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9 Ways to Ring in the New Year in Costa Mesa

Posted on December 19, 2024 | 4:05pm

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. Welcome the New Year at TIME Nightclub

Image via TIME Nightclub

Get ready to dance the night away. Ring in the New Year at TIME Nightclub, featuring DJ Valentino Khan! Join the celebration starting at 9pm, where the beats, lights, and energy will keep your spirits high all night long. 

Why not celebrate the end of the year as a VIP? Elevate your experience with table service for a New Year’s Eve party you’ll talk about for years.

2. Spice it up at Sevilla Restaurant and Bar

Image via Sevilla

Start your evening with delicious Spanish tapas at Sevilla, and keep the night going with flamenco, live Latin music, and specialty cocktails. Sevilla is also showcasing a three-course prix-fixe menu with a show stopping paella Valenciana, topped with a cold lobster tail.

Reservations are highly recommended. Call 949-688-1555 or purchase a package online.

3. Find your VIP vibe at Mesa

Image via Mesa

If you prefer a relaxed, lounge environment, join the NYE festivities at MESA. Enjoy their prix-fixe dinner service at 7pm so that you’re ready to let the good times roll when the nightclub opens at 10pm. Indulge in premium champagne and live music by DJ Zeb as you revel in the joy of the countdown.

Book your reservation online for their NYE gala here.

4. Bling in the New Year at The Country Club

Image via The Country Club

The Country Club in Costa Mesa is offering the ultimate VIP perk for their NYE celebration: bottomless bubbly. Grab a champagne wristband for you and your crew and keep your glass full at their unlimited champagne bar. You’ll want to dig into a delicious dinner before the party kicks off, so schedule a seating for their chef-special dinner at 5:30pm or 7:30pm. 

The Country Club is pulling out all the stops for the midnight countdown so that you can start 2025 off with a bang. Make a reservation here.

5. Don’t miss an epic Y2K dance party at The Wayfarer

Image via The Wayfarer

If you’re looking for live music but less of a nightclub vibe, gastropub and live music venue The Wayfarer might be the perfect fit. 

Dance the night away and hear all your favorite 90s and 00s songs by local favorite, Sega Genecide. Enjoy a complimentary champagne toast during the countdown, then get back to dancing to your Y2K faves, plus some 2024 hits. Doors open at 9pm, and tickets are available online. This event is likely to sell out, so don’t wait.

6. Celebrate the year of BRAT

Image via Yelp

BRAT is forever at Costa Mesa’s Tin Lizzie Saloon. This LGBTQ+ friendly club will be serving their “Holidaze” cocktail menu and serving up the best Mean Girl tracks of 2024. Wear your best BRAT outfit and step out for a 365 party girl bash. You’ll feel so Julia as you ring in the new year.

7. Toast to the New Year at Water Grill

Image via Water Grill

Make your New Year’s Eve truly special with a delicious four-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!

8. Treat yourself to fine dining at The Westin

Image via The Westin South Coast Plaza

New Year’s Eve dinner at The Westin is a classy way to mark the end of the year, especially when celebrated with friends and family. Executive Chef Nelson Sanchez has created a three course prix-fixe menu, served with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. You can dine as early as 3pm or as late as 11pm.

9. Keep the party going at a Costa Mesa hotel 

Image via The Westin South Coast Plaza

A stay at a Costa Mesa hotel is the epitome of a New Year’s Eve well spent: safe and carefree, with a touch of luxury and indulgence. Dance the night away without worrying about busy, late-night transportation and wake up in the comfort of one of our award-winning hotels.

See you in 2025! Happy New Year!

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Posted in Events, Locals

Costa Mesa’s Best Food, Shopping, and Experiences in 2024 

Posted on December 3, 2024 | 11:08am

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

Your Guide to a Dazzling Holiday Gathering in Costa Mesa

Posted on October 31, 2024 | 11:46am

Costa Mesa is your SoCal hub for culture, recreation, dining, nature, shopping, and everything in between. The holiday season brings ever-perfect weather, and an endless choice of food, fun, and festivities from downtown to the coast. Host a holiday gathering in Costa Mesa and you (and your guests) might never want to leave, and no one would blame you.

Here’s some of our favorite hotels, venues, and community spaces to host an unforgettable holiday experience.

Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa

You’d be hard pressed to choose a more central option than Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa. Easy freeway access, a stone’s throw from the massive South Coast Plaza shopping destination, and within walking distance to some of the city’s best dining options—it perfectly bridges convenience and luxury.

Why we think you’ll love it…

  • Highly versatile event spaces to accommodate a get-together of any size, from a Promenade Ballroom to the more intimate Wine Room
  • Cozy Fireside Tavern with American cuisine, signature cocktails, and craft beer
  • Year-round outdoor pool 
  • Forgot to print the guest list? On-site Business Center for any last-minute needs

Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa

Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa envelops guests in old-world luxury with spacious boutique-style rooms and suites. Both the indoor and outdoor spaces evoke a timeless aesthetic centered around guest comfort. Guests and locals routinely praise the onsite, award-winning restaurant, Le Chateau Garden Bistro.

