Best Places to Eat in Costa Mesa: Local Flavor & Favorites

How to Plan a Perfect Costa Mesa Dining Day

Two anchors shape Costa Mesa dining: South Coast Plaza (home to Knife Pleat, Water Grill, and Din Tai Fung) and the Segerstrom Center for the Arts across the street. A short drive away, 17th Street delivers lively, casual excellence (hello, Playa Mesa), while The LAB Anti-Mall brings candlelit courtyard vibes at Habana. If you’re house-hunting, it’s helpful to know that many favorite neighborhoods sit within a 5–12 minute drive of these hubs—useful when you want a quick pre-show dinner or a patio for celebrations.

As a quick rule of thumb:

• Pre-show near Segerstrom: Vaca (walkable), Knife Pleat (refined)
• Group celebration: Habana (at The LAB), Water Grill (classic)
• Chef’s counter experience: Hana re
• Family favorite: Din Tai Fung

Want to be close to these restaurants? Start with our neighborhood overview: Costa Mesa neighborhoods guide →

1) Knife Pleat — Modern French at South Coast Plaza

A refined, MICHELIN-starred experience from Chef Tony Esnault with seasonal, contemporary French dishes and impeccable service inside South Coast Plaza.

What to order: Seasonal tasting menu; save room for the signature chocolate dessert.

Knife Pleat on the MICHELIN Guide

2) Hana re — 10-Seat Omakase Sanctuary

An intimate, reservations-only omakase counter from Chef Atsushi Yokoyama, tucked away off Bristol Street. Expect pristine nigiri and seasonal small plates.

What to order: Omakase progression; chawanmushi when offered.

Hana re on the MICHELIN Guide

3) Vaca — Spanish Tapas by Chef Amar Santana

Energetic tapas bar steps from Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Jamón Ibérico, paella, and craft cocktails headline a lively dining room and patio.

What to order: Bikini sandwich with Jamón Ibérico and Manchego; croquetas; seafood paella.

Vaca on the MICHELIN Guide

4) Din Tai Fung — Iconic Soup Dumplings

World-famous Taiwanese xiao long bao inside South Coast Plaza. Efficient service, open kitchen, and the cucumber salad everyone talks about.

What to order: Pork xiao long bao; spicy wontons; string beans with garlic.

Din Tai Fung overview & tips

5) Water Grill — Seasonal Seafood

Polished seafood house at South Coast Plaza known for a deep raw bar, seasonal whole fish, and a classic dining room perfect for business dinners or date night.

What to order: Oysters, whole branzino (when available), New England clam chowder.

Water Grill diner impressions

6) Playa Mesa — Coastal Mexican on 17th Street

Bright, modern room with a deep tequila/mezcal list and a menu from Chef Rolando Rubalcava that riffs on regional Mexican flavors.

What to order: Al pastor pork chop; ceviche; Sunday mariachi brunch.

Playa Mesa critic review

7) Habana — Old-Havana Vibes at The LAB

Lush patio, flickering candles, and a menu of Cuban and pan-Latin favorites. Great for celebrations and mojitos with friends.

What to order: Ropa vieja; lechón asado; Cuban sandwich at lunch; mojito flight.

Habana (The LAB) official page

When to Go, Parking, and Reservations

Reservations: Book prime-time tables Thursday–Saturday and on Segerstrom performance nights. Knife Pleat and Hana re often require advance planning; Vaca and Water Grill are usually manageable early evening if you’re flexible.

Parking: South Coast Plaza offers multiple garages and valet (validate where available). The LAB has a surface lot that fills on weekends—arrive early. 17th Street restaurants have mixed street and lot parking; factor a few extra minutes.

Dress code: Smart casual works nearly everywhere. Knife Pleat leans dressy; a jacket or a polished dress is never out of place for special occasions.

With kids: Din Tai Fung is a family staple; Water Grill’s booths are comfortable; Playa Mesa is lively and forgiving for groups.

Dietary Preferences & Special Requests

Most restaurants here are comfortable with gluten-free, vegetarian, and dairy-aware modifications when asked in advance. Din Tai Fung labels favorites but confirm cross-contact if you’re sensitive. Knife Pleat and Water Grill tailor menus when you note restrictions with your reservation.

Love being near world-class dining and shopping? Explore neighborhoods close to South Coast Plaza and Segerstrom in our Costa Mesa neighborhoods guide, and don’t miss our companion piece, Best Shopping in Laguna Beach. When you’re ready to tour, browse the latest Costa Mesa homes for sale and save your favorites.

Costa Mesa Dining FAQs

• Best pre-show dinner by Segerstrom? Vaca for a lively tapas hour or Knife Pleat for a refined tasting menu. Book early on performance nights.
• Kid-friendly pick at South Coast Plaza? Din Tai Fung is a hit for families—watch dumplings made behind glass.
• Great patio for celebrations? Habana at The LAB has a candlelit courtyard and festive vibe.
• Where to park? South Coast Plaza has multiple garages and valet; The LAB offers a surface lot (arrive early on weekends).
• Quick seafood stop? Water Grill for oysters and a classic raw bar, especially at off-peak hours.

Natalie Boyle
REALTOR®, Founder of Verso Homes (DRE #01329012)
Helping South OC buyers and sellers find the perfect neighborhood—great restaurants included.
Learn more about Natalie →