”
“Amazing food and atmosphere. We sat at the bar and have to give our bartender/waiter Jake a huge shout out. He was the best! Definitely going back again.”
“I can’t believe what I thought I was eating before was pizza! Such fresh ingredients, I felt I was eating direct from the garden. Even the plentiful cheese tasted super fresh. Make note that this excellent pie takes time to make. You can rush perfection. Be patient and have a beer on tap!”
“Christian was amazing. For sure the best BBQ place in all of Newport Beach. We don’t visit often, but when we do we always make sure to come and visit this place!!!”
“Always great sashimi whenever we’re there. This place NEVER disappoints.”
“A very welcoming staff, thanks Oscar!, and good food being served here. We were a large group and ordered both the hot and cold appetizer samplers which all delicious, definitely give the babaganoush a try. Also tried their kibbeh nayyeh which when mixed well is delicious. We ordered the family dinner and all the meats were cooked just right, flavorful and juicy. I washed everything down with a cold glass of Almaza beer. Cheers!”
“Been going here for over 30 years 😲. Tortellini Pesto is my family’s favorite. If we go even close we make a point of eating here, or will order a large catering pan full to take home to Riverside county Mark and Julie have created a great and memorable place to eat”
“Delicious sushi, always fresh! Friendly and efficient staff. One of my favorite sushi places!”
“Great food! Warm and very friendly greeting at the front. Best dining service provided by the staff.”
“Hands down BEST Pit Builders in California! I spent 5 years researching and slowly deciding who and when to get my pit and after a lengthy process I’m more then thrilled to have my 120 Gallon Harper Pit! It’s a no brainer they are often imitated but never duplicated with their ingenuity and craftsmanship is second to none.”
“this was me and my husband's anniversary dinner
We happen to stumble across this restaurant
Hats off too this place! Everything was so delicious so fresh, and not only that it was so beautiful the presentation the taste the quality of the food was top-notch”
“Whatta wonderful treat to be at this fabulous place! Such great classic dishes that you don’t see anymore on menus like King crab legs & all the different types of steaks. The lights are low & the service is impeccable. A gem in the coastal cities of the OC.❤️”
“Nice place, clean and friendly staff. Most importantly, the food is so awesome. The owner takes pride with his food! Not only the plating looks nice, but it’s so tasty. I don’t even understand those 1 star reviews. Will definitely come back for more!”
“Food was delicious champagne was nice we also enjoyed the music”
“Had an amazing dinner this evening, and Ursula is a gem of a human! Thank you for the amazing service and care you provided, we had an incredible time. Thank you!”
“Staff here super nice and welcoming. Food feels like slightly elevated comfort food. Great seasoning and depth of flavor in everything we tried.
Pork katsu bite was a little dry though. Will come back again.”
“VACA offers another incredible experience. Their food is simply amazing, and the service is impeccable. The atmosphere is electric, making it a perfect place for a special occasion. I highly recommend making reservations, as it gets packed on weekends. The wine list is extensive and impressive, and the drinks are always top-notch.”
“They have the best coffee selection and their food is amazing! Also helps that each location is a cool vibe and their staff is pretty awesome.”
“Popped in with my wife for a drink before dinner and I wished we could have stayed longer. We grabbed a seat at the bar and both got the bartenders choice flight, which comes with (3) 2ounce glasses. Edwin picked some solid choices that we both loved. He was also saying they have trivia nights on Thursdays. All in all a solid place to go hang out with a date or even a group of people. Edwin you’ve done an amazing job with the place. Keep up the great work. Thanks for a great evening. Will Definitely be back.”
“The service was exceptional and very quick. From the moment we sat down, our server Miguel was attentive and gave great suggestions. Our food came out quick and was quite delicious. Overall, a great experience and will come back again soon.”
“Great exhibits educated team on floor ! Cool And calm environment ! Lots of refreshing recharge snacks beverages etc”
“There’s a nice Asian restaurant with good-quality food, and you get to barbecue your own meal, which is really fun. The place is a bit small, but it’s nice overall. Their rice was also very delicious.”
“I had an amazing experience! The sushi and sake are both great. The rice in the nigiri is perfect. Sake selection is probably the best I’ve seen in any sushi bar in SoCal. And hats off to chef Makoto and Akira for creating such a wonderful place! I’m definitely coming back.”
