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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Costa Mesa

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57 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Habana - Costa Mesa restaurant
1. Habana - Costa Mesa
4.8
Exceptional(2887)
Price: Expensive
• Cuban • Costa Mesa
Booked 92 times today
Habana in Costa Mesa is definitely worth the drive. As one reviewer puts it, 'This place was awesome. The ambiance was amazing. The food was well made and well proportioned. The drinks are amazing...if you’re looking for a place to have a great date; this is definitely it.' The restaurant's Cuban-inspired menu, fresh Mojitos, and cozy atmosphere have been praised by many. Its consistent high ratings for food, service, and ambiance make it a go-to for many dining enthusiasts.
A photo of The Plot - Costa Mesa restaurant
2. The Plot - Costa Mesa
4.7
Exceptional(115)
Price: Expensive
• Farm-to-table • Costa Mesa
Booked 13 times today
The Plot team is led by Jessica and Davin Waite, who have been at the forefront of San Diego's culinary scene for over a decade. The duo has earned a loyal following for their inventive and sustainable approach to seafood and plant-based dishes, gaining the attention of critics and culinary innovators far and wide as well as accolades including being named San Diego Magazine’s “Best New Restaurant of the Year” in 2020, VegNews’ “San Diego’s Best Vegan Restaurants” in 2022, and Tasting Table’s “20 Best Restaurants in San Diego” in 2023.The Plot in Costa Mesa is located in The Camp, a sustainably focused center that highlights unique local businesses. Parking can be a bit tough at The Camp, depending on the time of your visit. In addition to parking in the main lot, Randolph Ave. is another option. Customers can walk through Camp Out into The Camp. Also, Valet service is available in the main lot. The price is $8. Valet is available Thursday through Sunday.
A photo of Bosscat Kitchen & Libations restaurant
3. Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
4.6
Exceptional(800)
Price: Expensive
• American • Irvine
Booked 41 times today
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations perfectly meshes upscale and casual dining with an expansive whiskey selection and unique offering of American comfort food. It offers high energy, open spaced concepts to promote a lively dining experience. With the rustic industrial aesthetic, brick metal and barrels are prevalent in the space. One of its most coveted attractions is the famous whiskey room, that houses hundreds of whiskies from several countries. From high end whiskies like Pappy Van Winkle, to a shot of Jameson with a Coors Light, there is something here for everyone's taste; and Bosscat prides itself on being this type of environment. Each season new flavors and recipes are brought into the kitchen. The culture and staff are encouraged to foster the fun and unique dining experience they so strongly emulate. Bosscat is open all week for lunch and dinner. Happy hour is available on weekdays, and a fun, boozy brunch menu is available on Saturdays and Sundays.
A photo of AnQi restaurant
4. AnQi
4.5
Awesome(1973)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Costa Mesa
Booked 16 times today
AnQi Gourmet Bistro & Noodle Bar serves a unique twist on California Vietnamese Cuisine, with favorites like Filet Mignon Potstickers and Miso Black Cod, as well as items from their Award-Winning Molecular Menu.
A photo of Maggiano's - South Coast Plaza restaurant
5. Maggiano's - South Coast Plaza
4.6
Exceptional(8115)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 132 times today
Join us for lunch or dinner at Maggiano's South Coast Plaza and savor the rich flavors of Italian-American dishes inspired by Nonna’s traditional recipes. Conveniently located five minutes from the John Wayne Airport, 15 minutes from the beach, and a short walk from premium shopping, our South Coast Plaza location has much to offer. Visit us at 3333 Bristol St. and book your reservation today!
A photo of Warehouse 72 - Irvine restaurant
6. Warehouse 72 - Irvine
4.2
Awesome(104)
Price: Expensive
• American • Irvine
Booked 13 times today
Located in Orange County’s Hyatt Regency Irvine, Warehouse 72 is an elevated, upscale restaurant and bar concept featuring Modern American cuisine with 3-hour validated parking or $9 hotel valet for 4 hours. Now Open, Warehouse 72’s 6,200-square-foot dining space is anchored by a 30-foot 3D digital art installation and features a massive indoor-outdoor bar, expansive patio, lounge areas, and private dining rooms. Inspired by the 68th Angel of Healing, the restaurant was conceptualized to captivate and entertain guests in an environment that invites guests to relax and soak in the scenic beauty of Southern California. Once open, Warehouse 72 is open seven days a week for happy hour, dinner, and late night. Reserve your table today! For more information, visit warehouse72.com.
