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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Costa Mesa's best

Authentic with outdoor space

An authentic meal enjoyed in the open air.

Based on 813 Opinions
+810
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Updated May 2026
01
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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.

Seating happens inside a glass-enclosed patio that feels both chic and cozy. This setup creates an intimate vibe, similar to dining in an outdoor tent.

People are saying

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

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

"The glass-enclosed patio offers a chic and cozy vibe."

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.

Great outdoor seating includes a full bar and a patio with a cool atmosphere. The outdoor space offers a relaxed vibe perfect for enjoying drinks and food.

People are saying

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

"It's a cool spot with a great outdoor atmosphere."

"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 features tables with umbrellas and ample space. The patio opens to a small plaza with shops and restaurants, offering a quiet, uncrowded vibe.

People are saying

"The pastries here look amazing and taste great."

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

"The outdoor space has ample seating with tables and chairs."

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
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.

A nice outdoor patio area offers a great spot for dining. The patio atmosphere includes hookah flowing, adding to the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the Lebanese food here was authentic and flavorful."

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

"The outdoor patio has a great vibe with heaters and warm lighting."

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.

05
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 outdoor patio areas offer plenty of seating to enjoy fresh food and drinks. TVs and a full bar with imported Mexican wines and tequila make the patio a lively spot for events like the World Cup.

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 space has a nice bar and patio seating."

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.

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 heaters for comfort. Both indoor and outdoor areas offer options for seating. The space feels pleasant and inviting.

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 full bar outside and a dog-friendly patio. Two patios feature outdoor heaters that create a cozy atmosphere.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta dishes here are incredible."

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

"The outdoor space has a covered, heated patio that's dog-friendly."

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
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 with heaters and covers to keep warm. The space offers a quieter ambiance and pleasant sun exposure during brunch.

People are saying

"The steaks here are flavorful and perfectly cooked."

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

"I ate outdoors and it was fine, even with a slight drizzle."

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.

09
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.

Spacious and comfortable outdoor patio seating offers a shaded area that welcomes dogs with free treats. The setup makes it easy to relax outside with pets.

People are saying

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

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

"You can bring your dog to sit in the spacious outdoor patio."

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.

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 for groups. It suits beautiful days well and complements the indoor options.

People are saying

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

"The chili here is so flavorful and perfectly balanced."

"These authentic burritos taste just like Mexico."

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
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.

Seating areas inside and outside fit groups and families comfortably. The patio offers a relaxed spot to enjoy food and drinks, especially on warmer evenings.

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 barbecue here is worth the money for its quality."

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.

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.

Outside seating welcomes dogs like poodles. Waiting in line happens outdoors while orders get ready.

People are saying

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

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

"It's nice that the outdoor space lets you bring your dog."

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
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 quiet patio sits out back, away from mall traffic. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant ambiance with friendly service.

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 loved sitting outside; the ambiance was so warm and hospitable."

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.

14
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 space features a covered patio and a quiet back patio with a tropical vibe. 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 outdoor patio area feels tropical and is great for photos."

"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.

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 outdoor seating with limited space. Food comes served in paper, fitting the casual outdoor setup.

People are saying

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

"I loved the fresh churros and creamy ice cream."

"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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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 happens for patio reservations around 6:30 PM. Service stays attentive and the atmosphere works well both indoors and outdoors.

People are saying

"The Spanish tapas and entrees make for a wonderful dinner."

"The tapas here are so good, I wanted a plate all to myself."

"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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