$$$$Japanese, Sushi
Tucked away in the back corner of a Costa Mesa shopping mall, this intimate ten-seat counter offers a relaxing retreat from the outside world. Chef Atsushi Yokoyama skillfully oversees a leisurely omakase, beginning with variety of composed dishes such as chawanmushi with blue shrimp and smoked trout roe, perhaps followed by such delicacies as hairy crab dressed with tangy tosazu gelee, or tender braised abalone with leek puree and Hokkaido uni. Nigiri forms the final portion of the savory menu, continuing the theme of simply prepared, excellent quality seafood. To finish, a delicate almond pa
$$$Spanish, Contemporary
Courtesy of Chef Amar Santana, this cool and rustic tapas bar offers consistently pleasing food and an extensive list of sherries and Spanish wines amid a quirky setting (the banquettes are decorated with jokes). In addition to the beautiful bar area, guests may sit in two outdoor areas or the main dining room with views into the semi-open kitchen. The lunchtime prix fixe is a great deal, though it would mean skipping their wonderful array of tapas and paellas. Standouts include the bikini sandwich, layering cured Jamón Ibérico, Manchego cheese, and a bit of truffle oil into pretty little pipi
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 80 reviews
Vaca, located near the Segerstrom Center in Costa Mesa, offers contemporary Spanish cuisine. Reviews highlight strong food quality, attentive service, and a lively atmosphere, with dishes like chicken with duck liver and seafood paella receiving praise. However, concerns exist regarding value, slow pacing, and cramped seating that creates noise. Some guests reported undercooked or burnt items, small portions, and occasional poor service. While many find it ideal for pre-theater dinners and sharing tapas, experiences vary significantly based on specific orders and staff interactions.
Suitable for diners seeking shared Spanish tapas before a show, with advance reservations recommended.
$$$Italian, Contemporary
Originally from Atina and boasting a lineage of chefs and farmers, Chef/co-owner Sandro Nardone brings his experience with Italian cuisine and wood-fire cooking to Newport Beach. Low lighting and large paintings set a chic tone in the dining room, while the open kitchen keeps all eyes focused on the food. It is an idyllic setting for a gastronomic retreat; and the contemporary cooking never disappoints. Get one of their skillfully made pizzas, perhaps one topped with mushrooms and green onions or tuck into a plate of pasta amatriciana, a house-made rigatoni in a guanciale and pomodoro sauce wi