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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Costa Mesa

Kid-friendly dinner spots

An evening meal with children requires a space that welcomes noise and movement.

Based on 764 Opinions
+761
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Updated May 2026
01
Eat's Sushi image 1
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Japanese restaurant

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.

Soft, flavorful caterpillar roll and kid-approved crab sticks and chicken bento box make meals easy for kids. Booth seating and a classic Japanese vibe create a comfortable atmosphere for families.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is thick, super fresh, tender, and delicious."

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

"The avocado roll for the kid was surprisingly fresh and creamy."

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.

02
Wok-In image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Cozy space with calm atmosphere and spacious seating featuring cool fish tanks. Family-run with friendly staff serving authentic, flavorful Vietnamese dishes like pho and vermicelli. Popular spot known for fresh ingredients and reasonable prices.

Kids enjoy the chicken pho here and often crave it. One child traveled a long way just to try this food, showing its appeal to young eaters.

Dinner offers a delightful dining experience with dishes so good they invite multiple bites. Returning for dinner happens often due to the consistent quality enjoyed across visits.

People are saying

"The owner, Bruce, is super friendly and knows our favorite dishes."

"The lo mein with steak and garlic sauce at these dinner spots is so good."

"The chicken pho is so delicious, my daughter became a pho addict."

Good to know

1

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

2

Takeout is popular, and orders can be placed online for convenience.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during weekends.

03
Kashiwa Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

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.

Step-by-step ordering lets kids pick their noodles, proteins, and toppings, making meals interactive. Service stays accommodating for families with toddlers, and the food is flavorful and toddler friendly.

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

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be outstanding and flavorful."

"The ramen here is outstanding and packed with flavor."

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

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
Nuovo Amico Pizza & Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant offers a cozy patio and family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of TVs for entertainment. The vibe is relaxed and homie, fitting for casual meals after the beach. Known for authentic pasta dishes and generous portions at reasonable prices.

Meals for kids come in large portions and include hearty options like Chicken Parmesan. The staff is kind and helpful in keeping kids entertained.

Pizza rolls, baked mushrooms, and charcuterie boards stand out for dinner. Meals work well for groups and takeout.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The dinner spots here improved a lot with the new owner."

"It's really kid friendly, with amazing meals in large portions."

Good to know

1

Nuovo Amico Pizza & Pasta offers daily specials and a lunch special.

2

They can customize dishes upon request.

3

Expect a wait as food is made to order.

05
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.

Servers show great hospitality to families with kids and luggage. Kids get freshly made meals like a giant burger and a country breakfast that bring them back again.

Dinner offers a wholesome retro atmosphere with an old-fashioned setup. Food serves as a solid example of classic dinner fare.

People are saying

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

"The dinner food here is delicious comfort food."

"The service here is so warm and friendly, especially with kids."

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.

06
Mercado González 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.

Servers provide an ice bag to keep ceviche cold for kids. The market offers a safe and clean environment where families and kids can hang out. Sharing pork and chicken tamales is common and popular with children.

Dinner options include a variety of food choices with samples available to try before deciding. The spot works well for relaxing dinners and meeting up with friends.

People are saying

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

"You can get delicious, authentic Mexican dinner spots here."

"It's a great place to take the whole family."

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.

07
Memphis Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Covered patio with dog-friendly seating creates a relaxed outdoor vibe. Inside space is cozy and bustling without overwhelming noise. Atmosphere blends southern charm with a slightly worn, inviting feel.

Covered picnic tables in the back provide a great spot for families with little kids. Kids can run around freely on the back patio while enjoying dishes like the potato cakes.

Dinner features flavorful, well-prepared dishes made with fresh ingredients. Weekly dinner specials add variety to the menu.

People are saying

"The patio is a cute, airy, and pleasant outdoor space."

"The food here is delicious and portions are large."

"The dinner here was amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Weekly dinner specials are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

3

Parking is limited and can get crowded quickly, especially on weekends.

08
Sushi Town image 1
Japanese restaurant

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 includes a sushi combination plate that appeals to kids. Meals offer great flavors and presentation that engage children. Shared dining experiences work well for families.

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

People are saying

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

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"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.

09
Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport Beach image 1

Hotel offers elegant decor with a boating theme and well-designed, soundproofed courtyards that block airport noise. Spacious rooms and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere contrast with lively restaurant areas. Amenities include a clean pool and hot tub, free parking, and a helpful shuttle service.

Rooms offer decent size for families with kids. Kids enjoy the pool and the daily fresh cookies served at 5:30 pm. Other families with young kids are often present, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Dinner features good options and pairs well with a great early evening happy hour. The restaurant also serves a wonderful breakfast.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff was so friendly and professional."