“The best Thai Food restaurant in Southern California. I would name my favorite dishes, but there’s too many to choose from 🍛 And I can’t ever skip the mango sticky rice 😍”
“I am in town visiting from across the country and this is one of the best sushi places I have ever been to. I say that as a person who worked for seven years in a sushi establishment. The service is so fast and the employees are so kind. Our sushi was delicious and even their desserts are great. We went back twice and it is truly just an exemplary restaurant. I know I have their staff to thank for my experience, so thank you guys! Keep it up 👍🏼”
“Absolutely Awesome!! This location has a great atmosphere and the employees are very attentive and friendly. The food came out fast, hot and fresh!! AND they are open 7 days per week !!! EVERYDAY!!”
“Great place for a quiet lunch. Attentive service and good recommendations for wine”
“We came to conquer the giant cinnamon roll and were bested, unfortunately. My mother-in-law got the biscuits and gravy, albeit not recommended in somewhere like where Plum's Cafe does business, but she got it none-the-less. Biscuit was hard, which would've been fine if they had actually put any gravy on the plate. There was such a small amount of gravy, which also had no flavor, that it made spending more than $20 on it completely not worth it. Season your gravy and give people enough to actually make their biscuit edible, please.
The atmosphere was obviously loud since we went on a Sunday morning, we sat outside and it did seem quieter when we were in the midst of the noise, which could be great seating placement or just a happy accident.”
“What a hidden gem! We heard about this place from friends and decided to make it a date night. We loved the food, the staff was super friendly, and the atmosphere was lively and fun. It was perfect! We'll definitely be coming back.”
“Visited this bar for the first time and was truly impressed. The décor is stunning, the cocktails were excellent, and the atmosphere felt effortlessly chic. I also have to highlight the wonderful conversation with the bartender and their fantastic mezcal recommendations—absolutely spot on. A beautiful experience all around!”
“Great Chips & Salsa! Chilaquiles are THE BEST EVER! Portions are huge! Great margaritas! The staff is THEE BEST! Highly recommending casa for dining in or catering your next event! The fiesta packs will feed a small village! Great for parties or get togethers when you just don’t feel Like cooking!”
“We always eat here before the theatre. Food is great, service is great, and very convenient. I like dining and then walking over to the theatre.”
“A hidden gem with a trendy taste that’s hard to find elsewhere. I ordered Matcha Latte with macadamia milk and it was SO GOOD, just the right amount of sweetness! 🥰 I was also impressed with the quick and great customer service! (Torrance Area) Definitely coming back. 🍵☺️”
“Wow!! I just wish we lived closer so we could come more often. This place was amazing to eat at during vacation. Me and my husband shared the brisket and tri tip. Both were phenomenal but we liked the tri tip a little more. The sides were delicious as well!! We tried the Brussels sprouts, Mac and cheese, and creamy corn YUM!!! Our waiter was so friendly and great and letting us know what was more popular and she really helped us enjoy our food. We will have to visit again and eat here!!”
“Nice little bistro. Food was surprisingly good. Portions on the small side. Goat cheese toast was incredible. Pizzas felt slightly underbaked. Service was slow but friendly. Tap water here had a heavy chlorine taste to it. Not the cheapest menu but interesting dishes. Will be back.”
Latest Reviews
“Nothing fishy about this place. It's a small family run business. Blame covid for the price increases and there are sign posted to make you aware of the increase. it's the best food and most reasonable prices in town. if you cant afford a 11 dish then don't buy or complain about it. These reviews are for the food not whiners.”
“Poul’s Bakery took our breath away , we couldn’t believe the cake we have taken pictures from we have searched the internet images and sent it to her the custom cake we wanted , and not only she made the identical one ,the taste was so delicious actually finished the entire slice, it’s rare for me to eat the whole slice, as many cakes are made with to much sugar , it overwhelms to entire cakes other ingredients, this was so perfectly balanced ,and l asked for second , so did few guests , we as host wished we ordered the bigger size , we don’t like the buttercream topping due to its excessive sugar , we ordered her soexisl topping , while you others ask no buttercream but we want Poul’s Bakery special topping we heard so much about it , sorry l don’t remember what it was called . My bad ,this Poul’s baker we also find out been around for decades as she is the second owner but uses the same original recipes. She said it’s a company secret Lol, we respect that Try Poul’s Bakery , it won’t s sidelong you and ask for a sample of their fantastic cannolis . And on the spot in events she actually make the cake front of your guests . We never tried that but people are ranting about it and went at viral with millions of views and shared ,,we saw it in her website . Poul’s Bakery didn’t disappoint us , give them a try Best from Goldstein family”
“Great service, My friends and I come from Germany, and our English is so so, most of this I had to use Google Translate. However, there was a kind young lady who was able to help us in German with a name something along the lines of Jessi, and she was very helpful, especially for my friends who can't really speak English well. So I wanted to give credit, and the food was great.”
