Travel Costa Mesa Blog
Costa Mesa’s Best Food, Shopping, and Experiences in 2024
Meet your next Eatcation®, Shopcation, or Vibecation.
We’re thrilled to share our end-of-year guide to the best Costa Mesa has to offer. From mouthwatering meals to one-of-a-kind shopping and unforgettable experiences, we’re celebrating the highlights from each of Costa Mesa’s diverse neighborhoods.
How did we choose the best? We tapped into staff and community favorites, kept our finger on the pulse of everything new, and thrilled with every viral video. The result is a curated list of what captured the heart and soul of Costa Mesa in 2024.
We couldn’t include every stop we loved, so we recommend you use this to kick off your ‘cation and discover—or rediscover—everything that makes Costa Mesa an unexpected favorite. Let’s dive in and celebrate the best of this year!
This summer, Mercado González featured a Lucha Libre pop-up experience, celebrating the beloved Mexican sport. Look for more pop-ups in 2025!
Central Costa Mesa
Eat: Prince St. Pizza
What makes it special: Coming in hot from New York City to Orange County, Prince Street Pizza burst onto the Costa Mesa food scene this year and hasn’t slowed down. Lines were out the door to try the authentic NYC pizza served in Sicilian-style squares and slices. Prince Street Pizza is serious about their pies, even using a special water filtration system to match the pH of NYC, so that the dough comes out just right, every time.
Shop: Mercado Gonzalez
What makes it special: Mercado González is the first concept of its kind from the multi-generational González family, responsible for the 60+ Northgate Markets across SoCal, and Costa Mesa is the only place in the world you can experience it. This wonderland of Mexican food, drink, and culture features churros, tortillas, mole, agua fresca, and so much more—all created right in front of you.
Experience: Westwood Coast
What makes it special: Do you have what it takes to be a rodeo star? Hop on the mechanical bull and find out at Triangle Square’s newest destination, Westwood Coast. If you prefer to put on your boots and boogie instead of ride, Westwood has line dancing and live music that is sure to get your toes tapping and your heels clapping.
Not ready to let the night end? Party Vegas-style at Time Nightclub or do as the locals do and try out Goat Hill Tavern where the beer is plentiful, and the vibes are always juuuust right.
Costa Mesa-based Lxryoga combines mindful fitness with snakes in small, group classes
Eastside Costa Mesa
Eat: Plums Café
What makes it special: Breakfast at Plums Cafe comes with a sweet twist: their Instagram famous two-pound cinnamon roll! Fluffy, gooey, and dripping in icing, this giant pastry is big enough to share—but if you’re feeling bold, you can take the 20-minute challenge to finish it solo and win a t-shirt that says,“Cinnamon challenges at Plums – I ate the whole thing.”
Looking for more tasty eats in the area? Tres Muchachos is serving up a delicious mashup of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine.
Shop: Covry
What makes it special: Inclusive, fun, and stylish – that’s Covry. This women-owned, Asian-owned brand specializes in eyewear designed for diverse face shapes so you’ll never have to worry about glasses slipping or digging into your cheeks again! Swing by their flagship location, where they host a monthly nature and meditation walk to help you unplug and reset.
Experience: Snake Yoga
What makes it special: Only in Costa Mesa! What started as a passion project quickly became a viral sensation this year at LXRYOGA. As seen in People Magazine, this snake yoga experience pairs you with friendly, non-venomous ball pythons for a unique class that’s both calming and exciting. In small-group sessions, yogis first learn how to hold the snakes, then are paired with their own snake for the duration of the class. It’s the perfect way to conquer your fears—or just add a unique twist to your yoga routine.
Birds of a feather flock together at the cozy, cocktail-forward Birdcage Lounge
Westside Costa Mesa
Eat: Nudae Coffee
What makes it special: Nudae Coffee celebrated their first anniversary in 2024, and we know they’ll have many more to come. Nudae pairs their coffee with a cozy, colorful, and creative space that locals love. Their sandwiches are made fresh, and we love their seasonal drink creations. Kids and non-coffee drinkers won’t feel left out of their menu.
