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Best Southern American Restaurants in Costa Mesa

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127 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mesa Restaurant restaurant
4.2
Awesome(509)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 4 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 Water Grill - South Coast Plaza restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(8412)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 164 times today
Water Grill - South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa stands out as a beacon of authentic American seafood excellence. Renowned for its "delicious fresh seafood" and "amazing food," this restaurant consistently delivers high-quality, boat-to-table dishes that capture the essence of American coastal cuisine. With an ever-evolving menu, diners can savor the freshest catches of the day, whether it's the "awesome Dover sole" or the "divine lobster rolls." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every dish, making it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers. Plus, the "beautifully designed space" and "exceptional service" elevate every dining experience, ensuring guests leave with a smile.
A photo of RH Ocean Grill at RH Newport Beach restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(447)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Newport Beach
Booked 493 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 Seasons 52 - Costa Mesa restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(9202)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 94 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 The Capital Grille - Costa Mesa restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5041)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 71 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(8099)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 74 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(3714)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Santa Ana
Booked 93 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(1696)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Costa Mesa
Booked 5 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(150)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Newport Beach
Booked 142 times today
We are committed to being among the best in the industry, operating friendly, relaxed, comfortable restaurants for all guests.
A photo of JOEY Newport Beach restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(524)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Newport Beach
Booked 252 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
  • KenyaVIP
    Los Angeles •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    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
  • LanitaVIP
    Orange County •31 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food (veggie skillet) and drink (Sidecar) were delish! Our server Jacob was very attentive and friendly!
    More info
    Julep BreaPrice: Expensive• American• Brea / La Habra
    4.9
  • Mary Lou
    Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 24, 2025
    Cool beach vibe with southern food menu such as shrimp and grits or Mac and cheese with side of collard greens
    More info
    Tupelo Junction CafePrice: Expensive• Regional American (Southern)• Newport Beach
    4.8
  • PeteVIP
    Los Angeles •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 23, 2025
    Great service and amazing food. Wide selection of options with fair pricing
    More info
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - OrangePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Orange
    4.3
  • Larry
    Orange County •70 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 9, 2025
    Since discovering their smoked Prime Rib dinner (Fri-Sun), our frequency of visits has increased only to learn that this favorite may soon be going away. Maybe if they could get the word out they could sell more. Table tents, e-mail, menu inserts, server upsell. Also, we were delighted to have been given a $20 bounce back coupon good on our next visit. Unfortunately, it seems the coupon had already expired Jan 31.
    More info
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - IrvinePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Irvine
    4.3
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