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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Costa Mesa's best

Cool dinner spots

A dinner spot with a genuine edge that doesn't rely on loud music to manufacture a vibe.

Based on 579 Opinions
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01
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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.

Dinner features authentic Lebanese cuisine with delicious flavors. It suits group celebrations well, hosting gatherings like birthdays and holiday dinners.

People are saying

"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.

02
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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.

Vibe feels cool for a strip mall sushi spot with nice people around. Delivery comes in a branded bag that stands out.

People are saying

"The sushi and rolls at these Dinner Spots are super fresh and generously portioned."

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.

03
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Small ramen restaurant offers authentic, flavorful ramen with options like black garlic and vegan miso. Casual, cozy space fills quickly and features unique decorations creating a laid-back vibe. Beer on tap complements the fast, no-fuss dining experience.

Dinner service moves quickly with minimal wait times on weekdays. The spot stays quiet during weekday dinners, making seating and food delivery fast.

Atmosphere features a cool vibe with unique decorations that stand out. The space feels modern and inviting.

People are saying

"These dinner spots have rich, flavorful broth and delicious toppings."

"The ramen here is really good, especially the broth and noodles."

Good to know

1

Kashiwa Ramen offers a student discount for OCC students.

2

One bowl costs about $20.

3

The number of tables is limited, so expect a wait on busy nights.

04
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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.

Welcoming and upscale ambiance suits both special nights and casual dinners. The menu features dishes like the Australian Wagyu Ribeye, with consistent good food and service.

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

People are saying

"The steaks here are cooked to perfection, juicy and tender."

"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.

05
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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.

Calabrese slice offers a light dinner option. Sugo fits well for cozy dinners and casual gatherings.

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

"These dinner spots offer authentic Roman-style pizzas that transport you to Italy."

"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.

06
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Indoor space mimics authentic Japanese market with modern layout and large food court featuring unique Japanese products and a beer garden. Atmosphere feels lively and energetic, resembling a slice of Japan with open dining and specialty shops. Crowds gather for standout dishes like beef tongue and ramen, creating a bustling vibe.

A great food court offers many options for dinner, including a to-go bento section for quick meals. Closing at 7 pm can be inconvenient since many start dinner around that time.

Offers a wide variety of food, drinks, and snacks from other cultures. Serves as a Japanese shopping destination with unique household items.

People are saying

"It's a really cool Japanese shopping destination."

Good to know

1

Parking can be chaotic, especially during peak hours.

2

The food court opens at 11am, offering a variety of dining options.

3

Unique Japanese products are available that are hard to find elsewhere.

07
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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.

Dimmed red lights set a perfect ambiance for dinner. Arriving early allows for quiet conversation before the music starts.

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

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

"The filet mignon here is possibly the best I've ever had."

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.

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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.

Dinner service includes full service with a waiter. Food can take 20 minutes to over an hour to arrive, sometimes due to order issues. Meals are good once served.

Two restaurants sit side by side creating a super cool atmosphere. The people there feel authentic and add to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"The dinner here was delicious, especially the tender, flavorful steak."

"I found the most delicious, fresh, and authentic Lebanese food here."

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.

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