Shop: Amis de la Terre Zero-Waste Market
What makes it special: Amis de la Terre means friends of the earth in French, and as soon as you step in their Westside market, you become part of their community. This organic, plastic-free grocery store was created by a SoCal-local with a Master’s degree in Oceanography at the Sorbonne in France. Gluten free, keto, vegan, heirloom, and fair-trade—no matter what your grocery shopping looks like, Amis de la Terre has it.
While you’re there, stop by Fill Up Buttercup, just a few doors down from Amis de la Terre. Fill Up Buttercup is a zero-waste refill shop with thoughtful, non-toxic bath, body, and household products.
Experience: Birdcage Lounge
What makes it special: Not only is Birdcage Lounge guaranteed to give you your best Instagram pic of the night, you’re also likely to meet your new best friends. An intimate, LGBT+ space within Costa Mesa’s Strut Bar & Club, Birdcage Lounge is as beautiful as it is welcoming. Try one of their signature flocktails or attend one of their many themed nights.
We would be remiss not to mention The Wayfarer, Costa Mesa’s live music venue and gastropub, that celebrated their ten-year anniversary this year. Every style of music has a home at The Wayfarer, and everyone is welcome. Drop by and you might discover your next favorite band.
Yubuya specializes in inari sushi, replacing the nori with sweet tofu
Mesa Verde
Eat: Yubuya
What makes it special: All the likes, meet the hype! Yubuya, a father-daughter-owned hidden gem, is where Korean and Japanese flavors come together in perfect harmony. If you like sushi, you will definitely love yubuchobap, delicious crispy rice pockets packed with unbelievable flavor. Their soy-marinated and creamy onion salmon yubu are a crowd favorite but if you’re looking for something with a kick, try their spicy yellow tail yubu.
Shop: SOCO and The OC Mix
What makes it special: SOCO and The OC Mix is a top SoCal design destination where designers, decorators, trend setters, and creative minds come to get inspired. From flooring that’ll make your home pop to the perfect light fixture that brings it all together, you are sure to find it here. With over 70 handpicked shops to choose from including Bang & Olufsen, Coco Republic, BoConcept, Design Within Reach, and Modani Furniture, it’s no surprise people travel from all over to discover statement-making pieces.
When hunger strikes, fuel up with delicious oven-to-table eats at Michelin-rated Arc Food & Liberations.
Experience: Inspired Art Wine
What makes it special: Inspired Art Wine takes paint and sip to whole new level! Did you know it is the only art studio wine bar in the US certified to teach Bob Ross-techniques? That’s right—come channel your inner Ross, paint some happy little trees, and sip on Napa Valley’s finest art-inspired wines. The pet portrait classes are a must-try: using a reference photo, they hand-sketch every detail of your pet onto a canvas and then help you paint stunning portraits of your fur (or feathered) friends. Whether it’s a dog, cat, pig, parrot, turtle, or horse, they’ve captured it all—with over 2,500 pet portraits and counting they are masters at capturing your pet’s unique personality.
Swarovski is one of the many luxury boutiques that has recently opened at South Coast Plaza
South Coast Metro
Food: Ramen Row
What makes it special: No Eatcation®is truly complete without a slurp-worthy stop at Costa Mesa’s famous Ramen Row! This noodle nirvana is where locals—and now lucky visitors—find bowls of soul-soothing broth brimming with umami-packed flavor. Don’t miss local favorites like Mogu Mogu, Slurpin’ Ramen Bar, Hakata Ikkousha Ramen, and Kashiwa Ramen. Trust us, one slurp, and you’ll understand why this is the ultimate comfort food row!
