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Best Southern American Restaurants in Costa Mesa

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125 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mesa Restaurant restaurant
4.3
Awesome(511)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 8 times today
Mesa Lounge is a unique nightlife experience in the heart of Orange County. For bottle service inquiries please contact Sabrina@mesacostamesa.com or by text at 949.531.2426. Please note that we are a 21 and over venue at all times, valid photo ID is required for entry. All guests in your party must be present to be seated. We offer a 15 minute grace period for reservations before releasing the table to a guest on the wait list. Due to limited capacity and high demand, reservations are limited to a 90 minute seating.
A photo of Seasons 52 - Costa Mesa restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(9217)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 88 times today
Seasons 52 in Costa Mesa is a shining beacon for seafood enthusiasts, offering an exquisite range of dishes that are both fresh and flavorful. The seasonal menu, a hallmark of its culinary offerings, ensures that every seafood dish is prepared using the freshest ingredients, providing a "delicious" and "consistently good" experience according to patrons. The "Crab cake, Ponzu broth-poached Butterfish, and grilled Sea Scallops" are particularly beloved, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. Guests frequently praise the "excellent" food and "attentive" service, making Seasons 52 a must-visit destination for those seeking top-notch seafood cuisine.
A photo of RH Ocean Grill at RH Newport Beach restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(504)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Newport Beach
Booked 403 times today
The RH Ocean Grill is located on the rooftop of RH Newport Beach, The Gallery at Fashion Island. Enjoy a menu of seafood and caviar specialties, along with a selection of signature salads and classics from our hearth. Dine in a year-round skylit garden with heritage olive trees, sparkling chandeliers, a cascading center fountain and panoramic views of the California coastline.
A photo of The Capital Grille - Costa Mesa restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5053)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 53 times today
The Capital Grille in Costa Mesa is a shining beacon of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its impeccable dry-aged steaks and a wine selection that is nothing short of extraordinary. Guests rave about their experiences, with one diner declaring, "The food is unparalleled, and the staff is wonderful!" This restaurant captures the essence of fine American dining with its expertly prepared dishes and top-tier service. Whether celebrating milestones or simply enjoying a night out, The Capital Grille promises a memorable dining experience. The ambiance, combined with a team that goes "above and beyond in hospitality," makes it a must-visit for American cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Maggiano's - South Coast Plaza restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(8105)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 86 times today
Maggiano's - South Coast Plaza stands out as a quintessential American dining experience with an Italian twist, offering authentic Italian-American dishes that pay homage to Nonna's cherished recipes. Located in the bustling heart of Costa Mesa, diners are treated to an unparalleled blend of "fantastic food" and "amazing service," making every meal memorable. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and "delicious entrees" consistently impress guests, creating "great memories" and leaving them eager to return. With its prime location just minutes from the beach and luxury shopping, Maggiano's provides an inviting retreat for those seeking genuine American cuisine infused with Italian flair.
A photo of Morton's The Steakhouse - Santa Ana restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3730)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Santa Ana
Booked 27 times today
Morton's The Steakhouse in Santa Ana offers an unparalleled American dining experience with its commitment to "The Best Steak… Anywhere." Known for its USDA prime-aged steaks and fresh seafood, Morton's delivers on quality and authenticity, making it a standout choice for American cuisine enthusiasts. Guests rave about the exceptional service, noting that "the servers and management team at Morton's is the best in the business." This renowned steakhouse, with its "outstanding service and amazing food," ensures every visit is memorable, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a premium steak dinner. Morton's Santa Ana truly exemplifies American dining excellence.
A photo of Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1699)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 7 times today
Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar in Costa Mesa offers a delightful Californian cuisine experience that is both authentic and upscale. With a prestigious AAA Three-Diamond rating, the restaurant stands out for its creative and outstanding cuisine, paired with a lively atmosphere. Diners have described it as a "hidden oasis" and an "absolute gem," highlighting the "wonderful, beautiful food" and "attentive, prompt service." Located conveniently near the Segerstrom Center, it’s perfect for a pre-show dinner or a vibrant night out. The Bacon Wrapped Dates and Salmon are must-tries, ensuring a memorable Californian culinary journey for all guests.
