A Culinary Journey: Discovering the Best Restaurants in Costa Mesa, California

 Introduction: Costa Mesa, the Culinary Heart of Orange County

Costa Mesa, often hailed as the “City of the Arts®,” isn’t just about theater, fashion, and design—it’s a gastronomic powerhouse that has put Orange County firmly on the culinary map. Over the past decade, this coastal city has blossomed into a dining destination where Michelin-starred establishments coexist with hole-in-the-wall gems. Its food scene is a tapestry woven from diverse influences: Mexican heritage, Asian flavors, Californian farm-to-table ethos, and international chefs who bring their artistry to Orange County diners.

What makes Costa Mesa CA unique is its balance of refinement and playfulness—you can savor a hand-crafted tasting menu one night, then tuck into steaming bowls of ramen or smoky tacos the next. Food here is an experience, an invitation to taste the city’s creative energy.

Fine Dining Icons

Knife Pleat

At South Coast Plaza, Knife Pleat is a temple of modern French cuisine helmed by Michelin-starred chef Tony Esnault. Expect artful presentations, seasonal tasting menus, and precise technique. The minimalist, elegant dining room lets the food take center stage—delicate seafood, rich sauces, and inventive desserts. For special occasions, this is where Costa Mesa California shines brightest.

Taco María

James Beard Award-winning chef Carlos Salgado redefined Mexican cuisine in the U.S. with Taco María. Here, tradition meets innovation: handmade blue corn tortillas cradle refined, soulful dishes, while multi-course prix-fixe dinners reinterpret regional Mexican flavors at the highest level. A seat at Taco María isn’t just dinner—it’s a cultural experience.

Vaca

Created by Top Chef alum Amar Santana, Vaca celebrates Spanish cuisine with bold, generous energy. From sizzling chorizo to perfectly charred paella, and jamón carved tableside, this lively restaurant feels like a night in Madrid. Pair it with Spanish wines or a craft cocktail, and the experience is complete.

Global Flavors: A World on the Table

Din Tai Fung

This Taiwanese legend has a devoted following, and its Costa Mesa location is one of the busiest. The house specialty—xiao long bao (soup dumplings)—is crafted with surgical precision. Each dumpling bursts with savory broth, demanding both patience and skill to eat properly. Beyond dumplings, the menu is vast, from garlicky green beans to spicy wontons.

Anjin

Hidden in plain sight, Anjin is a beloved Japanese barbecue spot. It’s where locals gather for perfectly marbled cuts of beef grilled tableside. The atmosphere is unfussy, smoky, and buzzing with energy—exactly what makes it one of Costa Mesa’s most authentic dining experiences.

Capital Noodle Bar

For casual comfort, Capital Noodle Bar offers steaming bowls of Cantonese noodles, wok-fried dishes, and dim sum classics. The flavors are bold, the service brisk, and the price point friendly—perfect for a no-frills yet satisfying meal.

Local Favorites & Creative Eateries

The LAB & The CAMP Dining Scene

Costa Mesa’s alternative shopping hubs double as culinary playgrounds. At The LAB Anti-Mall and The CAMP, you’ll find eclectic eateries, from plant-forward kitchens to modern comfort food. These are spots for adventurous palates and Instagram-worthy bites.

• Mesa: A stylish rooftop lounge with craft cocktails, creative small plates, and live DJs.
• Old Vine Kitchen & Bar: Known for its wine pairings and globally inspired dishes.
• Native Foods Café: Vegan comfort food that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

East Borough

Nestled at The CAMP, East Borough reimagines Vietnamese classics with California freshness. Think banh mi with unexpected fillings, fragrant pho, and craft cocktails to match.

Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee

No trip to Costa Mesa is complete without Sidecar Doughnuts. Their doughnuts are pillowy perfection, made fresh throughout the day, with flavors ranging from huckleberry to maple bacon. Pair one with a craft latte, and you’ll understand why locals line up religiously.

Casual & Comfort Food

Playa Mesa Mexican Kitchen

A vibrant, festive spot serving up Baja-inspired Mexican dishes. From birria tacos to fresh ceviche, it’s colorful, lively, and ideal for group dining. The margaritas, naturally, are legendary.

The Crack Shack

Casual, funky, and utterly delicious—The Crack Shack elevates fried chicken to gourmet status. Their sandwiches are massive, the sides addictive, and the vibe unapologetically fun.

Greenleaf Chopshop

For something lighter, Greenleaf specializes in wholesome salads, grain bowls, and smoothies. It’s a refreshing stop if you’re balancing indulgent meals with something nourishing.

Sweet Endings: Desserts Worth the Indulgence

• Hana Re Japanese Dessert → Minimalist, delicate sweets like mochi, matcha cake, and seasonal confections.
• SusieCakes → Nostalgic American classics: frosted cupcakes, buttercream cakes, and gooey cookies.
• Vitaly Caffè → A taste of Italy with house-made gelato, affogato, and espresso to round out a meal.

Dining Experiences: Beyond the Plate

Costa Mesa isn’t just about restaurants—it’s about culinary experiences.

• South Coast Plaza Dining → Not just a shopping mall, but a food lover’s paradise, hosting Michelin-recognized spots, casual cafés, and international cuisine all under one roof.
• Food Festivals → Events like the OC Fair (with its outrageous eats) and seasonal food festivals showcase the city’s playful food culture.
• Coffee Culture → Specialty cafés like Portola Coffee Roasters and Coffee Dose bring third-wave artistry to your morning brew.

Practical Tips for Dining in Costa Mesa

• Reservations: For hotspots like Knife Pleat, Taco María, or Vaca, book well in advance—these are some of the most in-demand tables in Southern California.
• Timing: Weeknights offer a more relaxed experience; weekends can mean long waits, especially at casual favorites.
• Exploration: Don’t limit yourself to fine dining—some of Costa Mesa’s best meals come from small, family-owned eateries.
• Budget: Expect a wide range: from $5 street tacos to $200 tasting menus. Costa Mesa really does have it all.

Conclusion: Why Costa Mesa Is a Food Lover’s Paradise

Costa Mesa’s dining scene is as dynamic and creative as the city itself. It reflects a community that values artistry—on the plate as much as on the stage. Whether you’re indulging in Michelin-starred tasting menus, savoring dumplings at a bustling noodle house, or biting into a warm doughnut fresh from the fryer, Costa Mesa invites you to explore, taste, and fall in love with its flavors.

For travelers, this city isn’t just a stopover—it’s a culinary destination in its own right. So bring your appetite, your curiosity, and maybe an extra notch on your belt. Costa Mesa is ready to feed your senses.

Click here to read about Green Escapes: The Best Parks in Costa Mesa, California.