"The staff here makes you feel like family during dinner."

"It's so kid friendly, the pools are a huge hit with everyone."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food at reasonable prices, perfect for a casual meal.

2

Parking costs $25 per night, which is not listed beforehand.

3

Expect hidden fees that can significantly increase your total bill.

10
chobop - Premium All You Can Eat Sushi image 1

Sushi restaurant offers all-you-can-eat menu with fresh, high-quality fish and perfect fish-to-rice ratio. Atmosphere stays chill and inviting with balanced background music. Kitchen is hidden from view, focusing attention on unique sushi presentation.

Staff accommodate allergies by modifying rolls and sauces. Kids face a high price point with some items not included in all-you-can-eat. Owner may offer free specials to children occasionally.

Dinner offers all-you-can-eat sushi with options at $35 for regular and $55 for sashimi. The place stays quiet on Friday evenings, making for a calm dining experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the nigiri."

"The sushi and sashimi here are so fresh and delicious."

"The dinner spots here offer really good sushi and all-you-can-eat options."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges $35 for regular dinner all-you-can-eat and $55 for sashimi all-you-can-eat.

2

A free parking lot is available for customers.

3

An 18% gratuity is automatically added for parties of five or more.

11
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.

High school kids use this spot to hang out and socialize. Kids around 10 years old find it engaging while waiting for orders.

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

People are saying

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

"The pizza here is delicious and reminds me of Rome."

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

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.

12
Paradise Dynasty image 1
Chinese restaurant

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.

Kids enjoy the Vegetable and Pork Dumplings with their soft wrappers and balanced filling. Families celebrate birthdays here, making it a spot that welcomes children warmly.

Great Happy Hour suits late lunch or early dinner. Service stays exceptional with dishes arriving orderly and hot even when busy. Menu offers wide variety and consistent quality for any day.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and top quality."

"The panda chocolate lava bun was a hit with the tweens."

"Our server Hendry gave great recommendations for dinner spots."

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.

13
Mi Casa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old school Mexican restaurant with an open, airy layout after recent renovations. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and cozy, with a bar area showing games on large screens. Known for classic tacos and strong margaritas, it draws locals who appreciate its long-standing community presence.

A strong family tradition shapes the atmosphere, with multiple generations celebrating birthdays here. The environment feels welcoming for kids, supported by a history of family involvement at the front counter.

Dinner features delicious Mexican food with large margaritas packed with tequila. Burritos come in generous portions, sometimes too big to finish.

People are saying

"I've loved their Mexican food since I was a kid; it's a favorite."

"It's so kid-friendly; we celebrated all our birthdays here for years."

"The dinner spots here have really good fajitas and flavorful burritos."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers all-day specials during happy hour with $4 bowls.

2

Happy hour features great prices on food and drinks from 4-7pm.

3

Parking can get hectic, so arrive early to find a spot.

14
NORMS Restaurant image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Classic American diner with mid-century modern design and retro decor creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Open 24/7 with oldies music playing, it offers a nostalgic vibe that feels like stepping back in time. Plenty of parking and a claw toy machine add to the casual, welcoming experience.

Kids get free dessert for any inconvenience and enjoy milkshakes rated highly by them. The spot offers kids machines at the entrance and a welcoming vibe for families with young children.

Dinner offers a five-item meal for about $14 that fills up and tastes solid. Options include Thanksgiving-style dinners with multiple sides and corned beef and cabbage that stands out.

People are saying

"Rocky made my breakfast so positive and kept my coffee hot."

"The staff here are so friendly and attentive, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"I thought the dinner spots were a great value for the price."

Good to know

1

Hot chocolate has free refills.

2

I needed to ask for a code to enter the bathroom.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-staffed.

15
Holé Smokes BBQ image 1

Smoke fills the air alongside the scent of barbecue, while old wood floors scattered with peanut shells create a Texas BBQ vibe. Neon beer signs and multiple TVs support a lively sports-friendly atmosphere. Seating accommodates both groups and families, with a comfortable patio adding to the space.

Stopping here after soccer games works well for families. Kids’ options and sides exist but feel overpriced and lack flavor.

Dinner offers quick, delicious meals with family-friendly portions. Service and portion sizes may vary depending on the time of day.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, just melts in your mouth."

"The mac n cheese and cream corn are really good."

"The brisket at these dinner spots was perfect."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7pm on weekdays and 3 to 6pm on weekends.

2

Taco Tuesday features special menu items and pricing.

3

Parking is generally easy to find near the restaurant.

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Costa Mesa, California

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