Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Costa Mesa

Lunch spots with outdoor space

You want to eat your lunch outside without having to settle for a subpar space.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
User
User
User
Updated
01
Beach Pit BBQ image 1
Beach Pit BBQ image 2
Beach Pit BBQ image 3
View all

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 outdoor space features a sunny patio with outdoor heaters for chilly days. It offers a warm and pleasant atmosphere ideal for dining at sunset.

People are saying

"The patio 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.

02
Butcher’s House Brasserie image 1
Butcher’s House Brasserie image 2
Butcher’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.

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 with heaters and covers to keep warm. The space offers a quieter ambiance and pleasant sun exposure during brunch.

People are saying

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

"I ate outdoors and it was fine, even with a slight drizzle."

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.

03
Tres Muchachos Wine Bar & Kitchen image 1
Tres Muchachos Wine Bar & Kitchen image 2
Tres Muchachos Wine Bar & Kitchen image 3
View all

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 with heaters turned on for comfort. The space feels relaxing and offers the option to dine indoors or outside.

People are saying

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

"I found the outdoor space 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.

04
Il Girasole image 1
Il Girasole image 2
Il Girasole image 3
View all

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 full bar outside and a dog-friendly patio. Two patios feature outdoor heaters that create a cozy atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor space has a covered, heated patio that's dog-friendly."

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.

05
Kenwood's Kitchen & Tap image 1
Kenwood's Kitchen & Tap image 2
Kenwood's Kitchen & Tap image 3
View all

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.

Spacious dining room and a pleasant patio create a great outdoor setting. The area suits larger groups well and offers a beautiful atmosphere for dining.

People are saying

"The patio is a pleasant and beautiful outdoor space for dining."

"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.

06
EZ Kebab Lebanese Grill image 1
EZ Kebab Lebanese Grill image 2
EZ Kebab Lebanese Grill image 3
View all

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.

A nice outdoor patio area offers a great spot for dining. The patio atmosphere includes hookah flowing, adding to the experience.

People are saying

"The outdoor patio has a great vibe with heaters and warm lighting."

"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
Deli Nerds image 1
Deli Nerds image 2
Deli Nerds image 3
View all

Small sandwich shop with a cozy patio featuring shade and heat lamps creates a relaxed, friendly vibe. Menu focuses on slider-sized sandwiches and offers meal prep and catering services. Outdoor space is dog friendly and suits casual hangouts or group events.

A cozy patio offers shaded, dog-friendly seating built by the owner. It creates a relaxed spot for hanging out or meeting people outdoors.

People are saying

"The outdoor patio space is really cozy and great for hanging out."

Good to know

1

Burritos cost $5 each on weekday mornings from 8 to 9 am.

2

Sliders are available Monday to Friday from 3 to 6 pm at 2 for $8.

3

Deli Nerds hosts Geeks who Drink Trivia on Thursdays at 7pm.

08
Quattro Caffé image 1
Quattro Caffé image 2
Quattro Caffé image 3
View all

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 quiet patio sits out back, away from mall traffic. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant ambiance with friendly service.

People are saying

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

"I loved sitting outside; the ambiance was so warm and hospitable."

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.

09
Milligram image 1
Milligram image 2
Milligram image 3
View all

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 outdoor seating offers a relaxing vibe and lovely views."

"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.

10
Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport Beach image 1
Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport Beach image 2
Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport Beach image 3
View all

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.

Outdoor pool and hot tub add a nice touch. The patio features seating for large groups, a fountain, and umbrellas. Clean premises and a beautiful restaurant patio enhance the outdoor experience.

People are saying

"The patio is a nice, small private outdoor space."

"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.

11
CAVA image 1
CAVA image 2
CAVA image 3
View all

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, but trash cans can get full in the late afternoon.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating on the patio was 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.

12
Boil & Bake image 1
Boil & Bake image 2
Boil & Bake image 3
View all

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 a pleasant, airy outdoor seating area with space for dogs. Servers keep tables clean, and the spot fills with groups enjoying the sun.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating here is really nice."

"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.

13
Sugo Costa Mesa image 1
Sugo Costa Mesa image 2
Sugo Costa Mesa image 3
View all

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.

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

"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.

Discover more

Costa Mesa, California

Area guide