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Local picks in Costa Mesa

Lunch spots

You need a reliable lunch spot that fits into your day without any unnecessary fuss.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pokeworks image 1
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Poke bar

Poke bar shines with fresh ingredients and a peaceful atmosphere. Friendly service keeps lunch smooth and inviting. Open layout and comfortable seating make it a great spot for a quick, quality meal.

Friendly service stands out during busy lunch hours, making the experience smoother. This spot fits well into a regular lunch rotation with a welcoming vibe and consistent quality.

People are saying

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

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

"This lunch spot's food is really good and 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.

02
Eat's Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant offers authentic decor and fresh sushi in a cozy setting. Lunch menu suits groups and kids, making it a great lunch spot. Outdoor seating with heaters and nearby ice cream shop add to the relaxed vibe.

Lots of lunch options make it easy to find something for everyone. The menu suits groups, including kids, for a quick midday meal.

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 sashimi at this Lunch Spot is impeccably fresh and generously portioned."

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.

03
KJB Pho & Eggrolls image 1

Super small spot serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine with quick service perfect for lunch crowds. Warm, mellow atmosphere feels like a family home with generous portions and a friendly vibe. No alcohol keeps the space neat and inviting.

Quick service suits lunch crowds looking for Vietnamese food. The owner offers a friendly vibe that makes grabbing a meal easy and pleasant.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has a rich, flavorful broth."

"Their Vietnamese coffee is strong, smooth, and delicious."

"The owners and staff here are so kind and attentive at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and free, with a lot right in front of the restaurant.

2

The portion size of the pho is great and very generous.

3

The banh xeo costs $13.99 and comes with a lot of vegetables.

04
Myung Dong Tofu House & BBQ image 1

Enjoy authentic Korean flavors in a clean, welcoming space that feels like home. Lunch specials offer great value and generous portions. The spot handles large groups easily, making it perfect for casual family-style meals.

Lunch offers delicious dishes with a good special deal. The spot handles large groups on short notice during busy weekend hours.

People are saying

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

"The banchan here are delicious and authentic."

"The banchan at this lunch spot is the best in Orange County."

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.

05
Tacos La Pina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Glass windows show handmade tortillas being made in a clean, quiet space. Open seating offers a home-like vibe in an industrial setting. Walk-up access and varied lunch options make it a reliable spot for midday meals with exceptionally priced tacos.

Lunch options come with convenient walk-up access and a variety that impresses. This spot serves as a reliable choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were phenomenal."

"I was so impressed with the delicious food at this lunch spot."

"I loved the fresh guacamole with their signature seasoned chips."

Good to know

1

Tacos La Pina operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

2

Expect to arrive early as they often sell out quickly.

3

The wait time for food is about 7 minutes even when busy.

06
VOX Kitchen & Bar - South Coast Plaza image 1

Indoor dining buzzes with lively energy, while bar and outdoor seats offer calm, natural light. Lunch is quick with a fast service vibe, and the Lychee lemonade is a standout drink. Stylish design meets laid-back comfort for any mood.

Lunch offers fast service and a great vibe. The Lychee lemonade stands out as a popular drink choice.

People are saying

"I thought the lemonade was pretty good."

"The food here is so delicious and comforting."

"You have to try the garlic noodles with prawns at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 2-5 PM, Monday to Friday.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant can get very busy, especially during dinner service.

07
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Japanese atmosphere offers fresh sushi and set lunches like chicken karrage with rice and miso soup. Prices stay reasonable and plentiful parking makes visits easy. Soft music supports a calm, welcoming vibe.

Lunch offers set meals like the chicken karrage lunch set with rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. Prices stay reasonable and parking is plentiful for both lunch and dinner.

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."

"This is my favorite authentic Japanese lunch spot."

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.

08
Wafu of Japan image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space with cozy seating and soft lighting offers an intimate vibe. Lunch specials include nigiri sushi combos with spicy tuna rolls, providing solid variety. Atmosphere stays relaxing but can get loud when crowded, reflecting authentic Japanese style focused on food quality.

