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Guide to Costa Mesa

Dinner spots with parking

A dinner spot is only as good as its accessibility, and you refuse to waste your evening looking for parking.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 1
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 2
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 3
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Japanese restaurant

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.

Plenty of parking spots exist in the plaza's own parking lot. Availability holds steady during both lunch and dinner times.

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

"I found the food here to be delicious and truly authentic."

"The dinner dishes here are delicious and fresh."

"There's plenty of parking available, even on a Monday night."

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
WADAYA - Costa Mesa image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small space with a cozy, laid-back vibe and limited seating creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cool, attracting a mix of young people and families. Known for excellent vegan options and a unique touch of serving rice to soak up leftover sauce after noodles.

More parking exists behind the building than expected. The lot is not huge but offers plentiful spots and no trouble finding a place.

Dinner here draws a crowd early, with many people lining up by 6:45 PM on weekends. Arriving around 5:15 PM helps avoid the busy wait times on Sunday evenings.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here might be the best I've ever had."

"You'll want to arrive by 5:30 PM for dinner to avoid the wait."

"I never had trouble getting a parking spot."

Good to know

1

The place is small, so arrive early to avoid a wait.

2

Expect to wait during peak hours; a clipboard is available for the waiting list.

3

Arrive by 5:30 PM for the best chance of no wait.

03
Ramen Nagi image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines traditional and modern vibe with a fun, lively atmosphere. Seating includes long communal tables and a large outdoor patio, creating a somewhat cramped but energetic environment. Popular spot with customizable ramen options and a steady flow of diners.

Lots of free parking sits right next to a parking garage. The mall nearby offers free wifi.

Dinner here features a delightful aroma that draws people in unexpectedly. The food creates a satisfying experience that makes diners glad to have chosen this spot.

People are saying

"The ramen here is delicious, especially the original."

"The fried chicken here is delicious and has a great crunch."

"The ramen here is delicious, especially the squid ink flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the restaurant is very popular and there may be a wait.

2

Expect a 40-minute wait during peak hours, especially around lunch.

3

There is plenty of free parking available near the restaurant.

04
Eat's Sushi image 1
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.

Plenty of parking spaces sit right at the door. Easy parking adds convenience for visits.

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 parking available here is plentiful and a definite plus."

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.

05
Sushi K's Bistro Costa Mesa image 1

Small sushi bar creates an authentic Japanese vibe with calm, tranquil atmosphere and peaceful jazz music. Fresh, exceptional sushi pairs with a diverse sake selection for a standout omakase experience. Interior feels brand new and clean, offering a cozy, elevated dining environment.

Parking is pretty easy to find, even on a Sunday evening. It adds convenience without hassle.

Omakase dinners offer a very nice experience with fresh, carefully prepared dishes. The setting suits intimate dates, special gatherings, and business dinners.

People are saying

"I had some of the best Japanese food I've ever tasted."

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and delicious."

"The parking lot is shared and can be limited."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers rotating specials and a selection of sake.

2

Expect a unique menu crafted with authentic Japanese ingredients.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

06
Pom & Olive image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and a Midwest supper club feel. Interior features fresh jasmine and beautiful paintings, creating a warm and familiar vibe. The place attracts many big families and offers a quiet, pleasant dining experience.

Plenty of parking exists in a shared lot with the Travelodge hotel next door. The restaurant blends into the motel area, so parking is easy to find nearby.

Offers a great dinner option without cooking or cleaning. Suitable for family dinners, business meals, or date nights with a nice atmosphere for conversation.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be delicious and bursting with flavor."

"The dinner here is flavorful and delicious."

"There's plenty of parking available here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and pescatarian options.

2

Portions are generous for the price, providing good value.

3

There is plenty of parking available for guests.

07
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.

A large free parking lot sits just a few feet from the door, with more parking available out back and to the side. The parking setup is convenient and ample.

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."

"There's plenty of parking available right outside."

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.

08
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.

