Did somebody say libations? Costa Mesa is a city of top-tier experiences, and that extends to our beverages—finding the right creative cocktail or craft brew is key for maximizing vibes. Whether you’re hunting for the best possible margarita, you want to savor a unique IPA, or you’re dancing the night away, drink in hand, you’ve come to the right place. Grab your drinking pals and channel your inner Moira Rose for a boozy tour of Costa Mesa’s best sips.
If you’re a SoCal native, Costa Mesa’s an easy jaunt; just tell your designated driver (or rideshare app) to head to Orange County, in between Los Angeles and San Diego. If you’re not local enough for a day-drinking trip, then fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA) and beat the crowds at LAX.
Photo by @blossomsandbrass
Hops and Dreams
Green Cheek Beer Co. is a haven for beer lovers with some of the best craft beer in Costa Mesa. There are hoppy classics like pilsners and IPAs, but the brewery is full of tasty twists like Guava In Berlin (a Berliner-style Weisse with real guava) and Flying South, a Mexican-style lager with lime. If you’re not into beer, they have options like the lovely hard seltzer Lavender Lemonade, and some fun non-alcoholic options for your DD.
Photo by @crafty_beer_baron
Spirited Away
Wanna have the coolest speakeasy experience? Cowboys and Poodles at The CAMP is like if a saloon married a disco ball, with fun and innovative cocktails to match the vibe. Try the Whole Mood, a tiki-style cocktail with smoking sage, or the Gin Ne Sais Quois, with gin, yellow chartreuse, aperol, grapefruit, and passionfruit notes.
Photo by @cowboysandpoodles
For the clubbers among us, stop by the Birdcage Lounge at queer favorite Strut for crafty cocktails and neon-infused ambiance. The menu is full of nods to the seminal classic The Birdcage, which for us makes it hard to choose, but the Senator’s Secret with vodka, lychee liquor, pear, and fresh lemon juice, is a winner every time. And your DD has their choice of non-alcoholic options here too (we rec the Horned Screamer if you like grenadine).
Photo by @matt_fitt_photography
If you’re in the mood for a taste of Orange County history, then hit up Tin Lizzie, OC’s longest-standing lesbian bar with origins in the 1950s, and get immersed in the saloon of it all: velvet drapes, gold sconces, moody red lighting, and a well-curated menu of cocktail and tiki faves. We love the Black Magic cocktail with cold brew and espresso liquor, and nothing beats a Daiquiri with fresh juice.
Photo by @tin_lizziesaloon_oc
Pitcher Perfect
Habana is an open-air experience at The LAB, Costa Mesa’s beloved anti-mall, and if you’re looking for distinct flavors, this Cuban hotspot has them. Their sangria is basically a local legend at this point—order the red, white, and pink varieties to decide which is your favorite. Also, the food here is divine: try some apps like the empanadas with your booze to keep you fueled.
Next Stop, Margaritas
Playa Mesa has the distinction of being named as serving the best margarita in California, which is no small feat considering the competition! The flavors are innovative and fresh, like the Sandia Margarita, with fresh watermelon juice and a tajin rim. Don’t overlook Playa Mesa’s other cocktails and bevs, though: save room for a Tierra de Guayava.
Photo by @jujumunchies
Crafted to Perfection
Sip in style at Blossoms & Brass, where Japanese flavors meet Italian flair. Every one of their specialty cocktails is a home run, but we’re especially fond of The Genovese for its dry vermouth and ponzu basil syrup. The wine and beer lists aren’t slouches either; everything at Blossoms & Brass is meant to evoke taste, in every sense of the word.
Photo by @blossomsandbrass
If you’re the type who wants to keep the party going all night, Costa Mesa’s nightlife scene has you covered. Just remember to hydrate! If you’re the go-to-bed-early type, we rec brunch the next morning. Remember, if you’re going to be drinking, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Book a room in one of Costa Mesa’s luxurious hotels to sleep off the damage from the night before.
