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Top picks in Costa Mesa

Italian lunch spots

Made for those who insist on authentic Italian flavors even when they only have an hour for lunch.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Trenta Pizza & Cucina and Trenta Lounge image 1
Trenta Pizza & Cucina and Trenta Lounge image 2
Trenta Pizza & Cucina and Trenta Lounge image 3
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Outdoor dining dominates with a large, heated patio converted from a parking lot, featuring al fresco seating and a full bar. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, blending authentic Sicilian style with lively live music. Indoor space is small and cozy, creating a slightly cramped feel during busy times.

Fresh and flavorful dishes stand out with Paccheri Pistacchio and Spaghetti alla Carbonara pastas. The Bari pizza features burrata and smoked mozzarella with truffle and porcini mushrooms adds rich flavor.

Lunch features pizza options like Catania and spicy Reggio Calabrian. The spot opens for lunch and serves excellent food in a setting suitable for family gatherings or casual afternoons.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and pasta, tasted like it was from Italy."

"It's a cool spot with a great outdoor atmosphere."

"This lunch spot's pizzas have delicious, fresh toppings."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; valet service is the only option available.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for outdoor seating.

3

The kitchen closes 10 minutes before the restaurant closes.

02
Il Girasole image 1
Restaurant

Cozy restaurant blends Tuscan atmosphere with modern decor and bold graffiti art. Warm, inviting vibe suits romantic dinners and casual brunches, with dog-friendly patios featuring heaters and blankets. Guests enjoy authentic Italian dining paired with attentive service.

Fresh starters include the Crudo and Burrata Prosciutto Salad with bright flavors. The Filetto Cacio E Pepe features a tender filet wrapped in cacio e pepe ravioli, and the Duck Pasta stands out as a main dish.

A well-thought-out prefix lunch menu offers solid options alongside a more casual lunch selection. Daily happy hour adds a relaxed vibe during lunchtime.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta dishes here are incredible."

"This Italian spot is an excellent choice for date night."

"This Lunch Spot's Italian food is the best I've eaten."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy.

2

Happy hour is available daily with a casual lunch menu.

3

A $35 corkage fee applies if you bring your own wine.

03
Tres Muchachos Wine Bar & Kitchen image 1

Small Mexican restaurant offers an intimate setting with a chill vibe and live DJs spinning records. Outdoor patio seating adds a relaxing atmosphere complemented by heaters when needed. The space feels modern and artful, creating a welcoming and lighthearted environment.

Seafood and homemade chorizo pasta stands out as a favorite dish. The menu also features seafood pesto pasta and ceviche, highlighting a strong seafood focus in the Italian offerings.

Lunch here involves a high price point, with meals for three exceeding $125. The food quality supports the cost, making it a notable choice for special occasions or when spending more is expected.

People are saying

"I thought the food was phenomenal and awesome."

"The chimichurri hummus at this lunch spot was a star dish."

"The seafood pasta here is some of the best I've tasted."

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.

04
Al's New York Cafe image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small outdoor pizzeria offers authentic New York-style pizza with thin, foldable crusts and quick service. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly, attracting those seeking affordable, classic slices and sandwiches. The place stands out for its long-standing tradition and consistent quality over decades.

Lasagna stands out with generous toppings and rich flavor. The menu includes salads, calzone, and pasta alongside pizza.

Lunch offers large slices of pizza with a drink at a reasonable price. Specials provide good value and suit both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's pizza is hot, crispy, and flavorful."

"The cafe staff's kindness and generosity made me feel like family."

"I've never had a bad pizza from this Italian food place."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; it's first come, first served.

2

The restaurant only offers outdoor seating.

3

Expect a busy lunch hour; consider ordering ahead.

05
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.

Pizza stands out with thicker yet airy crust that is chewy and crunchy, similar to focaccia. Varieties like prosciutto and arugula, calabrese, and the unique Aloha slice with sriracha aioli and pickled pineapple offer bold flavors.

Lunch offers a solid pizza selection with a standout Nutella pizza topped with banana and strawberry. Sundays provide a relaxed vibe for enjoying lunch here.

People are saying

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

"This Italian food's pizza crust is uniquely light, chewy, and crunchy."

"This lunch spot offers authentic Roman-style pizzas that transport you back to Italy."

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.

06
Filomena's Italian Kitchen & Market image 1

Italian restaurant combines cozy rustic decor with an authentic East Coast deli vibe and an adjacent fresh pasta market and bakery. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with soft lighting and aromas of baked bread and simmering sauces. Small, intimate setting suits quiet dinners and casual gatherings.

Fresh raw pasta stands out with a great selection of types that elevate meals. Dishes like chicken parmesan with Sunday sauce and spaghetti and meatballs offer rich flavors and perfect seasoning.

Portions come generous enough for leftovers. Staff handle large groups smoothly and adjust for unexpected guests. Food works well for catered lunches at offices.

People are saying

"The Grocery Store staff is so helpful and attentive."

"The pasta and pizza here are amazing."

"This Lunch Spot's food was absolutely delicious and high quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating, especially during dinner hours.

2

The market offers a wide variety of fresh pasta, meats, cheeses, and Italian specialties.

3

Expect generous portion sizes; one lasagna can easily serve two people.

07
Nuovo Amico Pizza & Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant offers a cozy patio and family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of TVs for entertainment. The vibe is relaxed and homie, fitting for casual meals after the beach. Known for authentic pasta dishes and generous portions at reasonable prices.

Chicken carbonara pasta and beef ravioli special stand out with rich flavors and satisfying portions. The calzone features marinara, chopped meatball, and ricotta made to order, while the pizza blends marinara and BBQ sauce for a mild, complementary taste.

Lunch includes a variety of daily specials and a daily lunch special. The total cost can be high, with an example lunch totaling $89.00.

People are saying

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

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was amazing and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's pizza is out of this world."

Good to know

1

Nuovo Amico Pizza & Pasta offers daily specials and a lunch special.

2

They can customize dishes upon request.

3

Expect a wait as food is made to order.

08
Quattro Caffรฉ image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, cozy Italian restaurant with an intimate atmosphere and a nice outdoor patio away from mall traffic. Live music often fills the space, creating a lively vibe with singing and dancing. The setting features tight table arrangements and decor that soothes after shopping.

Seafood Pasta stands out with a large lobster tail and rich flavors. The menu features lobster ravioli, pesto gnocchi, and tender beef ravioli, all paired with quality pasta and sauces.

Great for a quick lunch stop while shopping with family. The warm and hospitable service adds to the enjoyable lunch experience.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot has delicious Italian food, especially the pizza."

"I experienced authentic Italian food with ingredients imported directly from Italy."

"The Italian food, especially the focaccia and pasta, was delicious."

Good to know

1

Quattro Caffรฉ has live music every day after 5.00 pm.

2

There's a 3.5% surcharge for credit card payments.

3

The restaurant offers halal chicken and steak options.

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Costa Mesa, California

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