Westside
36 Hours in the Westside of Costa Mesa
Westside Costa Mesa is a burgeoning neighborhood that embraces its industrial roots. Many old warehouses and garages have now been converted into trendy spaces that preserve the local history while adding a new layer to it. Its location between Newport Beach and the other Costa Mesa neighborhoods makes Westside an ideal hub for a visit to the area, allowing you to see the best of the city and the beautiful nearby coast.
Westside Costa Mesa
Once the city’s industrial center, Westside Costa Mesa is a burgeoning neighborhood of unique restaurants, art studios and small businesses. The warehouses and garages that once housed boat builders and other businesses have been repurposed as restaurants and social spaces like 2145 Pizza, voted Best Pizza in OC, converted from a vacant gas station to create a beautiful open restaurant and bar.
Dining
No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re be able to find it in this unsuspecting Costa Mesa neighborhood. Try the Foodbeast-approved Catalina Fish Kitchen, laid-back Outpost Kitchen or classically authentic Mexican food with fresh, organic ingredients at Taco Mesa.
Local Arts
As the City of the Arts, Costa Mesa is full of artists and opportunities to take in their work – or get your hands dirty yourself! Costa Mesa Ceramics is open to visitors and hosts classes. Host an inspiring event in the art-forward, exciting Westside Museum.
Shopping
While Westside Costa Mesa is home to more offices and warehouses of favorite brands like Hurley and Vestal, there’s still plenty of opportunity to shop! Or you can explore local small businesses at the Westside Market creative showcase on the 2nd Sunday each month.
Music & Nightlife
The visual arts aren’t the only to be found in Costa Mesa. The city has helped launch careers of dozens of big names as an incubator for Orange County’s local music community.
The Wayfarer
Over the course of the building's history, The Wayfarer's stage has hosted bands big and small including those like Modest Mouse, Cold War Kids and Young the Giant. These days, the small, laid back ambiance provides an intimate setting where you can hear from local and touring up-and-coming artists while grabbing a drink and bite to eat at the bar.
Boathouse Collective
In addition to having a menu worthy of Foodbeast review, Boathouse Collective hosts live music nearly every night of the week in its unique space reinvented from the building’s days as a boat-building warehouse. From Tuesday’s Songwriters Circle and Warble Wednesday to rotating after-dinner entertainment, this is a hidden gem of Orange County.
SOCIAL
If craft cocktails and hip is what you’re hoping for, SOCIAL is the perfect place to share a bite. It's "Good Vibes Only" at this local favorite. Their new-American menu features elevated favorites including hamburger, fish & chips and more. On the weekends come for brunch or live music. Named Best Bar Program in 2019 by the Golden Foodie Awards
Stay With Us
Westside Costa Mesa is just a short drive down to Newport Beach. Ramada Inn is located less than two miles from the beach and near great dining on Costa Mesa’s 17th street.
