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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 850 Opinions
+847
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Updated May 2026
01
BEI Restaurant image 1
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Restaurant

Intimate space with authentic Lebanese art and a glass-enclosed patio creates a chic and cozy vibe. Atmosphere is warm and lively, often featuring live music that energizes the room. Guests enjoy flavorful, well-prepared Middle Eastern dishes in a setting that feels both modern and welcoming.

Food features rich flavors and authentic Middle Eastern spices. Dishes match the quality of traditional Lebanese home cooking.

Glass-enclosed patio seating offers a chic and cozy vibe. It feels like dining in a makeshift outdoor tent, perfect for casual outings or date nights.

People are saying

"The grilled meats here are packed with flavor and perfectly cooked."

"I found authentic Lebanese dinner spots that felt like home."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be challenging, fitting only about 8 cars.

2

The area around the parking lot may feel shady, raising safety concerns.

3

A DJ performs on Fridays, and belly dancing is featured on Saturdays.

02
Trenta Pizza & Cucina and Trenta Lounge image 1

Outdoor dining dominates with a large, heated patio converted from a parking lot, featuring al fresco seating and a full bar. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, blending authentic Sicilian style with lively live music. Indoor space is small and cozy, creating a slightly cramped feel during busy times.

Authentic Italian pizza and Sicilian dishes stand out here. The pasta and desserts also reflect genuine Italian flavors.

Outdoor seating offers a great atmosphere with a full bar available. The patio provides a cool spot to enjoy the ambiance.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and pasta, tasted like it was from Italy."

"The pizza and pasta here are delicious, just like in Italy."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; valet service is the only option available.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for outdoor seating.

3

The kitchen closes 10 minutes before the restaurant closes.

03
MOULIN image 1
Bakery

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

"The pastries here look amazing and taste great."

"I thought the cake here was the best I had ever tasted."

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

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.

04
Butcher’s House Brasserie image 1
French steakhouse restaurant

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 steaks here are flavorful and perfectly cooked."

"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.

05
EZ Kebab Lebanese Grill image 1

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 thought the Lebanese food here was authentic and flavorful."

"The chicken shawarma plate is the best Mediterranean food I've ever tried."

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

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.

06
Brazuca Café image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers authentic Brazilian flavors with live music and indoor and outdoor seating including heaters. Atmosphere feels like a cozy, modern Brazilian café with a spacious and inviting setup. Brazilian beers and refreshing cocktails complement the experience.

Dishes deliver authentic Brazilian flavors with freshness and rich taste. The feijoada stands out as flavorful and true to tradition, matching home-style cooking.

Outdoor seating includes heated areas that make sitting outside comfortable. Both indoor and outdoor options are available for guests.

People are saying

"The Brazilian food here is authentic and delicious."

"The Brazilian food here is so authentic and delicious."

"It's a pleasant spot with both indoor and outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

Visiting on weekends is recommended for Feijoada, a national specialty dish.

2

The café is self-serve, so customers get their own silverware and condiments.

3

Parking can be a hassle due to the location in a strip mall.

07
Il Girasole image 1
Restaurant

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 fresh pasta dishes here are incredible."

"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.

08
Mercado González 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.

Fresh ingredients create authentic Mexican flavors throughout the market. Street tacos and tamales showcase the careful preparation behind each dish.

Gorgeous patio areas offer plenty of space for outdoor seating. TVs and a full bar with imported Mexican wines and tequila options enhance the experience while mariachis play nearby.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so authentic and full of flavor."

"The outdoor seating has a great bar and TVs to watch games."

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.

09
Costa Contemporary Kitchen image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Small indoor space with prominent windows and concrete flooring creates a bright but noisy atmosphere. Warm, stylish vibe suits date nights and small groups despite close tables. Exceptional pisco sours and Peruvian dishes add to a memorable dining experience.

Dishes deliver authentic Peruvian taste with a modern style twist. Every plate balances elevated flavors true to traditional recipes.

Outdoor seating includes several tables that offer a quieter atmosphere compared to the indoor area. The indoor space is small and features a bar, making the outdoor area a more spacious option.

People are saying

"The authentic Peruvian food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The pisco sours here are exceptional and handcrafted with passion."

"The outdoor seating is much quieter than inside."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the small dining space.

2

Parking is available at the Plaza parking structure nearby.

3

Expect small portion sizes, which may not be suitable for large appetites.

10
Burritos La Palma image 1
Burrito restaurant

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 handmade tortillas are the best I've ever eaten."

"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.

11
Vegan By El Zamorano image 1
Vegan restaurant

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

"Their authentic, flavorful plant-based Mexican cuisine is a must-visit."

"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.

12
Ramen Nagi image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines traditional and modern vibe with a fun, lively atmosphere. Seating includes long communal tables and a large outdoor patio, creating a somewhat cramped but energetic environment. Popular spot with customizable ramen options and a steady flow of diners.

Ramen here delivers an authentic Japanese ramen experience with flavors true to tradition. The menu allows for customization while keeping the original taste intact, and dishes serve up quickly.

A large outdoor patio offers plenty of space to sit outside. The area is pet-friendly, allowing dogs like poodles to join.

People are saying

"The ramen here is delicious, especially the original."

"I found it offers an authentic Japanese ramen experience."

"I loved the flavorful broth of the Black King ramen."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the restaurant is very popular and there may be a wait.

2

Expect a 40-minute wait during peak hours, especially around lunch.

3

There is plenty of free parking available near the restaurant.

13
Holé 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.

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

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

"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.

14
Vaca. image 1
Spanish restaurant

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 Spanish tapas and entrees make for a wonderful dinner."

"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.

15
El Moro Churrería image 1
Dessert shop

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

"I experienced the best hot chocolate and churros here."

"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.

16
Acapulco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with a tropical outdoor patio featuring a fireplace and live music. Upbeat cantina atmosphere blends casual, beachy interior with a family-friendly vibe. Generous margaritas and colorful patio make it a lively spot for relaxing and socializing.

Food offers tasty authentic Mexican flavors with dishes that consistently taste genuine. Service is friendly, enhancing the overall experience.

The outdoor seating features a quiet back patio and a covered patio that suits celebrations. At night, the fireplace on the outside patio adds warmth and ambiance.

People are saying

"I found the handmade tortillas and authentic Mexican food to be great."

"The brunch staff, especially Jesus and Ale, made my daughter feel so special."

"The food here is so authentic, it tastes like it's made from scratch."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3pm to 8pm with drinks starting at $4.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and drinks.

3

The lunch buffet costs $14 for all-you-can-eat options.

17
Quattro Caffé image 1
Italian restaurant

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

"This Lunch Spot has delicious Italian food, especially the pizza."

"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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