Travel Costa Mesa Blog
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!
Comments Off on Fall into Fun: Costa Mesa’s Ultimate Weekend Guide
4 Places for Thanksgiving Dining – and a Black Friday Deal!
The holidays are here, and it’s the most wonderful time of the year to get together with family and loved ones. But aren’t you tired of chopping veggies and mashing potatoes? Let someone else do the cooking for Thanksgiving this year – like a gourmet chef – while you relax and enjoy the holiday! Here are 4 great spots in Costa Mesa to try for Thanksgiving, plus a very special offer for a quick holiday shopping getaway before Christmas.
Comments Off on 4 Places for Thanksgiving Dining – and a Black Friday Deal!
Top Places to Dine for Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Costa Mesa
The holidays are a great time for family and friends, especially when you can wine and dine and enjoy an evening out at South Coast Plaza restaurants with exceptional food and better company, with prime steak and seafood selections, or choose authentic Indian cuisine or traditional American fare. Costa Mesa restaurants are here to make your holidays bright, starting Christmas Eve with celebrations all the way into 2017.
Families and kids-at-heart won’t want to miss the decadent dining at Leatherby’s Café Rouge that could only be envied more by our friend Buddy the Elf.
Leatherby’s Café Rouge
Christmas Eve Brunch & Dinner December 24, 2016
11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. & 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Christmas Day Dinner December 25, 2016
4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
On Christmas Eve Leatherby’s Café Rouge will host a fabulous Elf Broadway brunch buffet with food and fun for the whole family. Highlights include smoked trout deviled eggs, whole roasted ham, buttermilk pancakes with blueberry syrup, frittata, “spaghetti” cupcakes, hot cocoa with marshmallows and crushed peppermint. A candy station and hot chocolate bar as well as, arts and crafts hosted by Kidseum. The Elf Broadway brunch buffet is $45 for adults, and $22 for children 12 and under. For reservations please call 714.429.7640.
Silver Trumpet Restaurant
Christmas Eve Dinner, Saturday, December 24 – 5:00pm to 10:00pm
Christmas Dinner Sunday, December 25 – 5:00pm to 10:00pm
Four-course prix fixe menu for $50 per person
Include premium wine pairings for an additional $25 per person
Make your reservation today for a delicious and thoughtful holiday menu.
Make your Silver Trumpet reservations online!
CHRISTMAS DAY, DECEMBER 25
Mastro’s Steakhouse
From 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Enjoy an unparalleled dining experience at Mastro’s Steakhouse this Christmas. The full à la carte dinner menu featuring the highest quality steaks and seafood will be available. À la Carte prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations please call 714.546.7405.
Royal Khyber Fine Indian Cuisine
From 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
This holiday enjoy Royal Khyber’s full à la Carte dinner menu featuring authentic Indian cuisine. Using the finest Indian seasonings and spices, dishes can be made mild, moderate or hot. Vegetarian options are available as well. À la carte prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations please call 714.436.1010.
Morton’s The Steakhouse
From 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Spend Christmas Day enjoying a memorable meal with family and friends with selections from Morton’s The Steakhouse à la carte menu. Dine on generous portions of USDA prime aged beef, fresh fish, lobster and chicken entrees, as well as an extensive wine list. A succulent steak and lobster tail served with drawn butter will also be available for only $55. À la carte prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations please call 714.444.4834.
Settle in to this warm and intimate setting with a special three-course prix fixe menu for $28.99 per person. Enjoy Le Chateau’s continental cuisine, as well as the finest service. Transport yourself to the French countryside this Christmas at Le Chateau, located inside the Ayres Hotel and Suites Costa Mesa. Call 714.549.0300.
NEW YEAR’S EVE, December 31
AnQi Bistro by House of An
From 5:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Back by popular demand is AnQi’s extraordinary New Year’s Eve celebration! From 7-9 p.m. enjoy a five-course, prix fixe dinner featuring courses from caviar to foie gras and prime beef with a Perrier Jouet champagne toast. At 10 p.m., the restaurant will transform into a swanky party with a DJ, aerialists, dancers and figure skaters. Drinks will be flowing with an open premium bar and hosted Perrier Jouet champagne bar, as well as passed appetizers and caviar station. Bottle service available after 10 PM. Reservations required. Dinner is $153; late-night cocktail reception, $100; dinner & cocktail reception $200; pricing is per person plus tax and gratuity. For reservations please call 714.557.5679 or email lindsayc@houseofan.com.
