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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Costa Mesa

Lunch spots with outdoor seating

Made for those who insist on taking their lunch break in the fresh air regardless of how busy their schedule gets.

Based on 973 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kenwood's Kitchen & Tap image 1
Kenwood's Kitchen & Tap image 2
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American restaurant

American restaurant offers a fun, warm atmosphere with a spacious dining room and large TVs for watching games. Seating accommodates large groups comfortably, including a quiet patio option. The bar features a wide selection of tap beers and notable cocktails in a relaxed setting.

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.

Patio dining offers a pleasant outdoor setting with a spacious patio suitable for larger groups. The area combines good food and great service in a comfortable environment.

People are saying

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

"They had an impressive selection of craft beer."

"The Outdoor Seating is great, and the food is amazing."

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.

02
Trenta Pizza & Cucina and Trenta Lounge image 1

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.

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.

Outdoor seating offers a great atmosphere with a full bar available. The patio provides a cool spot to enjoy the ambiance.

People are saying

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

"The pizza and pasta here are delicious, just like in Italy."

"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.

03
Cafe Rose Express image 1

Cozy cafe offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating with a casual atmosphere suited for lunch gatherings or work meetings. The menu features varied sandwiches, paninis, soups, and salads with fresh, tasty options like crispy paninis and standout zucchini bread.

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

Spacious layout offers both peaceful outdoor seating and indoor options. Casual atmosphere suits dining outside on warm days.

People are saying

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

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

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

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.

04
Takumi Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

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.

Late lunch options include a lunch special that offers good value for sushi. The menu focuses on fresh, straightforward choices suited for a quick meal.

Patio seating offers a chance to enjoy the California sunshine with outdoor heaters available for cooler times. The outdoor atmosphere complements the indoor vibe well.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the buttery tuna nigiri."

"The service at Outdoor Seating was quick and efficient."

"This Lunch Spot's sushi is fresh and flavorful."

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.

05
Beach Pit BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Outdoor patio with warm, cozy atmosphere and folksy back porch invites relaxed dining. Small indoor seating complements the open-air setup featuring pig statues and rustic decor. The vibe stays pleasant and welcoming, ideal for casual meals with family or friends.

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

The patio offers a pleasant outdoor dining experience with sunshine and outdoor heaters for cooler days. It feels warm and inviting, especially at sunset.

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.

06
EZ Kebab Lebanese Grill image 1

Restaurant combines cozy bistro vibe with steakhouse elegance and fine dining table service. Outdoor patio offers heated, shaded seating with hookah and good music, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Interior feels clean and well-designed, though seating indoors can be loud and limited.

Lunch offers an explosion of flavor with delicious food that makes it worth returning for more. Options suit both dine-in and takeout, making it easy to grab a satisfying meal.

Outside features a nice patio area with a great atmosphere. The space includes hookah flowing, adding to the vibe while dining.

People are saying

"I thought the Lebanese food here was authentic and flavorful."

"The chicken shawarma plate is the best Mediterranean food I've ever tried."

"This lunch spot's food was packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but seating is limited.

2

Expect to pay 15-20% more for online orders than menu prices.

3

All food served is halal.

07
Memphis Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Covered patio with dog-friendly seating creates a relaxed outdoor vibe. Inside space is cozy and bustling without overwhelming noise. Atmosphere blends southern charm with a slightly worn, inviting feel.

Lunch offers a great variety with solid options that match the quality of breakfast and dinner. The spot works well for a casual midday meal or a relaxed happy hour.

Sunny and dog-friendly patio welcomes pets and kids to roam freely. Staff stays friendly and attentive from start to finish, making outdoor seating easy and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The patio is a cute, airy, and pleasant outdoor space."

"The food at this outdoor seating was delicious and plentiful."

"This lunch spot's chicken and waffles were the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Weekly dinner specials are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

3

Parking is limited and can get crowded quickly, especially on weekends.

08
Butcher’s House Brasserie image 1
French steakhouse restaurant

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.

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.

Outdoor seating includes a patio next to a fountain and an area with heaters and covers. The space offers a quieter ambiance and pleasant sun exposure during brunch.

People are saying

"The steaks here are flavorful and perfectly cooked."

"The steak here is cooked to perfection and tastes great."

"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.

09
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.

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.

Outdoor seating includes a small patio that feels relaxing. They provide outdoor heaters to keep the area comfortable.

People are saying

"I thought the food was phenomenal and awesome."

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

"I found the outdoor seating 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
VOX Kitchen & Bar - South Coast Plaza image 1

Indoor dining features loud, lively energy, while seating near the bar or outside offers a calm, relaxed vibe with abundant natural light and wooden furniture. The space blends modern, stylish design with a laid-back atmosphere that suits casual socializing or elegant dining.

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

Patio seating offers a lovely ambiance with plenty of natural light and wooden-style furniture. Outdoor areas feel more open and less closed in than inside.

People are saying

"I thought the lemonade was pretty good."

