Last updated: 2025-05-06
Costa Mesa’s culinary landscape boasts an impressive array of sophisticated dining destinations. From intimate chef-driven spaces to innovative restaurants, this Orange County gem offers epicurean experiences that transform ordinary meals into extraordinary memories.
Sophisticated palates will discover exceptional cuisine spanning global flavors and local ingredients. Restaurants like Knife Pleat and Vaca showcase the city’s remarkable dining scene, blending technical precision with creative culinary artistry.
Explore Costa Mesa’s most delectable dining destinations now!
Featured Fine Dining Spots in Costa Mesa
- Knife Pleat
- Vaca
- Bello by Sandro Nardone
- Fable & Spirit
- Terrace by Mix Mix
- Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar
- Sushi ii
- LSXO
- Lola Gaspar
Bello by Sandro Nardone
What to Expect
Seasonal chef's table tasting menu with Michelin-recognized Italian cuisine
Description
A Michelin-recognized Italian fine dining destination featuring an intimate chef's table experience. Chef Sandro Nardone crafts seasonal tasting menus in a sophisticated kitchen, offering creative Italian cuisine with meticulous attention to culinary artistry and presentation.
Where: Costa Mesa | More Info: Bello by Sandro Nardone
Fable & Spirit
What to Expect
Irish mythology-inspired progressive dining experience
Description
A progressive Irish-inspired restaurant nestled in Newport Beach, featuring an intimate dining room that celebrates Celtic mythology through sophisticated culinary storytelling. The restaurant offers an immersive atmosphere with carefully crafted dishes that blend contemporary techniques with traditional Irish influences, creating a unique gastronomic narrative.
Where: Costa Mesa | More Info: Fable & Spirit
Knife Pleat
What to Expect
Contemporary French cuisine by Michelin-trained chef Tony Esnault
Description
Nestled in South Coast Plaza's penthouse, this contemporary French restaurant offers an elegant dining experience crafted by chef Tony Esnault. Featuring refined French cuisine served in a sophisticated, light-filled space with panoramic views, Knife Pleat delivers meticulously prepared dishes that showcase classical techniques with modern sensibility.
Where: Costa Mesa | More Info: Knife Pleat
Lola Gaspar
What to Expect
Mezcal and tequila cocktail program highlighting Mexican culinary traditions
Description
Nestled in Santa Ana's historic Santora Building, Lola Gaspar offers an intimate Mexican cocktail bar and restaurant experience. The venue features artfully crafted mezcal and tequila cocktails, celebrating Mexico's rich culinary heritage with a modern downtown twist. Candlelit tables and a vibrant bar create an atmospheric dining space that showcases sophisticated regional Mexican cuisine.
Where: Costa Mesa | More Info: Lola Gaspar
LSXO
What to Expect
Hidden 28-seat restaurant-within-a-restaurant concept
Description
Tucked behind an unmarked door at Blackhouse, this intimate 28-seat restaurant offers a refined Vietnamese dining experience inspired by Southern Vietnam and Chinese culinary influences. Chef Tin Vuong's concept celebrates Vietnamese heritage through a curated menu featuring signature dishes like Beef Tar Tare, Imperial Rolls, and Salt & Pepper Lobster, complemented by a unique afternoon tea service.
Where: Costa Mesa | More Info: LSXO
Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar
What to Expect
AAA Three-Diamond rated restaurant in arts district
Description
Nestled in the Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar offers an upscale dining experience that blends sophisticated cuisine with a vibrant bar atmosphere. The AAA Three-Diamond rated restaurant features an artfully designed space that combines culinary excellence with a dynamic lounge setting, showcasing carefully crafted dishes against the backdrop of Costa Mesa's cultural scene.
Where: Costa Mesa | More Info: Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar
Sushi ii
What to Expect
Intimate chef's counter omakase sushi experience
Description
An intimate omakase sushi experience featuring meticulously crafted Japanese cuisine. The chef prepares each delicate piece of nigiri with precision, showcasing premium fish sourced directly from Japan. Guests enjoy a refined, minimalist dining room with counter seating that allows direct interaction with the sushi master.
Where: Costa Mesa | More Info: Sushi ii
Terrace by Mix Mix
What to Expect
Omakase-style tasting menu with chef-driven Filipino fusion cuisine
Description
Nestled inside South Coast Plaza, this fancy restaurant showcases chef Ross Pangilinan's eclectic culinary style blending French, Italian, and modern Filipino flavors. The elegant terrace dining space features an open kitchen, chef's table counter, and wine bar offering an omakase-style tasting menu experience with market-driven small plates and carefully curated wine selections.
Where: Costa Mesa | More Info: Terrace by Mix Mix
Vaca
What to Expect
Spanish cuisine with Top Chef winner's innovative interpretations
Description
Nestled in Costa Mesa, Vaca offers an authentic Spanish dining experience featuring innovative tapas and modern interpretations of traditional Spanish cuisine. The restaurant boasts an energetic atmosphere that captures the spirit of Spain's diverse culinary regions, with an impressive beverage program highlighting Spanish cocktails, wines, and craft drinks. Award-winning Chef Amar Santana crafts dishes that blend classic techniques with contemporary flair.
Where: Costa Mesa | More Info: Vaca
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