What Are the Must-Try Restaurants in Costa Mesa for Food Lovers?
Costa Mesa, located in the heart of Orange County, California, is a vibrant culinary destination that promises a diverse range of dining experiences for food lovers. Whether you're craving a casual bite or an elegant fine dining experience, Costa Mesa has something to satisfy every palate. Here’s a guide to some of the must-try restaurants in this bustling city that will leave you coming back for more. From upscale dining to casual eateries, the variety of choices in Costa Mesa makes it a hotspot for food lovers seeking unique flavors and exceptional dining experiences. This Costa Mesa restaurant scene is a reflection of the city’s dynamic and diverse food culture, where both locals and visitors can enjoy an unforgettable culinary adventure.
1. Old Vine Kitchen & Bar
Old Vine Kitchen & Bar is a staple in Costa Mesa’s food scene. Known for its contemporary twist on classic dishes, the restaurant offers a unique blend of seasonal ingredients and inventive flavors. The eclectic menu includes everything from fresh seafood to inventive cocktails, and the atmosphere is both warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a casual lunch or an intimate dinner. For food lovers, the carefully crafted tasting menus paired with exceptional wines are a must-try.
2. Taco Maria
If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, Taco Maria is a Costa Mesa restaurant you cannot miss. This Michelin-starred gem offers an elevated dining experience with a focus on authentic Mexican ingredients and flavors. The tasting menu is a culinary journey that blends Mexican traditions with contemporary flair. Taco Maria’s inventive dishes, such as the Chile en Nogada and the Oaxacan mole, are sure to delight anyone looking for a high-end yet approachable Mexican dining experience.
3. East Borough
For a more laid-back, yet equally impressive experience, head to East Borough. This casual Vietnamese restaurant is known for its fresh takes on traditional Vietnamese dishes. From pho to banh mi, each dish is made with high-quality ingredients and bursts with flavor. The restaurant's modern atmosphere and the creative, fusion-style menu make it one of the best spots for those craving something different in Costa Mesa.
4. Bluefin Fine Japanese Cuisine
For lovers of sushi and Japanese cuisine, Bluefin Fine Japanese Cuisine is a must-visit Costa Mesa restaurant. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, Bluefin brings an authentic Japanese dining experience to Orange County. The sushi bar is a highlight, with master sushi chefs crafting beautiful, melt-in-your-mouth creations right before your eyes. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional sushi platter or a specialty roll, Bluefin offers something for everyone.
5. The Capital Grille
If you’re in the mood for a sophisticated, upscale dining experience, The Capital Grille is a top choice. Specializing in dry-aged steaks and seafood, this renowned restaurant offers a menu that combines classic American steakhouse fare with exceptional service. The elegant, wood-paneled atmosphere is perfect for special occasions, and the wine list features a wide variety of top-tier selections to pair with your meal. For a true indulgence, don’t miss out on their signature 22-ounce bone-in ribeye or the tender filet mignon.
6. Mastro’s Steakhouse
Another luxurious option for steak lovers is Mastro’s Steakhouse, located in the South Coast Plaza area. Known for its world-class steaks, seafood, and exceptional service, this upscale restaurant is perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to enjoy a memorable meal. The menu features a variety of steaks, including the famous 16-ounce New York strip, as well as an extensive wine list and decadent sides like truffle mashed potatoes and lobster mashed potatoes.
7. Matiki Island Barbecue
Matiki Island Barbecue offers a unique Hawaiian-inspired dining experience that is full of vibrant flavors and mouth-watering aromas. Located in the heart of Costa Mesa, this restaurant serves up flavorful barbecue plates, poke bowls, and a variety of island-inspired dishes. Whether you’re craving slow-cooked pork or grilled shrimp, Matiki’s tropical flavors will transport you straight to the islands. Don’t forget to try their refreshing Hawaiian-inspired cocktails to complete the experience.
