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Costa Mesa's best

Lunch and dinner spots

You want a reliable place to eat that handles both lunch and dinner with the same consistency.

Based on 764 Opinions
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01
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 1
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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.

Lunch offers set meals like the chicken karrage lunch set with rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. Prices stay reasonable and parking is plentiful for both lunch and dinner.

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.

People are saying

"The dinner dishes here are delicious and fresh."

"This is my favorite authentic Japanese lunch spot."

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.

02
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Small French steakhouse with cozy, intimate atmosphere and Parisian bistro decor. Indoor space is compact with tables close together, while outdoor seating offers a quieter option by a fountain. Bar area is lively and can be loud, contrasting with the generally warm and inviting vibe inside.

Lunch arrives quickly and the atmosphere can vary from calm to noisy with groups. Making a reservation helps even when it is not busy. Enjoyable meals suit both family and friends gatherings.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have high-quality, delicious meats cooked to perfection."

"The steak frites and steak and eggs were made to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get crowded.

2

Seating is limited; expect to sit at the bar if you arrive without a reservation.

3

Prices for entrees range from $30 to $50 per person.

03
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Small, intimate space with cozy Japanese bar vibes and tight seating creates a lively, bustling atmosphere. The place draws a busy crowd often requiring a wait-list, reflecting its popularity. Known for authentic handmade udon and soba, it offers a genuine taste of Japanese hometown flavors.

Lines form quickly during lunch, making it a busy spot. The lunch combo offers a smaller portion and costs nearly the same as ordering items separately.

Dinner features seasonal, monthly-rotating specials with some dishes limited to 10 servings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Arriving early or before the rush helps secure these options.

Good to know

1

This dish is only available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and is limited to 10 servings each day during dinner.

2

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

3

The restaurant operates on a wait list only, so arrive early to secure a spot.

04
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Open-space seating in a food court with several Japanese eateries creates a communal atmosphere. Charcoal-grilled beef tongue offers authentic, smoky flavor with tender, juicy texture. The environment combines Showa-era Japanese street style with a cozy, lively vibe.

People are saying

"The beef tongue here is perfectly seasoned and grilled."

"This Lunch Spot's charcoal grilled beef tongue is tender and smoky."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and expect a wait of 30-45 minutes on weekends.

2

The price range is US$20-30 per person for a meal.

3

There is limited seating in the food court, which can lead to standing while eating.

05
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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.

Offers consistent quality for both lunch and dinner. Serves well for company lunches over several years.

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

"I thought the egg rolls were the best part of this Lunch Spot."

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.

06
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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.

People are saying

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

"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.

07
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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.

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

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

"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.

08
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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.

Lunch features combo specials like 5 pieces of nigiri sushi paired with a spicy tuna roll. Both lunch and dinner times offer good lunch specials with solid variety.

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

People are saying

"The lunch spot had fresh, delicious sushi and creative rolls."

"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.

09
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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.

A well-thought-out prefix lunch menu offers solid options alongside a more casual lunch selection. Daily happy hour adds a relaxed vibe during lunchtime.

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.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot's Italian food is the best I've eaten."

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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American restaurant offers a fun, warm atmosphere with a spacious dining room and large TVs for watching games. Seating accommodates large groups comfortably, including a quiet patio option. The bar features a wide selection of tap beers and notable cocktails in a relaxed setting.

Weekday lunch menu offers a great deal with options for a quick lunch. The spot feels relaxing and suits those looking for a nice place to eat midday.

Dinner includes options like pulled pork sandwich, brisket flatbread, and chicken with mushrooms. Reservations are possible for late evening, with hours open until 11 p.m.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has great food and friendly service."

"You have to try the BLT wrap; it's huge and so good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a weekday lunch menu with great deals.

2

Happy hour features half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Sunday brunch is served with a variety of options.

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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.

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

People are saying

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

"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.

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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.

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.

People are saying

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

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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Open kitchen design reveals chefs preparing authentic Aegean cuisine with visible care. Warm, cozy atmosphere combines with live music to create an inviting and peaceful dining experience. Regulars appreciate family-style hospitality and dishes that evoke traditional Turkish flavors.

Lunch offers flavorful dishes like the kefta plate and fire roasted eggplant that satisfy well without needing more.

Cozy and inviting atmosphere suits both casual dinners and special occasions. Turkish dishes offer rich flavors that encourage repeat visits, with options for dine-in or takeout.

People are saying

"The dinner here is full of authentic Turkish flavor."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is out of this world, with fresh, quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

Parking nearby is available, but it can be challenging during peak hours.

2

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

3

The menu features a variety of authentic Turkish dishes at reasonable prices.

14
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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.

Lunch options include Bistro and Le Chateau restaurant on-site. Food quality stays delicious across all meals.

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 staff here makes you feel like family during dinner."

"I ate at the Bistro for lunch and found it was great."

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.

15
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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.

Variety on the menu and quality of each dish make it a solid choice for lunch or brunch. Great Happy Hour options suit late lunch or early dinner times.

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 XLB here are redefined with bold twists like truffle and tom yum."

"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.

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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.

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.

People are saying

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

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

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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Small, cozy Italian restaurant with an intimate atmosphere and a nice outdoor patio away from mall traffic. Live music often fills the space, creating a lively vibe with singing and dancing. The setting features tight table arrangements and decor that soothes after shopping.

Great for a quick lunch stop while shopping with family. The warm and hospitable service adds to the enjoyable lunch experience.

Offers a variety of small bites and dishes suitable for dinner. Serves as a good spot for groups looking to share before a main meal. Provides options to try something new with each visit.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot has delicious Italian food, especially the pizza."

"I was surprised by the bloated prices at these dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Quattro Caffé has live music every day after 5.00 pm.

2

There's a 3.5% surcharge for credit card payments.

3

The restaurant offers halal chicken and steak options.

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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.

A new lunch menu offers good value. The meals are consistently very good.

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

People are saying

"This lunch spot's brisket and ribs were so tasty."

"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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