Shop: South Coast Plaza
What makes it special: In the shopping Olympics, South Coast Plaza takes gold. It has the highest concentration of luxury brands in the United States, and this year brought the addition of new boutiques for Zegna, Maison Margiela, Palm Angels, Marni, and so many more. It’s the exclusive West Coast location for designers like Alexander Wang, Chopard, and Missoni. In 2025, keep an eye out for Dior Parfums, Delvaux, and Acne.
While South Coast Plaza wins our “shop” category, the food also deserves a mention. You have to taste it to believe it. We’ll leave this right here… Yu Cake.
Experience: Orange Coast College Planetarium
What makes it special: The Planetarium is your all-access pass to the stars—and beyond! This spiral galaxy-shaped dome is where you can embark on a journey through space with 360° projections, immersive audio-visual magic, and stunning 3D animations. But that’s not all! Music lovers, get ready for LAZERDOME. Let dazzling laser lights ignite your senses as you rock out to epic anthems from Taylor Swift, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, and Pink Floyd. Prefer a more tranquil escape? Enter Mesmerica—an awe-inspiring journey through imaginary landscapes designed to relax your mind and stimulate your senses.
Due to a generous donation, admission to OCMA (Orange County Museum of Art) is free to all guests for ten years
Theater and Arts District
Food: Vaca
What makes it special: Led by Executive Chef Amar Santana, Vaca brings the best of Spain to Orange County. Already known as a two-time contestant on Bravo’s Top Chef, Santana was named to 2024 Latino Leaders by TIME. Santana was one of only seventeen individuals recognized, alongside George Lopez and Aubrey Plaza. Vaca is a community favorite and Michelin-rated, best known for its paella and vast selection of meat cuts.
Shop: OCMA’s Shop
What makes it special: Orange County Museum of Art featured eleven exhibits this year, from Yves Saint Laurent: Line and Expression, which received accolades from W Magazine and Los Angeles Times, to Martin Creed’s Work No. 3868 Half the air in a given space, which was an instant viral hit.
OCMA’s Shop followed suit with a well-curated rotation of artsy knick-knacks from small businesses, local Orange County creators, and organizations giving back to the community. Some of the pop-up shops featured include: People’s Pottery Project, supporting formerly incarcerated women, trans, and non-binary individuals through their collaborative studio; and Funday Collective, a husband-and-wife duo blending creativity, realism, vintage, and most importantly, fun.
Experience: Docent Tour at Segerstrom Center for the Arts
What makes it special: The magic of experiencing the performing arts is created in two ways: the preparation behind the scenes, and the performance on stage. SCFTA’s docent-led tour lets you step behind the curtain (literally!) and take a deep dive into everything that happens backstage. Learn the history of the Segerstrom family and their impact on Costa Mesa and the entire Orange County region, while walking through rehearsal spaces and VIP rooms like you’re a part of the cast.
The Mellowist connects art and nature with people, both artists and collectors alike, resulting in a thriving community
Sobeca District
Food: The Plot
What makes it special: Sustainable, zero-waste, and proudly plant-based: that’s The Plot, new to Costa Mesa this year. With a successful San Diego-based dining concepts already under their belt, Davin and Jessica Waite chose the conscious living campus, The Camp, for their next endeavor. Their produce is sourced as locally as possible, with no single-use plastic. Having a meal at The Plot is an invitation to taste and think about vegetables, sustainability, and the impact of our choices in a new way.
For other vegan-friendly options, stop by Blackmarket Bakery, also at The Camp, for freshly baked bread and pastries.
Shop: Mellowist
What makes it special: As seen in our summer “We’ve Got Good Taste” video, Mellowist is a locally-owned and operated gem located on Randolph Street, where you’ll find an exquisite collection of rare cacti and handmade pottery. This mini oasis offers a unique shopping experience, perfect for both plant enthusiasts and those looking for unique one-of-a-kind gifts.
While you’re there, make a pit stop at Period Correct for automotive-inspired streetwear, and swing by Quiet Golf for modern golf gear and accessories.
