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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Costa Mesa

Fish dinner spots

A fish dinner that focuses on the catch itself rather than masking it in heavy sauces or deep-fryer batter.

Based on 616 Opinions
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01
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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.

Dinner offers fresh, delicious food with nice service. The place gets busy at prime time but seating happens promptly, and there is plenty of parking available.

Fish comes with a fresh, buttery texture that melts in your mouth. You can specify the type you want, and the selection includes high-quality nigiri and a chirashi bowl with warm, oily bites.

People are saying

"The dinner dishes here are delicious and fresh."

"I thought the sushi here was the best quality I've had."

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.

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Japanese restaurant offers cozy, authentic decor with a relaxed, quiet atmosphere and fresh, excellent sushi. Seating mostly suits small groups, with an open, clean kitchen visible. Outdoor patio seating provides a sunny, comfortable option with heaters available.

Fish comes in super fresh and high quality. Portions on sushi are exceptional, with options like the bikini roll featuring salmon, tuna, and tempura shrimp.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have incredibly fresh sushi and flavorful tempura."

"The fish here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 8-9:30 pm with $3 large sake.

2

Reservations are accepted, but it's best to arrive early to avoid the dinner rush.

3

The restaurant is small and fills up quickly during busy hours.

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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 fish shines with sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture in sashimi and seared sushi. The yellowtail collar offers a firm yet fatty bite, simply seasoned and packed with protein.

People are saying

"The fish here is super fresh and delicious."

"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.

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Sushi restaurant offers an intimate, stylish setting with dim lighting and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere despite occasional buzz. The space feels cozy with an open, relaxing floor plan. It attracts those seeking authentic, high-quality sushi with expert chefs and imported fish.

Late dinners happen easily with short waits even when busy. The menu features fresh seafood like yellow tail, bluefin, scallops, and sweet shrimp with fried heads, plus rolls and sake options.

Fish comes from Japan and shows world-class skill in preparation. Slices for sushi and sashimi are high quality and fresh, making each bite melt in your mouth.

People are saying

"The fish here is of the highest quality, truly outstanding."

"The staff at these dinner spots are so warm and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Lunch sets offer great value, typically priced around $15.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during dinner hours, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays.

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Small space with cozy seating and soft lighting creates an intimate, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere stays relaxing and authentic, though it gets loud and crowded during busy times. Decor and presentation reflect thoughtful Japanese style, focusing on food quality over luxury.

Dinner time brings a busy environment with a lively atmosphere. The soup in the dinner set stands out as a highlight.

Fish comes from Japan and is wild caught and freshest. Portions are generous, though preparation can feel average compared to traditional sushi.

People are saying

"The fish here is incredibly fresh."

"I loved this local gem for dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited in this area, so carpooling is best.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

The omakase price is $39, which is lower than typical prices.

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Seafood restaurant offers a casual, friendly atmosphere with quick service and mostly metal seating. The space feels comfortable and welcoming, often crowded but relaxed enough for family and friends. Known for affordable, fresh seafood, it stands out for quality dishes like crispy fish sandwiches and flavorful tacos.

Shrimp skewers with rice and Brussels sprouts make a solid dinner choice. The meal offers a great evening vibe with fresh seafood options.

Fish comes out tender and bursting with taste, especially the Swai with sweet chili glaze and crispy fish sandwich. Options like fish and chips, shrimp tacos, and clam chowder offer fresh grilled fish with great value.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

"The quality of the seafood at these dinner spots is top-notch."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

California Fish Grill does not accept cash payments; only cards and mobile payments.

3

There are plenty of free parking spaces available nearby.

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Bright, open space with a lively atmosphere influenced by mall surroundings. Offers fresh sushi and creative omakase comparable to Tokyo standards. Known for high-quality fish and a setting that resembles a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Offers a reliable spot for dinner with friends or special occasions like anniversaries. Serves well for both casual and meaningful evening meals.

Fish here shows excellent quality and looks extremely fresh every time.

People are saying

"The omakase dinner spots here are as good as Tokyo."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy weekends.

3

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

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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.

Bartenders show strong craft skills and make the experience feel like a dinner and a show. The menu offers elevated takes on familiar dishes suitable for date nights and special occasions.

Fish comes in both incredibly fresh Crudo flown from Japan and a course that falls flat.

People are saying

"The pasta dishes at these dinner spots are incredible."

"The fish here is attentive without being intrusive."

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.

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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.

Fresh fish comes in a wide variety with many sushi-grade options at reasonable prices. The fish and meat department offers good quality selections that are consistently fresh.

People are saying

"You'll find lots of beautiful, fresh fish here."

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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Japanese restaurant offers fresh sushi with large fish cuts and perfectly cooked rice in a quiet, cozy atmosphere. The space feels welcoming and calm, allowing easy conversation without loud music. A patio area adds to the relaxed vibe.

Dinner here happens early and casual. The spot offers a straightforward setting for a quiet meal with family or friends.

Fish comes in super fresh and big cuts that often outweigh the rice portion. Raw fish shows high quality, while cooked eel tastes buttery and rich.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and buttery."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Saturday is busy, expect a wait to be seated.

2

The average bill is about $60 per person.

3

Parking can be inconsistent, plan accordingly.

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Western-style seating fills a space with a traditional Japanese vibe and a nearly closed-off kitchen view. Noise levels run loud to very noisy, often making conversation difficult amid lively gatherings. The atmosphere suits casual dining with authentic Japanese touches and a busy, energetic crowd.

Reservations through OpenTable secure a spot for dinner on busy nights. Proximity to hotels makes it a convenient choice for evening meals.

High-quality fish shines in the tuna sashimi combo and red snapper carpaccio. The homemade fish cake adds a unique touch, while sashimi orders require at least two pieces per fish or seafood.

People are saying

"I loved the yakitori skewers and salmon sashimi for dinner."

"You have to try the thick cut beef tongue; it's cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during busy times, even with available tables.

3

Parking can be challenging due to valet restrictions; arrive early for a spot.

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