Lunch features combo specials like 5 pieces of nigiri sushi paired with a spicy tuna roll. Both lunch and dinner times offer good lunch specials with solid variety.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and perfectly prepared."

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

"The lunch spot had fresh, delicious sushi and creative rolls."

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.

09
Costa Contemporary Kitchen image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Bright space with prominent windows and concrete floors sets a warm, stylish vibe. Enjoy exceptional pisco sours and Peruvian dishes like ceviche and curry seabass. Hector's exceptional service makes it ideal for lunch or casual dining.

Exceptional service from Hector stands out during lunch. The menu features ceviche and curry seabass, making it a solid choice for a business lunch or casual meal.

People are saying

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

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

"This Lunch Spot's ceviche was out of this world."

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.

10
Butcher’s House Brasserie image 1
French steakhouse restaurant

Small French steakhouse offers a cozy atmosphere with Parisian bistro decor. Lunch comes fast, perfect for family and friends gatherings. Outdoor seating by a quiet fountain contrasts with the lively bar inside.

Lunch arrives quickly and the atmosphere can vary from calm to noisy with groups. Making a reservation helps even when it is not busy. Enjoyable meals suit both family and friends gatherings.

People are saying

"The steaks here are flavorful and perfectly cooked."

"I highly recommend the onion soup; it has a beautiful, intense flavor."

"The steak frites and steak and eggs were made to perfection."

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
Izmir | Aegean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open kitchen shows chefs crafting authentic Aegean cuisine with care. Cozy vibe and live music make dining peaceful and inviting. Lunch features flavorful kefta and fire roasted eggplant that satisfy well.

Lunch offers flavorful dishes like the kefta plate and fire roasted eggplant that satisfy well without needing more.

People are saying

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

"The Turkish food here is amazing and reminds me of home."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is out of this world, with fresh, quality ingredients."

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.

12
SkyBay Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar offers fresh fish and premium sashimi at affordable prices. Lunch specials provide a large variety in a quiet atmosphere with few people. Warm, inviting space balances elegance and comfort for a relaxed meal.

Lunch offers a large variety of options with lunch specials that cost less than dinner. The atmosphere is quiet with few people around during lunchtime.

People are saying

"The sushi here is super fresh and delicious."

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

"This lunch spot has really fresh and delicious fish."

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.

13
Pop Pie Co. image 1
Restaurant

Small pie shop offers next-level pot pies in a cozy, sunlit space. Friendly service from Tanya makes lunch feel personal. Beef pot pie is a hearty lunch choice with a relaxed vibe perfect for casual dining.

Beef pot pie stands out as a hearty lunch choice. Friendly service from Tanya adds a personal touch to the meal.

People are saying

"The chicken pot pie here is unbelievably good."

"I enjoyed the great ice cream here."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken pot pie has a flaky, buttery crust."

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.

14
Kenwood's Kitchen & Tap image 1
American restaurant

Offers a fun, warm atmosphere with large TVs perfect for game watching. Spacious dining and a quiet patio suit groups and solo diners alike. Weekday lunch menu provides great deals for a quick, relaxing midday meal.

Weekday lunch menu offers a great deal with options for a quick lunch. The spot feels relaxing and suits those looking for a nice place to eat midday.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the brisket, is amazing."

"They had an impressive selection of craft beer."

"This lunch spot has great food and friendly service."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a weekday lunch menu with great deals.

2

Happy hour features half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Sunday brunch is served with a variety of options.

15
Globe Delicatessen image 1

Small deli offers authentic German vibe with a cozy, homey feel like a European Gasthaus. Known for exceptional sandwiches that draw crowds, especially on Saturdays. Friendly energy and great German beer selection make it a perfect lunch spot.

Lunch features fresh deli sandwiches and draws people from outside the area. Saturdays see a steady flow of visitors making a trip just for the midday meal.

People are saying

"I loved the German beer selection here."

"I thought the homemade potato salad was the best I ever tasted."

"I thought the lunch here was the best in town."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging on Saturday afternoons.

2

Goulash is a generous portion for $20.

3

The deli sources high-quality meats from a small company.

