Costa Mesa food is a culinary journey that tantalizes taste buds and captivates the senses. From diverse cuisines to unique dining experiences, this vibrant city offers a smorgasbord of gastronomic delights.
With its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and fertile farmlands, Costa Mesa boasts an abundance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Chefs showcase their artistry in a myriad of restaurants, from casual eateries to Michelin-starred establishments.
Popular Cuisine Options in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa, a vibrant city in Southern California, boasts a culinary scene that reflects its diverse population and international influences. From classic American fare to authentic ethnic cuisines, the city offers a wide range of dining options to satisfy every palate.
The culinary landscape of Costa Mesa is marked by its eclectic mix of flavors and culinary traditions. Whether you crave hearty comfort food, sophisticated fine dining, or exotic street eats, you’re sure to find it in this culinary melting pot.
American Cuisine
American cuisine, a melting pot of flavors from various cultures, holds a prominent place in Costa Mesa’s culinary landscape. From classic burgers and fries to succulent steaks and seafood, there’s something for every taste bud.
- The Counter: A popular burger joint offering customizable burgers with a wide variety of toppings.
- Yard House: A lively sports bar with an extensive menu featuring American comfort food, seafood, and cocktails.
- Slapfish: A casual seafood restaurant specializing in fresh fish tacos, seafood platters, and chowder.
Must-Visit Restaurants in Costa Mesa: Costa Mesa Food
Costa Mesa, California, is a culinary haven, offering a diverse range of dining options from casual eateries to upscale establishments. Here are some of the must-visit restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds:
Popular and Highly-Rated Restaurants
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taco Maria | Mexican | 1920 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist, known for its exceptional tacos and margaritas. |
| Osteria Mozza | Italian | 300 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 | Upscale Italian restaurant by renowned chef Nancy Silverton, serving classic dishes with a contemporary flair. |
| The Playground | American | 2201 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 | Casual and lively gastropub offering a creative menu of American comfort food and craft beers. |
Hidden Gem Restaurants
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kao Man Gai | Thai | 1629 W 19th St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 | Unassuming Thai restaurant specializing in Hainanese chicken rice, a flavorful and comforting dish. |
| Cucina Enoteca | Italian | 1617 Westcliff Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660 | Cozy and romantic Italian eatery offering a seasonal menu of rustic dishes and an extensive wine list. |
| Memphis | Barbecue | 2234 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 | Authentic barbecue joint serving mouthwatering ribs, brisket, and pulled pork in a casual and friendly atmosphere. |
Unique Dining Experiences in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa offers a range of extraordinary dining experiences that cater to adventurous palates and those seeking a memorable culinary journey. From immersive dining concepts to themed restaurants and exclusive culinary events, there’s something to tantalize every foodie’s taste buds.
One of the most captivating dining experiences in Costa Mesa is the immersive “Dinner in the Dark” at the LAB Anti-Mall. Guests are guided through a pitch-black dining room, where they savor a multi-course meal while relying solely on their senses of taste, smell, and touch.
This unique experience challenges diners to appreciate food in a whole new light.
Themed Restaurants
Costa Mesa is home to several themed restaurants that transport diners to different worlds and eras. The Hobbit Cafe is a whimsical eatery inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy novel, complete with a cozy fireplace and hobbit-sized furniture. For a taste of old Hollywood glamour, guests can dine at the elegant Marilyn Monroe-themed restaurant, Norma’s.
Culinary Events
Throughout the year, Costa Mesa hosts a variety of culinary events that showcase the region’s top chefs and culinary creations. The annual Taco Maria Food and Drink Festival celebrates the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine, while the Newport Beach Wine & Food Festival features a grand tasting of wines, spirits, and gourmet food from around the world.
Local Food Markets and Specialty Stores
Costa Mesa is home to a vibrant culinary scene, with a diverse array of local food markets and specialty stores offering fresh produce, artisanal products, and international ingredients. These markets provide a unique opportunity to connect with local farmers, purveyors, and artisans, while discovering culinary treasures from around the globe.
Farmers’ Markets
Costa Mesa boasts several farmers’ markets, including the popular OC Great Park Farmers’ Market and the Costa Mesa Farmers’ Market. These markets showcase a bounty of fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers, all grown by local farmers. Visitors can also find artisanal breads, pastries, cheeses, and other homemade treats.
Specialty Food Stores
For those seeking unique and specialized ingredients, Costa Mesa offers a range of specialty food stores. The Cheese Shop of Beverly Hills has a vast selection of domestic and international cheeses, while Bristol Farms features a gourmet grocery section with a wide variety of specialty items, including fine wines, craft beers, and imported delicacies.
