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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Costa Mesa

Places

A place that feels like a personal discovery is far more rewarding than the usual crowded spots.

Based on 567 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 hides a cozy spot with fresh sushi and skilled chefs. Soft music creates a relaxed vibe perfect for quiet chats. Known for flavorful fish, it feels like a true hidden gem.

Incredible food with the freshest, most flavorful fish stands out here. It feels like discovering a well-kept secret, making it a true hidden gem.

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.

02
ORANGE PARIS CAFE image 1
French restaurant

Small bistro with Parisian decor offers a cozy space with 7-8 tiny tables and impeccable service. Fresh food and coffee make it a hidden gem away from crowds. Games and toys keep kids happy during wait times.

A hidden gem tucked next to a gas station offers impeccable service and food made fresh with care. It serves as a great spot for coffee and a snack away from the usual crowds.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, creative, and delicious."

"The French food, especially the croissants, is flaky and heavenly."

"You have to try their amazing, house-made crepes; they're like mom's!"

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the gas station, but it can get crowded.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

The cafรฉ offers a variety of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options.

03
The Celebrations Venue and Red Room Supper Club image 1

Red Room blends 1950s New York vibe with a speakeasy feel and live jazz for a cozy night out. Italian dishes and crafted cocktails enhance the warm, elegant setting. Known as a hidden gem, it offers a unique, intimate experience in Orange County.

The Red Room offers a 1950s New York City vibe that feels like a secret spot in Orange County. It stands out as a hidden gem worth discovering repeatedly.

People are saying

"The food here is served with warm, attentive, and genuine hospitality."

"The service here makes you feel like VIP family."

"The service here feels like VIP treatment, truly a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for events to ensure seating.

2

Live music events typically start at 7pm, so arrive early.

3

A two-drink minimum is required during live performances.

04
Lion & Lamb Coffee Roasters image 1

Massive warehouse with high ceilings offers a bright, open space perfect for work and socializing. Quiet atmosphere and hidden gem status make it a peaceful retreat. Strong Christian vibes blend with artistic murals and plants, creating a unique, charming environment.

Quiet and tucked away, this spot stands out as a hidden gem with a low profile and unique charm. It offers a distinctive experience that feels off the beaten path.

People are saying

"The coffee here is really good and superb."

"I thought the breakfast burrito was excellent and delicious."

"You have to try the lattes; they're surprisingly good."

Good to know

1

Prices are not displayed anywhere, which may affect your decision to order.

2

The coffee shop is very busy during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

There is free parking along the building, but it can be hard to find during busy times.

05
Sushi K's Bistro Costa Mesa image 1

Small sushi bar offers an authentic Japanese vibe with fresh sushi and a diverse sake selection. Calm atmosphere with peaceful jazz music creates a cozy, elevated dining environment. Consistently good service makes it a true hidden gem away from crowds.

This spot stands out as a hidden gem with consistently good service. It offers a unique experience that feels tucked away from the usual crowds.

People are saying

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

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

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

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
Wren image 1
Day spa

Space blends chic design with a tranquil ambiance for deep wellness. Private suites and contrast therapy like sauna and cold plunge offer unique restoration. Feels like a hidden gem perfect for quiet recharge.

Feels like a hidden gem in the heart of the area. Offers a unique spot that stands out quietly among others.

People are saying

"The spa's contrast therapy with cold plunges and hot saunas felt amazing."

"It's a beautiful, calming space that instantly made me feel grounded."

"It's a peaceful escape, a true hidden gem for relaxation."

Good to know

1

Parking is available with dedicated spots on the premises and ample street parking.

2

Wren offers unique services like contrast therapy, combining heat and cold treatments.

3

The massage experience includes elements like sound baths and essential oils.

07
Verde Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Space blends modern elegance with a hidden speakeasy tucked away from usual paths. Guests enjoy creative cocktails and golf course views in a lively yet refined atmosphere. Perfect for cozy dinners or lively gatherings.

A cute little spot tucked away from the usual paths. It stands out as a noteworthy hidden gem worth discovering.

People are saying

"I found the desserts here to be scrumptious and a home run."

"The cocktails are creative, crafted with care and perfectly balanced."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the skirt steak is cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

They offer a multi-course Valentine's menu on Valentine's Day.

2

Verde Restaurant has a focus on fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced ingredients.

3

The menu includes many vegetarian and pescatarian options, along with meat dishes.

08
Eat's Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant offers authentic decor and warm yellow lighting for a cozy feel. Known as a hidden gem, it serves high-quality Uni at great value. Outdoor seating with heaters and a nearby ice cream shop add to the relaxed vibe.

Incredible quality and value stand out here, especially with the Uni (Sea Urchin) that is both super high quality and affordable. This spot consistently shows up as a true hidden gem worth trying.

People are saying

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

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

"I found Eat's Sushi to be a hidden gem with incredible quality and value."

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.

09
Tres Muchachos Wine Bar & Kitchen image 1

Small Mexican restaurant shines with live DJs and a chill vibe. Outdoor patio offers heated seating for comfort. Hidden behind Shake Shack, it boasts unique wine selections in a quiet, artful space.

A tucked-away spot behind Shake Shack offers a quiet atmosphere and unique wine selections. It stands out as a hidden gem in the area.

People are saying

"I thought the food was phenomenal and awesome."

"The staff's wine knowledge and passion really impressed me."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like wine pairings.

2

Brunch is served all day, making it a flexible dining option.

3

The restaurant hosts food and wine pairing events regularly.

