Opened in 2014, The Wayfarer in Costa Mesa’s Westside remains one of the city’s best live music venues. What was once the locally-loved Detroit Bar converted into The Wayfarer and expanded to a full bar and kitchen while increasing its focus on supporting smaller, local bands with larger acts mixed in. In its years as the Detroit Bar, the venue welcomed bands like Modest Mouse and Yeah Yeah Yeahs while also providing residencies for local bands like Cold War Kids and Young the Giant before their break. The bar has continued Monday night residencies with local bands, with no cover charge, and added events like Reggae Tuesdays and regular karaoke nights to match its live music repertoire.
The menu includes plates like tacos; the steakhouse burger with angus beef, bacon, sautéed mushrooms and grilled onions; fried chicken and cheesesteak sandwiches; chicken wings in four flavors; a Korean beef quesadilla with sautéed kimchee; regular or “animal” tater tots; and avocado fries. Although the menu is simple, it’s sure to satisfy knowing that The Wayfarer owner is also responsible for Costa Mesa favorites like Oak & Coal and Tabu Shabu. The dinner menu is matched with an extensive cocktail, beer and wine menu, including a selection of boilermaker offerings (should you be so brave).
In addition to its regular evening kitchen and cocktail menu, The Wayfarer also hosts a Sunday brunch with bottomless champagne from 12 to 3 p.m.
