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Guide to Costa Mesa

American dinner spots

Made for those who seek the comfort of familiar American staples when planning their evening meal.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Memphis Cafe image 1
Memphis Cafe image 2
Memphis Cafe image 3
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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.

Dinner features flavorful, well-prepared dishes made with fresh ingredients. Weekly dinner specials add variety to the menu.

People are saying

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

"The American Food here is amazing."

"The dinner here was amazing and flavorful."

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.

02
Dick Church's Restaurant image 1

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.

Dinner offers a wholesome retro atmosphere with an old-fashioned setup. Food serves as a solid example of classic dinner fare.

People are saying

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

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

"The dinner food here is delicious comfort food."

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.

03
Boudin SF image 1
Bakery

Small bakery with limited seating offers an inviting atmosphere that captures a San Francisco vibe. Fresh, amazing sourdough bread stands out as a signature feature. Busy setting includes both indoor and outdoor seating, creating a casual, fast-food style experience.

Clam chowder comes in a bread bowl that is warm and satisfying with consistent quality. The serving size feels small but the bread lid adds to the portion, making it reasonably priced for the taste.

Dinner here fits well after shopping nearby. The spot offers a casual setting for a weekend meal or a family dinner.

People are saying

"The sourdough bread bowls with soup are delicious."

"The clam chowder in a bread bowl is fantastic and satisfying."

"The clam chowder at these dinner spots is warm and delicious."

Good to know

1

Boudin SF offers a variety of vegetarian options on their menu.

2

The portion sizes are generous, making meals more satisfying.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

04
The Flaky Apple Pie Co image 1

Pie shop offers flaky crusts and rich homemade flavors with options including gluten-free and vegan pies. Atmosphere combines convenience and quality, featuring ready-to-bake pies that store well in the freezer. Classes provide a fun, educational experience for learning pie making skills.

Flaky apple pies stand out with their extraordinary texture and flavor. Varieties include chocolate mousse, strawberry rhubarb, pecan, and mac & cheese pulled pork pie, plus savory options like quiche Lorraine and chicken pot pie.

Pecan pie stands out as a popular choice for dinner gatherings. They also offer a Thanksgiving dinner pie that fits well with holiday meals.

People are saying

"I thought the pie was flaky, delicious, and not too sweet."

"The pies here are outstanding for dinner."

"This American food is so good, I'm worried I'll be getting pies all the time."

Good to know

1

Pre-ordering by November 5th is necessary to ensure availability.

2

Brooke offers gluten-free and vegan pies for dietary needs.

3

The pie making class is fun and provides easy-to-follow instructions.

05
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.

Dinner includes options like pulled pork sandwich, brisket flatbread, and chicken with mushrooms. Reservations are possible for late evening, with hours open until 11 p.m.

People are saying

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

"They had an impressive selection of craft beer."

"You have to try the BLT wrap; it's huge and so good."

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.

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.

Dimmed red lights set a perfect ambiance for dinner. Arriving early allows for quiet conversation before the music starts.

People are saying

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

"It's got this cool, old school vibe with dim lighting and red leather booths."

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

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
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.

Dinner offers a great pre-show meal with attentive service that helps guests get to the theater on time. The setting suits a date night and adds a special touch to the evening.

People are saying

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

"The service at these dinner spots is outstanding and professional."

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

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.

08
Shuck Oyster Bar image 1

Oyster bar offers a laid-back, cozy atmosphere with fresh, diverse shellfish and dog-friendly outdoor seating. The bar area can feel crowded and separated by plexiglass, while the music sometimes detracts from the vibe. Patrons enjoy excellent oyster variety and refreshing house wines.

Grilled cheese stands out with its melty, crispy, and buttery texture, including a version with lobster and avocado. Clam chowder has a thick, mashed potato-like consistency with some seafood.

Dinner here involves booking a table in advance and enjoying a meal at a spot known for its oyster bar. Celebrations like birthdays happen over dinner, showing it suits special occasions.

People are saying

"The oysters here are always so fresh and tasty."

"This oyster bar has the freshest, most amazing selection of oysters."

"The oysters here are so fresh and phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for comfortable seating; walk-ins are seated at the bar or outside.

2

Oyster prices are unmarked, so ask before ordering to avoid embarrassment.

3

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

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.

Dinner offers quick, delicious meals with family-friendly portions. Service and portion sizes may vary depending on the time of day.

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 at these dinner spots was perfect."

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
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.

Dinner offers a five-item meal for about $14 that fills up and tastes solid. Options include Thanksgiving-style dinners with multiple sides and corned beef and cabbage that stands out.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the dinner spots were a great value for the price."

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.

11
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.

Dinner features fluffy rolls and a friendly server offering drinks before ordering. Parking gets very difficult during dinner hours.

People are saying

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

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

"You've got to try the dinner rolls; they're fluffy and divine."

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.

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Costa Mesa, California

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