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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown Costa Mesa

Authentic spots

There is a distinct difference between a place that mimics a culture and one that is genuinely authentic.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
The Celebrations Venue and Red Room Supper Club image 1
The Celebrations Venue and Red Room Supper Club image 2
The Celebrations Venue and Red Room Supper Club image 3
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Venue blends 1950s New York vibe with authentic Italian cuisine crafted by Chef Carmelo. Live jazz and guitar create an intimate ambiance filled with warmth and nostalgia. Deep red decor and sleek design enhance the cozy, genuine experience.

Chef Carmelo and the owner are genuine Italians, crafting dishes with authentic flavor rooted in traditional Italian cuisine. A live guitar player adds a cozy and authentic atmosphere to the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is served with warm, attentive, and genuine hospitality."

"The service here makes you feel like VIP family."

"The authentic hospitality here makes you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for events to ensure seating.

2

Live music events typically start at 7pm, so arrive early.

3

A two-drink minimum is required during live performances.

02
BEI Restaurant image 1
Restaurant

Intimate space with authentic Lebanese art and a glass-enclosed patio creates a cozy vibe. Guests enjoy rich flavors and authentic Middle Eastern spices in dishes that match traditional home cooking. Live music adds energy to the warm, lively atmosphere.

Food features rich flavors and authentic Middle Eastern spices. Dishes match the quality of traditional Lebanese home cooking.

People are saying

"The grilled meats here are packed with flavor and perfectly cooked."

"I found authentic Lebanese dinner spots that felt like home."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be challenging, fitting only about 8 cars.

2

The area around the parking lot may feel shady, raising safety concerns.

3

A DJ performs on Fridays, and belly dancing is featured on Saturdays.

03
KJB Pho & Eggrolls image 1

Super small spot serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine like pho and eggrolls in generous portions. Warm, mellow vibe feels like eating in a family home. No alcohol keeps the atmosphere comfortable and inviting.

Offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine with dishes like pho and eggrolls that taste genuine and traditional. Food consistently delivers delicious flavors true to Vietnamese roots.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the Vietnamese cuisine to be truly authentic and delicious."

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
Globe Delicatessen image 1

Small deli with authentic German snacks and a cozy, homey atmosphere feels like a European Gasthaus. Friendly energy invites relaxation and enjoyment. Known for exceptional sandwiches and a great German beer selection.

Offers authentic German snacks and maintains a classic deli atmosphere that feels genuinely traditional.

People are saying

"I loved the German beer selection here."

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

"I found authentic German snacks available for purchase."

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.

05
Super Pollo image 1
Chicken restaurant

Outdoor seating offers a chill atmosphere while grilled chicken near the window adds authentic flavors. Limited seating keeps it cozy and focused on takeout. The lively vibe inside matches the original Mexican food roots perfectly.

Original, authentic Mexican food defines this spot. It stays true to its hole-in-the-wall roots and delivers authentic flavors throughout.

People are saying

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

"This authentic, no-frills spot has the Mexican food I miss."

"It's an authentic hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a table.

2

Super Pollo is great for takeout with quick service.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere; no dress code is enforced.

06
Golden Dragon image 1
Chinese restaurant

Old-school Chinese eatery offers authentic family recipes in a retro style setting. Warm, homey atmosphere with family-friendly booths and a private party room makes it perfect for gatherings.

Old-school vibe with a retro style sets the tone. Family-owned and run, it serves authentic Chinese food made from family recipes that avoid the corporate fast food taste.

People are saying

"This family owned spot has been serving locals since the mid-80s."

"The authentic Chinese seafood here is delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

"It's an authentic Chinese restaurant with family recipes."

Good to know

1

Golden Dragon has been family-owned since 1974, ensuring quality and tradition.

2

The restaurant offers large portion sizes, providing good value for money.

3

They have a full bar available for events and parties.

07
El Toro Bravo Tortilleria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large boilers make homemade tortillas and chips in a busy, chaotic space with limited seating. Flavorful authentic tacos and generous portions draw long lines despite unsanitary conditions. Workers create a genuine atmosphere that feels truly Mexican.

Offers authentic Mexican food with flavorful tacos and a genuine atmosphere from the workers and location.

People are saying

"The food portions here are generous and a great value."

"You have to try the tortillas; they're made fresh on the spot."

"I found the Mexican food here to be completely authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

El Toro Bravo Tortilleria is a take-out only place with no seating available.

2

Masa sells out quickly, so arrive in the morning for the best chance.

3

Expect long wait times during lunch hours due to high demand.

08
EZ Kebab Lebanese Grill image 1

Restaurant blends cozy bistro vibe with steakhouse elegance and fine dining service. Outdoor patio offers heated, shaded seating with hookah and good music for a relaxed feel. Food serves authentic Lebanese flavors using fresh ingredients and traditional methods.

Food offers authentic Lebanese flavors with fresh ingredients. Dishes like the falafel wrap show traditional cooking methods and deliver rich, genuine taste.

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."

"I found the Lebanese food here to be wonderfully authentic and flavorful."

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.

09
Jugos Acapulco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves authentic flavors with a menu full of classic dishes. The salsa bar adds a fresh, healthy touch. Atmosphere shifts but food stays true to tradition.

Mexican dishes here show authentic flavors and traditional preparation. The menu reflects genuine Mexican cuisine with straightforward, classic options.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, specifically the menudo, to be amazing."

"I found the Mexican food here to be very authentic."

Good to know

1

The menu offers a variety of healthy options.

2

Prices are considered decent for the quality of food.

3

Food is served quickly, typically within 15 minutes of ordering.

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Downtown, Costa Mesa

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