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American food for date spots in Costa Mesa

You want an American meal that provides a comfortable backdrop for a date.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Dick Church's Restaurant image 1
Dick Church's Restaurant image 2
Dick Church's Restaurant image 3
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Diner space combines retro remodel with cozy interior and ample outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays lively with loud country music and occasional live bands. Back room features a personal bar, adding to the vintage vibe.

Chicken fried steak stands out with its thick cut and extra crispy hash browns grilled with peppers and onions. Homemade dishes like corned beef hash and biscuits complement classic American options like eggs Benedict and club sandwiches.

Chicken Fried Steak comes with hashbrowns grilled with peppers and onions plus over-easy eggs. Avocado toast and a breakfast burrito also stand out as solid choices.

People are saying

"I thought the home-style comfort food was delicious."

"The chicken fried steak here is perfectly made, a great date spot choice."

"The chicken fried steak here is thick and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hectic during peak hours, but there is a large free parking lot attached.

2

The diner offers a classic diner-style meal at a decent price.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and casual.

02
Memphis Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Covered patio with dog-friendly seating creates a relaxed outdoor vibe. Inside space is cozy and bustling without overwhelming noise. Atmosphere blends southern charm with a slightly worn, inviting feel.

Fried chicken stands out for being juicy and well-made, often paired with sides like Hoppinโ€™ John rice and collard greens. The meatloaf is tender and flavorful, served with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans, while dishes like shrimp & grits and crab cakes add variety to the American menu.

Classic chicken and waffles stands out as a solid choice, while the burger satisfies well. The spot suits occasions like birthdays with a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"The patio is a cute, airy, and pleasant outdoor space."

"The American Food here is amazing."

"You have to try the chicken and waffles; the bacon is home-cooked perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Weekly dinner specials are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

3

Parking is limited and can get crowded quickly, especially on weekends.

03
Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar image 1

Stylish restaurant with live jazz music and a cozy, warm atmosphere featuring a fireplace and outdoor patio with heaters and blankets. Spacious, clean interior and comfortable seating overlook a beautiful park and pond. The bar area is lively, contributing to an inviting and energetic vibe.

Eggs Benedict come with a darker English muffin and fresh, sweet pineapple. Steak and eggs arrive cooked perfectly. Chicken wings offer a mild spice level. Desserts include s'mores cake and butter brown cake, both rich and indulgent.

Steaks like Rib eye and top sirloin come cooked to perfection. The setting creates a special evening ideal for a date night.

People are saying

"I loved sitting outside with the lovely view and warm fire pit."

"The American Food, like steak and eggs, is cooked perfectly."

"The service here is so kind and helpful for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is validated for guests dining at the restaurant, making it convenient.

3

Pre-show drinks are available for theatergoers attending performances at the Segerstrom.

04
Kenwood's Kitchen & Tap image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant offers a fun, warm atmosphere with a spacious dining room and large TVs for watching games. Seating accommodates large groups comfortably, including a quiet patio option. The bar features a wide selection of tap beers and notable cocktails in a relaxed setting.

Cheeseburgers like the Cowboy Burger come with cheddar, onion rings, and BBQ sauce. Brisket shines in sandwiches and quesadillas, paired with crispy tater tots that taste like they're fried twice.

Flatbreads and an avocado BLT stand out as popular choices for couples. The spot suits celebrations like birthdays with a relaxed vibe and tasty bites.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the brisket, is amazing."

"They had an impressive selection of craft beer."

"The food here is fantastic, especially the brisket sandwich."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a weekday lunch menu with great deals.

2

Happy hour features half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Sunday brunch is served with a variety of options.

05
Harper Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Open space combines modern industrial design with indoor and outdoor seating creating a laid-back, welcoming vibe. The atmosphere feels family-oriented and casual, with a lively buzz. A bar offers draft beers, complementing the relaxed setting.

Barbecue features smoked beef cheeks and baby back ribs that fall off the bone. Cornbread offers a mildly cheesy flavor with jalapeรฑo heat and honey sweetness. Mac and cheese comes with a crispy breadcrumb topping. California Gold sauce enhances brisket and ribs.

Casual atmosphere suits date nights and group hangouts. Offers great food that fits both couples and families.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is amazing and totally worth a try."

"The potato salad here is served warm with a unique twist."

"The ribs here are perfectly smoked and fall right off the bone."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; arrive early or consider street parking options.

3

Prices can be high, with meals for two averaging around $100.

