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Posts Tagged ‘Restaurants’

The 7 Best American Eats in Costa Mesa

Posted on June 24, 2024 | 3:33pm

Costa Mesa is home to some of the best stops for classic American eats this 4th of July. From brisket to burgers and beers, these top 7 spots serve up must-have foods and beverages for your Independence Day celebration.

Top 7 American Eats in Costa Mesa

Holé Smokes

The scents and flavors of barbecue are a long-time staple for the 4th of July, and Holé Smokes brings traditional, authentic Texas-style recipes to Costa Mesa. Their careful selection of pecan and oak logs was chosen for their distinct, balanced aromas that bring out the most complex flavors in their brisket, tri-tip, ribs, and more.

Bred Hot Chicken

Located at the LAB Anti-Mall, Bred Hot Chicken can fire up any July 4th celebration with sandwiches and sliders that bridge the gap between southern comfort food and mouth-watering spice. For larger parties, try ordering a family platter with something for everyone.

Rance’s Chicago Pizza

The Golden Foodie Winner for the best pizza in Orange County, Rance’s Chicago Pizza is where people discover (or rediscover) their love for deep-dish. Order one of their mouth-watering pizzas filled with the perfect amount of mozzarella cheese and topped off with their famous zesty tomato sauce. Don’t forget to order a side of their best-selling Rance’s chicken wings.

Westwood Coast

Westwood Coast is where good food meets good times. This country-inspired restaurant offers a mix of high-end dining with dishes like Short Rib Agnolotti and premium char-broiled steaks, paired with entertainment including line dancing, live music, and a fun mechanical bull. They even have a bourbon lover’s dream bar with over 100 bottles to choose from!

Nice Burger

Looking for some vegan-friendly dining options? We recommend trying Nice Burger. Their menu features a dozen burger and sandwich options, all mouth-watering and all 100% vegan-friendly. You can’t go wrong with their grilled mushroom burger or buffalo ranch chicken sandwich with a side of fries. 

Try a Craft Pint at Costa Mesa’s Local Breweries

Costa Mesa boasts some of the freshest hand-crafted beers in all of Orange County. Stop by one of Costa Mesa’s breweries for a round or two of local brews made by people passionate about beer. Several of the breweries are within walking distance, making for the perfect  4th of July beer trail. Stops to try include:

Strickland’s Ice Cream

Whether you need to cool off from the SoCal heat (or a Bred Hot Chicken sandwich), Strickland’s Ice Cream has been the place to go for almost 90 years. Their small-batch flavor of the day makes every trip a new experience, with unique flavors such as sweet red beans, red guava, Thai iced tea, taro, and lychee, all alongside familiar classics.

Book a Local Stay

Photo by Residence Inn by Marriott

The 4th of July weekend is the perfect time to extend your visit at one of Costa Mesa’s top hotels. After celebrating the 4th, continue exploring a city filled with unique shopping boutiques, award-winning eateries, and live entertainment, with the beach just a short drive away. 

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Posted in Food

6 Great Father’s Day Offers in Costa Mesa

Posted on June 17, 2016 | 7:38am

We collected just a few of the coolest Father’s Day events in Costa Mesa…check these specials out and don’t forget to make reservations where necessary!fathers-day

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Posted in Events, Locals, Misc

Costa Mesa Restaurant Week at The Gypsy Den Cafe

Posted on August 16, 2013 | 2:44pm

Today is the first day of Costa Mesa Restaurant Week 2013.  With 40 participating restaurants, there is an eatery to fit every budget and taste. If you love food and enjoy dining out, CMRW is the perfect time to visit an old favorite or try something new.

For the first meal of Costa Mesa Restaurant Week, I went to the Gypsy Den Café at the LAB anti-mall.  The Gypsy Den is an eclectic and cozy restaurant/bakery/coffee shop.

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Posted in Events, Food, Locals, Play

Costa Mesa Chef Challenge

Posted on August 12, 2013 | 11:28am

To close out the OC Fair and highlight the upcoming Costa Mesa Restaurant Week August 16-23, 2013, local chefs Massimo Navarretta and Alan Greeley competed in a “Chopped” style chef’s competition.

Costa Mesa Chef Battle Read More

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Posted in Events, Food, Locals, Play

Costa Mesa Culinary Destinations: the LAB Anti-Mall

Posted on January 11, 2013 | 11:23am

The LAB anti-mall in Costa Mesa is a local favorite for many reasons.  You can buy and trade contemporary and vintage clothes, thumb through vinyl records, peruse fashion forward boutiques specializing in hats, glasses and accessories or just browse local art.  In addition to the cool stores are some great places to eat and drink.  With an abundance of innovative and unique restaurants, it’s easy to see why the LAB is such a popular hangout spot. Read More

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Posted in Food, Locals, Misc, Music & Art, Play, Shopping