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Local picks

Lunch spots affordable in Costa Mesa

A midday meal should be simple, quick, and easy on the wallet.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
Eat's Sushi image 1
Eat's Sushi image 2
Eat's Sushi image 3
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Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with authentic decor and warm yellow lighting creates a cozy, immersive atmosphere. Busy and popular spot, often filled with couples and groups enjoying fresh, high-quality sushi. Outdoor seating with heaters and a nearby ice cream shop add to the relaxed vibe.

Lots of lunch options make it easy to find something for everyone. The menu suits groups, including kids, for a quick midday meal.

Freshness stands out with an owner focused on using only the best ingredients. Sushi and sashimi come at affordable prices without sacrificing quality or presentation.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is thick, super fresh, tender, and delicious."

"I found the sushi here to be high quality and affordable."

"The sashimi at this Lunch Spot is impeccably fresh and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

The wait can be up to 2 hours long for 2 people, so I recommend RSVPing or arriving early.

2

There was a large parking lot available for guests.

3

Expect an hour wait on the weekend.

02
KJB Pho & Eggrolls image 1

Super small restaurant offers a warm, mellow atmosphere that feels like eating in family home. The space stays neat and tidy, welcoming guests with authentic Vietnamese cuisine served in generous portions. No alcohol is available, and the vibe remains comfortable and inviting throughout visits.

Quick service suits lunch crowds looking for Vietnamese food. The owner offers a friendly vibe that makes grabbing a meal easy and pleasant.

Prices stay extremely affordable without cutting corners. Portions match the value, making the overall experience very budget-friendly.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has a rich, flavorful broth."

"Their Vietnamese coffee is strong, smooth, and delicious."

"It's so affordable for the quality you get."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and free, with a lot right in front of the restaurant.

2

The portion size of the pho is great and very generous.

3

The banh xeo costs $13.99 and comes with a lot of vegetables.

03
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Unassuming exterior leads to a cozy, authentic Japanese atmosphere with calm, relaxed energy inside. Space offers both bar and table seating with fresh, high-quality sushi prepared by skilled chefs. Music plays softly, supporting quiet conversation and a welcoming vibe.

Lunch offers set meals like the chicken karrage lunch set with rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. Prices stay reasonable and parking is plentiful for both lunch and dinner.

Food offers excellent quality at a very affordable price. The spot feels lowkey and casual, making it easy on the wallet.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and truly authentic."

"This is my favorite authentic Japanese lunch spot."

"I found it to be a very nice, lowkey Japanese restaurant that was also affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-owned and operated, enhancing its authentic atmosphere.

2

Lunch specials offer great value and are a must-try.

3

Weekly specials feature traditional Japanese dishes.

04
Mercado Gonzรกlez Northgate Market image 1

Mexican grocery store combines vibrant decor with live mariachi music and a full bar inside. Atmosphere feels lively and festive, often with a DJ and food stations creating a chaotic yet welcoming vibe. Outdoor seating adds a quaint touch, making it a unique blend of shopping and entertainment.

Assorted lunch options and fresh bakery goods fill the market. A great bar area offers a spot to enjoy lunch or grab a drink. Prepared foods and food stands provide reliable choices for a quick meal.

Prices stay consistently affordable across a wide variety of food options. Bright lighting highlights the freshness in the meat and seafood sections, keeping everything clean and budget-friendly.

People are saying

"This grocery store has amazing prepared Mexican food and fresh items."

"This lunch spot is a culinary tour through Mexico and Latin America."

"I found the fresh produce and groceries to be so affordable."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every weekend, enhancing the shopping experience.

2

Menudo is served only on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 AM to noon.

3

Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends.

05
Pom & Olive image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and a Midwest supper club feel. Interior features fresh jasmine and beautiful paintings, creating a warm and familiar vibe. The place attracts many big families and offers a quiet, pleasant dining experience.

Very few diners appear during the lunch hour, making it a quiet spot. It serves both lunch and dinner with consistent availability.