8. Plums Café & Catering
For a more casual breakfast or brunch option, Plums Café & Catering is a beloved Costa Mesa institution. This cozy spot offers an array of comfort food favorites, from fluffy pancakes and omelets to hearty sandwiches and fresh salads. Known for its warm, welcoming vibe and fresh ingredients, Plums is the perfect place to grab a satisfying meal with family or friends. Their signature cinnamon rolls and freshly brewed coffee are popular favorites to start your day off right.
9. The Lab Anti-Mall
While not technically a single restaurant, The Lab Anti-Mall is a unique shopping and dining space in Costa Mesa that’s home to a variety of food vendors offering eclectic and creative dishes. From vegan-friendly options to unique fusion creations, The Lab showcases some of the best local chefs and food vendors in the area. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, gourmet donuts, or artisan pizza, The Lab’s dynamic food scene offers something new and exciting with each visit.
10. Café Tu Tu Tango
For a fun and vibrant dining experience, Café Tu Tu Tango is a great choice. This artsy tapas-style restaurant offers a variety of small plates and shareable dishes, making it perfect for groups or date nights. With its lively atmosphere and colorful decor, Café Tu Tu Tango provides a truly unique dining experience. The menu features everything from crab cakes and chicken skewers to spicy shrimp and sangria, creating a lively and flavorful adventure for your taste buds.
11. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
If you're a wine lover, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is a Costa Mesa restaurant you won’t want to miss. Offering an extensive wine list and a menu of expertly crafted dishes, The Winery combines the best of both worlds. From fresh seafood to succulent steaks, every dish is thoughtfully prepared with quality ingredients. The restaurant’s relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance makes it the perfect spot for a leisurely dinner or wine tasting.
Conclusion
Costa Mesa is a food lover’s paradise, with an abundance of diverse and innovative restaurants to explore. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale fine dining, casual bites, or international flavors, this vibrant city has something for everyone. From the Michelin-starred Taco Maria to the laid-back vibes of East Borough, Costa Mesa’s restaurant scene continues to thrive and offer exciting culinary experiences.
As you plan your next visit, be sure to check out Blossoms & Brass for some beautiful gifts or a personalized touch to complement your dining adventure. Their unique selection of custom gift boxes and luxurious gift items will add that perfect finishing touch to your culinary journey in Costa Mesa.
1. Old Vine Kitchen & Bar
Old Vine Kitchen & Bar is a staple in Costa Mesa’s food scene. Known for its contemporary twist on classic dishes, the restaurant offers a unique blend of seasonal ingredients and inventive flavors. The eclectic menu includes everything from fresh seafood to inventive cocktails, and the atmosphere is both warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a casual lunch or an intimate dinner. For food lovers, the carefully crafted tasting menus paired with exceptional wines are a must-try.
2. Taco Maria
If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, Taco Maria is a Costa Mesa restaurant you cannot miss. This Michelin-starred gem offers an elevated dining experience with a focus on authentic Mexican ingredients and flavors. The tasting menu is a culinary journey that blends Mexican traditions with contemporary flair. Taco Maria’s inventive dishes, such as the Chile en Nogada and the Oaxacan mole, are sure to delight anyone looking for a high-end yet approachable Mexican dining experience.
3. East Borough
For a more laid-back, yet equally impressive experience, head to East Borough. This casual Vietnamese restaurant is known for its fresh takes on traditional Vietnamese dishes. From pho to banh mi, each dish is made with high-quality ingredients and bursts with flavor. The restaurant's modern atmosphere and the creative, fusion-style menu make it one of the best spots for those craving something different in Costa Mesa.
4. Bluefin Fine Japanese Cuisine
For lovers of sushi and Japanese cuisine, Bluefin Fine Japanese Cuisine is a must-visit Costa Mesa restaurant. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, Bluefin brings an authentic Japanese dining experience to Orange County. The sushi bar is a highlight, with master sushi chefs crafting beautiful, melt-in-your-mouth creations right before your eyes. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional sushi platter or a specialty roll, Bluefin offers something for everyone.
