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Bar spots in Costa Mesa

A drink at a bar where the focus is on the quality of the experience.

Based on 616 Opinions
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01
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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.

Southern-inspired dishes come from scratch and pair well with a variety of beer, wine, and craft cocktails. The fully enclosed outdoor patio offers umbrella-covered tables for dining.

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.

People are saying

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

"I cannot stop thinking about the burger food I had."

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.

02
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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.

Food here stands out for its freshness and delicious flavors. Quality remains consistently top notch across dishes.

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.

People are saying

"The food here is super delicious and very fresh."

"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.

03
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Cozy bar with pool tables and big screen TVs creates a lively locals atmosphere. Music ranges from upbeat to chill, with occasional live bands and DJs. Regulars include sports fans, especially Eagles supporters, enjoying late-night food and games like darts and pool.

Food stays available until 12:30am, making it a solid choice for late-night dining. The menu is small but offers amazingly good dishes that are reasonably priced and stand out for a sports bar.

Bartenders show professionalism and friendliness unmatched by many bars. The spot offers a lively local dive bar vibe with daily specials, pool, darts, and a strong Eagles fan presence.

People are saying

"I found the Eagles bar to be great for cheering 'Go Birds!'."

"The food here is amazingly good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily with great food deals and drink specials.

2

Food is served until 12:30am, perfect for late-night dining.

3

Parking can be tricky; consider street parking if the lot is full.

04
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Unassuming exterior leads to a cozy, authentic Japanese atmosphere with calm, relaxed energy inside. Space offers both bar and table seating with fresh, high-quality sushi prepared by skilled chefs. Music plays softly, supporting quiet conversation and a welcoming vibe.

Authentic Japanese cuisine shines with homemade sushi and dishes that stand out in quality. The food pairs with excellent service and a higher price point for dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-owned and operated, enhancing its authentic atmosphere.

2

Lunch specials offer great value and are a must-try.

3

Weekly specials feature traditional Japanese dishes.

05
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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.

Food here offers Italian fusion with pleasant surprises in every dish. Meals take time but deliver an unforgettable dining experience 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.

People are saying

"The food here is beautifully styled and tasted excellent."

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

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.

06
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Dark space with an open floor plan includes flatscreens showing sports and music videos and a patio with gas torches. Live music features original songs and covers, often with a talented duo performing. Crowd is diverse, atmosphere is cozy and cool, with a mix of casual dining and late-night energy.

Food here is consistently delicious and often exceeds expectations. The menu suits late night dining well, pairing nicely with mocktails and drinks.

Daily specials change every day, offering variety at the bar. Multiple big screens show music videos and sports, creating a lively atmosphere with live music performances.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The bar's live entertainment on Wednesdays is a must-see."

Good to know

1

Live entertainment happens every Wednesday night at 8pm.

2

Wine Wednesdays offer glasses of wine for $8.

3

Food is served until 1:45am after 10pm.

07
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Small sports bar with two Diamond pool tables and big screen TVs creates a lively atmosphere for watching games and UFC fights. Friendly vibe includes bikini-clad waitresses and a well-lit patio serving food. Music stays at a moderate level, supporting an enjoyable, social energy.

Shredded pork sandwich offers rich flavor fit for fine dining. Patio serves delicious Mexican food with affordable prices on food and drinks.

A bikini bar with friendly service and good drinks offers a lively atmosphere. Games add to the fun in this cool little dive bar.

People are saying

"The bar staff's warm smiles and friendly conversation made my visit delightful."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited with a small lot and street parking available after hours.

2

Prices for food and drinks are very affordable.

3

The bar shows NFL games and has the NFL ticket.

08
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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.

Food centers on classic French dining with a focus on excellent meat dishes. The menu delivers absolutely delicious flavors paired with attentive service.

An L-shaped bar seats six and supports easy conversation without shifting seats. Hooks under the table offer a handy spot to hang purses, adding convenience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the perfectly cooked steaks."

"The burgers here are amazing, especially the dry-aged beef one."

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
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Small rock and roll bar with intimate live shows and excellent acoustics. Energetic crowd varies from tiny to packed, creating a punk rock vibe with a comfortable bar setting and patio. Offers a good dance area and a full bar with reasonably priced drinks.

Food includes burgers and tacos served as bar fare. The menu pairs well with a full bar and pool tables nearby.

Small rock and roll club with a full bar and pool tables. Bartenders offer free fresh cold water at the end of the bar.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great, even better than expected."

"The bartenders here are so fast and friendly."

Good to know

1

There is usually a cover charge when a band is playing, typically around $5.