Experience: Booth by Bryant
What makes it special: You’ll find the coolest travel keepsake at Booth By Bryant! These celeb-approved, TikTok viral vintage photo booths snap iconic black-and-white photo strips for just $5. It’s a throwback moment with a modern twist and a timeless way to capture your Costa Mesa memories.
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Posted in Events, Food, Locals, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
The Best Liquor Stores in Costa Mesa to Pick Up Your Holiday Booze
Cozy cocktails, cold beers, or crisp wines—there is no wrong choice for a holiday celebration. Instead of grabbing the same old ingredients from the same old stores, try one of these local Costa Mesa liquor stores. These small businesses each offer a unique selection of drinks and cocktail essentials that’ll make your holiday celebrations cheers-worthy!
Here’s the Top 5 Liquor Stores in Costa Mesa to Toast the Season
Image via Hi-Time Wine Cellars
Hi-Time Wine Cellars
Address: 250 Ogle St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Voted one of the top 10 wine shops in the US, Hi-Time Wine Cellars stocks everything. From domestic brews to exotic whiskeys and exquisitely rare wines, their broad selection has something to match the vibe of any holiday celebration. After over six decades of business, this family-run shop knows a thing or two about fueling Costa Mesa holiday celebrations.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Top-tier underground temperature-controlled wine cellar
- Walk-in beer refrigerator with 1,200+ varieties of beer
- Classic-style wine bar to sample featured vintages before buying
Image via Mixing Glass and Market
Mixing Glass and Market
Address: 1500 Adams Ave, 104A, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Pick up cocktail ingredients, gift basket supplies, and quirky items for last-minute gifts all in one place. Better yet, stop by for a holiday cocktail class so you can put those ingredients to use and impress your friends and family. Their carefully curated selection ensures that you and your guests’ taste buds will appreciate whatever you pick up for the holidays.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Everything you need to stock a home bar and mix memory-making cocktails
- Specialty gourmet pantry items that will brighten any celebration
Ranch Spirits
Address: 2651 Irvine Avenue, Suite 1, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Ranch Spirits balances a unique small business vibe with a big-time selection of beverages. As another family-owned business, they have made a name for themselves in the Back Bay with a quality stock of products. They’re constantly pouring up tastings of new arrivals, so there’s always something new to experience.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Classy interior with a curated selection of beverages
- Family-run, pet-friendly space with a laid-back atmosphere
- Easily swing by Irvine Ranch Market next door for last-minute charcuterie goods or a quick side for a potluck.
Image via Hi-Lo Liquor
Hi-Lo Liquor Market
Address: 2981 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
The trendiest liquor market in the trendiest part of Costa Mesa, Hi-Lo has set out to make shopping for drinks a social experience again. With weekly tastings, regular events, and an eclectic selection, they make a visit a chance to broaden your beverage horizons. Their shelves have recognizable brands, but they also always stock something new that can make a holiday celebration worth remembering.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- 1-hour delivery with no order minimum for all of Costa Mesa
- Off-grid and hard-to-find beers, wines, and spirits
- Located in The CAMP, a perfect spot for snagging last-minute gifts that are as thoughtful as they are eco-friendly!
Minute King Liquor
Address: 2052 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92647
The classic liquor store experience at Minute King cannot be beaten. Stock up for your holiday celebration with ice-cold options from the beer cave with a surprisingly deep selection of craft brews, or find staple brands and party snacks in their neatly organized interior.
Why it’s worth stopping by:
- Broad selection and morning-to-midnight hours of operation make it perfect for grabbing last-minute essentials
- Within easy walking distance for anyone staying at Hampton by Hilton Costa Mesa Newport Beach
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Costa Mesa: An Easy Weekend Getaway From the Inland Empire
Need some end-of-year travel inspiration? It’s time for a reset and Costa Mesa is here to deliver. It’s just a quick drive away from the IE which means no long flights and no overcomplicated itineraries. This Orange County hidden gem is easy to get to but far enough to switch things up!