10
Beauty Studio by Veronika image 1

Bright, cozy nail salon offers a dry nail bar with comfortable pedicure chairs and natural light. Quiet and tucked away, it provides a low-key atmosphere that feels like a secret. Thoughtful design creates a warm, relaxing vibe with attention to detail.

Quiet and tucked away, this spot offers a low-key atmosphere that feels like a secret. It stands out for its unassuming charm and unexpected appeal.

People are saying

"I always got the best manicure here."

"These Hidden Gems are so detail-oriented, my nails have never looked better."

"The atmosphere here is so calm and relaxing."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy, with a lot available in the back.

2

The salon is clean, aesthetic, and professional.

3

All procedures comply with quality and hygiene standards.

11
Buenas Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Enjoy freshly roasted beans in a quiet, cozy space perfect for studying or meetings. Find local art on the walls and outlets at every table. A true hidden gem for coffee lovers seeking a special spot.

Offers an extraordinary coffee experience tucked away from the usual spots. This hidden gem feels like a special find for coffee lovers.

People are saying

"The coffee here is strong, high-quality, and expertly made."

"The staff here is so warm and friendly."

"These hidden gems are delicious, creamy, and perfectly crafted."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available across the street in the industrial lot.

2

The coffee shop roasts their own beans using a Bellwether Coffee roasting machine.

3

The cafe offers a warm atmosphere, perfect for studying or hanging out.

12
Westend image 1
Restaurant

Small space with southern gothic style and quirky decor sets a unique mood. Southern-inspired food offers quiet but distinct flavors. Live DJ and outdoor patio games create a lively yet relaxed vibe for young professionals.

Offers southern-inspired food that stands out quietly. Recognized as a true hidden gem for those seeking unique flavors.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the burgers and fried chicken sandwiches, is amazing."

"You have to try the beignets; they're soft, golden pillows."

"I found this place to be a true hidden gem for southern-inspired food."

Good to know

1

Parking is extremely disorganized; nearby supermarket offers additional parking.

2

The restaurant is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

A DJ is expected to start soon, adding to the evening's atmosphere.

13
Kakurega image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi spot shines with expert chefs crafting authentic dishes in a cozy setting. Dim lighting and a peaceful atmosphere invite calm dining. Exceptional service and thoughtful food make it a true hidden gem.

Thoughtful food and exceptional service create a relaxed vibe that stands out. This combination makes it a true hidden gem worth knowing about.

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."

"You have to try the salmon skin salad; it's made with care."

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.

14
Elixir Wizard Academy - Boba Tea Bar & Ice Cream image 1

Fantasy fans love the wizard costumes and magical decor that create a cozy, immersive vibe. Gamers enjoy secret rooms with interactive games and wizard tests. Foodies find unique treats like boba and ice cream blending renaissance and gaming themes.

This spot stands out for its fantasy focus, blending an ice cream and boba cafe with themes from renaissance fairs and tabletop gaming. It caters well to fans of online gaming and fantasy literature.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is magical and enchanting!"

"The tea here is served as fun, colorful potions."

"It's a hidden gem, like stepping into a fantasy world."

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.

15
Sugo Costa Mesa image 1
Pizza restaurant

Compact space blends New York feel with Cali vibe and creative decor. Cozy, casual atmosphere with excellent music sets a relaxed mood. Authentic Roman-style pizza shines as a hidden gem, perfect for intimate dining at small bar seating or limited outdoor tables.

Authentic Roman-style pizza stands out here, making it a true hidden gem for pizza lovers. The spot offers a unique taste not commonly found in the area.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I had ever tried."

"The Japanese pizza slices are a unique okonomiyaki experience."

"I found Sugo Pizza to be a hidden gem for authentic Roman-style pizza."

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.

16
Milligram image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor garden courtyard with eucalyptus trees offers a tranquil vibe. Weekend live music adds a European-inspired touch. Tucked away in a plaza, it's a hidden gem with a dog-friendly patio perfect for relaxed brunches.

Tucked away in the back of a plaza, this spot stands out as a true hidden gem. It offers an unbelievable experience that many overlook in the mall.

People are saying

"The coffee here is really good and delicious."

"The breakfast here is delicious, especially the oven-baked eggs."

"I found this place to be an unbelievable hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Milligram does not have a kitchen.

2

They do not accept cash.

3

Breakfast items are served until 3 PM.

17
Eller Bakery image 1

Spacious bakery with open kitchen and shaded patio offers a cozy, lively vibe. Known for its under-the-radar charm, it provides a quiet spot with unique finds. Modern, earthy design and ample seating make it inviting for all.

Offers a quiet spot with unique finds that stand out from typical places. Known for its under-the-radar charm that surprises many.

People are saying

"The bakery's cinnamon rolls were a game-changer and sold out by 11 a.m."

"I recommend taking home a loaf of their bread."

"I found Eller Bakery to be a hidden gem."

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.

18
PhแปŸholic image 1
Restaurant

Small Vietnamese spot shines with authentic pho and private booths for quiet dining. Flavors are a hidden gem worth discovering. Atmosphere shifts from cozy corners to lively front areas, balancing introvert and social vibes.

Nicely arranged with flavors that make the journey worth it, this spot stands out as a true hidden gem.

People are saying

"I found the pho delicious with a perfectly cooked broth."

"It's a nicely arranged hidden gem with flavors that make the journey worth it."

"The bar seating here has dividers, making it a good spot for introverts."

Good to know

1

PhแปŸholic is located on the first floor of the Food Court in Bloomingdaleโ€™s.

2

Prices are a flat rate of $14.50 for any pho with thick or thin noodles.

3

Meatballs can be added for free to your pho order.

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Costa Mesa, California

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