Why we think you’ll love it…

  • Flexible event spaces with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment
  • Experience meeting planners available to help with organizing your gathering
  • Complimentary hotel shuttle service to ensure everyone arrives on time
  • The whole family can come–pets are welcome (with an additional cleaning fee)

Costa Mesa Marriott

Newly renovated, Costa Mesa Marriott places guests in the heart of the arts district, easily walkable to cultural hotspots like OCMA and Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The hotel’s bar and restaurant, aMuse, is a popular dining spot for guests and locals alike and is known for its artful cuisine and inspiring environment.

Why we think you’ll love it…

  • Striking lakeside view for outdoor gatherings
  • No need for a car–just minutes away from John Wayne Airport and easily walkable to world-class dining and art
  • An on-site catering team for creating custom menus for your gathering
  • Variety of suite options, including deluxe city-view suites

FLDWRK

Image credit FLDWORK

FLDWRK is known for its coworking spaces, but it also has a nearly 3,000 square foot space where you can host your holiday gathering. An open floor plan and large windows make the space feel even larger.

Why we think you’ll love it… 

  • Flexible layout with access to FLDWRK furniture
  • Neutral space that allows for better personalization
  • Free (and copious) on-site parking for all attendees
  • Ideal location within minutes of John Wayne Airport

2145 Eats

Image credit 2145 Eats

Earthy tones and cozy lighting choices set 2145 Eats apart. Day-to-day, they are a top-rated restaurant, but they also rent out their space for gatherings and events. Not every holiday gathering needs to be over the top. Sometimes, a quiet, tasteful space is all you need.

Why we think you’ll love it… 

  • Intimate, cozy setting for small to medium gatherings
  • An individualized menu with special event pricing
  • Outdoor space ideal for enjoying Costa Mesa’s weather
  • Designed with a distinctly SoCal feel

Sunsation Venue

Image credit Sunsation Venue

Budget-friendly and fun, Sunsation Venue offers a kid-friendly outdoor space with a neighborhood block party feel. The venue is packed with games and interactive stations, perfect for keeping little ones happy and busy. 

Why we think you’ll love it… 

  • No-fuss event space with a focus on fun
  • Numerous on-site games, from classics like ping pong to ax-throwing
  • 10-minute drive to the beach
  • RV and tent options to make it an adventurous overnight gathering

The Shindy

Image credit The Shindy

Curated, chic, or cozy? Pick your vibe at the OC’s trendiest event space. The room has a unique feel, and you can see how much thought went into the design. The founders started the venue out of a love for celebration, and they bring that passion to preparing every event.

Why we think you’ll love it… 

  • Flawlessly designed space featuring mid-century furniture and a modernist feel
  • Partner with an experienced event planner to ensure a smooth event
  • Budget management services to fit your spending framework
  • Use their partnered vendors for a quick turnaround or bring your own favorites

Your Perfect Holiday Celebration Awaits

With a mix of stunning venues, white-glove service, and a festive SoCal atmosphere, Costa Mesa is the ultimate holiday gathering destination. From the versatile spaces of Crowne Plaza and Ayres Hotel to the trendy vibe of FLDWRK and The Shindy, every option offers something special to make your event memorable.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy family get-together, an elegant celebration, or a lively cocktail hour, Costa Mesa has just the right spot to create an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the season surrounded by California charm and warmth.

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Posted in Events, Hotels, Locals

Feast Without the Fuss: Here’s Where to Get Thanksgiving Dinner in Costa Mesa

Posted on October 30, 2024 | 12:46pm

Whether you’re enjoying a vacation in Costa Mesa, or just doing your best to avoid the avalanche of post-dinner dishes, there’s plenty of local options to dine in or take out on Thanksgiving. We compiled our favorite options to hopefully save you a few rounds searching Google the week of the holiday: what’s open on Thanksgiving? Where can I order Thanksgiving dinner?

Keep reading to find out! This year, get your turkey H-O-T-T-O-G-O~

Image via Silver Trumpet

Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar

Bottoms up! Silver Trumpet is serving both Thanksgiving brunch and Thanksgiving dinner. Silver Trumpet’s holiday menu is part appetizer, part buffet, and part made-to-order. Start with their famous focaccia bread, handmade with seasonal ingredients, and don’t forget to try the butter pairings. Appetizers include mini chicken cordon bleu, duck confit croquettes, and maple-glazed meatballs. Roasted turkey, candied yams, and pumpkin ravioli are just some of the classics on the menu.

Here’s a pro-trip: take your turkey-coma to the next level and stay the weekend at Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. You can go straight from the dessert bar to your very comfortable room. 

Meal service is from 10am – 7pm on November 28. Pricing starts at $109 for adults, $35 for children 12 and under, and free for ages 5 and under. 

Ready for an exquisite meal? Make a reservation here, and get a complimentary glass of sparkling wine with each meal. 
3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Image via Ayres Hotels

Le Chateau Garden Bistro

Spend the holiday weekend at Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport Beach where the award-winning team at Le Chateau Garden Bistro will serve a Thanksgiving feast to remember. 

