Posts Tagged ‘Healthy Eating’

Travel is good for the soul, and so is eating well. Eating clean and healthy doesn’t have to be boring, and in Costa Mesa, it isn’t. Our food scene is full of fresh ingredients, feel-good flavors, and menus with exciting seasonal options. Forget the idea that sticking to your New Year’s resolutions means staying home with a sad bowl of something beige. Get out there and dig into bold flavors, creative combinations, and guilt-free choices at our top spots for eating well in Costa Mesa in 2026. 

Where to Eat Well in the New Year in Costa Mesa

Seabirds

– photo by Seabirds

Located at The LAB Anti-Mall, Seabirds has been leveling up the vegan food scene year after year. What started as a food truck has bloomed into their Costa Mesa flagship that has stood the test of time, a tried-and-true favorite for locals and visitors alike. Famous for their Purple Taquitos and creamy, dreamy vegan cashew gruyere Grilled Cheese, this spot is a must for anyone craving bold, scratch-made, unprocessed eats. Every bite is packed with flavor—and zero guilt.

Fermentation Farm

– photo by Fermentation Farm

A happy gut makes for a happy you—and that’s exactly what Costa Mesa’s Fermentation Farm is all about. This local fave puts the power of probiotics to work with fermented goodies fueled by beneficial yeast and bacteria that your gut will love. And once your stomach is full, they’ve got the rest of your body covered too, with vitamins, minerals, and supplements to keep you feeling your best from the inside out.

Tip: Swing by on Thursdays at 11 a.m., when local farms pop up right outside the shop with fresh, seasonal produce—because healthy living tastes even better when it’s local.

Jan’s Health Bar

– photo by Jan’s Health Bar

Jan’s Health Bar has a simple mission statement: Eat well. Feel good. They’ve been promoting healthy, fresh eating since 1972, and with age comes wisdom–and approachability. Don’t be afraid to start: dive right in with Jan’s smoothies, wraps, or $12 “Winter Wednesdays” salads. Enjoy thoughtful recipes and real food that brings flavor without compromise.

Mendocino Farms

-Photo by Mendocino Farms

Mendocino Farms in Costa Mesa is your every day, go-to lunch and dinner pick to keep you on track with your goals. Customize your own sandwich or salad, or go with a tasty favorite off their menu. If you’re gluten-free, vegan, or just trying to eat more veggies, there’s no need to compromise on taste. Want to swap that creamy dressing for a lighter option? Go for it. Extra protein? Absolutely. With fresh, seasonal ingredients and a whole lot of flavor, Mendocino Farms makes it easy to stay on track while treating your taste buds to something delicious.

Nekter Juice Bar

– photo by Nekter Juice Bar

Juice up your day at Nekter Juice Bar, Costa Mesa’s go-to for all things fresh and fruity! This local chain is ideal for pre- or post-workout, with the option to place orders ahead of time through their app. Catch up with friends over handcrafted acai bowls, protein-packed waffles, or smoothies. Wrap up by taking a few healthy snacks to-go to keep you charged as you visit any of Costa Mesa’s unique neighborhoods.

Goop Kitchen

-Photo by Goop Kitchen

Convenient and healthy? It sounds too good to be true, but that’s the name of the game at Goop Kitchen inside Costa Mesa Kitchens takeout food hall. Whether you’re craving a nourishing soup, a crisp salad, or a hearty bowl, their menu is designed to make healthy eating easy and tasty. 

Tip: The beach is just a short drive (or Uber ride) away, so grab your meal and enjoy it with a side of SoCal ocean views!

Mother’s Market & Kitchen

– photo by @arshashealthyway via IG

The perfect one-stop-shop for anyone looking to keep their diet fresh, clean, and colorful in the New Year, Mother’s Market & Kitchen in Costa Mesa has it all. Sit down and have a meal at the cafe, recharge with fresh-pressed juice, or simply fill a cart with their well-curated grocery options and enjoy a meal at home. Whatever your pace and goals for the day are, you’ll find what you need. Everything is natural, everything is organic, and everything works toward a better, healthier you.

Dry January at Ruin Bar

-Photo by Ruin Bar

If you’re looking to enjoy bar vibes without the booze, Ruin Bar has you covered—especially with their special Dry January alcohol-free menu! Kick things off with their Vacation Vibes mocktail, a delightful mix of pineapple, orange juice, lemon, and a sprinkle of cinnamon that’ll transport you straight to the tropics. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, try their Vanilla Coke or Grapefruit Colada for a deliciously unique spin on familiar flavors. Whether you’re going dry or just looking for sober fun, Ruin Bar lets you enjoy the best of both worlds with great drinks and a fun environment!

Eat, Drink, and Feel Great

Eating healthy this New Year isn’t a restriction—it’s an opportunity to travel and explore new flavors that make you feel like your best self. And there’s no better place to dive in than Costa Mesa, where healthy eats and exciting experiences await in every corner. Plan your adventure!

Comments Off on Jet-Setting Without Regret: Travel Well, and Eat Well in the New Year

Posted in Food