Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Costa Mesa's best

Soup food spots

You want a meal that feels substantial and warming. You aren't looking for a snack, but a proper bowl that hits the spot.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
User
User
User
Updated
01
Myung Dong Tofu House & BBQ image 1
Myung Dong Tofu House & BBQ image 2
Myung Dong Tofu House & BBQ image 3
View all

Korean restaurant offers authentic family-like atmosphere with a clean and welcoming interior. The place serves homemade-style banchan and top-tier tofu soups with generous portions. It stays unpretentious and feels like home, attracting those who appreciate genuine Korean flavors.

Several tofu soup options stand out, including mushroom and spicy beef varieties. The soups taste fresh and organic, avoiding the usual pre-packaged flavor, with the ginseng and radish soups also noted as delicious.

Food here is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. Korean dishes come out balanced and delicious every time.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is delicious and authentic."

"I found the tofu soup here to be delicious and a must-try."

Good to know

1

Parking might be difficult during busy hours due to shared lot with other restaurants.

2

The restaurant can accommodate large parties, making it suitable for group lunches.

3

The price at Myung Dong Tofu House & BBQ is reasonable for the amount of food.

02
SkyBay Sushi image 1
SkyBay Sushi image 2
SkyBay Sushi image 3
View all

Small sushi bar with limited indoor seating offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that balances elegance and comfort. Fresh fish and premium sashimi stand out alongside affordable prices, attracting those seeking quality sushi without fuss.

Starts with tasty miso soup that has a rich, flavorful broth. Extra servings of miso soup are often provided.

Food here is consistently fresh and incredible. Every dish offers amazing flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"I thought the food was so good and always fresh."

"The soup here is outstanding and the service is great."

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.

03
Wafu of Japan image 1
Wafu of Japan image 2
Wafu of Japan image 3
View all

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.

Miso soup offers a flavorful and delicious taste with a satisfying texture. The dinner set includes an amazing soup that complements the meal well, sometimes featuring bold elements like the shrimp head.

Food features authentic Japanese soul food with fresh ingredients and exquisite flavor. Portions are generous and the quality stays consistently high.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and authentic Japanese soul food."

"The miso soup here is so flavorful and delicious."

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.

04
Kakurega image 1
Kakurega image 2
Kakurega image 3
View all

Sushi restaurant offers an intimate, stylish setting with dim lighting and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere despite occasional buzz. The space feels cozy with an open, relaxing floor plan. It attracts those seeking authentic, high-quality sushi with expert chefs and imported fish.

Miso soup comes in comforting bowls that pair well with sushi rolls and salads. Each person gets their own serving, making it a steady part of the meal.

Food features delicious rolls with appropriate portions and low prices. The menu offers thoughtful dishes paired with exceptional service in a cozy, relaxed setting.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and great for the price."

"I enjoyed a comforting bowl of miso soup."

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.

05
Takumi Sushi image 1
Takumi Sushi image 2
Takumi Sushi image 3
View all

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.

Miso soup offers a comforting and classic start. It often comes with meals like the Beef Teriyaki Bento box, pairing well with rice and salad.

Food features exceptional quality and delicious sushi with standout items like the Philly roll and OH Baby roll. Sweet shrimp sushi comes with crunchy fried shrimp heads, adding texture variety.

People are saying

"The food's sashimi and salmon collar were fresh and flavorful."

"The miso soup was really comforting and classic."

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.

06
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 1
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 2
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 3
View all

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.

Soups include miso soup, clam soup, and unique options like mochi in soup. Meals often come with soup as a side, complementing dishes like chicken karrage and king mackerel.

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."

"The soup here is fresh and tastes amazing."

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.

07
Eat's Sushi image 1
Eat's Sushi image 2
Eat's Sushi image 3
View all

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.

Soup features a tasty, not overly salty miso base. Udon noodles come chewy with crispy tempura fried shrimp in a warming broth.

Quality food comes at reasonable prices with options like limited sea urchin priced at 8.75 each. The menu offers delicious Japanese dishes that balance cost and taste well.

People are saying

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

"The sushi rolls are creative and have a super rich taste."

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.

08
Kashiwa Ramen image 1
Kashiwa Ramen image 2
Kashiwa Ramen image 3
View all

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.

Chef crafts the soup base with care and concentration. Offers authentic Japanese ramen in various styles, including dipping soups served generously from the start.

Food features a clean flavor with a hearty chicken base. Preparation shows clear care for authenticity and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always hits the spot."

"I experienced the best ramen soup in Southern California."

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.

09
Izmir | Aegean Cuisine image 1
Izmir | Aegean Cuisine image 2
Izmir | Aegean Cuisine image 3
View all

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.

Lentil soup stands out as a comforting start to meals with a delicious, rich flavor. It pairs well with meatballs and kebabs, making the soup experience hearty and satisfying.

Authentic home-style Turkish food shines with rich, tasty flavors from the Aegean coast. The cook prepares delicious Mediterranean dishes that invite repeat visits for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and seasoned perfectly."

"I found the lentil soup to be super tasty and comforting."

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.

10
Butcherโ€™s House Brasserie image 1
Butcherโ€™s House Brasserie image 2
Butcherโ€™s House Brasserie image 3
View all

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.

Onion soup features a rich, intense flavor achieved through a reduction technique without extra salt. It comes topped with a perfect blend of cheese and croutons, making it especially enjoyable.

Food centers on classic French dining with a focus on excellent meat dishes. The menu delivers absolutely delicious flavors paired with attentive service.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the perfectly cooked steaks."

"The French onion soup here is so good and has a beautiful taste."

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.

