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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Costa Mesa

Chill unique spots

A unique setting that feels distinct and intentional rather than just quirky for the sake of it.

Based on 628 Opinions
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01
Lion & Lamb Coffee Roasters image 1
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Massive warehouse space with high ceilings and ample seating creates a bright, open environment. Quiet atmosphere persists even when crowded, supporting both work and socializing. Strong Christian vibes blend with artistic murals and plants, giving a unique character to the space.

A chill vibe fills the coffee house, making it a great spot for working or studying. The environment stays relaxed and quiet, perfect for focusing.

Coffee stands out with its unique flavors and preparation. Avocado toast offers a distinctive twist that complements the drinks well.

People are saying

"It's a chill environment, great for working or studying."

"Their coffee is unique and amazing."

Good to know

1

Prices are not displayed anywhere, which may affect your decision to order.

2

The coffee shop is very busy during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

There is free parking along the building, but it can be hard to find during busy times.

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Industrial space with a motorcycle theme and vintage flair creates a cozy, retro vibe. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting, perfect for relaxing or studying. Dog-friendly with plenty of space, it blends edgy design and comfort uniquely.

Spacious setting and super chill vibe create a relaxed atmosphere. Workers contribute to the laid-back feel, making it a nice spot to unwind.

Unique coffee drinks like the mango tamarind tonic stand out here. The cafe offers a distinctive vibe that makes it a nice spot to relax.

People are saying

"You have to try the burnt honey latte; it's so good."

"It's a super chill spot with a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, but street parking is available nearby.

2

The coffee shop is dog-friendly and offers pup cups for pets.

3

There is plenty of seating available inside the coffee shop.

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Ice cream shop blends diner vibes with modern twist featuring memorabilia and musical instruments that create a fun, cozy atmosphere. Energetic music and occasional live performances add to the inviting, lighthearted energy. Seating is available inside and outside, making it a comfortable spot for casual hangouts.

Energy stays good and welcoming with a chill vibe throughout the space. The owner adds to the relaxed atmosphere, making it a solid spot to hang out.

Milkshakes come in a variety of unique flavors that blend multiple tastes in one. The menu stays simple yet creative, making it a cool spot for something different.

People are saying

"I found the milkshakes to be tasty and unique."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough at The Straw: Modern Milkshakes.

2

Karaoke on Friday nights starts at 8pm with no cover charge.

3

The portion of the milkshake is very generous and can be split.

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Fantasy-themed tea bar resembles a medieval tavern with wizard costumes and magical decor. Atmosphere feels cozy and immersive, with secret rooms offering games and interactive experiences. Visitors engage in themed activities like wizard tests while enjoying unique boba and ice cream offerings.

A chill vibe sets the tone with a relaxed atmosphere. It suits casual hangouts and laid-back date nights.

A magical vibe fills the space with unique recipes and storytelling atmosphere. The drinks offer great flavors that stand out from typical boba spots.

People are saying

"The decor here is unique, totally immersing you in a magical world."

"The decor is chaotic yet organized, creating a magical vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but fills up quickly, so plan ahead.

2

They prefer card payments over cash and do not provide change.

3

The menu features fewer than 10 items, all cold drinks and no food.

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Small Japanese restaurant with authentic decor and warm yellow lighting creates a cozy, immersive atmosphere. Busy and popular spot, often filled with couples and groups enjoying fresh, high-quality sushi. Outdoor seating with heaters and a nearby ice cream shop add to the relaxed vibe.

Fresh sushi includes a wide variety of rolls like the classic spicy tuna and the unique Bikini Roll. Smaller cut rolls come in 4 or 5 pieces, and the scallop sashimi with truffle oil stands out. The to-go bag is a unique orange tote that adds a touch of luxury.

People are saying

"The sushi here is super fresh and offers amazing value."

"The ingredients here are so fresh, it's unbelievable."

Good to know

1

The wait can be up to 2 hours long for 2 people, so I recommend RSVPing or arriving early.

2

There was a large parking lot available for guests.

3

Expect an hour wait on the weekend.

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Speakeasy bar with a western theme and unique seating like a confessional box and carriage setup. Large digital screens loop cinematic scenes, creating an immersive vibe with a mix of live DJs and music styles from country to hip hop. Space feels cozy but crowded, with loud music and a playful, fun atmosphere.

A chill vibe fills the space with everyone respectful of it. The crowd ranges from casual dress to those aiming to impress, keeping the atmosphere relaxed without feeling empty.

Cowboy show adds a new twist to the cocktail bar scene. Seating includes a cozy confessional box and carriage seating, creating a memorable and eclectic vibe. Drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, stand out as unique and tasty.

People are saying

"The digital screens create a unique, immersive vibe."

"The creative cocktails here are a whole mood."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a lot right behind the bar.

2

You may need to knock for entry if the door is locked.

3

There is no food available at this venue.

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Spacious bakery with open kitchen and modern, earthy design featuring limestone counters and travertine. Atmosphere is cozy and inviting with ample indoor and outdoor seating, including a shaded patio with greenery. Music and noise levels vary, creating a lively but sometimes loud environment.

A very chill atmosphere sets the tone with a casual Southern California style. It works well for relaxed coffee or a casual meal.

Food features a farm-to-fork quality with a focus on health and flavor. Drinks include a unique oat and almond milk blend that adds a distinct taste to lattes.

People are saying

"It's a super cute spot, perfect for a relaxed coffee."

"The food here is unique, healthy, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so check options before arriving.

2

Prices are not displayed on bakery items or the menu.

3

Valet parking is offered, which is unusual for a bakery.

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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.

Casual yet stylish atmosphere suits quick bites and relaxed meals. Vibrant colors create a lively and inviting vibe that feels chill.

Slices feature unique flavor profiles like bonito flakes with miso kewpie sauce and a taco-inspired chorizo pastor. The crust stands out as thicker yet airy and chewy, blending deep dish and focaccia qualities.

People are saying

"The pizzas here have unique flavor combinations, like the Japanese one."

"The pizza here has a perfect balance of crisp, thin crust and fresh, flavorful toppings."

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.

3

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

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Small space with kitschy decor and throwback diner vibe creates a fun, intimate atmosphere filled with sarcastic humor and loud music. Lines form during busy times, reflecting its popularity. The place caters to a health-conscious crowd with gluten-free options and a cashless policy.

Champagne and chill drinks use a nice selection of champagne and taste delicious. Great for brunch on the go or just to sit and chill.

Distinctive bone broth flavor stands out alongside a unique atmosphere and a well thought out aesthetic that shapes the entire experience.

People are saying

"The atmosphere here is so unique and fun."

"I love their iced latte and quirky mugs."

"Their gluten-free sandwich and chips hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for tips.

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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.

Rainbow xiao long baos offer unique flavors with juicy, flavorful fillings. Seasonal options like Dungeness chili crab soup dumplings add to the distinctive menu.

People are saying

"The Xiao Long Bao here are juicy, flavorful, and a must-try."

"The colorful dumplings had unique, juicy, and flavorful fillings."

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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Small hamburger spot with loud, curated music and dog-friendly policy creates a lively atmosphere. Seating includes hard metal folding chairs and wobbly outdoor tables, contributing to a casual, unpolished vibe. Busy and energetic, it offers a unique experience with food brought directly to tables.

Small shop offers a really chill setup with a super cool and clean vibe. Quality customer service and great food add to the relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"The ube shake is smooth, creamy, and just the right sweetness."

Good to know

1

Securing seating and parking may be challenging due to limited availability.

2

There was a pickup window on the side for online orders.

3

Parking kind of sucks.

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Costa Mesa, California

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