16
Mercado González Northgate Market image 1

Mexican grocery store shines with live mariachi music and a full bar for drinks. Lunch options include fresh bakery goods and quick meals from food stands. Outdoor seating adds a quaint touch to this lively, festive spot.

Assorted lunch options and fresh bakery goods fill the market. A great bar area offers a spot to enjoy lunch or grab a drink. Prepared foods and food stands provide reliable choices for a quick meal.

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."

"This lunch spot is a culinary tour through Mexico and Latin America."

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.

17
La Farola image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Small Argentinian spot shines with authentic empanadas and a laid-back vibe. Lunch offers a filling three-selection meal with a drink. Friendly staff and a big screen TV showing soccer add to the inviting feel.

Lunch features empanadas that become a staple choice. The lunch meal offers three selections with a drink, providing a filling and delicious option.

People are saying

"These empanadas are incredibly flavorful and delicious."

"The empanadas here are quick, tasty, and filling."

"The empanadas here make a delicious lunch spot."

Good to know

1

La Farola is closed on Mondays.

2

La Farola has ample free parking.

3

Prices are very reasonable for the quality offered.

18
Gyutan Tsukasa U.S.A image 1
Japanese restaurant

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.

People are saying

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

"The beef curry here is rich, savory, and so good with rice."

"This Lunch Spot's charcoal grilled beef tongue is tender and smoky."

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.

19
Trenta Pizza & Cucina and Trenta Lounge image 1

Outdoor dining shines with a heated patio and lively live music, creating a warm, authentic Sicilian vibe. Lunch offers standout pizzas like spicy Reggio Calabrian, perfect for casual family meals. Indoor space feels cozy but tight during busy times.

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.

20
Cafe Rose Express image 1

Cozy cafe shines with crispy paninis and zucchini bread perfect for lunch. Spacious indoor and outdoor seating suits both business and friendly lunches. Casual vibe makes it great for work meetings or casual gatherings.

Offers a variety of sandwiches, paninis, soups, and salads for lunch. Suitable for both business and friendly lunches with a consistently good menu.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has huge, fresh sandwiches and tasty salads."

"It's spacious with peaceful outdoor seating areas."

"I thought the zucchini bread was amazing."

Good to know

1

Cafe Rose Express has limited operating hours.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

The menu varies constantly with new entrées added regularly.

21
Al's New York Cafe image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small outdoor pizzeria serves authentic New York-style pizza with thin, foldable crusts and quick service. Lunch features large slices with drinks at great prices, perfect for a quick meal. Warm, friendly vibe makes it a classic spot for affordable, tasty food.

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."

"The pastrami sandwich is piled so high, it's amazing."

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.

22
Hokkaido Ramen Santouka image 1
Ramen restaurant

Enjoy authentic Hokkaido ramen with rich broth and tender pork in a busy, casual setting. Quick service means only a 10-minute wait even at lunch rush. Perfect for a fast, flavorful lunch on the go.

Quick service stands out with only a 10-minute wait even during the lunch rush. Offers fast ramen that suits a good lunch option for those on the go.

People are saying

"The Toroniku pork ramen is unbelievably tender and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's ramen is delicious, especially the rich broth and spicy soup."

"The Shio Ramen broth is rich, creamy, and buttery."

Good to know

1

The location is very crowded, so seating may not be guaranteed at busy times.

2

During busy hours like dinner, it might be hard to find parking and seating for groups.

3

Despite the lunch rush, the wait was only 10 minutes on Saturday.

23
Wok-In image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Cozy spot with calm atmosphere and fresh ingredients serves authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho. Family-run with friendly staff offers consistent quality, making it a great lunch spot for company meals.

Offers consistent quality for both lunch and dinner. Serves well for company lunches over several years.

People are saying

"The owner, Bruce, is super friendly and knows our favorite dishes."

"I found the Chinese food here to be absolutely delicious."

"I thought the egg rolls were the best part of this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy dinner hours.

2

Takeout is popular, and orders can be placed online for convenience.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during weekends.

24
Andaaz Cuisine of India image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant serves authentic dishes with customizable spice levels in a peaceful atmosphere. Lunch specials offer large combos with chicken Tikka masala, rice, and samosas at great value. Friendly vibe makes it a solid spot for flavorful meals.