11
Meiji Seimen Costa Mesa image 1
Meiji Seimen Costa Mesa image 2
Meiji Seimen Costa Mesa image 3
View all

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.

Soup features a hot savory broth with thin slices of meat and vegetables cooked just right. Udon soups come with handmade noodles and options like katsu curry with fried pork cutlet or beef, often enhanced by a spicy sauce that adds depth beyond heat.

Food arrives hot and fast with a fresh taste. The kimchi nabe udon stands out with its umami and spice flavor and good udon texture.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the fresh, chewy udon noodles."

"The handmade udon soup has a delicious broth and great texture."

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.

12
Gyutan Tsukasa U.S.A image 1
Gyutan Tsukasa U.S.A image 2
Gyutan Tsukasa U.S.A image 3
View all

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.

Food here matches Sendai quality with authentic Japanese dishes. The charcoal grilled gyutan stands out with perfectly cooked beef tongue and balanced sides.

People are saying

"The beef tongue soup was delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The beef tongue bento box food was delicious and tender."

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.

13
Ramen Tatsunoya image 1
Ramen Tatsunoya image 2
Ramen Tatsunoya image 3
View all

Spacious Japanese restaurant with many booth tables and a layout suited for family dining. Atmosphere feels cozy and warm but can get loud when full, making conversations challenging. Known for authentic, rich tonkotsu ramen and a menu offering pork and vegan broths.

Soup ranges from well-balanced flavor and moderate saltiness to occasional unpleasant odor and a taste like spoiled lard. Ramen soup stands out as delicious and satisfying alongside potstickers.

Food offers great flavor and is filling. Dishes taste amazing and encourage eating more even when full.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be authentic and delicious."

"This ramen soup is so delicious and has a great Japanese flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait outside for a table during peak dinner hours.

2

The price for a bowl of ramen is $16.

3

There is a vegan option available for those who do not eat pork.

14
Boudin SF image 1
Boudin SF image 2
Boudin SF image 3
View all

Small bakery with limited seating offers an inviting atmosphere that captures a San Francisco vibe. Fresh, amazing sourdough bread stands out as a signature feature. Busy setting includes both indoor and outdoor seating, creating a casual, fast-food style experience.

Soups come in rich flavors like Clam Chowder and Broccoli Cheddar. Serving soups in a sourdough bread bowl adds a unique touch, and the clam chowder maintains consistent quality.

Freshly prepared food comes out fast and tastes good. The brie, apple and fig grilled cheese sandwich offers solid comfort food. Quality stays consistent and matches the prices.

People are saying

"I loved the clam chowder soup in a bread bowl."

"The clam chowder in a bread bowl is delicious and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Boudin SF offers a variety of vegetarian options on their menu.

2

The portion sizes are generous, making meals more satisfying.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

15
Eller Bakery image 1
Eller Bakery image 2
Eller Bakery image 3
View all

Spacious bakery with open kitchen and modern, earthy design featuring limestone counters and travertine. Atmosphere is cozy and inviting with ample indoor and outdoor seating, including a shaded patio with greenery. Music and noise levels vary, creating a lively but sometimes loud environment.

Soups stand out with exquisite tomato and phenomenal purple yam varieties. Flavors avoid typical clichรฉs, offering a fresh take on classic recipes.

Food features rich flavors and fresh ingredients with a clear focus on quality and care. Pastries and bakery items stand out as delicious and unique offerings.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the crispy potatoes."

"This tomato bisque soup is homemade with great seasoning."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so check options before arriving.

2

Prices are not displayed on bakery items or the menu.

3

Valet parking is offered, which is unusual for a bakery.

16
Golden Dragon image 1
Golden Dragon image 2
Golden Dragon image 3
View all

Old-school Chinese eatery with retro style and a homey atmosphere offers a family-friendly environment and a private party room popular among fans. The space feels warm and welcoming, with booths, tables, and a full-service bar for cocktails or beer.

Sizzling rice soup stands out as a signature dish with a crispy texture and rich flavor. The soup remains consistent and pairs well with fried wontons, making it a reliable choice.

Food comes out hot and quickly, always fresh and perfectly flavored. Consistency stays high with every visit, making the meals reliably delicious.

People are saying

"I've been coming here for my favorite food since 1988."

"You have to try their sizzling rice soup; it's the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Golden Dragon has been family-owned since 1974, ensuring quality and tradition.

2

The restaurant offers large portion sizes, providing good value for money.

3

They have a full bar available for events and parties.

17
Paradise Dynasty image 1
Paradise Dynasty image 2
Paradise Dynasty image 3
View all

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.

Soup dumplings come with thin wrappers and a sumptuous broth inside. Hot and sour soup offers a perfectly peppery kick, while noodle soups feature a very good broth.

Food here stays consistently excellent and great across visits. The dishes deliver good flavors and reliable quality every time.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and top quality."

"You have to try the soup dumplings; they have so many fun flavors."

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.

18
Miyabi Tei image 1
Miyabi Tei image 2
Miyabi Tei image 3
View all

Fast-food style Japanese eatery inside a busy food court offers reasonable prices and quick service. The atmosphere is hectic and noisy, with limited seating available. Menu features typical Donburi dishes and daily specials, appealing for a casual lunch break.

Several vendors offer a variety of Japanese dishes like curries, soba, and grilled mackerel. Food arrives promptly, tastes good, and portions are plentiful with high quality preparation.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, high quality, and plentiful."

Good to know

1

Miyabi Tei offers a variety of Japanese food options in a food court setting.

2

Expect to receive your order within 2 to 5 minutes.

3

They accept both credit cards and cash for payment.

Discover more

Costa Mesa, California

Area guide