Travel Costa Mesa Blog
Eating Well While Traveling: Keeping Your New Year’s Resolutions
Eating clean and healthy has never been easier—especially when dining out. Costa Mesa’s eateries are practically powered by natural ingredients and health-focused recipes. So, ditch the idea that sticking to your New Year’s resolutions means being stuck at home with oats and lentils. Instead, explore bold flavors, innovative dishes, and guilt-free indulgence at our top 10 spots for eating well in Costa Mesa this New Year.
Top 10 Places for Eating 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 three SoCal restaurants that are favorites for locals and visitors alike. Famous for their Purple Taquitos and creamy, dreamy vegan Mac and Cheese, this spot is a must for anyone craving bold, scratch-made, unprocessed eats. Every bite is packed with flavor—and zero guilt.
The Plot
– photo by The Plot
With a mission to make “plant-based food irresistible,” The Plot has earned its spot as one of Costa Mesa’s Best of 2024 favorites. This isn’t just vegan dining—it’s a game-changer. With zero-waste practices and a people-first philosophy that uplifts their team, community, and the planet, The Plot redefines what plant-based eating can be. One scroll through their drool-worthy Insta, and you’ll be racing over to try their must-order Beet Reuben Sando or Spicy Korean BBQ.
Fermentation Farm
– photo by Fermentation Farm
A healthy life starts with a healthy gut, and that is the focus of Fermentation Farm in Costa Mesa. With products that utilize the probiotic benefits of yeast and bacteria, they serve as a source for sustained GI health in Orange County. But that’s not all—they’ve got your back (and your whole body) covered with vitamins, minerals, and supplements like collagen, to promote whole-body well-being.
Tip: Every Thursday at 11 a.m., local farms set up right in front of the shop with fresh produce to support your healthy lifestyle.
Jan’s Health Bar
– photo by Jan’s Health Bar
Jan’s Health Bar wears its mission on its sleeve (“health” is even in the name) but maintains an air of approachability. Here, you can eat well with none of the fuss. Grab a crunchy, veggie-packed wrap or sip on a fresh kale smoothie, and enjoy real, thoughtful recipes that bring flavor without compromise. Because who says you can’t nourish your body and your taste buds at the same time?
Mendocino Farms
-Photo by Mendocino Farms
Mendocino Farms in Costa Mesa is your go-to destination to keep you on track with your goals. The best part? You’re the boss. Their menu is tasty and fully customizable, so whether you’re gluten-free, vegan or just trying to eat more veggies, you can make it your own. 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 gem is ideal for anyone on the go, with the option to place orders ahead of time through their app. Or take a breather to sit down with a handcrafted acai bowl. 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
If you are looking for a quick and healthy grab and go meal, then you have try Goop Kitchen inside Costa Mesa Kitchens takeout food hall. Whether you’re craving a nourishing soup, a crisp salad, a hearty bowl, Their menu is designed to make healthy eating easy and tasty. For a balance meal option try one of their bowls, the salmon bowl with organic brown rice, roasted butternut squash, and brussels sprouts is a fan favorite.
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 a healthy edge to their diet in the New Year, Mother’s Market & Kitchen in Costa Mesa has it all. Sit down and have a meal at the cafe, or recharge with an item from the juice bar, or simply fill a cart with their health-forward groceries and enjoy a meal at home. Still, whatever your pace and goals for the day are, this place has what you need. Everything is natural, everything is organic, and everything works toward a better, healthier you.
Greenleaf Kitchen & Cocktails
– photo by Greenleaf
Making healthy dining exciting, Greenleaf is all about serving up deliciousness with a side of feel-good vibes. Founded with a passion for using only the finest local ingredients, they’re not just about supporting local producers – they’re about creating meals that’ll have you coming back for more. We recommend trying their Monarch Protein Wrap with fresh greens and quinoa or the Lemongrass Chicken Salad topped with a lychee vinaigrette.
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!
New Year, New Culinary Delights
Eating healthy this New Year isn’t a restriction—it’s an opportunity to travel and explore new flavors that make you feel great. 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!
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Posted in Food
7 Ways to Ring in the New Year in Costa Mesa
Get ready to wrap up the year with a celebration to remember! Costa Mesa is gearing up for an epic New Year’s Eve, and there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re in the mood to dance the night away or indulge in a delicious dinner, there’s something special for everyone.
1. Catch Deadmau5 at TIME Nightclub
– photo by TIME Nightclub
Ring in the New Year at TIME Nightclub, featuring the legendary Deadmau5! Join the celebration starting at 9pm, where pulsating beats and infectious rhythms will keep you dancing all night long. Elevate your experience with a VIP Table package for an New Year’s Eve party for the record books.
2. New Year’s Eve 4-Course Menu at Water Grill
– photo by Water Grill
Make your New Year’s Eve truly special with at delicious 4-course prix-fixe menu at Water Grill. Elevate your experience with a thoughtfully curated $50 wine pairing option. Cheers to a night of indulgence, celebration, and culinary perfection!