06
La Cave Restaurant image 1

Underground steakhouse with a speakeasy vibe and 1950s-style bar creates a retro atmosphere. Live music and low lighting set a cool, old-school mood. The space feels like stepping back to a classic era with vintage art and a lively crowd.

Steak options like Porterhouse and steak bites stand out, paired with sides such as twice-baked potato. Seafood dishes include well-seasoned halibut and clam chowder, all cooked precisely.

Low lighting and dimmed red lights create a romantic ambiance. Live music adds to the perfect setting for a date night.

People are saying

"The live music here creates a perfect atmosphere for a date night."

"I took home leftovers of the amazing American Food steak."

"It's a perfect spot for date night with its dim lighting and live music."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be delayed during busy hours, so plan accordingly.

2

The menu does not list prices, which can lead to surprises on the bill.

3

Expect high prices comparable to fine dining, but portions are large.

07
Plums Cafe image 1

Casual cafe with modern design and ample outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and vibrant indoors to loud and lively on the patio, making it suitable for social occasions. Crowds are common, so reservations help avoid waits.

Pulled pork offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Biscuits and gravy come in a unique, satisfying, and filling style. Steak and eggs, along with hamburgers and a bacon grilled cheese, round out the classic American meal options.

The spot offers a perfect vibe for dates and special occasions. Outdoor seating on the patio suits relaxed afternoons, and staff sometimes provide complimentary champagne to enhance the experience.

People are saying

"The food, especially the Eggs Benedict, was perfect."

"The American Food here, especially the Eggs Benedict, is perfect."

"The Huevos Rancheros here are amazing and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

The wait time can be quite long during busy brunch hours.

3

Parking is limited and can be frustrating to find.

08
NORMS Restaurant image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Classic American diner with mid-century modern design and retro decor creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Open 24/7 with oldies music playing, it offers a nostalgic vibe that feels like stepping back in time. Plenty of parking and a claw toy machine add to the casual, welcoming experience.

Meatloaf comes in just the right portion and satisfies well. Cheeseburgers and patty melts stand out for their quality. Classic dishes like steak and eggs, smoked salmon with sides, and a full Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings are available.

Staff like Judee and Judy provide attentive, sweet service that makes couples feel welcome. Dishes such as fish and chips and French Toast stand out for their appeal to partners.

People are saying

"Rocky made my breakfast so positive and kept my coffee hot."

"The service at these date spots is so attentive and kind."

"The American Food here, especially the meatloaf, was really good."

Good to know

1

Hot chocolate has free refills.

2

I needed to ask for a code to enter the bathroom.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-staffed.

09
Holรฉ Smokes BBQ image 1

Smoke fills the air alongside the scent of barbecue, while old wood floors scattered with peanut shells create a Texas BBQ vibe. Neon beer signs and multiple TVs support a lively sports-friendly atmosphere. Seating accommodates both groups and families, with a comfortable patio adding to the space.

Brisket stands out with its tender texture and an amazing smoke ring. Portions lean toward the fattier and saltier side, especially in sandwiches and tacos, alongside other smoked meats like tri-tip and pulled pork.

Food here suits special occasions with flavorful dishes that impress even picky eaters. The slaw stands out as a favorite, making it a solid choice for a first date or anniversary.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, just melts in your mouth."

"I experienced the best happy hour in town, with mind-blowing menus."

"The brisket and tri tip are unbelievably good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7pm on weekdays and 3 to 6pm on weekends.

2

Taco Tuesday features special menu items and pricing.

3

Parking is generally easy to find near the restaurant.

10
Eller Bakery image 1

Spacious bakery with open kitchen and modern, earthy design featuring limestone counters and travertine. Atmosphere is cozy and inviting with ample indoor and outdoor seating, including a shaded patio with greenery. Music and noise levels vary, creating a lively but sometimes loud environment.

Eggs Benedict stands out as a favorite dish here, noted for its rich flavor. French toast also features as a delightful brunch option.

Brunch offers properly prepared French omelettes and flavorful savory crepes. Pastries like apple scones add a tasty touch to the meal.

People are saying

"The bakery's cinnamon rolls were a game-changer and sold out by 11 a.m."

"The food and drinks here are phenomenal for date spots."

"The American Food here, especially the Eggs Benedict, is so delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so check options before arriving.

2

Prices are not displayed on bakery items or the menu.

3

Valet parking is offered, which is unusual for a bakery.

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Costa Mesa, California

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