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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Costa Mesa's best

Unique lunch spots

A lunch spot that offers a distinct experience instead of the usual rotation of tired salads and wraps.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
Eat's Sushi image 1
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Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with authentic decor and warm yellow lighting creates a cozy, immersive atmosphere. Busy and popular spot, often filled with couples and groups enjoying fresh, high-quality sushi. Outdoor seating with heaters and a 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.

Fresh sushi includes a wide variety of rolls like the classic spicy tuna and the unique Bikini Roll. Smaller cut rolls come in 4 or 5 pieces, and the scallop sashimi with truffle oil stands out. The to-go bag is a unique orange tote that adds a touch of luxury.

People are saying

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

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

"The ingredients here are so fresh, it's unbelievable."

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.

02
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.

Creamy, vibrant green spaghetti bursts with basil flavor in the tallarรญn verde. Cocktails bring a fun and unique twist to the menu.

People are saying

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

"The Peruvian flavors here are so unique and delicious."

"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.

03
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.

Taste combinations stand out as unique and amazing. Lasagna shines with a rich, creamy texture and distinct flavor, while pizza offers a nice crust but leans salty and less memorable.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a charming spot with a warm, inviting atmosphere."

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.

04
Mercado Gonzรกlez 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.

Unique space offers produce items rarely seen north of the border. The overall experience stands out from typical supermarkets.

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."

"I found the shopping environment unique, like a culinary tour."

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.

05
Mitsuwa Marketplace image 1
Japanese grocery store

Indoor space mimics authentic Japanese market with modern layout and large food court featuring unique Japanese products and a beer garden. Atmosphere feels lively and energetic, resembling a slice of Japan with open dining and specialty shops. Crowds gather for standout dishes like beef tongue and ramen, creating a bustling vibe.

The lunch area features a food court with more tables, cutting down wait times. Packed to-go lunches offer quick options, and the spot suits group lunches well.

Many stores offer unique Japanese items hard to find outside Japan. The food court serves as a cultural epicenter with distinctive Japanese fare and a hidden bakery featuring unique breads and drinks.

People are saying

"This Japanese grocery store has a huge selection of authentic items."

"It's a unique slice of Japan right here in Orange County."

"It gets so crowded at this lunch spot, parking is a problem."

Good to know

1

Parking can be chaotic, especially during peak hours.

2

The food court opens at 11am, offering a variety of dining options.

3

Unique Japanese products are available that are hard to find elsewhere.

06
ORANGE PARIS CAFE image 1
French restaurant

Small bistro with Parisian decor and red-and-white checkered tablecloths creates an authentic French atmosphere. Cozy space with 7-8 tiny tables offers a peaceful, relaxing vibe. Games and toys for kids add a welcoming touch during wait times.

Offers a good variety of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options in a cute little cafรฉ setting. Serves as a convenient spot for a quick lunch break after cycling or wandering nearby.

Menu offers unique crepes and sandwiches with a classic French taste. Chocolate Croissant stands out with its distinctive flavor and quality.

People are saying

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

"The owner's unique Parisian charm makes everyone feel so welcome."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious, fresh, and authentic."

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.

07
Tokyo Central Costa Mesa image 1
Japanese grocery store

Spacious Japanese grocery store recreates the feel of Tokyo's bustling markets with authentic products and hand-drawn signs. Bright, clean seating areas with microwaves invite shoppers to enjoy fresh sushi and hot food from a self-serve bar. A large sake selection and fresh fish counters add to the genuine cultural shopping experience.

Fresh seafood and healthy sushi stand out as lunch options. The spot offers a great selection of Japanese food and ready-to-go lunch items including sushi and sashimi bento plates.

Fresh produce pairs with unique snacks and beverages that satisfy cravings for Japanese cuisine. Discover distinct flavors of candies, chips, and quick bites not found in local stores.

People are saying

"This grocery store has a huge variety of Japanese foods and prepared meals."

"I found so many unique Japanese snacks and groceries here."

"The sushi here is so fresh, it's the best lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Prepared bento is marked down 20% after 7 PM daily.

2

Tokyo Central Costa Mesa closes at 10 PM every day.

3

Parking can be limited, especially during peak hours.

08
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.

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.

Slices feature unique flavor profiles like bonito flakes with miso kewpie sauce and a taco-inspired chorizo pastor. The crust stands out as thicker yet airy and chewy, blending deep dish and focaccia qualities.

People are saying

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

"The pizzas here have unique flavor combinations, like the Japanese one."

"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.

09
Deli Seoul image 1
Bagel shop

Bagel shop with a retro vibe and modern, inviting space featuring natural light and tasteful music selection. Atmosphere feels relaxing and welcoming, with indoor seating, outdoor dog-friendly patio, and a kid's corner. Korean-inspired bagels and dishes create a unique culinary experience.

Offers Korean styled bagels and sandwiches with traditional recipes for lunch. Some options suit quick grab-and-go, but basic lunches can take an extra hour.

Korean beef and pork egg sandwiches stand out as tasty and unique offerings. The spot itself feels fun and different from typical places.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and creative."

"I found the Korean beef or pork egg sandwiches very tasty and unique."

"The staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Cash is preferred for payment.

2

The new location is spacious with plenty of parking.

3

There are many seating spots available for diners.

10
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.

Fresh, locally sourced ingredients create a base for a unique bagel recipe. Housemade bagels come with gourmet sauces and flavors that appeal to adventurous palates and traditional tastes alike.

People are saying

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

"The bagels here are delicious and inventive."

"The housemade bagels and unique sauces were so well thought out."

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.

11
Paradise Dynasty image 1
Chinese restaurant

Large space with modern Chinese decor and plenty of seating creates an elegant atmosphere. Background music plays, sometimes loud, contributing to a lively but occasionally noisy environment. The setting suits date nights and casual dining with a mix of Northern and Southern Chinese cuisine.

Variety on the menu and quality of each dish make it a solid choice for lunch or brunch. Great Happy Hour options suit late lunch or early dinner times.

Rainbow xiao long baos offer unique flavors with juicy, flavorful fillings. Seasonal options like Dungeness chili crab soup dumplings add to the distinctive menu.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and top quality."

"The XLB here are redefined with bold twists like truffle and tom yum."

"The colorful dumplings had unique, juicy, and flavorful fillings."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 2:30 pm to 5 pm with 40% off select items.

2

During happy hour, many dishes are 40% off with few menu restrictions.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid long wait times.

12
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.

Modern, fresh Italian dishes come with a unique flair. The Caesar salad features a distinct crouton topped with gelatin-like cream and egg for a non-predictable dining experience.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta dishes here are incredible."

"The food here is modern Italian with a unique, artistic flair."

"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.

13
Knife Pleat image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Fine dining space blends elegant minimalism with an intimate atmosphere and surprisingly casual energy. Guests experience impeccable afternoon tea with tiered presentations and enjoy creative menus featuring standout dishes like American Wagyu steak and duck confit. Cocktails and wine pairings complement the refined yet approachable vibe.

Lunch offers a multi-course meal with a variety of options. The 3 course lunch special on weekdays provides an authentic and delicious French experience.

A chocolate dessert with tonka beans offers a unique and memorable finish. The tea selection stands out with a good variety of black and white teas.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"I had a delightful lunch; the food was amazing."

"The tea selection is unique with adorable edible flowers."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

Expect a 25% automatic gratuity added to your bill.

3

The afternoon tea costs $115 plus a 23% service charge.

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