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Local picks

Food and date spots in East Side Costa Mesa

Made for those who refuse to settle for a lackluster meal when they are trying to impress someone special.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
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Updated May 2026
01
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Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers an intimate, stylish setting with dim lighting and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere despite occasional buzz. The space feels cozy with an open, relaxing floor plan. It attracts those seeking authentic, high-quality sushi with expert chefs and imported fish.

Food features delicious rolls with appropriate portions and low prices. The menu offers thoughtful dishes paired with exceptional service in a cozy, relaxed setting.

Intimate and stylish atmosphere creates a great setting for dates. The space feels quaint and personable, fitting for a cozy evening out.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it practically melts in your mouth."

"The sushi here is fantastic, especially the toro."

"The food here is delicious and great for the price."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Lunch sets offer great value, typically priced around $15.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during dinner hours, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays.

02
Ramen Tatsunoya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious Japanese restaurant with many booth tables and a layout suited for family dining. Atmosphere feels cozy and warm but can get loud when full, making conversations challenging. Known for authentic, rich tonkotsu ramen and a menu offering pork and vegan broths.

Food offers great flavor and is filling. Dishes taste amazing and encourage eating more even when full.

Ramen here stands out as exceptionally flavorful and satisfying, making it a solid choice for couples. Expect to spend around $80 for two bowls and beers, reflecting the quality and experience.

People are saying

"I found the ramen broth to be rich and authentic."

"I found the ramen here to be authentic and delicious."

"This ramen is probably the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait outside for a table during peak dinner hours.

2

The price for a bowl of ramen is $16.

3

There is a vegan option available for those who do not eat pork.

03
Pom & Olive image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and a Midwest supper club feel. Interior features fresh jasmine and beautiful paintings, creating a warm and familiar vibe. The place attracts many big families and offers a quiet, pleasant dining experience.

Delicious Middle Eastern flavors fill every dish with care and love. Generous portions come with warm, welcoming service that makes the food experience memorable.

Lamb chops and kabobs come out medium rare and delicious, paired with tasty rice options. The spot suits date nights with a menu that breaks from the usual and offers consistent quality.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be delicious and bursting with flavor."

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The Date Spots here have tender, flavorful kababs that melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and pescatarian options.

2

Portions are generous for the price, providing good value.

3

There is plenty of parking available for guests.

04
Massimos Pizza and Pasta image 1

Family-owned restaurant with a cozy, relaxed atmosphere and spacious tables encourages socializing. TVs show sports and movies at low volume to keep the vibe chill and comfortable. Offers Halal options and a kid-friendly environment with a strong sense of tradition.

Food here stays consistently great and is prepared by good people. The menu offers fantastic dishes that satisfy every time.

Sandwiches stand out with perfectly balanced meats and veggies and bread that stays crisp. Staff recognize regulars by name, adding a personal touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh, fast, and delicious."

"The pasta here is delicious, especially the lasagna."

"The food here is delicious, perfect for a date spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a weekday lunch deal from 1-3pm for $8.

2

Halal options are available, which are rare in the area.

3

Parking is convenient and easy to find.

05
Verde Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Space blends modern elegance with nostalgic charm, featuring an elegant speakeasy and golf course views. Atmosphere stays refined yet comfortable, lively without overwhelming noise. Creative cocktails and inventive dishes draw a crowd seeking both cozy dinners and lively gatherings.

Food features a fusion of contemporary cuisine with Latin inspiration using fresh, crisp vegetables and chef-driven, flavorful dishes.

Offers an intimate setting ideal for anniversaries and quiet date nights. The bar serves unforgettable cocktails that complement the relaxed vibe. Meals often leave diners satisfied without leftovers.

People are saying

"I found the desserts here to be scrumptious and a home run."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The craft cocktails here are a perfectly balanced masterpiece."

Good to know

1

They offer a multi-course Valentine's menu on Valentine's Day.

2

Verde Restaurant has a focus on fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced ingredients.

3

The menu includes many vegetarian and pescatarian options, along with meat dishes.

06
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.

Food comes out fast and tastes consistently fresh and homemade. Breakfast dishes are cooked very well, offering great comfort food with friendly service.

Chicken Fried Steak comes with hashbrowns grilled with peppers and onions plus over-easy eggs. Avocado toast and a breakfast burrito also stand out as solid choices.

People are saying

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

"This diner has really friendly service and homemade food."

"The chicken fried steak here is perfectly made, a great date spot choice."

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.

07
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.

Food here is consistently excellent with a focus on top-quality Italian dishes. The chef-owner's care shows in every bite, making the meals truly amazing.

Suitable for couples, this spot offers a relaxed setting after a day out. It welcomes both couples and families, making it a versatile choice for dates.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here improved a lot with the new owner."

"This place has amazing Date Spots with top-quality Italian food."

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.