A photo of Nick's Newport Beach restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(170)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Newport Beach
Booked 128 times today
We are committed to being among the best in the industry, operating friendly, relaxed, comfortable restaurants for all guests.
A photo of Bosscat Kitchen & Libations restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(758)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Irvine
Booked 51 times today
Nestled in the vibrant city of Irvine, Bosscat Kitchen & Libations is a standout in the realm of Gastro Pub cuisine, offering a delightful fusion of upscale dining with the warmth of casual comfort. Known for its "great food and incredible service," Bosscat boasts an impressive whiskey room, housing a vast selection to satisfy any aficionado. This lively establishment is appreciated for its "terrific ambiance" and unique American comfort food, featuring seasonal flavors and creative cocktails. The praised rustic industrial aesthetic adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot for gatherings, whether for a "fun, boozy brunch" or a memorable evening out.
A photo of JOEY Newport Beach restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(549)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Newport Beach
Booked 270 times today
JOEY Newport Beach is a shining culinary gem in the heart of Fashion Island, offering a truly exceptional Global, International dining experience. With a menu crafted by award-winning chefs, JOEY delights guests with an exquisite blend of local and global flavors, ensuring every dish is a masterpiece. Diners consistently rave about the "excellent food and outstanding service," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and hospitality. The stylish and vibrant ambiance, complete with a warm patio and an inviting outdoor fire pit, adds to the allure. As one guest fondly remarked, "Joey never disappoints," making it a must-visit destination for any special occasion.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • GarciaVIP
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Beto was exceptional! Great service, great good. Definitely will be returning.
    More info
    Julep BreaPrice: Expensive• American• Brea / La Habra
    4.8
  • Tracy
    Orange County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    This is one of our favorite gems! The food is always outstanding and the best flavors. We had the french toast with fresh whipped cream (for the table) and everyone wanted the whole thing to themselves. The waffle had a great texture and the syrup was like icing on the cake! The bacon scramble and the wild mushroom scramble were both excellent. The biscuit and gravy was scrumptious (ask for extra gravy because it is so good) The eggs benedict did not disappoint either. The surprise trophy went to the Huevos Rancheros which was an amazing blend of flavors that you won't forget! The menu is loaded with dishes and can be overwhelming, but anything you choose is just delicious. We will be back again and again. Love this place!
    More info
    Tupelo Junction CafePrice: Expensive• Regional American (Southern)• Newport Beach
    4.8
  • Clifton
    Orange County •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 4 Mar 2025
    So much...so good! Great food and bar for watching sports.
    More info
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - IrvinePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Irvine
    4.3
  • KenyaVIP
    Los Angeles •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 3 Mar 2025
    Located in Downtown Disney, Jazz Kitchen brings bold Creole flavors to life. The highlight of our meal was undoubtedly the shrimp and grits—the shrimp were perfectly seasoned, tender, and paired with creamy, buttery grits that practically melted in your mouth. The savory, slightly spicy sauce elevated the dish to something unforgettable. The salmon Caesar salad was fresh and satisfying, with perfectly grilled salmon and a tangy dressing. The crab & shrimp remoulade roll offered a refreshing, zesty bite, balancing the heartier flavors. To top it off, the staff brought out beignets for the birthday girl—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and a sweet end to the meal. Jazz Kitchen’s Creole offerings, especially the shrimp and grits, are a must-try for anyone visiting Downtown Disney!
    More info
    Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & PatioPrice: Moderate• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Anaheim
    4.5
  • TenYears
    Orange County •6 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on 3 Mar 2025
    The Sampler plate was perfect to try their different meats and sides. The Ribs were tasty where I didn't need to add any BBQ sauce (that's very unlike me). The Mac & Cheese was delicious and flavorful. The sweet potato casserole was wonderful and could have doubled as a dessert dish. Can't wait to come back to try their Smoked Dinosaur Beef Rib!
    More info
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - OrangePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Orange
    4.3
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