3. Party at Sevilla Nightclub
– photo by Sevilla Nightclub
Add spice to your NYE bash at the vibrant Sevilla Nightclub! Be sure to secure your spot for the party by making reservation now. Dazzling lights, salsa beats and an electrifying atmosphere, this promises to be the biggest NYE party in Costa Mesa.
4. Attend a NYE VIP Celebration at MESA
– photo by Mesa
Elevate your New Year’s Eve experience at Mesa with the NYE VIP celebration! Join the festivities starting at 8pm for an exclusive night of glamour and excitement. Indulge in premium champagne, savor tray-passed appetizers, and revel in the joy of the countdown.
5. Bling in the New Year at The Country Club
– photo by The Country Club
Start 2024 with a bang at The Country Club! Sip on bottomless champagne, treat yourself to a special Surf & Turf dinner, dance the night away with a killer DJ, and watch the magic happen with a balloon drop at midnight.
6. Don’t Miss an Epic Y2K Dance Party at Wayfarer
– photo by Wayfarer
Dance the night away at the New Year’s Eve Y2K Dance Party at Wayfarer! An unforgettable night of 90’s and 00’s covers by local favorite Sega Genecide. Tickets are just $20 in advanced and $25 at the door.
7. Keep the Party Going at a Hotel in Costa Mesa
– photo by The Westin South Coast Plaza
A stay at a Costa Mesa hotel is the epitome of a New Year’s Eve well spent – glamorous, carefree, and infused with a touch of luxury. Embrace the freedom to dance the night away without worrying about late-night transportation and wake up in the comfort of a hotel room instead!
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Winter Wonders in Costa Mesa: 5 Activities for a Magical Holiday Escape
‘Tis the season, and if you’re in the mood for some festive fun, look no further. Grab your beanies, charge up your phones, and get ready to experience five totally Instagrammable Costa Mesa activities that scream holiday vibes!
1. Winter Fest OC, Where the Fun Never Ends
Dive headfirst into the holiday spirit at Winter Fest OC, Southern California’s largest winter festival! Glide through their enchanting ice-skating trail, enjoy winter themed cocktails inside a cozy fireside igloo, speed down a 150 foot ice tubing slide, and experience a dazzling light show perfectly synchronized to your favorite holiday songs. It’s a must-do event with plenty of attractions for all ages and so many festive photo ops to fill your IG stories!
2. Experience Holiday Shopping at South Coast Plaza
It’s time to get your holiday shopping done and where better to do it than at South Coast Plaza? The magical holiday décor transforms this shopping destination into a winter wonderland complete with a reindeer carousel and whimsical Santa Express train inside its festive corridors. With an unparalleled selection of high-end stores and holiday essentials, it offers a luxurious and memorable shopping experience for finding the perfect gifts.
3. Snap-Worthy Moments at the Town Center Park Tree
This season is all about capturing the holiday spirit so don’t forget to take pictures at the massive Christmas tree in Town Center Park, right in front of The Westin South Coast Plaza. If you’re in the mood for a tasty meal, try Vaca, a local Spanish restaurant with a perfect view of the tree. And here’s a bonus – it’s just steps away from Segerstrom Center for Arts and South Coast Repertory if you are looking to top off your night with a live holiday performance!
4. Indulge in Sweet Delights at Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee
– photo by Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee
Satisfy your craving for a sweet treat with freshly made donuts from Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee. With accolades from Condé Nast, this eatery has become a culinary sensation, and you must try their limited-time holiday-themed options. From bourbon delights to peppermint perfection, experience the joy of the season in every bite.
5. Watch A Christmas Carol at South Coast Repertory
– photo by Jenny Graham
The holidays in Costa Mesa aren’t complete without watching a performance of “A Christmas Carol” at Tony Award-winning South Coast Repertory. This long-held tradition is the absolute best way to enjoy a captivating performance of a heartwarming classic tale.
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Posted in Events, Food, Locals, Music & Art, Shopping
Fall into Fun: Costa Mesa’s Ultimate Weekend Guide
Welcome, weekend wanderers! Whether you’re a Southern California local or a jet setter extending a business trip, Costa Mesa has a cornucopia of fall delights waiting just for you. From sizzling dining experiences to electrifying performances, this vibrant city has everything you need to make this fall one for the books.
Dining Delights
Costa Mesa’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Gather your friends at the iconic Mastro’s Steakhouse for a mouthwatering holiday meal with a touch of sophistication. If you’re craving a more laid-back atmosphere, Playa Mesa Kitchen offers a modern twist on traditional Mexican dishes, perfect for a festive celebration with a SoCal flair. Looking to skip the cooking on “Turkey Day” and have someone else do all the heavy lifting? Then, make a reservation at Silver Trumpet for a Thanksgiving brunch buffet or at La Chateau Bistro for a mouthwatering holiday meal.
