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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Costa Mesa

Seafood bars

You want a drink in your hand and fresh seafood on your plate.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Verde Restaurant image 1
Verde Restaurant image 2
Verde Restaurant image 3
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American restaurant

Space blends modern elegance with nostalgic charm, featuring an elegant speakeasy and golf course views. Atmosphere stays refined yet comfortable, lively without overwhelming noise. Creative cocktails and inventive dishes draw a crowd seeking both cozy dinners and lively gatherings.

Downstairs offers a cozy bar with unforgettable cocktails and attentive service. It suits intimate dates and celebrations well.

Smoked trout dip and seafood stew stand out with rich flavors. Ceviche features tender shrimp in a citrusy blend with balanced heat.

People are saying

"I found the desserts here to be scrumptious and a home run."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced masterpieces."

"The seafood stew and smoked trout dip were amazing."

Good to know

1

They offer a multi-course Valentine's menu on Valentine's Day.

2

Verde Restaurant has a focus on fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced ingredients.

3

The menu includes many vegetarian and pescatarian options, along with meat dishes.

02
Durty Nelly's image 1
Irish pub

Dimly lit Irish pub with cozy decor and a laid-back vibe offers plenty of seating inside and outdoors. Friendly crowd enjoys cover band music and a mix of classic drinks like Guinness and Old Fashioned. Atmosphere feels comfortable though somewhat unauthentic compared to traditional pubs.

A small, quiet Irish pub offers a traditional style atmosphere with a good sized menu of bar food. The food pairs well with a Harp and creates a low key, fun vibe off the beaten path.

Fish and chips come out consistently well prepared and flavorful. The shrimp also stands out as a notable choice on the seafood menu.

People are saying

"The karaoke nights here are always fun with a great singing crowd."

"The bar staff here is really friendly and the service is quick."

"I really enjoyed the fish and chips."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Karaoke night is popular on Fridays, so expect a lively crowd.

3

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

03
Garf's Sports Lounge image 1

Classic sports bar with multiple billiard tables, shuffleboard, and darts creates a lively game-focused setting. Atmosphere stays chill and welcoming with a mix of younger and older patrons enjoying NFL games and casual socializing. Outdoor patio offers space for vaping, adding to the relaxed vibe.

A classic sports bar with TVs, pool, and games offers a friendly atmosphere and a mixed crowd of younger and older patrons. The menu features great pub eats at reasonable prices, paired with on point drinks and stellar customer service.

Fish and chips stand out with crispy batter and tender fish. Meals often come with fries and coleslaw for a classic combo.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be tasty, especially the fish and chips."

"It's a classic sports bar with pool and games."

"I found their fish and chips really good."

Good to know

1

The kitchen is closed late at night, so check food availability before visiting.

2

Billiard tables cost $1.50 per game, and they are available in the back.

3

Garf's Sports Lounge does not have an ATM; plan to bring cash.

04
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.

Seating options include inside or at the full bar outside. Staff at the bar deliver prompt and attentive service focused on quality without rushing.

Tagliatelle nero uses squid ink and fresh seafood in a rich yet light sauce. Pasta dishes include shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari, paired well with a crisp French rosรฉ.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta dishes here are incredible."

"The bar staff and owners are so friendly and welcoming."

"The Seafood here is served by attentive and friendly staff."

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.

05
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.

Oyster lovers find a laid-back atmosphere with wonderful service that helps with recommendations. Tables require reservations, but walk-ins can sit at the bar or outside to enjoy the top-notch seafood.

Fresh oysters arrive with pure ocean flavor and a variety that stays consistent. Fried oysters offer a perfectly crunchy exterior and creamy inside, while clam and chorizo dishes come with a rich, smooth sauce enhancing their taste.

People are saying

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

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

"The seafood here is always so fresh and tasty."

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.

06
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.

Shrimp & grits stand out with a creative take and green chilis that add a pop of flavor and spice. Barbecue shrimp offers an interesting spin that works well, and bacon wrapped shrimp appear as a tasty appetizer option.

People are saying

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

"The Southern-inspired food, like the tender chicken, is delicious."