“This is my favorite restaurant! I loved it back when it was on Bristol, but I have been back to the new Red Hill location twice now and it is even more of a special dining experience. Massimo has come out to explain the history of the wine and food and the sources of his ingredients. He tells wonderful stories with a great sense of humor, and his daughter who helps serve is also very knowledgeable and delightful. I feel transported and hosted in a way I have never experienced in a restaurant. The food is amazing. The fresh handmade pasta melts in your mouth. We have eaten every dessert and they are all spectacular. Every wine and appetizer we have tried has been extraordinary. I couldn't recommend this place more.”
“Delish and great staff. The staff IS family and they treat not only their customers like family, but the other staff as well. That means a lot. We had a fun time with DJ and Pleng. About the food... We had 4 dishes... Hanuman's ceviche, Tom Kha Gai, Massaman, Pad See Ew and a nice glass of Malbec. My favorites were the ceviche and Massaman. But everything was so good. Hubs liked everything. There was literally no wait at 3 pm but come soon... Once word gets out this place will have a 45 min wait just like the mother location on Bristol.”
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“Great decorative place in excellent location. Plenty of parking on a Saturday as that area is not too busy. Menu as expected with great cocktails and food was great too. Service could have been better due to very low amount of people dining but was adequate I guess. Definitely worth coming back.”
“We went for Sunday brunch and it did not disappoint. Our server Roberto was super kind and always made sure to check in on us. The food was good for a brunch buffet. They had freshly made tortillas for the taco bar and the made to order omelette at the omelette bar was delicious! The complimentary pancakes were also super yummy! The servers were always walking around to be sure the bottomless mimosas were being refilled. Super great experience and we'll definitely be back.”
“Okay, I thought this was one of this joints where you order “Xtra Crack” in the comments and you get some smoking crack. Imagine my disappointment when I opened my bag and all I had was delicious chicken, fries and amazing coleslaw. Honestly though, I think that chicken has smoking crack in it cause I just finished eating and I’m already itching for some more…. Maybe you could help a fella out and get me some chicken? Come on man! Please?!?!?”
New Restaurants
“I recently stopped by Chailo Coffee Club and it did not disappoint. The drinks are seriously good—everything tastes fresh and well-crafted. The sisters who run the place are incredibly friendly and welcoming…. “ You know who you are”, which makes the whole experience even better. The vibe is super chic and stylish, perfect for grabbing coffee and hanging out. Definitely a go-to spot if you’re in Costa Mesa and want a great cup of coffee.”
“This place had tacos, quesadillas & a torta selection. Located inside the Northgate Mercado, within their main food court area. I only got the chicken quesadilla but everything looked great. Service was good, and unbelievably fast. I highly recommend. Atmosphere wise it was good, and during the Holiday week they had a DJ, just didn’t love how loud it was. So good tunes, just loud for peeps who just want to get a bite. Luckily, there’s an outdoor sitting area!”
“Was pretty blown away by the ambition and quality of the drinks. Definitely experimental. Healthy sized menu with quite a bit of variety. Some very bold combinations that basically work.
Atmosphere wise, it's not that loud given how tiny the space is.
Edit came back a year later. Too sweet mist though ok”
“Tremendous meal, first timers. Although they had a multi course Valentines menu that evening, we wanted to explore more of the menu. Three of us, one being my 83 year old mother-in-law, had 5 appetizers and salad, and three entrees. Hit it out of the park on everything. We had the charred cabbage, broiled marinated carrots, short rib chili(killer), beet and feta cheese salad, and house made olive oil bread and whipped butter. Every dish great attention to detail, delicious and varied saucing. We could have stopped there, but we continued on to the trout, hangar steak, and 12 oz pork chop. The sauce on that baby was tremendous, and I’m currently finishing the left overs in my hotel room for breakfast covered in that remarkable sauce. Service was spot on, timing was appropriately spaced out. Definitely put Verde on your map.”
