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Local picks

Authentic with outdoor seating in Costa Mesa

Made for those who demand an authentic culinary experience but refuse to be trapped indoors while they eat.

Based on 776 Opinions
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01
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Cozy restaurant blends Tuscan atmosphere with modern decor and bold graffiti art. Warm, inviting vibe suits romantic dinners and casual brunches, with dog-friendly patios featuring heaters and blankets. Guests enjoy authentic Italian dining paired with attentive service.

Sauces burst with rich, authentic flavors that lift every dish. The menu blends authentic Italian roots with a modern twist for a genuine dining experience.

Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio and two patios with outdoor heaters that create a cozy atmosphere. Options let you sit inside or at the full bar outside.

People are saying

"The staff here are so friendly and make you feel welcome."

"It's an authentic Italian dining experience with a modern twist."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy.

2

Happy hour is available daily with a casual lunch menu.

3

A $35 corkage fee applies if you bring your own wine.

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Glass windows reveal chocolatiers crafting pastries in a quaint French cafe setting. Outdoor seating with umbrellas offers a relaxed atmosphere, sometimes accompanied by live performances. The bakery features fresh bread, airy almond croissants, and crispy mille-feuille, creating a French-inspired vibe.

Fresh, authentic French pastries and sandwiches stand out here. Coffee drinks match the genuine French vibe for a true French coffee break.

A large outdoor seating area offers tables and chairs with umbrellas for shade. The patio sits in a small plaza surrounded by shops and restaurants, providing a quiet, uncrowded atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, authentic French pastries and coffee."

"It's a large outdoor seating area with tables and umbrellas."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available near the cafe.

2

The cafe has ample outdoor seating and some inside.

3

Prices for pastries and drinks are relatively high.

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Small French steakhouse with cozy, intimate atmosphere and Parisian bistro decor. Indoor space is compact with tables close together, while outdoor seating offers a quieter option by a fountain. Bar area is lively and can be loud, contrasting with the generally warm and inviting vibe inside.

Southwest French dishes feature homemade Toulouse sausages and country style pâté that taste truly authentic. Starters like butcher's salad and French onion soup match traditional French flavors well.

Outdoor seating includes a patio next to a fountain and an area with heaters and covers. The space offers a quieter ambiance and pleasant sun exposure during brunch.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked to perfection and tastes great."

"The French dishes, like the Toulouse sausages, are truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get crowded.

2

Seating is limited; expect to sit at the bar if you arrive without a reservation.

3

Prices for entrees range from $30 to $50 per person.

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Small space with homey feel and counter-style setup offers spacious outdoor patio featuring dog-friendly seating and Mexican-themed decor. Atmosphere resembles typical Mexican fast food with clean, welcoming environment outside. Indoor seating is limited to high-top tables for two, encouraging outdoor dining.

Vegan Mexican dishes deliver authentic flavors that match traditional taqueria tastes. Nachos and potato tacos stand out with incredibly flavorful plant-based ingredients.

Shaded outdoor seating offers a dog friendly space with free treats for pets. The spacious patio feels comfortable for sitting outside with dogs.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the quesadillas."

"I found the vegan Mexican food here to be truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday and Torta Thursdays offer special menu items.

2

The restaurant is 100% vegan with no meat options available.

3

Prices are higher compared to typical fast food options.

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Restaurant combines cozy bistro vibe with steakhouse elegance and fine dining table service. Outdoor patio offers heated, shaded seating with hookah and good music, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Interior feels clean and well-designed, though seating indoors can be loud and limited.

Food offers authentic Lebanese flavors with fresh ingredients. Dishes like the falafel wrap show traditional cooking methods and deliver rich, genuine taste.

Outside features a nice patio area with a great atmosphere. The space includes hookah flowing, adding to the vibe while dining.

People are saying

"I found the Lebanese food here to be wonderfully authentic and flavorful."

"The outdoor seating here has heaters and a really nice vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but seating is limited.

2

Expect to pay 15-20% more for online orders than menu prices.

3

All food served is halal.

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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.

