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Top picks in Costa Mesa

Fish spots

The simple, clean taste of fresh fish is exactly what the palate needs right now.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sushi K's Bistro Costa Mesa image 1
Sushi K's Bistro Costa Mesa image 2

Small sushi bar offers an authentic Japanese vibe with calm jazz music. Fish flown from Japan ensures freshness and perfect fish to rice balance. Diverse sake selection complements the standout omakase in a cozy, clean setting.

Freshness stands out with fish flown in from Japan. Dishes show delicate cuts and beautiful presentation. The fish to rice ratio balances perfectly.

People are saying

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

"This is the perfect late night spot for sushi."

"The fish here is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

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.

02
Sushi Shibucho image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small family-owned sushi bar shines with fresh fish and edo-mae style sushi. Chatty, casual vibe invites conversation with the chef and nearby diners. Fish melts in your mouth, offering sublime flavor in a local, unassuming setting.

Fish here is high-quality and fresh, delivering a melt-in-my-mouth texture. The sushi reflects authentic Japanese style with sublime flavor and careful preparation.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was the best I ever tasted."

"I thought the sushi here was the best I ever had."

"This fish is the best sushi bar in Orange County."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy weekend evenings due to limited seating.

2

Expect a traditional edomae style of sushi, emphasizing quality and freshness.

3

Pricing is moderate, generally lower than high-end omakase but higher than casual spots.

03
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Japanese atmosphere offers fresh, buttery fish that melts in your mouth. Skilled chefs prepare high-quality nigiri and a flavorful chirashi bowl. Soft music creates a calm, relaxed energy perfect for quiet conversation.

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

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

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

"I found this place to be a true hidden gem."

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.

04
Hana re image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar offers an intimate setting with fresh wasabi grated on site. Fish is incredibly fresh and handled with care, featuring top quality fish in inventive dishes. Minimalist and serene atmosphere enhances the omakase experience.

Fish arrives incredibly fresh and is handled with great care. Dishes showcase top quality fish with inventive preparations that highlight freshness.

People are saying

"The Omakase journey featured pristine sashimi and world-class ingredients."

"It's an intimate spot with only about 15 seats total."

"The fish here is so fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance due to limited seating.

2

Parking can be difficult to find during weekends, so plan accordingly.

3

The omakase experience costs around $250 per person, excluding tips.

05
Tiger Plate image 1
Poke bar

Poke bar serves fresh fish with solid seasoning and tasty flavors. Prices stay reasonable with portions from small to large. Valet parking adds convenience in a small plaza setting.

Fish comes super fresh and is cut fresh with good seasoning. The overall taste is solid and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The poke here is always so fresh and tasty."

"I thought the food here was amazing and tasty."

"The fish here is so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available, taking up a significant section of the plaza.

2

Prices are based on weight in ounces, allowing for meal customization.

3

They offer a large variety of ingredients and toppings for your poke bowl.

06
High Seas | Cannabis Boutique image 1

Large fish tanks create a calming vibe in a classy green space. Premium fish selection pairs well with complimentary coffee and kombucha. Elegant design and diverse aquatic life make browsing a unique experience.

Fish tanks stand out as a key feature, adding to the store's aesthetic and overall vibe. The shop offers a premium selection of fish alongside complimentary drinks.

People are saying

"The fish tanks here are really pretty and cool."

"Emily's knowledge helps you buy marijuana you'll love."

"It's got plenty of parking available, right in the back."

Good to know

1

There is ample parking available in the back of the dispensary.

2

High Seas offers a wide variety of cannabis products, including flower and edibles.

3

They provide delivery services for orders meeting the minimum requirement.

07
California Fish Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with tender Swai and crispy fish sandwiches. Casual vibe and quick service make it great for families. Affordable prices and fresh flavors keep guests coming back.

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

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

"The seafood here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

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.

08
Takumi Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy Japanese spot offers fresh sushi with exceptional portions like the bikini roll. Enjoy a quiet atmosphere and watch chefs in the open kitchen. Outdoor patio seating is sunny and comfortable with heaters for cool evenings.

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

"The tempura here is perfectly crispy and warm."

"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.