Retail Therapy
Holiday shopping at South Coast Plaza will have you knocking out that gift list (or treating yourself—we don’t judge). This shopping paradise is packed with hundreds of luxury shops and your go-to brands. Where else can you strut through a two-story Gucci store and then do the same at a two-story Balenciaga?
For a shopping adventure that’s a bit more eclectic and artsy, head over to The Lab! Explore one-of-a-kind shops like Plant Matter, May Martin, and 1978—all creatively housed in retro Airstreams. And for a cool keepsake, walk across the street to The CAMP and take some pictures at Booth. This viral, celeb-loved vintage photo booth gives you an iconic black-and-white photo strip for just $5!
Deliciously Instagrammable
Photo by Calo Kitchen + Tequila
Love food? The foodie scene here is chef’s kiss with eateries that are basically begging for a photo op! Here’s a list of the most aesthetic and tasty spots in Costa Mesa:
- The Plot – Best known for their Beet Reuben sandwich
- Ahba – Best known for their double smashed wagyu Ahba Burger
- Calo Kitchen + Tequila – Best known for their Short Rib Enchiladas
- Maizano – Best known for their grilled octopus Encacahuatado
But really, the list could go on forever! Click here to start planning your Eatcation® adventure and discover even more of our top recommendations.
Relax, Relax, Relax
Photo by Costa Mesa Ceramics
For some well-deserved “me time,” Costa Mesa perfectly blends relaxation with one-of-a-kind experiences, creating the ultimate self-care getaway. Start by giving your skin some much-needed love with a custom facial at Facial Lounge. Next, take your zen to the next level with snake yoga at LXRYOGA—yes, snakes! It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adrenaline, with ball pythons. Want to round out your wellness escape with a little creativity? Pop over to Costa Mesa Ceramics and roll up your sleeves—there’s something incredibly calming about crafting your own pottery masterpiece.
Sips and Shenanigans
Photo by Pie Society
Let’s be real: no staycation is complete without a few fabulous drinks! Check out Ruin Bar, a hidden gem that feels like your hip friend’s secret speakeasy. For an aura of mystery enjoy a round of creatively crafted cocktails at P10neer hidden inside Dick Church’s restaurant.
For a quirky twist, swing by Pie Society, where pizza meets prohibition, and your cravings for carbs and cocktails are both satisfied. And if you’re in the mood for a cozy vibe, Oak & Coal has your back with some killer sake and mouthwatering yakitori.
But wait, there’s more! If a round of drinks leaves you itching to hit the dance floor, Costa Mesa has plenty of spots where you can bust a move. Check out these top places to dance.
Recharge and Repeat
After a day of shopping, dining, and unwinding, why not treat yourself to a comfy stay in one of Costa Mesa’s hotels? Booking a hotel not only means you won’t have to worry about the drive home (hello, no designated driver drama), but it also gives you a cozy spot to recharge for another day of adventure. So go ahead, treat yourself—you’ve earned it!
Heading here during the fall? Be sure to check out our blog for all things fun and fall in Costa Mesa!
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Posted in Food, Hotels, Locals, Misc, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
The Ultimate Summer Destination for SoCal Travelers
If you’re looking for the ultimate location to plan a Southern California vacation, then Costa Mesa is the place to be! It’s the perfect home base if you want to explore Disneyland, Hollywood, and beyond. Experience our incredible dining options, shopping destinations, and exciting summer events —all in one trip.
The Perfect Location
Costa Mesa is located right in the middle of Southern California, which makes it super easy to hit up all your summer bucket list destinations.
Plus, if you’re all about spending as much time as you can at the beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Huntington Beach are all just a short drive away and we have plenty of beach-close hotels to choose from.
Foodie Paradise
Costa Mesa is the most flavorful destination in Southern California! With the only 2 Michelin Starred restaurants in Orange County plus 6 Michelin Recognized spots, it’s truly the perfect city to take an Eatcation®. Whether you’re craving artisan coffee, gourmet burgers, or exotic eats, our city has it all. Dive into our insane variety of restaurants and discover new flavors!
