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Local picks

Cool date spots in Costa Mesa

A date night that feels genuinely cool without trying so hard that you cannot actually hear each other talk.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales image 1
Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales image 2
Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales image 3
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Horror movie themes shape the environment with low lighting and movie-inspired mix drinks creating a spooky vibe. Interactive axe throwing lanes use digital projections to offer various games like Space Invaders and Battleship. The atmosphere feels fun and immersive, attracting fans of classic horror and unique recreation.

Axe throwing offers a fun and interactive activity for couples. Staff take time to teach you how to throw, making it great for first or second dates.

People are saying

"I had so much fun here, it was a total blast!"

"The 80s slashers theme and decorations here are super cool."

"The staff here are so patient and helpful with Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are accepted based on availability.

2

You can bring your own food, but outside drinks are not allowed.

3

Parking is limited; consider carpooling or arriving early.

02
P10neer image 1

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.

Offers a great spot for a date night with a relaxed vibe. Also suits a casual nightcap after dinner.

Cozy atmosphere and cool music create a lively vibe. Unique drinks come with a wait, making it a cool spot for friends but not for quick celebrations.

People are saying

"Their creative cocktails are brilliantly made with unique twists."

"You have to try their creative, perfectly balanced cocktails."

"The bartenders here really know their stuff and explain the drinks well."

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.

03
BEI Restaurant image 1
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.

Seating inside a glass-enclosed patio creates a chic and cozy vibe. It suits date nights or casual dinners well.

People are saying

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

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

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

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.

04
The Straw: Modern Milkshakes image 1

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.

Cozy atmosphere invites couples to chat and relax for hours. The spot offers a fun vibe ideal for date nights or hanging out with friends.

Unique milkshakes stand out alongside a quirky vibe and cool memorabilia. The atmosphere feels modern and the people running it add to the cool factor.

People are saying

"These milkshakes are rich, creamy, and delicious."

"The vibe and decor here are really cool."

"You have to try their milkshakes; they're one of a kind."

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.

05
Lion & Lamb Coffee Roasters image 1

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.

Strong focus on great coffee with options like the salted toffee butter latte that stands out. The spot suits couples at all stages, from dating to bringing a baby along.

Baristas have a cool style. The atmosphere feels modern and fresh. Shelves display unique plushies and other products.

People are saying

"The coffee here is really good and superb."

"The coffee here is excellent, truly unmatched."

"The coffee here is really good and a great value."

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.

06
Elixir Wizard Academy - Boba Tea Bar & Ice Cream image 1

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 super cute spot for date night with a casual vibe. Offers tea and ice cream that work well for catching up or a relaxed evening.

Well-decorated interiors create a unique and unexpected atmosphere that stands out.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is magical and enchanting!"

"The tea here is served as fun, colorful potions."

"The atmosphere here is enchanting and magical for date spots."

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.

07
Dick Church's Restaurant image 1

Diner space combines retro remodel with cozy interior and ample outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays lively with loud country music and occasional live bands. Back room features a personal bar, adding to the vintage vibe.

Chicken Fried Steak comes with hashbrowns grilled with peppers and onions plus over-easy eggs. Avocado toast and a breakfast burrito also stand out as solid choices.

Back room with a personal bar and a speakeasy bar create a unique vibe. The interior decor and outdoor seating add to the cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the home-style comfort food was delicious."

"This diner has really friendly service and homemade food."

"The chicken fried steak here is perfectly made, a great date spot choice."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hectic during peak hours, but there is a large free parking lot attached.

2

The diner offers a classic diner-style meal at a decent price.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and casual.

08
Massimos Pizza and Pasta image 1

Family-owned restaurant with a cozy, relaxed atmosphere and spacious tables encourages socializing. TVs show sports and movies at low volume to keep the vibe chill and comfortable. Offers Halal options and a kid-friendly environment with a strong sense of tradition.

Sandwiches stand out with perfectly balanced meats and veggies and bread that stays crisp. Staff recognize regulars by name, adding a personal touch to the experience.

An incredibly cool atmosphere sets the tone here. It works well as a spot to hang out with family and friends.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh, fast, and delicious."

"The food here is delicious, perfect for a date spot."

"The staff's friendliness here is really cool and exceeds expectations."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a weekday lunch deal from 1-3pm for $8.

2

Halal options are available, which are rare in the area.

3

Parking is convenient and easy to find.

09
Nook Coffee Bar image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with retro vintage design and natural lighting offers indoor and outdoor seating near fountains. Atmosphere is vibey and lively, with a busy, loud energy and a hidden location away from street noise. Outdoor area serves as a popular co-working space with solid WiFi.

Located in a super cool area with unique shops, the spot has a cool retro vintage design and a quaint vibe that stands out.

People are saying

"The coffee here is rich, creamy, and smooth."

"The drinks here are amazing, made with joy."

"It's got a cool retro vintage design and great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, so plan to arrive early.

2

There isnโ€™t much seating available, making it less ideal for working.

3

Nook Coffee Bar does not offer online ordering or phone orders.

10
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 charming spot with a cultural atmosphere that offers more than just drinks. Fresh-made salsas, burritos, and tacos stand out as a tasty highlight while walking around and enjoying the market.