09
Captain Mike's Fish Fry image 1
Seafood restaurant

Retro style creates a casual vibe with a clean, welcoming space. Fish and chips shine with perfect frying and flavorful quality fish. Quick service pairs well with standout chicken and classic sides.

Fish comes out fresh and crispy with quality fish fried perfectly every time. The fish and chips stand out as flavorful and fantastic, complemented by good fries and quick service.

People are saying

"The warm tortillas were perfect for making tacos."

"I found the fish and chips to be fantastic."

"I found the fish and chips to be fantastic and crispy."

Good to know

1

Expect your food to arrive within about 10 minutes after ordering.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it a good spot for a meal.

10
Kakurega image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers an intimate, stylish setting with dim lighting and a quiet atmosphere. Fish from Japan is fresh and expertly prepared, delivering world-class skill in every bite. Cozy space attracts those seeking authentic, high-quality sushi.

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 seafood here is so fresh, it practically melts in your mouth."

"I found the Japanese food here to be the best I've ever had."

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

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.

11
Tacos Madre Mexican Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic decor and handmade tortillas. Fish tacos are sublime and rival top places. Vibrant, family-friendly vibe with lively Spanish music makes it a casual local favorite.

Fish tacos stand out as sublime and outstanding with flavors that rival well-known spots. The fish and Gobernador tacos deliver a memorable taste experience.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos to be amazing."

"The carnitas here are super flavorful and taste homemade."

"I found the fish tacos to be amazing and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking at the restaurant is very limited, so arrive early.

2

Expect wait times of up to 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

Taco Tuesdays offer great deals on tacos.

12
YUBUYA image 1
Sushi restaurant

Cozy sushi spot offers handcrafted yubu with fresh, high-quality fish and sweet tofu. Intimate space fits 8 to 10, perfect for quiet dining or takeout. Calm atmosphere and flavorful toppings create a homey vibe.

Freshness stands out with high quality fish served alongside sweet tender tofu and flavorful toppings. Each roll features delightful fish that complements the rice and seasoning perfectly.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the yubus, is so flavorful and filling."

"The seafood here is so flavorful and fresh, I can't wait to try it all."

"The fish here is so fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

The lunch combo includes a free cup of miso with orders of three yubus or more.

2

YUBUYA offers a variety of yubu fillings, including vegan options.

3

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

13
Shunka Sushi & Japanese Cuisine image 1

Sushi spot shines with fresh fish served perfectly with warm rice. Enjoy authentic omakase in a traditional Japanese interior that feels fun and inviting. Small portions and fair prices welcome both experts and newcomers.

Super fresh fish arrives never frozen, served with care to keep the balance between cold fish and warm rice. A wide variety of white fish and rare types appear, all with consistently high quality.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is exceptional, practically melting in your mouth."

"I found the sushi here to be super authentic, prepared by real Japanese chefs."

"The fish here is always super fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, so plan to arrive early.

2

Omakase is available and offers a great value for the quality.

3

Expect to pay around $40 for a combo meal with green tea.

14
Pokeworks image 1
Poke bar

Poke bar features an open layout with comfortable seating and a small outdoor area. Fish is served in fresh chunks with generous portions, including spicy tuna. Atmosphere stays peaceful with fun music and warm energy.

Fish comes in fresh chunks with good quality and generous portions. Bowls include about nine scoops of fish and feature spicy tuna among other options.

People are saying

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

"I thought the poke here was the best I ever had."

"The fish here is always so fresh."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at the door.

2

The store is always very clean.

3

Expect a variety of options for customizing your poke bowl.

15
Eat's Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers fresh fish with sweet, melt-in-mouth sashimi and seared sushi. Cozy, authentic decor and warm yellow lighting create a relaxing vibe. Outdoor seating with heaters and nearby ice cream shop make it perfect for couples and groups.

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

"I found the sushi here to be high quality and affordable."

"The fish here is super fresh and delicious."

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.

16
Baja Fish Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Wide-open layout creates a casual, friendly vibe with a relaxed beach-town feel. Fish dishes shine with Ensenada style tacos featuring flaky, flavorful fish. Big salsa bar and self-service soda add to the fast food convenience while keeping quality Mexican flavors.

