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Local picks in Costa Mesa

Cool lunch spots

A midday break deserves a setting that feels a little more interesting than the office desk.

Based on 555 Opinions
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01
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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.

The lunch area features a food court with more tables, cutting down wait times. Packed to-go lunches offer quick options, and the spot suits group lunches well.

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 gets so crowded at this lunch spot, parking is a problem."

"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.

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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.

Lunch offers an explosion of flavor with delicious food that makes it worth returning for more. Options suit both dine-in and takeout, making it easy to grab a satisfying meal.

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

"This lunch spot's food was packed with flavor."

"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.

03
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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.

Lots of lunch options make it easy to find something for everyone. The menu suits groups, including kids, for a quick midday meal.

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 sashimi at this Lunch Spot is impeccably 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.

04
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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.

Small size makes it easy to grab a quick lunch. Known for bowl of ramen served well for lunch or after work.

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

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot has richly flavorful ramen."

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.

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Small Mexican restaurant offers an intimate setting with a chill vibe and live DJs spinning records. Outdoor patio seating adds a relaxing atmosphere complemented by heaters when needed. The space feels modern and artful, creating a welcoming and lighthearted environment.

Lunch here involves a high price point, with meals for three exceeding $125. The food quality supports the cost, making it a notable choice for special occasions or when spending more is expected.

Atmosphere feels very chill with an ultra-cool modern vibe. Owners come across as super cool and the Mexican plates are fresh and artful.

People are saying

"The chimichurri hummus at this lunch spot was a star dish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like wine pairings.

2

Brunch is served all day, making it a flexible dining option.

3

The restaurant hosts food and wine pairing events regularly.

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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.

Lunch offers a solid pizza selection with a standout Nutella pizza topped with banana and strawberry. Sundays provide a relaxed vibe for enjoying lunch here.

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

"This lunch spot offers authentic Roman-style pizzas that transport you back 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.

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Small Hawaiian restaurant offers a surf vibe atmosphere with loud music that fills the space. The place has Ohana vibes and a chill, friendly energy that recalls family vacations. Seating is limited and cozy, with some outdoor patio options.

Quick service stands out even when the place is packed. The Hawaiian plate lunch features a great katsu plate, served in a setting with limited seating similar to school lunch tables.

Owner brings a super cool vibe. Inside feels very cool with self-serve condiments and fun stickers.

People are saying

"This lunch spot feels like Hawaii with authentic food."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site, but can fill up quickly during busy times.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Expect larger portion sizes, often enough for two meals.

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