"The garlic noodles with prawns were delicious."

"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.

11
Mercado González Northgate Market image 1

Mexican grocery store combines vibrant decor with live mariachi music and a full bar inside. Atmosphere feels lively and festive, often with a DJ and food stations creating a chaotic yet welcoming vibe. Outdoor seating adds a quaint touch, making it a unique blend of shopping and entertainment.

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.

Gorgeous patio areas offer plenty of space for outdoor seating. TVs and a full bar with imported Mexican wines and tequila options enhance the experience while mariachis play nearby.

People are saying

"This grocery store has amazing prepared Mexican food and fresh items."

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

"The outdoor seating has a great bar and TVs to watch games."

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.

12
Costa Contemporary Kitchen image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Small indoor space with prominent windows and concrete flooring creates a bright but noisy atmosphere. Warm, stylish vibe suits date nights and small groups despite close tables. Exceptional pisco sours and Peruvian dishes add to a memorable dining experience.

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.

Outdoor seating includes several tables that offer a quieter atmosphere compared to the indoor area. The indoor space is small and features a bar, making the outdoor area a more spacious option.

People are saying

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

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

"The outdoor seating is much quieter than inside."

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.

13
Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport Beach image 1

Hotel offers elegant decor with a boating theme and well-designed, soundproofed courtyards that block airport noise. Spacious rooms and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere contrast with lively restaurant areas. Amenities include a clean pool and hot tub, free parking, and a helpful shuttle service.

Lunch options include Bistro and Le Chateau restaurant on-site. Food quality stays delicious across all meals.

A beautiful patio with a fountain and umbrellas handles large groups smoothly. The clean premises include an outdoor pool and hot tub, plus a great happy hour enjoyed on the patio.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff was so friendly and professional."

"The outdoor seating is loud because it's right next to the airport."

"I ate at the Bistro for lunch and found it was great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food at reasonable prices, perfect for a casual meal.

2

Parking costs $25 per night, which is not listed beforehand.

3

Expect hidden fees that can significantly increase your total bill.

14
Quattro Caffé 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.

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

A nice little patio sits out back, offering a quiet spot away from mall traffic. Outdoor seating includes warm, hospitable service that enhances the dining 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."

"I enjoyed the outdoor seating ambiance away from the traffic."

Good to know

1

Quattro Caffé 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.

15
Milligram image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor garden courtyard with airy seating and eucalyptus trees creates a tranquil atmosphere. Live music on weekends adds to the European-inspired vibe. Dog-friendly patio invites relaxed brunches in a cozy, artsy setting.

Outdoor space suits breakfast and lunch well. The spot serves solid options for morning and midday meals with a strong coffee selection.

Outdoor seating includes a lush garden courtyard with eucalyptus trees and a sun-drenched patio. The space is dog-friendly and offers a relaxing vibe with good people watching.

People are saying

"The coffee here is really good and delicious."

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

"The outdoor seating here is lovely and lush."

Good to know

1

Milligram does not have a kitchen.

2

They do not accept cash.

3

Breakfast items are served until 3 PM.

16
Palms n' Patties image 1

Restaurant offers laid-back tropical vibes with a clean aesthetic and both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays chill and calm with fresh, high-quality smash burgers that focus on healthy ingredients without seed oils.

Lunch Bang offers a smash burger experience that beats competitors in quality and price. It delivers a perfect lunch option, especially when nearby.

Outside offers a vibe with a few two-top tables. Seating is limited but works well for a quick bite, blending into the mall setting.

People are saying

"These burgers are so juicy and packed with real flavor."

"I loved knowing their healthy foods were made without seed oils."

"This Lunch Spot's burger is tasty with excellent Pn'P sauce."

Good to know

1

The restaurant uses organic, grass-fed ingredients and avoids seed oils.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for a cheeseburger and fries without a drink.

3

There is only one order kiosk available, which may lead to longer wait times.

17
Acapulco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with a tropical outdoor patio featuring a fireplace and live music. Upbeat cantina atmosphere blends casual, beachy interior with a family-friendly vibe. Generous margaritas and colorful patio make it a lively spot for relaxing and socializing.

Lunch offers an all you can eat buffet for $14 with handmade tortillas included. The buffet provides a great value with a variety of tasty options.

The outdoor seating features a quiet back patio and a covered patio that suits celebrations. At night, the fireplace on the outside patio adds warmth and ambiance.

People are saying

"I found the handmade tortillas and authentic Mexican food to be great."

"The brunch staff, especially Jesus and Ale, made my daughter feel so special."

"The lunch buffet is a great value with handmade tortillas."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3pm to 8pm with drinks starting at $4.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and drinks.

3

The lunch buffet costs $14 for all-you-can-eat options.

18
CAVA image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Modern design blends with Mediterranean charm in a space featuring soft lighting and comfortable patio seating. The atmosphere stays lively and inviting, drawing people for fresh, tasty Mediterranean food served quickly and healthily.