08
Wok-In image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Cozy space with calm atmosphere and spacious seating featuring cool fish tanks. Family-run with friendly staff serving authentic, flavorful Vietnamese dishes like pho and vermicelli. Popular spot known for fresh ingredients and reasonable prices.

Food here features large portions that are consistently delicious and visually appealing. The menu offers an outstanding variety that satisfies both casual lunches and special dinners.

Food features Beef Pho and dishes like beef with broccoli and orange chicken that are flavorful and satisfying. The menu offers a variety of tasty options suitable for sharing on a date.

People are saying

"The owner, Bruce, is super friendly and knows our favorite dishes."

"I found the Chinese food here to be absolutely delicious."

"The food here is so delicious, especially the tofu dishes."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy dinner hours.

2

Takeout is popular, and orders can be placed online for convenience.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during weekends.

09
'Ai Pono Cafe image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small Hawaiian restaurant offers a surf vibe atmosphere with loud music that fills the space. The place has Ohana vibes and a chill, friendly energy that recalls family vacations. Seating is limited and cozy, with some outdoor patio options.

Food here is handmade to order and always fresh. The Hawaiian dishes are creative and delicious, capturing authentic flavors that make the meal feel like a trip back to Hawaii.

Fresh shrimp with great flavors and good acidity stands out in the Shrimp Special. The spot suits a casual afternoon date and works well for couples willing to spend a bit more.

People are saying

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

"The shrimp here is delicious and perfectly seasoned and flavorful."

"The food here is so flavorful, it's worth the visit."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site, but can fill up quickly during busy times.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Expect larger portion sizes, often enough for two meals.

10
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.

Authentic Mexican food features Mexican meats, side dishes, and desserts served with excellent service. The atmosphere complements the food, creating a satisfying dining experience.

People are saying

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

"The food here tasted authentic and was made from scratch."

"The birria tacos are tender with a tasty consommรฉ for dunking."

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.

11
Coffee Dose image 1
Coffee shop

Small space with kitschy decor and throwback diner vibe creates a fun, intimate atmosphere filled with sarcastic humor and loud music. Lines form during busy times, reflecting its popularity. The place caters to a health-conscious crowd with gluten-free options and a cashless policy.

Breakfast dishes stand out with fresh flavors and careful construction. Coffee pairs well with the great food and adds to the overall experience.

Offers a modern vibe with up-to-date offerings that suit the clientele. Good for a first date or catching up while people watching.

People are saying

"The breakfast burrito here is top-notch, especially with those crispy potatoes."

"The food here is delicious and nicely done."

"It's a loud, vibrant spot perfect for energetic Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for tips.

12
Hola Adios Coffeeshop image 1

Quirky, stylish decor fills a small space with lively, youthful energy and great music. Many locals gather here, creating a welcoming, chill vibe ideal for remote work with free Wi-Fi and ample seating. The atmosphere balances fun and comfort, making it a hidden gem for breakfast and coffee.

Breakfast options include biscuit sandwiches, breakfast tacos, and Irish tacos. Food pairs well with exceptional coffee and comes with attentive service.

Bacon burrito impresses with its rich flavor. Orange creamsicle latte offers a unique, sweet twist. Two different pacos add variety to the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee options were great and the Spanish lattes excellent."

"I found the food and coffee here to be excellent."

"You have to try the biscuits; they're so tasty."

Good to know

1

Their kitchen closes at 2pm.

2

Parking can sometimes be challenging, but street parking is available.

3

Food might require a wait if itโ€™s busy.

13
Harper Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Open space combines modern industrial design with indoor and outdoor seating creating a laid-back, welcoming vibe. The atmosphere feels family-oriented and casual, with a lively buzz. A bar offers draft beers, complementing the relaxed setting.

Food here stands out for its great quality and consistent flavor. Dishes deliver solid taste without fuss.

Casual atmosphere suits date nights and group hangouts. Offers great food that fits both couples and families.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is amazing and totally worth a try."

"I thought the food here was great and flavorful."

"The ribs here are perfectly smoked and fall right off the bone."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; arrive early or consider street parking options.

3

Prices can be high, with meals for two averaging around $100.

14
Plums Cafe image 1

Casual cafe with modern design and ample outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and vibrant indoors to loud and lively on the patio, making it suitable for social occasions. Crowds are common, so reservations help avoid waits.

Food comes fresh, light, and beautifully presented. Meals offer a unique and delicious taste with consistently excellent quality.

The spot offers a perfect vibe for dates and special occasions. Outdoor seating on the patio suits relaxed afternoons, and staff sometimes provide complimentary champagne to enhance the experience.

People are saying

"The food, especially the Eggs Benedict, was perfect."

"The Dutch Baby at brunch is impressive and full of berries."

"The Huevos Rancheros here are amazing and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

The wait time can be quite long during busy brunch hours.

3

Parking is limited and can be frustrating to find.

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East Side Costa Mesa, Costa Mesa

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