“The Sunrise burrito es the best one I ever had, seriously that good! Ordered online for pick up, Burrito was perfect, fresh and the salsas are so good too! Staff is super friendly and genuine, no wonder is packed! Keep up the good work! Im a customer for life now! yum!”
“We absolutely love working with and also dining here at VOX Kitchen Costa Mesa. It’s always a pleasure to support a business that not only serves amazing food, but also treats people with genuine kindness and professionalism. From both a business perspective and as customers, our experience with VOX has been nothing short of excellent. The staff here are always very kind, cordial, welcoming, and respectful. Whether we are working with them directly or coming in to enjoy a meal, they consistently make us feel appreciated and taken care of.
One of the biggest reasons we love coming here is because of their friendly service and, of course, their incredible food. The food at VOX Kitchen is always consistently delicious and has truly never failed us. Every visit has been a great experience, and now that the Costa Mesa location is open, VOX is definitely one of the top places to eat, unwind, and enjoy a great atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to come for lunch, dinner, happy hour, cocktails, or just a fun night out.
Their happy hour and specialty cocktails are another big reason why we enjoy coming here. They have a great variety of unique drinks, and you can tell there is real attention to detail in both the food and beverage program. It really adds to the overall experience and makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy yourself.
Our personal favorites are the Lomo Saltado and the ceviche, both of which are absolutely amazing and a must-try. The Lomo Saltado is always packed with flavor, cooked perfectly, and incredibly satisfying every single time. The ceviche is fresh, perfectly prepared, and one of the standout dishes on the menu. Along with that, they offer many specialty cocktails that pair perfectly with the food and make the dining experience even better.
If you’re in the Costa Mesa area and looking for a place with excellent food, amazing service, kind and professional staff, great cocktails, and an all-around enjoyable atmosphere, VOX Kitchen Costa Mesa is definitely a place you need to visit. We truly enjoy both working with them and being customers of theirs, and we highly recommend them to anyone looking for a top-quality dining experience.”
“Stopped by The Moon and loved the vibe! The minimalist, the inside aesthetic is beautiful and perfect for relaxing or do some work on computer.
The Pistachio Croissant was flaky and fresh, and their green tea drinks are really good with high quality matcha from Japan.
I really appreciated that they can adjust the sugar levels in their drinks, my Black Sesame Latte was perfect and not too sweet. Great service and even better pastries! 🥐☕️”
“It was a great experience the owner/manager helped us choose food options and the amount of spice each food item to make it the best experience possible, excellent kimchi. The staff was cordial and very attentive. My colleagues and I enjoyed the food and the atmosphere.”
“Fun new spot near the airport in Irvine with tasty beer and a great vibe. Tucked back in an industrial area but with a great big outdoor patio with plenty of seating. Inside has a mix of tables couches and bar seating with a fun vibe. Hip music playing throughout. Incredibly friendly staff talk through the beers on tap to help make selections. Taster sized pours mean you can try all of them without feeling guilty. A few seltzers on tap I didn’t try but also a selection of IPAs, IIPAs and pilsners. Brewer has experience from Greek Cheek and excited to see what they have in store. Check it out for sure!”
“Seed Oil Free & Quality ingredients- this place has my heart! 🤩🫶🩷🎉 I was OVERjoyed to learn that the organic sourdough bun was an option- I haven’t had a burger like this in years due to these types of ingredients not being an option where I live. I eat extremely clean foods because I have an autoimmune disease- why is quality food so rare to find?!?!
The special sauce is incredible and the tallow French fries are so so yummy!
We’re from PA and I want this place to come home with us!!!! Hoping to visit Palms n’ Patties again soon! Wish I could have taken pictures- but I ate my burger SO FAST that I didn’t get to capture the goodness!”
“We found Avila’s El Ranchito on-line and decided to give it a try. We had about 45 minute wait so we knew it must be good. A little mix up in the list to be seated. There was another “David party of 2” that arrived AFTER we did but they jumped at the chance to be seated before us. The staff was very friendly. The portions were large enough that we shared a meal and were plenty satisfied. The food was very delicious. The salsa was not what you would call mild so for those with sensitive palates be aware! The atmosphere was loud inside but relatively quiet outside. We would dine at this restaurant again.”