Offers a healthy quick lunch option with friendly staff who assist during busy times. Serves as a reliable spot for a stress-free meal even with a toddler in tow.

A nice patio offers comfortable outdoor seating. Staff check on guests outside, though trash cans can get full in the late afternoon.

People are saying

"I found the healthy foods here to be fresh and flavorful."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are so thoughtful and friendly."

"The outdoor seating on the patio was nice and comfortable."

Good to know

1

CAVA closes at 10 pm on weeknights, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect limited menu items as they often run out of popular options.

3

Prices range from $13 to $18 for chicken and beef dishes.

19
Boil & Bake image 1
Bagel shop

Open kitchen reveals staff at work behind cute decor. Outdoor patio offers airy seating ideal for dogs and sunny days. Loud music and nearby airport noise create a high-energy, noisy atmosphere that challenges conversation.

Lunch features bagel sandwiches and fresh orange juice. The spot fills up around midday, making it a lively place for a casual meal.

The patio offers pleasant outdoor seating that is airy and spacious. Servers keep tables clean, and the area welcomes dogs, making it a comfortable spot on warm, sunny days.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were amazing, truly excellent."

"The bagels here are delicious, thick, and fluffy."

"The bagels here are delicious and inventive."

Good to know

1

Seasonal specials are available only for a day or two, so visit quickly.

2

Expect to wait at least half an hour during peak hours due to popularity.

3

Bagels sell out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

20
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.

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.

Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio and two patios with outdoor heaters that create a cozy atmosphere. Options let you sit inside or at the full bar outside.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta dishes here are incredible."

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

"The staff here are so friendly and make you feel welcome."

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.

21
Brazuca Café image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers authentic Brazilian flavors with live music and indoor and outdoor seating including heaters. Atmosphere feels like a cozy, modern Brazilian café with a spacious and inviting setup. Brazilian beers and refreshing cocktails complement the experience.

Lunch offers a variety of dishes that grow more delicious with each course. The spot serves healthy meals that feel like home-cooked Brazilian food, making it a solid choice for a midday break.

Outdoor seating includes heated areas that make sitting outside comfortable. Both indoor and outdoor options are available for guests.

People are saying

"The Brazilian food here is authentic and delicious."

"The food at this lunch spot is always fresh and delicious."

"It's a pleasant spot with both indoor and outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

Visiting on weekends is recommended for Feijoada, a national specialty dish.

2

The café is self-serve, so customers get their own silverware and condiments.

3

Parking can be a hassle due to the location in a strip mall.

22
Dick Church's Restaurant image 1

Diner space combines retro remodel with cozy interior and ample outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays lively with loud country music and occasional live bands. Back room features a personal bar, adding to the vintage vibe.

Casual and tasty options make it a solid choice for lunch. The spot works well for a quick, satisfying meal in a relaxed setting.

Lots of outdoor seating surrounds the venue, offering a relaxed spot to hang out. The space combines a diner area and a speakeasy bar, with cozy indoor options too.

People are saying

"I thought the home-style comfort food was delicious."

"This breakfast spot has delicious avocado toast."

"The food here is surprisingly good, especially the breakfast."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hectic during peak hours, but there is a large free parking lot attached.

2

The diner offers a classic diner-style meal at a decent price.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and casual.

23
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.

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.

A cozy patio offers a nice spot to dine outdoors. The outdoor area feels inviting and comfortable for a relaxed meal.

People are saying

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

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

"The patio is a really nice and cozy outdoor seating area."

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.

24
Ramen Nagi image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines traditional and modern vibe with a fun, lively atmosphere. Seating includes long communal tables and a large outdoor patio, creating a somewhat cramped but energetic environment. Popular spot with customizable ramen options and a steady flow of diners.

A large outdoor patio offers plenty of space to sit outside. The area is pet-friendly, allowing dogs like poodles to join.

People are saying

"The ramen here is delicious, especially the original."

"This lunch spot serves food within minutes."

"I loved the flavorful broth of the Black King ramen."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the restaurant is very popular and there may be a wait.

2

Expect a 40-minute wait during peak hours, especially around lunch.

3

There is plenty of free parking available near the restaurant.

25
Holé Smokes BBQ image 1

Smoke fills the air alongside the scent of barbecue, while old wood floors scattered with peanut shells create a Texas BBQ vibe. Neon beer signs and multiple TVs support a lively sports-friendly atmosphere. Seating accommodates both groups and families, with a comfortable patio adding to the space.

A new lunch menu offers good value. The meals are consistently very good.

Comfortable patio offers a relaxed spot for eating outdoors. Seating suits groups and families both inside and outside.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, just melts in your mouth."

"This lunch spot's brisket and ribs were so tasty."

"The smoked meats here are worth the money, especially the tri-tip."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7pm on weekdays and 3 to 6pm on weekends.

2

Taco Tuesday features special menu items and pricing.

3

Parking is generally easy to find near the restaurant.

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Costa Mesa, California

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