The chef at Le Chateau is cooking up the classics for their prix-fixe menu, like homemade stuffing, butternut squash soup, roasted winter veggies, and of course, oven roasted turkey with port gravy. They open at 11:30am, and pricing is $50 per person. Don’t forget to save room for dessert! 

325 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Image via Water Grill

Water Grill at South Coast Plaza

Let Water Grill handle Thanksgiving this year. On Thursday, November 28, 2024, Water Grill is offering a special, three-course Thanksgiving meal. If you’d prefer to stick to their tried and true seafood favorites, their full menu is also available. 
If that sounds tasty, go ahead and make a reservation on OpenTable before they book up.

3300 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Image via Claim Jumper

Claim Jumper Steakhouse & Bar

Dine in or take out at Claim Jumper this Thanksgiving, or order ahead for full-size desserts and dinner platters. The classics have never looked better, like slow-roasted turkey with fresh orange and amber honey, or smoked ham with a whiskey apple glaze. 

You can also order “The Feast,” and get turkey, ham, and hand-carved tri-tip with all the sides for only $37. 
View the full menu online. For more information on placing orders and making reservations, give Claim Jumper in Costa Mesa a call at (714) 434-8479.

3333 Bristol St Suite #2078, Costa Mesa, CA 92626


Image via Vaca

Vaca

Vaca won’t be open on Thanksgiving day, but they’ve done all the work and planning for you. From now until November 20th at 3pm, order Thanksgiving dinner to-go and pick it up on November 27th. Who else in your family can say that a Top Chef made their holiday meal? 

Vaca’s Thanksgiving To-Go serves up to 6 people and features a whole, roasted turkey, Chef Santana’s famous Italian sausage cornbread stuffing, butternut squash and banana soup with pistachio creme fraiche–and many other elevated classics. Select your favorite dessert, and that’s it. Vaca will handle the rest. All you have to do is pick it up the day before. 
View the full menu and place an order here.

695 Town Center Dr Suite 170, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Image via The Westin South Coast Plaza

The Westin South Coast Plaza

On November 28, The Westin in Costa Mesa is offering a Thanksgiving menu that can be enjoyed prix fixe or a la carte.

The main course is roasted turkey breast with buttered green beans, potato puree, brioche bread stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Guests have the option to enjoy it with a cocktail, like their Fig Walnut Old Fashioned.

The prix fixe menu is $56 per person, available during their 3pm – 11pm dinner hours. The Westin will be accepting walk-in guests at The Great Room, or you can make a reservation

Image via The Capital Grille

The Capital Grille

Pecan-crusted sweet potatoes with hot honey, slow roasted turkey, and pumpkin cheesecake await at The Capital Grille this Thanksgiving. Alongside their full dinner menu, The Capital Grille is serving a special Thanksgiving entree with all the classic sides.

Speaking of classic sides–they’re all available to-go! Pre-order by November 26 and all you’ll have to do is drop by at the scheduled time to pick up your order, refrigerate it, and reheat it according to the instructions.

Located at South Coast Plaza, they are open for dine-in guests from 11am to 9:30pm on November 28, 2024. Give The Capital Grille a call at 714-432-1140 or visit them online to make your reservation or order your sides.


Image via Morton’s The Steakhouse

Morton’s The Steakhouse

In addition to their full menu, Morton’s is going all out on Thanksgiving Day with a four-course dinner. They are open from 12pm to 8pm on November 28, and their special menu is $69 per person.

If you’re looking to order ahead, Morton’s will take care of everything with their family-style Thanksgiving dinner to-go. The package serves four, and pre-orders close on November 25 at 9pm. Enjoy their roasted turkey roulade, fresh cranberry sauce, among twice-baked au gratin potatoes other holiday favorites. It even comes with an egg and onion loaf and four slices of pumpkin cheesecake.

View their menu or make a reservation online.

Image via Seasons 52

Seasons 52

Located at South Coast Plaza, Seasons 52 is going for the tried-and-true traditional this Thanksgiving, and you’re invited. They’re serving a Thanksgiving plate with roasted turkey, yukon mashed potatoes, green beans, brioche and sage stuffing, and more, along with their a la carte menu.

You can also order their “warm and serve” Thanksgiving dinner box with everything on the dine in menu, plus a Field Greens Salad. For $230, it serves 4 to 6 and comes with 6 mini Pumpkin Pie Indulgences. The last day to preorder is Monday, November 25.

Make a reservation or learn more online here.

Easiest Thanksgiving ever. 

Turkey, steak, ham, or seafood? Maybe one of each? Go for the unexpected and pick up fresh ceviche or chips and salsa from Mercado González, open on Thanksgiving Day (though their hours are shorter than usual.) The options are limitless!

Plan ahead and make your reservation at one of our recommended restaurants, then take it to the next level and make it a staycation–have a cozy, comfy room booked and ready for your post-feast turkey coma. Easiest Thanksgiving ever, and best Thanksgiving ever.

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Posted in Food, Hotels, Locals

Costa Mesa: An Easy Weekend Getaway From the Inland Empire  

Posted on October 8, 2024 | 10:55am

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  
  • Maizano – Best known for their grilled octopus Encacahuatado 

Photo by Blossoms & Brass

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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