Fish dishes feature Ensenada style tacos with flaky, flavorful fish that is lightly battered or grilled. Blackened fish tacos and bowls offer fresh, well-seasoned options paired with black beans and creamy sauces.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and consistently excellent."

"These fish tacos are the best I've ever eaten."

"I loved the flaky, flavorful fish tacos."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours.

2

The portions are generous and satisfying.

3

The menu includes burritos, bowls, enchiladas, and vegetarian options.

17
SkyBay Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with limited indoor seating. Enjoy fresh fish paired with premium sashimi at affordable prices. The sushi blends excellent quality with a flavorful fusion of seasonings.

Fish here is consistently very fresh and of excellent quality. The flavor blends well with the fusion of seasonings, making the sushi delicious.

People are saying

"The sushi here is super fresh and delicious."

"These date spots have incredibly fresh and delicious sushi."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

SkyBay Sushi is closed from 3 to 5 PM daily.

2

There is plenty of parking available in the lot.

3

Lunch prices are lower than dinner prices.

18
Que Vida Tacos Costa Mesa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with fresh margaritas and an upbeat vibe. Fish lovers enjoy crispy beer battered fish in Baja Fish Tacos. Clean, open space with comfy seats makes it perfect for casual dining.

Large fish tacos feature crispy beer battered fish, cabbage, and crema. Baja Fish Tacos stand out as delicious and perfect with a strong focus on fish in the menu.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were some of the best I've ever had."

"I found the breakfast burrito to be muy bueno."

"I loved the fish tacos; they were very good."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers three tacos for the price of two.

2

The Taco Tuesday deal costs $11.50 for three tacos.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

19
Tokyo Central Costa Mesa image 1
Japanese grocery store

Spacious Japanese grocery store offers fresh sashimi-grade fish and a large sake selection. Bright seating areas with microwaves let you enjoy hot food from a self-serve bar. Authentic products and hand-drawn signs create a Tokyo market feel.

Fresh fish comes already filleted and packaged for convenience. The selection includes sashimi-grade fish and options suitable for making sushi and poke bowls.

People are saying

"This grocery store has a huge variety of Japanese foods and prepared meals."

"I found so many unique Japanese snacks and groceries here."

"I loved the fresh fish selection here."

Good to know

1

Prepared bento is marked down 20% after 7 PM daily.

2

Tokyo Central Costa Mesa closes at 10 PM every day.

3

Parking can be limited, especially during peak hours.

20
Wafu of Japan image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space offers cozy seating and soft lighting for a welcoming vibe. Fish is wild caught from Japan and very fresh, though sushi prep is average. Atmosphere stays relaxing and authentic despite crowds.

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 sushi here is so fresh and perfectly prepared."

"I experienced authentic sushi with fresh, delicious ingredients."

"The fish here is incredibly fresh."

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.

21
Sushi Town image 1
Japanese restaurant

Enjoy fresh sushi with large fish cuts and perfectly cooked rice in a quiet, cozy atmosphere. The space feels welcoming and calm, ideal for easy conversation. A patio area adds to the relaxed vibe, making it great for both food and ambiance.

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

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The fish here is so fresh and buttery."

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.

22
Garf's Sports Lounge image 1

Classic sports bar offers crispy fish and chips alongside multiple billiard tables and darts for fun. Chill vibe suits both younger and older crowds watching NFL games. Outdoor patio welcomes vaping, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

Fish and chips come with crispy fries and coleslaw. The fish is well-cooked and pairs well with sides like fries and coleslaw.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be tasty, especially the fish and chips."

"It's a classic sports bar with pool and games."

"I tried the fish and chips and it was really good."

Good to know

1

The kitchen is closed late at night, so check food availability before visiting.

2

Billiard tables cost $1.50 per game, and they are available in the back.

3

Garf's Sports Lounge does not have an ATM; plan to bring cash.

23
Mitsuwa Marketplace image 1
Japanese grocery store

Indoor space mimics an authentic Japanese market with a large food court and lively atmosphere. Fresh fish offers sushi-grade options at good prices. Crowds enjoy standout dishes like beef tongue and ramen, making it a bustling spot with specialty shops.

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

"This Japanese grocery store has a huge selection of authentic items."