The Capital Grille
From 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
The Capital Grille Costa Mesa will offer its full dinner menu filled with fresh seafood, dry-aged steaks and acclaimed wines. Guests will enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne at midnight. À la carte prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations please call 714.432.1140.
Darya Fine Persian Cuisine
From 9:00 p.m. to midnight
Ring in 2016 with a fabulous night of food, dancing and entertainment starting at 9 p.m. A three-course menu will be served featuring Darya’s most popular dishes. Reservations are required. $89.00 per person for the prix fixe dinner; à la carte menu prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity).
For reservations please call 714.557.6600.
Golden Truffle
Chef Alan Greeley’s bold approach to food is so remarkable it merges all the senses with the magic of the moment. Enjoy a four-course prix fixe dinner for $78 per person, excluding beverages, tax and gratuity. Reservations are a must, so please call 949.645.9858.
Spend NYE at Habana with a special dinner menu and live music by the Lilly Hernandez band and Madcat, as well as, rum tasting and a balloon drop to ring in the New Year. Visit Habana for more information and to make reservations.
Leatherby’s Café Rouge
From 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Enjoy a pre-theater dinner at Leatherby’s this New Year’s Eve. The full à la carte menu will be served along with a special Elf Broadway three-course prix fixe menu. The course meal features a gem Caesar salad, chestnut ravioli with roasted pumpkin, beef short rib and chocolate cranberry trifle for dessert.
The Elf Broadway dinner is $50 for a three-course prix fixe or $72 with wine pairings; à la carte menu prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity).
For reservations please call 714.429.7640.
Mastro’s Steakhouse
From 4:00 p.m. to midnight
Ring in 2017 with an unparalleled dining experience at Mastro’s. The full à la carte dinner menu featuring the highest quality steaks, seafood and libations will be available. À la carte prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations please call 714.546.7405.
Quattro Caffé
From 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Bring in the New Year with a masquerade party that includes a four-course Italian menu, live entertainment by Ivan Marcelo and Domenico Grillo, party favors, prizes, a midnight champagne toast and more. The three-course prix fixe dinner is $69 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations please call 714.754.7933.
Seasons 52
From 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Seasons 52 will be serving its full seasonally inspired calorie-aware à la carte menu for New Year’s Eve and Day. Guests who choose to ring in 2017 there will enjoy a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. À la carte prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations please call 714.437.5252.
Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar
Open until 1 a.m., with a complimentary champagne toast at midnight.
If you’re looking for a casual, yet classy way to ring in the New Year, Silver Trumpet does it in style. Visit Silver Trumpet at 3350 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, or call 714.442.8593 for information.
Vaca
From 5:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Ring in 2017 with Top Chef Amar Santana’s authentic Spanish New Year’s Eve specials: American wagyu tataki with bone marrow flan ($13), uni spoon with caviar ($12 each), wood-grilled Alaskan king crab ($32), Maine lobster paella ($60) AND wood-grilled Chilean sea bass ($42). Vaca’s full menu of charcuterie, tapas, paella, dry-aged steaks, Spanish wines and handcrafted cocktails will also be available until 11 p.m. The bar will remain open until 2 a.m. Reservations highly recommended. À la carte prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations please call 714.463.6060.
Water Grill
9:00 p.m. to close
The New Year’s Eve celebration begins in the private dining room starting at 9 p.m. with an à la carte menu, DJ and midnight champagne toast. Reservations essential: 949.208.7060.
Antonello Ristorante
From 5:00 p.m. to midnight
Ring in the New Year at Antonello Ristorante with authentic Italian cuisine, music and other festivities. A limited à la carte menu will be available along with Antonello’s extensive world-renowned wine list. À la carte prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations please call 714.751.7153.
Morton’s The Steakhouse
From 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. – New Year’s Eve Dinner
Say goodbye to 2016 while enjoying Morton’s full à la carte menu of classic appetizers, award-winning wines, a wide variety of USDA prime aged steak, fresh seafood options and decadent desserts. À la carte prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity). For reservations please call 714.444.4834.
Royal Khyber Fine Indian Cuisine
From 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Enjoy Royal Khyber’s full a la carte dinner menu, with vegetarian options available. À la carte prices vary per selection (exclusive of tax and gratuity).
For reservations please call 714.436.1010.
While you’re planning your holiday outing, why not take advantage of the final days of the Stay and Shop package at one of 10 hotels in Costa Mesa. Not only are some of these hotels offering Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining specials, we’ve got you covered for a variety of dining experiences throughout our city. Happy holidays, and we’ll see you in Costa Mesa!
Comments Off on Top Places to Dine for Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Costa Mesa