Offers very affordable prices for Mediterranean food. Serves great food without high cost.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be delicious and bursting with flavor."

"You have to try the hummus; it's a must-have."

"I thought the lunch spot food was wonderful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and pescatarian options.

2

Portions are generous for the price, providing good value.

3

There is plenty of parking available for guests.

06
Takumi Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers cozy, authentic decor with a relaxed, quiet atmosphere and fresh, excellent sushi. Seating mostly suits small groups, with an open, clean kitchen visible. Outdoor patio seating provides a sunny, comfortable option with heaters available.

Late lunch options include a lunch special that offers good value for sushi. The menu focuses on fresh, straightforward choices suited for a quick meal.

Creative Japanese-American fusion sushi offers fresh and flavorful options. The all-you-can-eat setup makes it a relatively inexpensive choice.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the buttery tuna nigiri."

"The sushi here is fresh and surprisingly affordable."

"This Lunch Spot's sushi is fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 8-9:30 pm with $3 large sake.

2

Reservations are accepted, but it's best to arrive early to avoid the dinner rush.

3

The restaurant is small and fills up quickly during busy hours.

07
Marugame Udon image 1
Udon noodle restaurant

Cafeteria-style setup with handmade noodles visible in an open kitchen creates an authentic Japanese vibe. Seating is tight and crowded, making the space feel small and sometimes uncomfortable. Loud modern music contrasts with the otherwise cozy and lively atmosphere typical of a busy mall location.

Meals come at a very inexpensive price point while maintaining good quality. The Tonkotsu udon stands out as both delicious and affordable.

People are saying

"The udon here is so good, perfectly chewy and flavorful."

"I found the fresh noodles at this lunch spot to be incredible."

"I found the food to be delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hours are Monday to Thursday from 2 to 5 pm.

2

The restaurant is located on the lower level of a large shopping mall.

3

Seating can be limited during busy hours, so arrive early.

08
Koyi Sushi AYCE - Premium All You Can Eat Sushi image 1

Small, cozy sushi restaurant offers affordable all-you-can-eat options with fresh, high-quality fish. Atmosphere stays relaxed and casual with no loud music, creating a comfortable dining experience. Seating includes a traditional sushi bar and small tables, often crowded but intimate.

All you can eat lunch offers good food quality and flavorful dishes with attentive service. Lunch specials and happy hour deals provide value for weekday visits.

All-you-can-eat sushi offers fresh options at a very affordable price, especially during happy hour. Dinner prices stay budget-friendly while delivering good quality.

People are saying

"The Bottomless sushi options had a wide variety of fresh fish."

"This lunch spot offers great value with its all-you-can-eat sushi."

"I found the all-you-can-eat sushi to be affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Thursday from 12 PM to 4 PM at $24.95 per person.

2

The happy hour special includes all-you-can-eat rolls only, not the entire menu.

3

This month, buy 1 get 1 free sake or beer is available during happy hour.

09
IKEA Costa Mesa image 1
Furniture store

Maze of showrooms creates an adventurous shopping experience with spacious, well-decorated rooms that appeal to families and teenagers. Family-friendly amenities include a kids area, childcare service, and activities like cookie decorating. A lively food court offers popular Swedish meatballs and a bright dining area with ample seating.

Lunch costs stay under $20 for two, making it affordable. The food court offers a chance to enjoy a warm meal while shopping. Almond cookies are available at checkout as a snack option.

Furniture offers a wide selection with good quality at inexpensive prices. The cafeteria also serves food at very affordable rates.

People are saying

"This furniture store is surprisingly fun and playful, like a giant maze."

"I found unique furniture that was affordable and well-designed."

"It's a fun, productive outing with the kids."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, IKEA offers 50% off meals at their restaurant.

2

On Wednesdays, they offer Buy 1 Adult Entree, get 2 kids meals free.

3

Members receive free coffee at the cafรฉ from Monday through Friday.

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Costa Mesa, California

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