Lunch deals range from $10 to $13 and offer good value with large combos. The lunch special includes chicken Tikka masala, rice, potatoes, spinach, samosas, garlic Naan, and chutney, making it a delicious and filling option.

People are saying

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

"The Indian food here is delicious, especially the butter chicken."

"This lunch spot's tikka masala and garlic naan were delicious."

Good to know

1

Lunch deals are available priced between $10 and $13.

2

The restaurant offers large portions that are reasonably priced.

3

The spice level of dishes is customizable to suit different preferences.

25
Kashiwa Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen spot serves authentic ramen like black garlic and vegan miso. Cozy space with laid-back vibe fills fast, perfect for quick lunch or after work. Enjoy beer on tap with fast, no-fuss dining.

Small size makes it easy to grab a quick lunch. Known for bowl of ramen served well for lunch or after work.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be outstanding and flavorful."

"I thought the gyoza and broth were delicious."

"This Lunch Spot has richly flavorful ramen."

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.

26
Baja Fish Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Wide-open layout and beach-town vibe create a casual, friendly spot. Fresh fish tacos and big salsa bar offer satisfying flavors. Outdoor seating stays quiet, making it a great lunch spot despite busy lunchtime noise.

Fresh and satisfying food makes it a reliable lunch spot. Outdoor seating is available but often quiet during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and consistently excellent."

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

"This lunch spot always has excellent, fresh food made from scratch."

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.

27
Super A's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers authentic cuisine in a family-oriented atmosphere with lively noise, especially during sports. Lunch specials like chili Verde burritos are filling and perfect after busy mornings. Prices stay reasonable for a homey neighborhood vibe.

Lunch features great specials that include soup with tacos and chili Verde burritos. Meals come very filling and suit visits after busy mornings or weekend activities.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is awesome, with delicious enchiladas."

"The enchiladas here are delicious and Kid Friendly."

"This lunch spot has delicious tacos and authentic beans and rice."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

Lunch specials are available daily, providing good value for money.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

28
Irvine Ranch Market image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Small gourmet grocery offers a local vibe with high-quality products and great sandwiches for lunch. Prices are higher but reflect the top-quality ingredients. Perfect for quick meals or finding unique snacks.

Offers great sandwiches and local snacks ideal for a quick lunch or a beach break. Regularly serves high-quality ingredients suitable for both casual and special meals.

People are saying

"The staff at this grocery store are so friendly and helpful."

"This Market has tons of local goods and snacks you won't find elsewhere."

"This lunch spot has super fresh produce and amazing sandwiches."

Good to know

1

Marbella Market closes at 7:30 PM.

2

If you are in the store after 7:30 PM, they will start turning lights off on you.

3

The prices at this market were about 20% higher than Ralph's.

29
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Hawaiian barbecue spot serves generous portions in a clean, comfortable setting with a laid-back vibe. Quick service handles large lunch orders smoothly, featuring Kahlua pork and Spam Musubi as popular, filling choices.

Quick service handles large orders smoothly. The 2 piece Katsu and Spam Musubi offer filling portions at a good value. Plate lunches satisfy hunger for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The BBQ chicken was a sweet, smoky hug."

"The chicken katsu here is delicious and a great value."

"This lunch spot has a great value with filling portions."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portions; one combo can easily feed two people.

2

Parking is plentiful in the commercial center.

3

On Tuesdays, enjoy a deal for mini katsu and a drink for $11-$12.

30
Beach Pit BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Outdoor patio offers a warm, cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxed dining. Busy lunch hours feature impressive service that handles groups smoothly. Rustic decor with pig statues adds a folksy charm to the inviting vibe.

Busy lunch hours come with impressive service that handles large groups smoothly. The spot feels cozy and inviting for a midday meal.

People are saying

"Christian's friendly and attentive service made the BBQ experience great."

"The outdoor seating here is really nice, especially at sunset."

"This Lunch Spot's smoky, delicious meats are worth coming back for."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, with only four spaces available on-site.

2

There is ample and safe parking within walking distance or across the street.

3

Outdoor seating is available during early weekday lunch hours.

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