"The Seafood here is so delicious, it could be your last supper."

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.

07
VOX Kitchen & Bar - South Coast Plaza image 1

Indoor dining features loud, lively energy, while seating near the bar or outside offers a calm, relaxed vibe with abundant natural light and wooden furniture. The space blends modern, stylish design with a laid-back atmosphere that suits casual socializing or elegant dining.

Bold Asian fusion flavors shape the drink menu alongside a wide selection of IPAs. The bar features wooden-style furniture and plenty of natural light in both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

Seafood dishes feature perfectly cooked shrimp and squid alongside a flavorful seafood scampi served with bread. Options include seafood ceviche, crispy calamari, and sweet & sour salmon, all fresh and protein-rich.

People are saying

"I thought the lemonade was pretty good."

"The bar's garlic noodles and steak fries are packed with flavor."

"The seafood ceviche and scampi were fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 2-5 PM, Monday to Friday.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant can get very busy, especially during dinner service.

08
Que Vida Tacos Costa Mesa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with bar seating and outdoor tables offers an upbeat atmosphere and fresh margaritas. The space feels clean and open with comfortable seats. Regulars enjoy quality tacos and a lively vibe.

A cool vibe fills the inside with bar seating for dine-in. The bar offers a stack of interesting margaritas and attentive service from Johnny.

Fish tacos stand out with large portions and crispy beer battered fish topped with cabbage and crema. Grilled shrimp, birria, and cochinita pibil tacos also offer solid seafood options.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the grilled shrimp tacos were very good."

"Johnny at the bar took care of me."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers three tacos for the price of two.

2

The Taco Tuesday deal costs $11.50 for three tacos.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

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.

Jose and Hector bring great energy and stay incredibly attentive behind the bar and at tables. Hector manages the bar with fantastic skill.

Sushi grade fish shines in the ceviche, served with sweet potatoes, cancha corn, and sharp red onion. Leche de tigre comes separate, keeping flavors fresh and balanced. Shrimp and risotto also show solid seafood quality.

People are saying

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

"The drinks here are outstanding and super refreshing."

"The ceviche's leche de tigre is the best I've had outside Peru."

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
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.

A huge bar straight out of the 1950s sets a retro vibe with a red light, cave-style design. Drinks come with a fun atmosphere and music that adds to the experience.

Shrimp dishes stand out here with shrimp scampi cooked to perfection and a shrimp cocktail featuring four large pieces. Appetizers like garlic bread and sautรฉed mushrooms complement the seafood well.

People are saying

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

"The bar staff here really make you feel welcome."

"The shrimp cocktail here is great and consists of four large pieces."

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.

11
Westend image 1
Restaurant

Small space with southern gothic style and quirky interior features dark lighting and numerous decorative lights. Energy rises as local young professionals arrive and a DJ plays live music, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers enclosed dining with games, adding a relaxed, social vibe.

Craft cocktails stand out alongside a variety of beer and wine. The bar features a quirky interior with a small local vibe and friendly bartenders behind the bar.

Shrimp features prominently in dishes like the shrimp po' boy and shredded kale salad with added shrimp. Fish and chips come out crispy and authentic.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the burgers and fried chicken sandwiches, is amazing."

"The bar's southern food, like the po'boy, is flavorful and well-executed."

"The seafood po'boy here is flavorful and well executed."

Good to know

1

Parking is extremely disorganized; nearby supermarket offers additional parking.

2

The restaurant is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

A DJ is expected to start soon, adding to the evening's atmosphere.

12
Mercado Gonzรกlez 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.

A Tequila bar inside the store offers a unique drinking spot uncommon in Modesto. The bar pairs well with a big variety of foods like Carnitas, mariscos, churros, pan dulce, and aqua frescas.

Bright lighting highlights the fresh seafood section, making fish and shellfish look incredibly fresh and affordable. Options include Seabass fish ceviche, Mango Shrimp ceviche, and fish tacos near the sushi spot.

People are saying

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

"The bar area is nice, and they have a tequila bar."

"I loved their fresh fish ceviche and tacos."

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.

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