5. The Capital Grille
If you’re in the mood for a sophisticated, upscale dining experience, The Capital Grille is a top choice. Specializing in dry-aged steaks and seafood, this renowned restaurant offers a menu that combines classic American steakhouse fare with exceptional service. The elegant, wood-paneled atmosphere is perfect for special occasions, and the wine list features a wide variety of top-tier selections to pair with your meal. For a true indulgence, don’t miss out on their signature 22-ounce bone-in ribeye or the tender filet mignon.
6. Mastro’s Steakhouse
Another luxurious option for steak lovers is Mastro’s Steakhouse, located in the South Coast Plaza area. Known for its world-class steaks, seafood, and exceptional service, this upscale restaurant is perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to enjoy a memorable meal. The menu features a variety of steaks, including the famous 16-ounce New York strip, as well as an extensive wine list and decadent sides like truffle mashed potatoes and lobster mashed potatoes.
7. Matiki Island Barbecue
Matiki Island Barbecue offers a unique Hawaiian-inspired dining experience that is full of vibrant flavors and mouth-watering aromas. Located in the heart of Costa Mesa, this restaurant serves up flavorful barbecue plates, poke bowls, and a variety of island-inspired dishes. Whether you’re craving slow-cooked pork or grilled shrimp, Matiki’s tropical flavors will transport you straight to the islands. Don’t forget to try their refreshing Hawaiian-inspired cocktails to complete the experience.
8. Plums Café & Catering
For a more casual breakfast or brunch option, Plums Café & Catering is a beloved Costa Mesa institution. This cozy spot offers an array of comfort food favorites, from fluffy pancakes and omelets to hearty sandwiches and fresh salads. Known for its warm, welcoming vibe and fresh ingredients, Plums is the perfect place to grab a satisfying meal with family or friends. Their signature cinnamon rolls and freshly brewed coffee are popular favorites to start your day off right.
9. The Lab Anti-Mall
While not technically a single restaurant, The Lab Anti-Mall is a unique shopping and dining space in Costa Mesa that’s home to a variety of food vendors offering eclectic and creative dishes. From vegan-friendly options to unique fusion creations, The Lab showcases some of the best local chefs and food vendors in the area. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, gourmet donuts, or artisan pizza, The Lab’s dynamic food scene offers something new and exciting with each visit.
10. Café Tu Tu Tango
For a fun and vibrant dining experience, Café Tu Tu Tango is a great choice. This artsy tapas-style restaurant offers a variety of small plates and shareable dishes, making it perfect for groups or date nights. With its lively atmosphere and colorful decor, Café Tu Tu Tango provides a truly unique dining experience. The menu features everything from crab cakes and chicken skewers to spicy shrimp and sangria, creating a lively and flavorful adventure for your taste buds.
11. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
If you're a wine lover, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is a Costa Mesa restaurant you won’t want to miss. Offering an extensive wine list and a menu of expertly crafted dishes, The Winery combines the best of both worlds. From fresh seafood to succulent steaks, every dish is thoughtfully prepared with quality ingredients. The restaurant’s relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance makes it the perfect spot for a leisurely dinner or wine tasting.
Conclusion
Costa Mesa is a food lover’s paradise, with an abundance of diverse and innovative restaurants to explore. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale fine dining, casual bites, or international flavors, this vibrant city has something for everyone. From the Michelin-starred Taco Maria to the laid-back vibes of East Borough, Costa Mesa’s restaurant scene continues to thrive and offer exciting culinary experiences.
As you plan your next visit, be sure to check out Blossoms & Brass for some beautiful gifts or a personalized touch to complement your dining adventure. Their unique selection of custom gift boxes and luxurious gift items will add that perfect finishing touch to your culinary journey in Costa Mesa.
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