Top Restaurants in Costa Mesa CA

Costa Mesa California — a vibrant city nestled along the Orange County shoreline — is bursting with culinary gems that blend coastal charm, cultural flair, and fine-dining finesse. Just steps from the Segerstrom Center for the Arts and South Coast Plaza, here are five standout establishments that capture the city's dynamic palate:

Water Grill

Address: 3300 Bristol St, Costa Mesa CA 92626

Phone: (949) 208‑7060 

Why Go? A premier destination for fresh seafood lovers, Water Grill delivers an upscale experience with polished wood interiors and a standout raw bar. Its extensive menu features oysters, King Crab legs, Wild Columbia River salmon, and expertly seared halibut cheeks. The setting—with adjacent event space and proximity to South Coast Plaza—makes it perfect for celebratory dinners or elegant business gatherings .

Habana

Address: 2930 Bristol St #A110, The Lab, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Phone: (714) 556‑0176

Why Go? Step into the warm, tropical charm of pre‑Castro Cuba. Habana enchants with lush patio seating, romantic candlelight, and refreshing mojitos. The menu delivers authentic Cuban dishes—ropa vieja, empanadas, short-rib picadillo—served in a festive, brimming-with-life atmosphere that earned a spot on OpenTable’s Top 100 Open-Air Restaurants .

Seasons 52

Address: 3333 Bristol St Suite 2802, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Phone: (714) 437‑5252

Why Go? For a refined, health-conscious dining experience, Seasons 52 offers a rotating seasonal menu showcasing premium American fare—wood‑grilled filet, Maine lobster tail, grilled artichokes—plus an award-winning wine list. Situated inside South Coast Plaza, it’s ideal for a polished lunch, dinner, or pre-theater evening .

Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar

Address: 3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Phone: (714) 442‑8593

Why Go? Located inside the elegant Avenue of the Arts Hotel, Silver Trumpet marries modern, upscale dining with relaxed lakeside views. Lavish wood décor, fireplace accents, and live music create a refined yet vibrant atmosphere. It's beloved for creative cocktails, craft beer, and standout dishes like lobster bisque and shrimp scampi—ideal for a pre- or post-show outing at Segerstrom .

Butcher’s House Brasserie

Address: 3321 Hyland Ave, Suite D, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Phone: (714) 714‑0662

Why Go? A modern French-inspired steakhouse that celebrates the craft of butchery. Watch as chefs expertly prepare dry-aged cuts in the open kitchen, and admire them displayed in the dry-aging room. The focus is on richly seared steaks, artisanal wine, and local brews—a feast for carnivores in a warm, brasserie-style setting .

Costa Mesa in Context

From refined seafood at Water Grill to the vibrant energy of Habana, the health-forward elegance of Seasons 52, lakeside sophistication at Silver Trumpet, and the hearty celebration of steak at Butcher’s House — Costa Mesa offers a flavor for every mood and moment.

Costa Mesa is more than a destination—it’s an experience. Each of these five establishments not only offers outstanding cuisine, but also reflects the city’s blend of artistry, sophistication, and vibrant culture. Whether you're planning a romantic meal, a celebratory dinner, or a cultural evening out, Costa Mesa has you covered.

Click here to read more about the best parks in Costa Mesa.

driving directions to Top Restaurants in Costa Mesa CA