Lots of parking spaces sit right off the freeway, making access easy. Around 30 spots fill up quickly during busy times but remain ample on weekday nights and weekend afternoons.

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."

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

"I found plenty of parking available right off the freeway."

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.

09
Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar image 1

Stylish restaurant with live jazz music and a cozy, warm atmosphere featuring a fireplace and outdoor patio with heaters and blankets. Spacious, clean interior and comfortable seating overlook a beautiful park and pond. The bar area is lively, contributing to an inviting and energetic vibe.

Free parking and parking validation make it easy to park nearby. A convenient garage sits close, and self-parking comes included with dining, just a short walk from the theater.

Dinner offers a great pre-show meal with attentive service that helps guests get to the theater on time. The setting suits a date night and adds a special touch to the evening.

People are saying

"I loved sitting outside with the lovely view and warm fire pit."

"The service at these dinner spots is outstanding and professional."

"You can get your parking validated here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is validated for guests dining at the restaurant, making it convenient.

3

Pre-show drinks are available for theatergoers attending performances at the Segerstrom.

10
Takumi Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

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.

People are saying

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

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

"Parking is easy and there's plenty of it."

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.

11
Koyi Sushi AYCE - Premium All You Can Eat Sushi image 1

Small, cozy sushi restaurant offers affordable all-you-can-eat options with fresh, high-quality fish. Atmosphere stays relaxed and casual with no loud music, creating a comfortable dining experience. Seating includes a traditional sushi bar and small tables, often crowded but intimate.

Parking lot offers free and easy parking with a medium size that fills mostly after 7 pm when other businesses close. Some transient individuals occupy nearby parking structures.

All you can eat dinner offers affordable and delicious options with dinner-only cuts that are limited per person but stand out for quality.

People are saying

"The Bottomless sushi options had a wide variety of fresh fish."

"The dinner spots here have great sushi rolls, but limited nigiri options."

"Parking was easy and the lot was free."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Thursday from 12 PM to 4 PM at $24.95 per person.

2

The happy hour special includes all-you-can-eat rolls only, not the entire menu.

3

This month, buy 1 get 1 free sake or beer is available during happy hour.

12
Wafu of Japan image 1
Sushi restaurant

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.

Parking is pretty easy with a shared lot next to a gas station, though the limited space in the area suggests carpooling.

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 sushi here is so fresh and perfectly prepared."

"I loved this local gem for dinner spots."

"Parking was pretty easy here."

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.

13
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.

Plenty of parking spots make access simple. The parking lot is spacious and easy to use.

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."

"It feels like stepping back in time in this classic American diner."

"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.

14
Vaca. image 1
Spanish restaurant

Spanish restaurant offers lively atmosphere with a beautiful outdoor patio featuring heaters for comfort. Indoor seating is packed and close-quartered, creating an intimate but confined vibe. Drinks include seasonal cocktails and a large selection of Tempranillo wine, complementing standout dishes like seared scallops and dry-aged steak.

Valet parking costs $12 and is the main option. Self-parking exists at a nearby structure and across the street in South Coast Plaza parking lots. The area is secure and nice for a walk after dinner.

Dinner features a top-notch wine selection paired with meals that suit celebrations and regular visits alike. The atmosphere supports special occasions and everyday dinners with consistent quality.

People are saying

"The Spanish tapas and entrees make for a wonderful dinner."

"The cocktails here are truly amazing and well-crafted."

"I found the parking available to be convenient."

Good to know

1

Parking requires a valet.

2

We waited outside for two hours before being seated.

3

The paella takes about 40 minutes to cook.

15
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.

Plenty of free self parking spaces make parking easy here. Rates can be lower with certain connections, and parking is never a hassle.

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 parking fee was $24, and I didn't know about it."

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

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.

16
Mercado Gonzรกlez 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.

Parking spots appear quickly and are consistently available. Staff assist with parking, making the process smooth and easy.

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."

"Parking can be challenging because it gets so crowded."

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

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.

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Costa Mesa, California

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