2

Parking is generally easy, especially since the venue is in a strip mall.

3

The venue accepts both cash and card payments.

10
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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.

Food arrives hot and fresh within 10 minutes. Portions come large and shareable, and the overall quality is consistently great.

Great atmosphere and adequate seating make the bar a solid spot to unwind. Flatscreens above add to the vibe, and the food goes beyond typical bar fare.

People are saying

"The food here is top-notch, especially the brisket."

"The whisky and tequila drinks were tasty and reasonably priced."

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.

11
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American restaurant offers a classy atmosphere with a lively vibe suited for meals or cocktails. Guests enjoy great food and drinks, including a notable Old Fashioned with cherry smoke. The setting encourages relaxation and social gatherings, often within a hotel environment.

Good portion sizes accompany the great food and drinks. Cuisine prepared by Roberto stands out as excellent.

Beto at the bar stands out for great service. Frequent visits happen for beverages and the bar hosts lively after parties.

People are saying

"Beto at the Bar was amazing and made me feel at home."

"Roberto prepared the best food I had."

Good to know

1

Expect higher prices for food and drinks compared to other local options.

2

The bar is a popular spot for after parties, especially on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

12
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Small speakeasy bar with intimate, cozy atmosphere and dim lighting creates a tucked-away feel. Space fills quickly, making it loud and energetic when busy. Guests enjoy expertly crafted classic cocktails in a vintage setting with subtle space-themed decor.

Craft cocktails stand out with a speakeasy style ambiance that sets a unique mood. Staff engage well, making the bar a great spot to chat while enjoying drinks.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative, well-balanced, and have unique twists."

"You have to trust the bartender's recommendations for creative drinks."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential due to the small size of the venue.

2

The menu features seasonal drinks that change regularly.

3

There is no real food, only snack items priced around $6-7 each.

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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.

Food offers good quality and generous portions with a solid variety of bar options. The overall taste is consistently good.

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.

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."

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.

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Old school Mexican restaurant with an open, airy layout after recent renovations. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and cozy, with a bar area showing games on large screens. Known for classic tacos and strong margaritas, it draws locals who appreciate its long-standing community presence.

Food arrives quickly and stays consistently fresh and delicious. Expect spectacular Mexican dishes with great flavor and reliable quality every time.

A bar sits in the back with a large screen TV always showing the game. Locals fill the bar area, creating a familiar and game-focused atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the food here; it tasted awesome."

"The food portions here are huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers all-day specials during happy hour with $4 bowls.

2

Happy hour features great prices on food and drinks from 4-7pm.

3

Parking can get hectic, so arrive early to find a spot.

15
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Small wine bar offers natural and skin-contact wines with a rotating food menu including cheese and tinned fish plates. Chic, relaxing decor combines with jazz music and a pet-friendly atmosphere. Space is limited with cozy seating and a welcoming vibe for those interested in natural wines.

Rotating food pop-ups offer a variety of dishes alongside wine selections. The food pairs well with the drinks and complements the relaxed atmosphere.

Natural wine selection stands out in this small bar with a mostly foam tap-pour. Seating is limited, and the space features chic, relaxing decor with rotating food offerings.

People are saying

"I loved their natural wine bar selection, especially the orange wine."

"The food pop-ups here are delicious and make it a place to revisit."

Good to know

1

Semi Tropic Wines hosts jazz night every Thursday at 8pm.

2

Food pop-ups occur regularly, offering new dining experiences each visit.

3

Parking is available in the lot across the street, but can be limited.

16
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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.

Food features excellent service and top-quality dishes with consistently amazing flavors.

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.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

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

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.

17
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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.

Food features dang good BBQ with a friendly waiter who shares popular dishes. Seating suits groups and families for a relaxed meal.

People are saying

"I found the smoked food here to be amazing and yummy."

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.

18
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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.

Food features a wide variety of fresh oysters and delicious fries. Quality and taste stand out across many dishes.

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.

People are saying

"The food here, especially the oysters, is on point."

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

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.

19
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Large space with modern Chinese decor and plenty of seating creates an elegant atmosphere. Background music plays, sometimes loud, contributing to a lively but occasionally noisy environment. The setting suits date nights and casual dining with a mix of Northern and Southern Chinese cuisine.

Food here stays consistently excellent and great across visits. The dishes deliver good flavors and reliable quality every time.

Seating happens quickly at the bar. Drinks come strong and well-made.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and top quality."

"The bartender Peter was awesome and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 2:30 pm to 5 pm with 40% off select items.

2

During happy hour, many dishes are 40% off with few menu restrictions.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid long wait times.

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Costa Mesa, California

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