50 Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Costa Mesa

“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.“

“Sushi Shunka is our go-to spot for celebrating special occasions and also our fave sushi spot in OC. Located in a strip mall at the corner of E. 17th Street and Tustin Avenue in Costa Mesa, the restaurant specializes in authentic sushi and Japanese cuisine. "Shunka" means "Flavor of the Season", so they of course select their fish depending on the season and in addition to customer favorites. The sushi chefs are veterans and the wait staff are polite helping to provide an unforgettable dining experience to their customers.

I highly recommend sitting at the sushi bar and ordering one of the omakase options. On our recent visit, I ordered the Chef's Omakase which included 10 pieces of sushi including sea bream, Japanese sea bass, mackerel, amberjack, toro and bluefin tuna among others. The sushi is always top-qualify and practically melts in your mouth. I have a big appetite so I also supplemented my meal with a toro hand roll, blue fin tuna hand roll and fried Hamachi Kama. Everything is made to order and is so oishi! Having said that, this is fine dining so expect to pay a high price but know that it’s worth every penny. As I mentioned before we only visit on special occasions, so I’m already hoping we’ll have a reason to celebrate again soon!“

“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.“

“Very delicious food ❤️Friendly staff❤️“

“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.“

“Paradise Dynasty – Truly a Dumpling Lover's Paradise! We absolutely love Paradise Dynasty in Costa Mesa and have been there at least once a month for past few months — it's hands down our family's favorite spot for dumplings! The variety here is incredible, especially for anyone who loves flavor and options. From the moment you sit down, you're welcomed with a menu full of creative dumpling choices that go way beyond the usual. As vegetarians, we're used to seeing just one veggie dumpling option on most menus — but not here! Paradise Dynasty is truly a paradise for vegetarians. There are tons of delicious veggie options, and each one tastes unique and flavorful. It's so refreshing to actually have variety! The noodles are just as impressive — each noodle dish has its own distinct flavor and personality. From spicy to savory to rich and comforting, you can really taste the difference in every bite. Nothing feels repetitive or bland. Our kids adore this place — it's their go-to dumpling restaurant. They always look forward to ending the meal with the warm, gooey chocolate lava buns (a must-try!). And for the grown-ups, the mango pudding is the perfect way to wrap up the meal — light, smooth, and just the right amount of sweetness. If you're a dumpling fan — especially a vegetarian one — this place is a dream. We'll definitely keep coming back again and again! Also the service is great and servers actually pay attention and come check on you. Definitely recommend!“

“Excellent delicious food, the octopus with the eggplant salad and beets is amazing. Heavily recommended.“

“Unit shots and Madai with yuzu kosho“

“Wow... simply wow. The service of the waiters are the old school traditional one, if you're used to eat outside often, you know what I'm talking about. Responsive, fast, attentive and straightforward. The food is absolutely delicious, I'm still dreaming about the cheese boars (if you go, don't even think about it, just order it).
I wish they would've had more space inside but not a problem at all, we had such a good time that I can't complain about anything. It's worth to mention the parking is accessible and the area is beautiful, very secure and nice for a walk after dinner at night.“

“Great food! Warm and very friendly greeting at the front. Best dining service provided by the staff.“

“Great pizza, came out fast. Went with their most popular and loved it. Even went back to get their chicken pesto, just as good.
It’s a really cool spot and has a speakeasy in the back! Did not expect that.
10/10. I’ll definitely be back“

“Really love this restaurant! Last night was our second visit and every dish was excellent! The outstanding quality of the ingredients stands out in all of the preparations! We started with a peaches/burrata salad and it did not disappoint! Flavorful peaches, high quality burrata and beautiful greens! We had the mushroom risotto for the second time and...perfectly cooked and deep mushroom flavor! The tagliata was also perfectly cooked - al dente pasta in a rich and delicious sauce. And, the branzino (again second time) was over the top fabulous! Honestly a dish Lemon & Thyme does EXTREMELY well! The ambiance is absolutely lovely! Warm and comfortable and the service and staff could not be better! If you haven't been to Lemon & Thyme make a res and go! You won't be disappointed!

Dietary restrictions: Plenty of gluten free options!“

“Absolutely amazing! This is the spot I’ve been taking everyone. Place inside is kinda small but super cozy and cute. You order at the kiosk and it’s super easy/convenient. They make the food in the front and it definitely adds a personalized touch. My favorites are the seared salmon and unagi yubu! They look small but 3 of them is the perfect amount for meal for me

Dietary restrictions: They prepare the food by the kiosk and you can ask them any questions directly“

“manager Saeed is outstanding the coffee was hot the server was very attentive I'll be sure to go back“

“Everything we had was so delicious. My 12 year old non vegan son loved it all too!“

“Excellent taco spot in Costa Mesa. The atmosphere is great and they have delicious food. The poke nachos were a stand out item and I especially loved the ribeye taco. Worth checking out!

