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Guide to Costa Mesa

Ice cream spots

Made for those who consider food a necessity but view ice cream as the only acceptable way to finish the day.

Based on 579 Opinions
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01
Heybings Desserts image 1
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Small dessert shop offers cozy, modern vibe with Pinterest-style decor and ample outlets for working. The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, suitable for socializing or quiet time. Desserts focus on fluffy bingsoo and unique mochi waffles, with large portions ideal for sharing.

Effort shows in the quality of food and drinks. The dishes come out great and excellent consistently.

Scoops come with light and fluffy texture unlike typical ice cream. Unique flavors like Emerald Dream blend creamy milk foam, crushed honey graham, and matcha ice cream. Mochi waffles pair well with house-made vanilla ice cream topped with mango sauce.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is light and fluffy, unlike anything I've experienced."

"The desserts here are so good, especially the cheesecake bingsoo."

Good to know

1

The store closes at 10 PM, which is later than other nearby stores.

2

There was plenty of parking at the shop.

3

They have limited seating during busy hours.

02
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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.

Authentic Japanese cuisine shines with homemade sushi and dishes that stand out in quality. The food pairs with excellent service and a higher price point for dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious."

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.

03
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Small pie shop with counter seating by the window and metal pans and utensils creates a cozy, casual setting. Bright sunlight fills the space, contributing to a lively atmosphere that feels full and enjoyable. Known for next-level pot pies and a relaxed vibe, it attracts those seeking classic and unique savory flavors.

Amazing food creates a relaxed atmosphere paired with great service. The crew and vibe add to an overall amazing food experience.

Salted caramel apple crumble pairs with Madagascar vanilla ice cream for a rich dessert. Ice cream serves as a classic complement to various pies, though it can stick to the container paper when served à la mode.

People are saying

"These pot pies are next-level and hit different."

"I enjoyed the great ice cream here."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, especially on weekends due to nearby attractions.

2

The shop is open later than other pie spots in the area.

3

Coffee service ends an hour before closing time.

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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.

Food court offers a wide selection of Japanese dishes including Ramen at affordable prices. Seating has expanded, cutting down wait times during busy hours.

Matcha ice cream stands out with a rich flavor and smooth texture. Mochi accompanies the ice cream, adding a chewy contrast worth waiting for in line.

People are saying

"The food court here is awesome with a great assortment."

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-air mall blends alternative retro vibe with artsy decor and creative installations. Atmosphere stays relaxed and eclectic, inviting diverse crowds to enjoy live music, unique shops, and various eateries. Space encourages lingering with many seating areas and a non-corporate feel.

Cuban food stands out with great flavor and unique dishes. The food pairs well with interesting drinks and offers a fun, delicious experience.

Offers vegan ice cream with a delicious taste. Combines ice cream with donuts for a sweet treat.

People are saying

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

"I tried the delicious vegan ice cream here."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during peak hours and weekends.

2

The LAB Anti-Mall features a variety of unique shops and eateries.

3

The LAB Anti-Mall has a vegan restaurant option.

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Cafeteria-style dining with a bright upstairs space and a wall of windows overlooks traffic. Atmosphere feels like a school canteen, lively and somewhat loud, encouraging a relaxed pace. Known for Swedish meatballs, affordable prices, and large portions, it offers a nostalgic canteen vibe distinct from upscale restaurants.

Food offers fresh tasting dishes that are never oily. Prices stay affordable while maintaining outstanding quality.

Soft serve ice cream comes smooth, creamy, and mildly sweet. It serves as a simple, affordable treat alongside basic fare like meatballs and hot dogs.

People are saying

"The food here is yummy and a great value."

"The soft serve ice cream is delicious, smooth, and creamy."

Good to know

1

Tuesday offers 50% off all adult entrees.

2

The restaurant is a cafeteria-style dining experience.

3

Sides are affordable at $2 or $3 each, perfect for kids.

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Elixir Wizard Academy - Boba Tea Bar & Ice Cream image 1
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Fantasy-themed tea bar resembles a medieval tavern with wizard costumes and magical decor. Atmosphere feels cozy and immersive, with secret rooms offering games and interactive experiences. Visitors engage in themed activities like wizard tests while enjoying unique boba and ice cream offerings.

Ice cream here is fluffy and creamy with amazing flavors. Drinks and ice cream come together as creative and flavorful treats.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is magical and enchanting!"

Good to know

1

Parking is available but fills up quickly, so plan ahead.

2

They prefer card payments over cash and do not provide change.

3

The menu features fewer than 10 items, all cold drinks and no food.

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Maze of showrooms creates an adventurous shopping experience with spacious, well-decorated rooms that appeal to families and teenagers. Family-friendly amenities include a kids area, childcare service, and activities like cookie decorating. A lively food court offers popular Swedish meatballs and a bright dining area with ample seating.

Swedish meatballs come with lingonberry sauce in the food court. The menu focuses on simple, classic dishes.

Soft ice cream here is creamy and smooth. It pairs well with coffee, making it a common choice during visits.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty and a great value."

"I loved the soft ice cream, it was creamy and smooth."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, IKEA offers 50% off meals at their restaurant.

2

On Wednesdays, they offer Buy 1 Adult Entree, get 2 kids meals free.

3

Members receive free coffee at the café from Monday through Friday.

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Tiny dessert shop with an open kitchen shows churros being made fresh and covered with cinnamon. Retro vibes fill the space, enhanced by cute uniforms with bow ties and limited outdoor seating. The atmosphere feels lively and festive, especially when live music plays nearby.

Sweet treats stand out with delicious churros inside a vibrant Mexican food market. Expect long lines that reflect its popularity, but the food remains consistently good.

Churro ice cream sandwiches feature freshly fried churros paired with creamy, well-made ice cream. The warm churros contrast nicely with the cold ice cream, though plain milkshakes and ice cream alone are less impressive.

People are saying

"These churros are amazing, freshly made, and piping hot."

"The ice cream and churros here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times on weekends due to high demand.

2

A single churro costs $2.50, or 4 for $9.00.

3

The shop is located inside a bustling Mexican market with various food options.

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Small hamburger spot with loud, curated music and dog-friendly policy creates a lively atmosphere. Seating includes hard metal folding chairs and wobbly outdoor tables, contributing to a casual, unpolished vibe. Busy and energetic, it offers a unique experience with food brought directly to tables.

Food features freshly made smash burgers, beef tallow fries, and nondairy pineapple soft serve. The dishes have strong flavor and good value, though salt levels can be high.

Pineapple soft serve stands out as a very tasty option, preferred over Dolewhip. The ice cream and shakes complement the food well and arrive quickly.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"You've got to try their pineapple soft serve ice cream."

Good to know

1

Securing seating and parking may be challenging due to limited availability.

2

There was a pickup window on the side for online orders.

3

Parking kind of sucks.

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Costa Mesa, California

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