International Markets
Costa Mesa is home to a diverse population, and this is reflected in the city’s international markets. The Mitsuwa Marketplace offers a wide selection of Japanese groceries, while the Zion Market is a popular destination for Korean ingredients. For those seeking authentic Mexican flavors, the Northgate Gonzalez Market is a must-visit.
Food Festivals and Culinary Events
Costa Mesa is a culinary destination that hosts a variety of food festivals and culinary events throughout the year. These events offer a chance to sample delicious food from local restaurants, meet talented chefs, and learn about the latest food trends.
Here is a calendar of upcoming food festivals and culinary events in Costa Mesa:
1. Costa Mesa Food & Wine Festival
The Costa Mesa Food & Wine Festival is a two-day event that features over 100 restaurants, wineries, and breweries. The festival also includes live music, cooking demonstrations, and a variety of food-related activities.
2. OC Restaurant Week
OC Restaurant Week is a week-long event that offers prix fixe menus at over 100 restaurants in Orange County. The event is a great way to try new restaurants or sample some of your favorites at a discounted price.
3. Taco Maria’s Annual Taco Throwdown
Taco Maria’s Annual Taco Throwdown is a taco-eating competition that features some of the best taqueros in Orange County. The event also includes live music, a beer garden, and a variety of other activities.
4. The Great American Lobster Fest
The Great American Lobster Fest is a seafood festival that features all-you-can-eat lobster, live music, and a variety of other activities. The festival is held at the OC Fair & Event Center.
5. Taste of Newport
Taste of Newport is a food festival that features over 50 restaurants from Newport Beach and the surrounding area. The festival also includes live music, cooking demonstrations, and a variety of other activities.
Culinary Tours and Classes
Embark on a culinary adventure in Costa Mesa with its diverse offerings of culinary tours and cooking classes. These experiences cater to various tastes and skill levels, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local food culture and learn from experienced chefs.
Guided food walks take you on a journey through Costa Mesa’s vibrant dining scene, introducing you to hidden gems and showcasing the city’s culinary diversity. Explore the city’s eclectic neighborhoods, discovering the stories behind local restaurants and tasting authentic dishes along the way.
Hands-On Cooking Workshops
Enhance your culinary skills with hands-on cooking workshops. Join renowned chefs for interactive sessions where you learn to prepare delectable dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. From traditional Italian pasta making to modern molecular gastronomy, these workshops offer a unique opportunity to refine your culinary techniques and impress your friends with your newfound cooking prowess.
Farm-to-Table Tours
Experience the journey from farm to table on a farm-to-table tour. Visit local farms and meet the farmers who cultivate the ingredients that grace Costa Mesa’s restaurants. Learn about sustainable farming practices, the importance of local sourcing, and the seasonality of ingredients.
Enjoy a farm-fresh meal prepared with ingredients harvested right before your eyes.
Food Photography Opportunities
Costa Mesa is a haven for food lovers and photographers alike. With its diverse culinary scene and vibrant atmosphere, there are endless opportunities to capture visually stunning food photography.
The key to capturing great food photography is to pay attention to lighting, composition, and backdrop. Natural light is always best, so try to shoot outdoors or near a window. When using artificial light, make sure it’s diffused so that it doesn’t create harsh shadows.
Composition, Costa mesa food
When composing your shot, consider the rule of thirds. This rule states that the most visually appealing compositions are created when the main subject is placed along one of the thirds lines or at one of the four intersections of the lines.
Backdrop
The backdrop of your food photography can make or break the shot. A simple, clean backdrop will help to focus attention on the food. A more elaborate backdrop can add interest and depth to the image.
Some of the best locations for food photography in Costa Mesa include:
- The Lab: This modern American restaurant has a bright and airy dining room with large windows that provide plenty of natural light.
- Taco Maria: This award-winning Mexican restaurant is known for its colorful and creative dishes, which make for great food photography subjects.
- Playground: This popular brunch spot has a whimsical and eclectic atmosphere, which is perfect for capturing fun and creative food photos.
FAQ Resource
What are some popular cuisines in Costa Mesa?
Costa Mesa offers a diverse range of cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, Vietnamese, Japanese, and American.
Can you recommend any must-visit restaurants in Costa Mesa?
Highly recommended restaurants include Taco María, The Playground, and ARC Restaurant.
Are there any unique dining experiences in Costa Mesa?
Yes, Costa Mesa offers unique dining experiences such as immersive dining concepts at The Lab and Knife Pleat.
