22 Best Italian Restaurants in Costa Mesa

“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.“

“My sister has Celiac and cannot have gluten. This Italian restaurant has the best gluten free pizza there is. The chef and mother of the restaurant who created the dough and menu was available to talk to and thank. Her son was our waiter and was like family by the time we left. Amazing food and warm and personal service. My gnocchi were made with ricotta in a cream sauce, outstanding. You must go here!“

“Really enjoyed a great breakfast here polite hostess and the food was absolutely delicious“

“Delicious Italian cuisine! Stylish interior of the Restaurant!“

“amazing food! fungi pasta was out of this world!“

“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“

“The food is fantastic, the staff is attentive and Thursday nights they have a comedy show that was hilarious. Definitely coming back!“

“What a GEM of a restaurant located in a small strip center. Also includes an Italian market with fantastic prepared Italian meals ready to heat and eat. Our server could not have been more accommodating and attentive. Food was delicious and generous portions. Would highly recommend for families or date night.“

“We’ve been here many times, and it’s truly a super amazing place. The food is always delicious and consistently high quality. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and you just want to keep coming back. The staff is very friendly, attentive, and professional. One of our favorite spots!“

“Highly recommend! We can't say enough good things about this restaurant. From welcoming us, helping us decide what to eat/drink, and the pace of the dinner, Gabrielle made the experience. He is now our favorite waiter of all time. The noise level was perfect; quiet enough to hear each other talk, but not to quiet that everyone can hear conversations from near by tables. The food didn't disappoint. Everything were ordered brought new and exciting flavors. The charcuterie board and artichoke were particularly the best we've had. In a city with incredible food, this is one we will routinely visit and recommend. Thanks for the incredible food and experience.“

“This is my go to place 😁“

“absolutely delicious food!“

“Calamari, pizza and Spumoni were amazing!’“

“Staff was super friendly, service was quick, and the food was great. fresh large portions. highly recommended putting it in your dining rotation.“

“Best Pizza in SoCal if you ask me.“

“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!“

“Fantastic place Great food and atmosphere“

“I LOVE this restaurant and I feel guilty because I work at MACY'S!!! My co-worker and I STALK Ruscello to see when they're serving their amazing chicken pot pie soup. We are so there and don't care if we get fired for dining with the competition if this heavenly soup is on that day's menu. BEST SOUP EVER!“

“altl the food is awesome!“

“Great Pizzas for sure and lot of vegetarian options to select from. The toppings were genuinely overwhelming !!!

Their house made Cauliflower crust is a must try. It is not like other regular frozen hard base, it is really italian Style!!“

“Went with my mom and sister. I had the soup and caprese. My sister had the ceaser salad and my mom had the ravioli. The food was yummy and the service was on point. The crowd is chill and the lighting and decore perfect for my headache from shopping....Anyway check it out“

“This was my first visit. I ordered the sausage and pepper sandwich. It was great. I will definitely be coming back.“