Parking: Parking lot behind restaurant“

“Authentic, great service, fun staff!“

“Thanks for making my niece Charlie’s 5th birthday 🥳 celebration memorable tonight!! 🪅🎉🎊“

“We made a reservation for our Anniversary celebration and the restaurant went above and beyond to acknowledge our special occasion. Starting with a congrats from the hostess, to the waiter, to a nice card, to a gift card for an app or flatbread, they made our meal and outing special. We have eaten here often, and order pick-up often as well, and it is one of our favorite restaurants for the quality and value. Service and food are always excellent, as was this meal.“

“Love the Brussels sprouts!!!“

“Stopped in this cafe on a whim today and was so happy I did. I got the breakfast sandwich with bacon. Everything was cooked to perfection. The sourdough was amazingly good, crisp and chewy, and the eggs were fluffy. The staff was so friendly and nice and the pricing was very reasonable. Wished I took photos but it was too good and I ate it so fast! Highly recommend this spot.“

“Great food, friendly service and amazing staff to take care of you“

“Love this place. First time here. Super authentic legit Soba / Udon place. All hand crafted. Chicken Tempura Curry Udon / Shabu Shabu Spicy Udon / Classic Tempura Udon. All fantastic. Does justice to our 10yrs in Japan. Wish we lived closer to here. But will mos def. Shout out to Scarlett, my number one fan for reading this ;-)“

“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.“

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

“It was yummy and fast. Everything was fresh and clean“

“THey have great food. Friendly staff Quick service and a clean pleasant eating environment.“

“One of my favorite sushi bars in CM!!! 2 orders 3 roll Maki special Tuna Lover, White Tiger, Shrimp Super Crunch, Soft shell crab, baked scallops, Newport special Salmon 👍🏽“

“Very good“

“This is my go to place 😁“

“Food was so delicious recommended for who hasn’t tried it , and great service as well my first time. I would come back, but I’m too far. I’m from San Antonio Texas. Thumbs up 👍 👍“

“Always great sashimi whenever we’re there. This place NEVER disappoints.“

“The service was great and the sushi was delish! Great job redecorating and the music was nice too! 👍✌️🍣“

“I haven’t been disappointed when I crave a cheat burger, fries (and tots!) and drink. This place gives it to you messy, like those old Carls Jr. commercials, and I love every bit of the cheeze and sauce all over my face. I try and order something new every time bc it’s all good.“

“I ordered a dozen empanadas, mixed. they were made fresh and they were made fast and they were all delicious. I will be back and I will definitely be recommending this place to friends and family.“

“They have real chilaquiles not the chips covered in sauce!! Very delicious!“

“So happy they finally opened! Always great service! Amazing quality meat and fresh veggies!“

“Amazingly wholesome food. I came across this local business and it was so well prepared, you could taste the love and care that goes into their meals. I spoke with the owner as I was waiting for my food and you can tell that he really cares about his customers and preparing quality food. They cater too! If you are staying at the Hilton, you must try out this place!“

“άψογο μαγαζί και άψογη εξυπηρέτηση“

“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!“

“I came to Tabu Shabu on a Friday right before happy hour ended, and they were kind enough to still honor it—great service! This spot has been hyped a lot, and I’d say it’s worth the visit, especially with the happy hour discount. Without it, the prices are a bit on the higher side, but the quality makes up for it.

I ordered the lamb and beef, both of which were flavorful and satisfying. The highlight was definitely the service of turning my leftover hot pot into porridge—it made for a delicious and hearty late-night meal. It’s a lot of food, so you definitely get your fill.

Overall, a solid spot for hot pot if you’re looking for good quality and unique offerings. Definitely recommend catching happy hour if you can!“

“This is the best Thai food I’ve had in all of OC. I had the spicy pork noodle soup and golden pouches, both were 10 out of 10, and the Thai coffee was the perfect accompaniment to the spicy meal! Can’t wait to go again. Excellent service too!“

“Todo esta riquisimo especialmente las quesadillas son mis favoritas“

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

“The pizza is indeed delicious and they have very innovative flavors, such as potato pizza, pear and Gorgonzola, etc. I wish the place was better kept, it has very limited tables, they don’t offer fountain drinks, just drinks by the can and the variety is limited. If you live far from this place and takeout is not an option, you may end up eating the pizza standing up.“

“I visited Yard House on a Thursday night, which wasn't too busy, but still kinda hyped. I was greeted by the host and sat at the Bar. The drinks were so good. I tried the Lavender lemon drop Martini, and it was amazing. The host recommended their whiskey glazed salmon, and it was absolutely delicious. All the staff were super friendly and I had a great experience at this location.“

“Truly phenomenal service from the waiter, Jatinder, and the new owner, Robin! They were so attentive, kindly checked on us frequently, and kept our water topped up. The pakora, onion bhaji, and samosa appetizer sampler was really delicious and I haven't had such wonderfully and delicately spiced samosas like these that weren't greasy at all. My family thoroughly enjoyed all the dishes. The potions were large and very reasonably priced. The location is a bit tucked away on the corner of Harbor/Adams as they don't have a sign on the large marquee, but it's a gem worth finding!“

“Perfect place for lunch sandwiches and burritos. All Fresh Dailey Patio dining Great.“

“Nice place.“

“We had such a great experience at Yuzu Sushi! The service was outstanding—Ann P. was an incredible host who truly took care of us with kindness and attention. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making the whole dining experience even better.

The sushi itself was absolutely top-notch—fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. What I loved most is that it wasn’t greasy at all, just pure, clean taste that makes you want to keep eating more.

Highly recommend this spot to all sushi lovers—you’ll definitely leave satisfied!“