"I loved browsing the food court and trying all the different stalls."

"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.

24
Wahoo's Fish Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot with a modern design and a calm vibe blends healthy Cali-inspired food with generous fish tacos that come grilled or fried. Family-friendly with a surf and skate culture feel, it offers good portions and fair prices, though fish may sometimes smell strong.

Fish tacos come with a good amount of fish and are available grilled or fried. Some combos include sides like white rice and black beans or enchiladas with green sauce, but the fish can sometimes have a strong fishy smell.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I thought the fish tacos were delicious and had a good amount of fish."

"The fish tacos here are so good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are welcome.

2

Expect quick service with most orders ready in under 10 minutes.

3

Prices are reasonable, with most items under $15.

25
Costa Contemporary Kitchen image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Bright space with prominent windows and concrete floors sets a warm, stylish vibe perfect for date nights. Sushi-grade fish in ceviche offers a balanced, refreshing bite with sweet potatoes and cancha corn. Enjoy exceptional pisco sours that enhance the memorable Peruvian dining experience.

Fish in the ceviche is sushi grade and separated from the leche de tigre, allowing control over marination time. The dish features tender fish paired with sweet potatoes, cancha corn, and red onion for a balanced, refreshing bite.

People are saying

"The authentic Peruvian food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The pisco sours here are exceptional and handcrafted with passion."

"The fish in the ceviche is sushi grade and so refreshing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the small dining space.

2

Parking is available at the Plaza parking structure nearby.

3

Expect small portion sizes, which may not be suitable for large appetites.

26
chobop - Premium All You Can Eat Sushi image 1

Sushi spot shines with fresh fish cuts and a perfect fish-to-rice ratio in its all-you-can-eat menu. The vibe stays chill and inviting with balanced background music. Unique sushi presentation grabs attention while the kitchen stays hidden.

Fish comes in super fresh and high quality cuts, especially notable for an all-you-can-eat spot. Nigiri features a perfect fish to rice ratio with large fish pieces and minimal rice.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's bento boxes offer great value and variety."

"The fish here is super fresh and of good quality."

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.

27
Moon Bay 月亮湾 image 1

Small spot offers authentic Sichuan dishes with generous portions and fair prices. Grilled fish is fresh with no smell, and roast fish is a highlight. Warm vibe includes a private karaoke room for a cozy experience.

Grilled fish comes without any fishy smell and the roast fish stands out as a notable dish. Pricing can be inconsistent, with some fish charged much higher than expected.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be really authentic."

"The Szechuan food here is authentic, with tender pork kidney and pickled peppers."

"I found the fish here to be very delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Scan a QR code to place your order; no paper menu available.

2

Plenty of free parking is available at the restaurant.

3

Portion sizes are generous, with reasonable prices for the quality.

28
Mercado González Northgate Market image 1

Mexican grocery store buzzes with live mariachi music and a full bar inside. Fresh fish and sushi shine, especially in fish tacos and Seabass ceviche. Outdoor seating adds charm, blending shopping with lively entertainment.

Fresh fish and sushi stand out with a great selection in the meat and fish section. The fish tacos near the sushi spot and dishes like Seabass ceviche highlight the variety available.

People are saying

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

"You can watch them making the fresh tortillas right on site."

"I tried several delicious fish ceviche flavors 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.

29
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves huge portions of fresh fish in fish tacos with tasty sauce. Atmosphere is themed and clean with indoor and outdoor seating. Food is quick, affordable, and perfect for a casual meal.

Fish tacos come with huge portions of fresh fish and a tasty sauce. They serve as a classic quick taco treat with enough fish on one taco to fill three.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and tasty."

"I thought the fish tacos were delicious and fresh."

"I thought the fish tacos were the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant maintains cleanliness and has clean bathrooms.

2

There is plenty of parking available at the restaurant.

3

Dining options include inside, outside, or to go.

30
Izakaya Hachi image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Western-style seating blends with a traditional Japanese vibe in a lively, noisy space. High-quality fish like tuna sashimi and red snapper carpaccio stand out, paired with unique homemade fish cake. Casual dining thrives amid energetic, authentic touches.

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

"The Japanese Food here is served by friendly and attentive staff."

"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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