Many food options create a cool Mexican food court vibe. Choices like birria, torta ahogada, and churros add to the experience.

People are saying

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

"It's cool how many food options there are to try."

"The food here is amazing, especially the fish tacos and birria."

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.

11
Ruin Bar image 1

Small speakeasy with an eclectic steampunk theme and intimate seating creates a cozy, moody atmosphere. Music ranges from alternative techno to hip-hop and Reggaeton, enhancing the underground vibe. Specialty cocktails and unique decor, like a table inside an old cable car, add character to the space.

A spot with a fun vibe for a date night or girls night out. Offers a few tasty drinks and an intimate setting for a quick stop or longer hang.

Moody vibes and underground energy fill the space. Staff stay super chill, matching the crafty drinks and cool design.

People are saying

"The drinks here are bold, creative, and full of character."

"The cocktails here are creative, balanced, and a work of art."

"It's a super cool spot with a big, imaginative vibe for date spots."

Good to know

1

Seating is extremely limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect a line around 10 pm, even on weekdays.

3

Craft cocktails cost around $20 each, with some drinks priced higher.

12
Harper Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Open space combines modern industrial design with indoor and outdoor seating creating a laid-back, welcoming vibe. The atmosphere feels family-oriented and casual, with a lively buzz. A bar offers draft beers, complementing the relaxed setting.

Casual atmosphere suits date nights and group hangouts. Offers great food that fits both couples and families.

Great staff create a friendly vibe and the ambiance feels super cool throughout the space.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is amazing and totally worth a try."

"The ambiance here is really cool, with a great vibe."

"The ribs here are perfectly smoked and fall right off the bone."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; arrive early or consider street parking options.

3

Prices can be high, with meals for two averaging around $100.

13
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.

Low lighting and dimmed red lights create a romantic ambiance. Live music adds to the perfect setting for a date night.

A cool speakeasy vibe fills the basement with an old school atmosphere and a throwback to Madmen style. Live music and a surprising entrance add to the overall experience.

People are saying

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

"It's got this cool speakeasy vibe, like a throwback."

"It's a perfect spot for date night with its dim lighting and live music."

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.

14
MoonGoat Coffee image 1

Greenhouse-style design fills the space with natural light and offers diverse seating options both indoors and outdoors. Loud pop and eclectic music create a club-like energy, while the atmosphere remains trendy and chill with comfortable furniture and unique decor.

Smooth, fruity pour-over coffee and fizzy coffee with sparkling water offer unique drink options. The spot works well for a coffee date or studying with a relaxed vibe.

Space and atmosphere create a cool vibe that suits working, reading, or mingling. The environment feels open and inviting with plenty of room to settle in.

People are saying

"This coffee spot has great vibes and plenty of seating."

"The vibe here is pretty cool, a nice environment."

"Their coffee is so good, it's perfect for a date spot."

Good to know

1

Live music and open mic nights occur on Fridays and weekends.

2

Parking is extremely limited, making it hard to find a spot.

3

Valet parking is available but may not be convenient.

15
Westwood Coast image 1
American restaurant

Western-themed space offers an upscale country atmosphere with live country music and a lively dance floor that fills quickly. The vibe balances cool and trendy elements with a welcoming feel suitable for both casual dinners and special nights out.

Offers a suitable venue for date nights and special occasions. Provides a setting for a fun night out with a relaxed atmosphere.

Bar offers a cool vibe with trendy atmosphere and cool booths. Food matches the setting with excellent quality.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are delicious and great for date spots."

"The steak here is juicy, tender, and cooked perfectly."

"The duck legs were delicious and everyone raved about them."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Line dancing lessons are available on Thursday nights starting at 10 PM.

3

The venue transforms into a lively dance party after 9 PM.

16
Sugo Costa Mesa image 1
Pizza restaurant

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.

Pizzas stand out with amazing flavor and generous portions that can last for days. Limited indoor seating exists, but a few outdoor tables offer a spot to enjoy the meal together.

A super cool chef-owned pizzeria with a simple ambience featuring neon signs and bright colors. The owner is a really cool guy who checks in with patrons to see if they got their food and enjoyed it.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I had ever tried."

"These Date Spots have amazing pizza with fresh, quality ingredients."

"The pizza crust here is so cool and crispy."

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.

17
Eller Bakery image 1

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.

Brunch offers properly prepared French omelettes and flavorful savory crepes. Pastries like apple scones add a tasty touch to the meal.

Atmosphere feels very cool and inviting with a cool vibe throughout. Outdoor patio under olive trees offers a nice cool breeze on sunny days.

People are saying

"The bakery's cinnamon rolls were a game-changer and sold out by 11 a.m."

"The food and drinks here are phenomenal for date spots."

"The avocado toast here is refreshing and spot on."

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.

18
Coffee Dose image 1
Coffee shop

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.

Offers a modern vibe with up-to-date offerings that suit the clientele. Good for a first date or catching up while people watching.

Cool vibe and unique decor create a really cool atmosphere. The concept feels fresh and the spot has a laid-back, cool energy.

People are saying

"The breakfast burrito here is top-notch, especially with those crispy potatoes."

"The coffee here is phenomenal, so smooth and delicious."

"It's a loud, vibrant spot perfect for energetic Date Spots."

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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Costa Mesa, California

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