Cozy Coffee
Kickstart your weekend with a caffeine fix at Costa Mesa’s trendiest coffee shops. Nook Coffee is a local gem known for its artisanal brews and cozy ambiance—a great spot to recharge before hitting the town. Don’t miss out on the seasonal specials at Portola Coffee Lab, where the baristas are true coffee artisans, turning your cup of joe into a masterpiece.
Performing Arts Extravaganza
For those seeking a dose of culture and entertainment, Costa Mesa’s performing arts scene is a treasure trove. Segerstrom Center for the Arts hosts captivating performances, from Broadway shows to world-class concerts. Check out their schedule for November—it’s bound to be a spectacular experience that’ll leave you in awe. Orange County Art Museum (OCMA) celebrates its one-year anniversary with an array of events and free admission.
Retail Therapy
-photo by SOCO
Indulge your shopping cravings in Costa Mesa’s eclectic retail landscape. South Coast Plaza, a shopper’s ultimate paradise, boasts an array of high-end brands and boutique shops. Take advantage of Thanksgiving weekend sales and treat yourself to some well-deserved retail therapy. If you’re into unique finds, explore the nearby SOCO and The OC Mix, where local artisans showcase their crafts in a hip, industrial setting.
Outdoor Adventure
-photo by @Farmersmarkoc
Burn off those fall-time calories with some outdoor fun in Costa Mesa’s beautiful parks. Grab a bike and explore the scenic trails at Fairview Park, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the landscape and pond of TeWinkle Park. Or skate your way into the sunset at the Costa Mesa Skate Park.
Nightlife Excitement
-photo by Country Club
As the sun sets, Costa Mesa comes alive with vibrant nightlife options. Head to The Triangle for a mix of trendy bars and live music venues. The Country Club offers a stylish setting for cocktails and dancing, making it the ideal spot to cap off your night with a bang.
Costa Mesa is a dazzling blend of culinary delights, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a weekend traveler, a business nomad extending your stay, or a SoCal resident looking for excitement, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Embrace the energy, savor the flavors, and make it an unforgettable overnight celebration of fall festivities!
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10 Places to Get Your Barbie™ Fix in Costa Mesa
Come on Barbie, let’s go party! With the whole world ready for the Barbie™ movie opening July 21, we found a few fun places in Costa Mesa where we could definitely see Barbie stopping by…and where you can channel that fun, colorful energy into a Barbie moment yourself. Here’s 10 spots to check out in Costa Mesa and get your Barbie fix!
Local Fare
Local Fare is ready for the season with a whole line of Barbie-inspired products including this cuter-than-can-be beach towel. Find other items to go with your pretty new towel including more fun things for the pool or beach. Visit Local Fare in the shops at The OC Mix.
Coffee Dose
It’s like Coffee Dose was made for Barbie. With a bright, whimsical design and cheeky quotes on dishes and mugs, it’s a delightful cafe to spend the afternoon dreaming about Ken while the pink Corvette is parked outside.
Susie Cakes
Susie Cakes has bright, fun cakes for order or purchase including a Barbie cake with Barbie and her friends! Stop by and see them and taste something delightful at The OC Mix.
SoCo & The OC Mix
With great shopping in a rustic spot full of unique boutiques and pop-ups, SoCo and the OC Mix is one of Costa Mesa’s delightfully fun indoor and outdoor shopping and dining centers. We can see Barbie getting her Instagram moment in front of this sign and then picking up an adorable locally made blouse or earrings!
Forever Nails and Spa
We think Barbie would just love this manicure, but if you want some different choices, they know what they’re doing over at Forever Nails and Spa.
South Coast Plaza
Barbie loves a good designer pair of shoes or bag, and these stilettos from Jimmy Choo seem right up her alley. You can find the Jimmy Choo store at South Coast Plaza, and here are some other ideas from them in the South Coast Plaza blog featuring beautiful items in Barbie Blue.
Costa Mesa Bloom
Costa Mesa IS the City of the Arts®, so you can’t miss checking out some of the great public art in the city. Dress in your cutest colorful outfit like @hellokatiegirlblog and take a picture in front of the “Costa Mesa Bloom” mural, just outside Triangle Square off Harbor Blvd. Inside Triangle Square, you’ll find awesome dining and entertainment too.
Nectar Bath Treats
The bright and bubbly personality of the bath bombs and soap treats Nectar Bath makes seems like a perfect fit for Barbie’s bathtub. Visit the store on Level 1 of South Coast Plaza’s Carousel Court (and take a ride on the carousel while you’re at it!).
Fill Bakery
Pretty and delicious, Fill Bakeshop is a must stop to get your bubble gum pink Barbie treats. Make sure to get extras for Ken and the gang.
The Crack Shack
Did you know Richard Blais’s Crack Shack opened its first OC location in Costa Mesa? One of their best sandwiches is aptly named the “Malibu Barbie Q” and we’re sure you’ll love it. This fried chicken sandwich with an onion ring, bacon and melted cheese might make it harder to keep that famous 18″ waist, but everything in moderation!
Don’t miss the Barbie™ movie, coming out July 21.
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