A photo of SOCIAL - COSTA MESA restaurant
7. SOCIAL - COSTA MESA
4.4
Awesome(126)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Costa Mesa
Booked 15 times today
Discover the exciting transformation at Social Costa Mesa, where we bring a fresh take on our unique dining experience. Indulge in our chef-driven menu Featuring a mix of modern American cuisine with influecnes from various international flavors, showcasing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Savor expertly crafted cocktails, and immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere as we redefine what it means to dine out with innovation.
A photo of Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar restaurant
8. Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar
4.6
Exceptional(1735)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Costa Mesa
Booked 19 times today
Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar combines upscale cuisine with the lively atmosphere of a bar and lounge. Its AAA Three-Diamond rating is a testament to the culinary team's commitment to excellence. Located at the prestigious Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, it is the perfect place to indulge in sophisticated food while enjoying a fun party vibe.Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, Silver Trumpet is the perfect spot to enjoy any day of the week. However, for a truly unforgettable experience, we recommend stopping by during a Segerstrom Center performance or after work to take advantage of our Happy Hour and Late-Night Happy Hour specials, available from Monday to Friday. And if you're in the mood for a night out, our bar stays open until 1:00 am every Friday and Saturday, creating an energetic and lively atmosphere that's perfect for letting looseJoin us for Mother's Day Brunch on Sunday May 11th, 2025 from 10:00am to 2:00pm.
A photo of True Food Kitchen - Newport restaurant
9. True Food Kitchen - Newport
4.4
Awesome(3548)
Price: Moderate
• American • Newport Beach
Booked 58 times today
True Food Kitchen in Newport Beach is the perfect spot for a delicious, healthy meal. Reviews rave about the flavor-forward dishes and the friendly, knowledgeable staff. It's not just about the food; the atmosphere is also commended for its great ambiance. As one reviewer puts it, 'The natural drinks, the incredible creative and wholesome foods, the values of the restaurant really just ooze California cuisine.' So, it's definitely worth the drive for a delightful dining experience.
A photo of Olea Newport Beach restaurant
10. Olea Newport Beach
4.8
Exceptional(2237)
Price: Moderate
• American • Newport Beach
Booked 38 times today
Welcome to Olea, Cellar. Craft. Cook located in Newport Beach. OLEA, named for a genus of trees that flourish in warm and tropical regions throughout the Mediterranean region. Our menu features seasonal ingredients of the highest quality that are prepared daily from scratch. Menu selections include exceptional meats, flavorful seafood, handpicked produce from our garden, and diverse beverage selections. We have over 25 wines by the glass, 10 craft beers, and a full bar featuring a wide variety of craft cocktails. We use the best possible ingredients and techniques to ensure that every drink served is an experience. Only fresh fruit and hand-squeezed citrus juices are used every day. We use premium spirits and pour all of our sodas and mixers from bottles. At Olea we take great pride in the Art of the Cocktail. Cheers!

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Costa Mesa

Discover the culinary gems of North Orange County, particularly in Costa Mesa, where dining options truly make the drive worthwhile. This area offers a rich tapestry of flavors, from fresh seafood sourced locally to authentic Mexican delights and vibrant Cuban dishes. Each restaurant in this selection stands out for its commitment to quality, unique atmosphere, and exceptional service, consistently earning high praise from patrons. The dining scene in Costa Rica is diverse and vibrant, catering to all tastes with its array of high-quality eateries. Whether you're seeking a romantic date night, a family gathering, or just a memorable meal out, these establishments promise an enriching dining experience that goes beyond just food. They are celebrated not only for their culinary excellence but also for the overall dining experience they offer, making each visit distinct and worth the journey.

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