Texas-style barbecue shines through with true southern flavors. This spot delivers authentic southern barbecue rarely found outside Texas.

Comfortable patio offers a relaxed spot for eating outdoors. Seating suits groups and families both inside and outside.

People are saying

"I felt this place had truly authentic Texas-style barbecue."

"The smoked meats here are worth the money, especially the tri-tip."

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.

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Tiny dessert shop with an open kitchen shows churros being made fresh and covered with cinnamon. Retro vibes fill the space, enhanced by cute uniforms with bow ties and limited outdoor seating. The atmosphere feels lively and festive, especially when live music plays nearby.

Churros here taste very authentic and match the style found in Mexico. They stand out as the only authentic Mexican churros outside of Mexico.

A small patio offers limited outdoor seating with everything served in paper. The space is cozy but not expansive.

People are saying

"The churros here are fresh and delicious with outdoor seating."

"I found the churros here to be so authentic."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times on weekends due to high demand.

2

A single churro costs $2.50, or 4 for $9.00.

3

The shop is located inside a bustling Mexican market with various food options.

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Bright space offers indoor and outdoor seating with a casual, fun atmosphere and music on point. Seating is larger and newer compared to other locations, complemented by a fountain drink machine with varied options. The vibe suits those seeking authentic, flavorful burritos in a welcoming setting.

Burritos here capture authentic Zacatecas style with rich, traditional flavors. The setting stays casual and welcoming, matching the genuine taste.

Outdoor seating offers a casual atmosphere and plenty of space, easily fitting a family of 7. It suits beautiful days well, providing a relaxed spot to enjoy the weather.

People are saying

"These authentic burritos taste just like Mexico."

"The food here is delicious, especially the birria burrito."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a shared lot near the restaurant.

2

Burritos are priced around $5 each; 2-3 are recommended for a full meal.

3

Indoor and outdoor seating is available for larger groups.

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Spanish restaurant offers lively atmosphere with a beautiful outdoor patio featuring heaters for comfort. Indoor seating is packed and close-quartered, creating an intimate but confined vibe. Drinks include seasonal cocktails and a large selection of Tempranillo wine, complementing standout dishes like seared scallops and dry-aged steak.

Dishes feature high-end authentic Spanish flavors with quality ingredients and authentic preparation. Paella stands out as rich and true to traditional recipes.

Prompt seating at 6:30 PM on the patio ensures no wait. Attentive service complements a great atmosphere outdoors.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is perfect for sharing a variety of delicious tapas."

"I found the food to be rich and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking requires a valet.

2

We waited outside for two hours before being seated.

3

The paella takes about 40 minutes to cook.

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Compact space blends New York feel with Cali vibe featuring creative decor and neon signs. Atmosphere stays cozy and casual with excellent music enhancing the relaxed mood. Small bar seating and limited outdoor tables create an intimate setting for enjoying artisan pizza with unique flavors.

An actual Italian chef crafts authentic Roman-style pizzas with impeccable quality and authentic flavors. The menu offers a diverse range of creative pizzas that stand out.

People are saying

"I found authentic Roman-style pizza with a perfectly balanced, crisp crust."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during busy holidays like July 4th.

2

Seating is very limited, with only high stools available.

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Pizzas are sold by the square slice, priced at $8 each.

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Small, cozy Italian restaurant with an intimate atmosphere and a nice outdoor patio away from mall traffic. Live music often fills the space, creating a lively vibe with singing and dancing. The setting features tight table arrangements and decor that soothes after shopping.

Ingredients come from Italy, giving the dishes a genuine Italian flavor. The menu focuses on authentic recipes rather than Americanized versions.

A nice little patio sits out back, offering a quiet spot away from mall traffic. Outdoor seating includes warm, hospitable service that enhances the dining experience.

People are saying

"I experienced authentic Italian food with ingredients imported directly from Italy."

"I enjoyed the outdoor seating ambiance away from the traffic."

Good to know

1

Quattro Caffé has live music every day after 5.00 pm.

2

There's a 3.5% surcharge for credit card payments.

3

The restaurant offers halal chicken and steak options.

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Costa Mesa, California

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