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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Costa Mesa

Seafood spots with outdoor seating

Made for those who insist on eating their seafood in the open air.

Based on 825 Opinions
+822
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Updated May 2026
01
Takumi Sushi image 1
Takumi Sushi image 2
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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.

Seafood here is very fresh and used in sushi like the bikini roll with salmon, tuna, and tempura shrimp. The Fire Island roll combines shrimp tempura, spicy tuna, and jalapeño for a balanced heat and flavor. Fried shrimp heads add a crunchy touch.

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 seafood here is incredibly fresh, especially the sashimi."

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

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.

02
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.

Shrimp & grits stand out with a creative take and green chilis that add a pop of flavor and spice. Barbecue shrimp offers an interesting spin that works well, and bacon wrapped shrimp appear as a tasty appetizer option.

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."

"The Seafood here is so delicious, it could be your last supper."

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.

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.

Fresh seafood shines in dishes like pesto pasta, paella, and shrimp tacos. Options include ceviche, fish and chips, and seafood paired with homemade chorizo pasta.

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."

"I loved the seafood paella; it tasted so fresh."

"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.

04
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.

Seafood dishes feature perfectly cooked shrimp and squid alongside a flavorful seafood scampi served with bread. Options include seafood ceviche, crispy calamari, and sweet & sour salmon, all fresh and protein-rich.

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."

"The seafood ceviche and scampi were fresh and flavorful."

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.

05
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.

Tagliatelle nero uses squid ink and fresh seafood in a rich yet light sauce. Pasta dishes include shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari, paired well with a crisp French rosé.

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."

"The Seafood here is served by attentive and friendly staff."

"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.

06
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.

Bright lighting highlights the fresh seafood section, making fish and shellfish look incredibly fresh and affordable. Options include Seabass fish ceviche, Mango Shrimp ceviche, and fish tacos near the sushi spot.

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."

"I loved their fresh fish ceviche and tacos."

"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.

07
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.

Shrimp pastel stands out as a notable dish. Grilled Mahi Mahi comes with rice and French fries. Shrimp and chicken wraps exist but lack excitement.

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 shrimp pastel was the best seafood I had."

"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.

08
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.

Prawn cocktail features six fresh king prawns on the glass rim with shrimp inside. Baja fish tacos and shrimp enchiladas with crab in green sauce stand out. Steak and shrimp fajitas arrive sizzling.

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 seafood tacos here are unbelievable."

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.

09
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.

Smoked shrimp stands out with a unique flavor. Shrimp tacos deliver a bold taste and rank above other taco options like fish and carnitas. Yellow chile also pairs well with the seafood choices.

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."

"I loved the smoked shrimp; it was like nothing I'd ever had."

"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.

10
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.

Sushi grade fish shines in the ceviche, served with sweet potatoes, cancha corn, and sharp red onion. Leche de tigre comes separate, keeping flavors fresh and balanced. Shrimp and risotto also show solid seafood quality.

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."

"The ceviche's leche de tigre is the best I've had outside Peru."

"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.

11
Vaca. image 1
Spanish restaurant

Spanish restaurant offers lively atmosphere with a beautiful outdoor patio featuring heaters for comfort. Indoor seating is packed and close-quartered, creating an intimate but confined vibe. Drinks include seasonal cocktails and a large selection of Tempranillo wine, complementing standout dishes like seared scallops and dry-aged steak.

Seafood dishes include a rich paella loaded with large shrimp, clams, and fish. Tapas options cover a wide variety of pork, seafood, and beef, offering generous portions.

Prompt seating at 6:30 PM on the patio ensures no wait. Attentive service complements a great atmosphere outdoors.

People are saying

"The Spanish tapas and entrees make for a wonderful dinner."

"The outdoor seating is perfect for sharing a variety of delicious tapas."

"The seafood paella is hearty and loaded with quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

Parking requires a valet.

2

We waited outside for two hours before being seated.

3

The paella takes about 40 minutes to cook.

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Costa Mesa, California

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