Boutique Bliss
Did you know the largest shopping center on the West Coast is located in Costa Mesa?
Experience designer shopping at South Coast Plaza where you can explore over 200 boutiques including a massive two-story Gucci store and the largest Balenciaga boutique in the Americas. But, if you are more into local finds, Costa Mesa has plenty of unique boutiques. Some of our favorites can be found at The LAB and The CAMP.
After Dark Adventures
The fun never ends in Costa Mesa. The nightlife here is lit with cool bars, craft breweries, and plenty of locations to enjoy live music. Whether you’re into dancing, enjoying craft cocktails, or catching a live band, Costa Mesa has you covered. We recommend visiting Mercado Gonzalez, a massive Mexican food hall offering a full cocktail bar and live mariachi music, or newly opened, Westwood Coast for country vibes and line dancing.
Events and Concerts
If you’re in town for the summer then you have to hit up the OC Fair which runs from July 19 – August 18th! It’s one of the top ten largest fairs in the U.S. and has no shortage of rides, carnival games, animals, arts and crafts, beer, food, and live music. Bonus tip: attend a concert at Pacific Amphitheater and get free fair admission. This year’s lineup includes UB40, Stray Cats, Big Time Rush and so many more, check out the full list.
Arts and Culture
Explore the artsy side of Costa Mesa at Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA). Don’t miss the chance to walk through their new Yves Saint Laurent: Line and Expression exhibit. For the first time in the United States, you can explore the designer’s groundbreaking work from the 1960s until 2002, his last show. Admission is FREE!
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is another great choice if you are looking to catch a Broadway show like Clue and Peter Pan. This summer, they’re also hosting free events like outdoor movies and dance classes—perfect for making the most of your summer nights!
Get Ready for an Unforgettable Summer
So what are you waiting for? Drop this blog in the group chat, book your hotel stay, and get ready to experience the best SoCal vacation you’ve ever had. We can’t wait to see you here!
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Posted in Events, Food, Hotels, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel
February Feed: Costa Mesa’s Trending News & Reads
Costa Mesa has been gaining attention in the media lately as the cultural epicenter of Orange County. From our Kobe Bryant murals to fun Leap Year activities and Lunar New Year celebrations throughout the city, there’s clearly so many reasons everyone is flocking to Costa Mesa! Check out four stories of Costa Mesa featured in the press.
1. Kobe Bryant Murals Featured on ESPN
The legacy of Kobe Bryant lives on in Costa Mesa. ESPN recently recognized the Kobe Bryant mural created by Andaluz outside Social Costa Mesa as one of over 600 murals worldwide honoring his memory and the lives of those lost in the accident.
2. Leap Year Itineraries Curated by Locale
Local Magazine curated five unique itineraries showcasing Costa Mesa’s best offerings and hotel accommodations in “5 Unique Ways to Spend Your Extra Leap Year Day in Costa Mesa,” a handy guide for planning February 29th, or any free day on your calendar!
3. South Coast Plaza Year of the Dragon Celebration Highlighted in Business Wire
Business Wire highlighted South Coast Plaza for hosting the largest Lunar New Year celebration on the West Coast. The 19-day celebration features colorful performances, exclusive products, traditional cuisine, and captivating installations that bring the community together in celebration.
4. LA Times Showcases Costa Mesa as a Cultural Haven
The Los Angeles Times article, “Unveiling Costa Mesa: A Haven for Culture, Cuisine, and Community,” captures the essence of the city, emphasizing its diverse culinary scene, rich cultural experiences, and a strong sense of community that is weaved together through it’s seven diverse neighborhoods.
These recent features and publications underscore Costa Mesa’s rising prominence as the cultural hub of Orange County. So, when planning your Southern California getaway, be sure to make a visit to Costa Mesa to experience everything we have to offer!
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Posted in Events, Misc, Music & Art, News, Shopping
