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New Yorkers 1st Choice
East Side Costa Mesa's best

Lunch spots

A lunch spot that serves a substantial meal instead of just a glorified snack.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
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01
Izmir | Aegean Cuisine image 1
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Open kitchen design reveals chefs preparing authentic Aegean cuisine with visible care. Warm, cozy atmosphere combines with live music to create an inviting and peaceful dining experience. Regulars appreciate family-style hospitality and dishes that evoke traditional Turkish flavors.

Authentic home-style Turkish food shines with rich, tasty flavors from the Aegean coast. The cook prepares delicious Mediterranean dishes that invite repeat visits for both lunch and dinner.

Lunch offers flavorful dishes like the kefta plate and fire roasted eggplant that satisfy well without needing more.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and seasoned perfectly."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is out of this world, with fresh, quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

Parking nearby is available, but it can be challenging during peak hours.

2

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

3

The menu features a variety of authentic Turkish dishes at reasonable prices.

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Small pie shop with counter seating by the window and metal pans and utensils creates a cozy, casual setting. Bright sunlight fills the space, contributing to a lively atmosphere that feels full and enjoyable. Known for next-level pot pies and a relaxed vibe, it attracts those seeking classic and unique savory flavors.

Amazing food creates a relaxed atmosphere paired with great service. The crew and vibe add to an overall amazing food experience.

Beef pot pie stands out as a hearty lunch choice. Friendly service from Tanya adds a personal touch to the meal.

People are saying

"These pot pies are next-level and hit different."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken pot pie has a flaky, buttery crust."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, especially on weekends due to nearby attractions.

2

The shop is open later than other pie spots in the area.

3

Coffee service ends an hour before closing time.

03
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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.

Offers consistent quality for both lunch and dinner. Serves well for company lunches over several years.

People are saying

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

"I thought the egg rolls were the best part of this Lunch Spot."

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.

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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.

Food comes fresh and flavorful with perfect preparation. Service matches the quality, making meals under $20 stand out.

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.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and flavorful."

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

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.

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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.

Comfort food menu offers a satisfying variety with generous portions. Owners act as chef and server, ensuring excellent service and a focus on the customer experience.

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.

People are saying

"I thought the food was phenomenal and awesome."

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

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.

06
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Italian restaurant combines cozy rustic decor with an authentic East Coast deli vibe and an adjacent fresh pasta market and bakery. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with soft lighting and aromas of baked bread and simmering sauces. Small, intimate setting suits quiet dinners and casual gatherings.

Food features homemade quality with fresh daily preparation in the deli and bakery. The market offers authentic Italian items like fresh pasta, meats, cheeses, and wine, paired thoughtfully by helpful servers.

Portions come generous enough for leftovers. Staff handle large groups smoothly and adjust for unexpected guests. Food works well for catered lunches at offices.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and clearly homemade."

"This Lunch Spot's food was absolutely delicious and high quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating, especially during dinner hours.

2

The market offers a wide variety of fresh pasta, meats, cheeses, and Italian specialties.

3

Expect generous portion sizes; one lasagna can easily serve two people.

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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.

Quick service stands out even when the place is packed. The Hawaiian plate lunch features a great katsu plate, served in a setting with limited seating similar to school lunch tables.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot feels like Hawaii with authentic food."

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.

08
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Small gourmet grocery store offers a clean, well-laid-out space with a local vibe and wide variety of high-quality products. Atmosphere feels friendly and convenient, attracting those seeking unique snacks and ingredients for special meals. Prices run higher than typical chain stores, reflecting the focus on top-quality goods.

Foods and snacks include items not found at typical markets. Prepared foods feature a hot bar, salad bar, and sandwiches. Freshness and good quality stand out, though prices are higher. Staff in food and bakery sections smile often.

Offers great sandwiches and local snacks ideal for a quick lunch or a beach break. Regularly serves high-quality ingredients suitable for both casual and special meals.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and high-quality."

"This lunch spot has super fresh produce and amazing sandwiches."

Good to know

1

Marbella Market closes at 7:30 PM.

2

If you are in the store after 7:30 PM, they will start turning lights off on you.

3

The prices at this market were about 20% higher than Ralph's.

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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.

Food comes fresh and delicious with a focus on great breakfast sandwiches and fresh coffee. The setting encourages peaceful conversation while enjoying awesome meals.

Outdoor space suits breakfast and lunch well. The spot serves solid options for morning and midday meals with a strong coffee selection.

People are saying

"The food here is really delicious."

"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.

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East Side Costa Mesa, Costa Mesa

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