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Best Italian Restaurants in Costa Mesa

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33 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Vitaly Caffe restaurant
1. Vitaly Caffe
4.6
Exceptional(70)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 3 times today
Nestled in the heart of Costa Mesa, Vitaly Caffe offers a delightful escape with its authentic Italian Wine Bar experience. Patrons rave about the "imported Italian wines" that perfectly complement their homemade Italian specialties, creating a true taste of Italy. The relaxed courtyard setting enhances the experience, making it an ideal spot for a romantic date or a tranquil evening. Reviewers consistently praise the ambiance and the quality of the drinks, with one noting, "Great food and drinks, esp tea!" Another adds, "Beautiful atmosphere. Good food. Professional staff," underscoring the exceptional service and setting that make Vitaly a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
A photo of North Italia – Irvine restaurant
2. North Italia – Irvine
4.5
Awesome(5382)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Irvine
Booked 149 times today
At North, we focus on what we do best: Italian from scratch. Enjoy any of our handmade pastas and pizzas, created with seasonal ingredients and inventive flavors. Or, try a different signature dish, prepared with our fresh flavors from the garden, farm, and sea. We’ve hand crafted seasonal cocktails that pair great with our food, creating a real modern Italia experiences perfect for any occasion.
A photo of Maggiano's - South Coast Plaza restaurant
3. Maggiano's - South Coast Plaza
4.6
Exceptional(8017)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 134 times today
Maggiano's in South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa, is a beacon of American cuisine, specializing in Italian-American dishes that evoke the warmth of a family gathering. This restaurant is not just about food; it's an experience, as echoed by a diner who celebrated a "truly special occasion" for their mother's 90th birthday, praising both the impeccable service and the "delicious and top-notch" dishes served family-style. The commitment to accommodating dietary needs, such as gluten-free options, further highlights their dedication to exceptional service and customer satisfaction. Patrons consistently rave about the "excellent Italian food and atmosphere," making Maggiano's a must-visit for those seeking authentic American dining in a lively, welcoming setting.
A photo of Il Fornaio - Irvine restaurant
4. Il Fornaio - Irvine
4.6
Exceptional(3973)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Irvine
Booked 72 times today
Step inside Il Fornaio and take an award-winning culinary journey through Italy. Specialties include housemade pastas, wood-fired pizza, grilled fish, authentic risotto, and rotisserie meats. Using the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, Il Fornaio offers a wide variety of premium-quality Italian food paired with great cocktails and a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence wine list.
A photo of CUCINA enoteca - Newport Beach restaurant
5. CUCINA enoteca - Newport Beach
4.7
Exceptional(2755)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Newport Beach
Booked 48 times today
CUCINA enoteca in Newport Beach is a gem for wine lovers, offering a splendid experience that goes beyond just dining. Situated in the heart of Orange County's upscale Fashion Island, this restaurant not only dazzles with its modern Italian cuisine but stands out with its exceptional Wine Bar. Patrons can choose from an impressive selection of wines by the glass or browse over 200 bottles in the retail area, perfect for pairing with their meal or taking home. Guests rave about the "excellent wine selection from the wine shop inside the restaurant," and the ability to create a delicious meal out of "several of their apps and a bottle of wine." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just in for a delightful dinner, CUCINA enoteca’s Wine Bar offers an authentic and quality wine experience that complements its vibrant ambiance and innovative dishes.
A photo of Antonello Ristorante restaurant
6. Antonello Ristorante
4.8
Exceptional(1694)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Santa Ana
Booked 12 times today
At Antonello Ristorante, we transport you to not just another place, but to another time. As you walk into Antonello's Main Dining Room, a typical scene from the streets of Bistango, Italy comes alive.
A photo of Louie's by the Bay restaurant
7. Louie's by the Bay
4.6
Exceptional(1417)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Newport Beach
Booked 40 times today
Louie's by the Bay in Newport Beach is not just a dining delight but a cocktail paradise as well. Nestled along the scenic Mariners Mile, this vibrant locale offers a cocktail bar that truly stands out due to its quality and ambiance. Guests rave about the cocktails, with one patron exclaiming, "Great food, cocktails, and atmosphere. Beautiful view of the bay and boats. Great visit." The bar scene here is lively and late-night, perfect for those seeking both a stunning view and exquisite drink options. Another review highlights, "Their famous margaritas went down way too easy!" making it clear that Louie’s by the Bay masters the art of mixology, ensuring every cocktail is a celebration of flavors. Whether you're winding down after a day or toasting a special occasion, Louie's cocktail bar ambiance combined with top-notch service makes it a must-visit spot in Newport Beach.
A photo of Ruscello - Nordstrom South Coast Plaza restaurant
8. Ruscello - Nordstrom South Coast Plaza
4.5
Awesome(206)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 10 times today
Ruscello at Nordstrom South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa is a gem for Mediterranean cuisine lovers. This full-service restaurant delights with its Italian-inspired menu that features bold flavors across a variety of dishes—from scrumptious brick-oven pizzas to expertly crafted pastas and entrees. Guests rave about the "best lobster bisque ever" and the "delicious, scrumptious cheddar chives scone." The atmosphere is equally praised, with an option to dine in a cozy dining room or enjoy the breeze on the outdoor patio. Whether you’re stopping by for a brunch on weekends or looking for a consistent culinary delight, Ruscello consistently delivers an authentic Mediterranean dining experience, making it a "must-visit" according to satisfied diners.
A photo of Prego Restaurant restaurant
9. Prego Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1415)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Irvine
Booked 10 times today
Prego Restaurant, nestled between Irvine and Tustin, is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional seafood offerings. The vibrant ambiance, reminiscent of old-world Italy, complements the exquisite seafood dishes crafted in the lively exhibition kitchen and corner Raw Bar. Diners rave about the "perfectly done salmon" and commend the "cod special" for its freshness and flavor, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Awarded by prestigious organizations like the Restaurant Writers Association, Prego excels in delivering not only top-notch cuisine but also an unforgettable dining experience. Visitors consistently praise the seafood's authenticity and the skilled chefs, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers.
A photo of Il Dolce restaurant
10. Il Dolce
4.9
Exceptional(440)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 1 time today
Il Dolce in Costa Mesa is a treasure trove for those craving authentic Italian pizza. This family-owned pizzeria captures the essence of Naples with each pizza baked in a traditional wood-fire oven, infusing pies with a distinct, smoky flavor that patrons rave about. Reviewers consistently praise its authenticity, with one diner exclaiming, “Honestly the food was amazing! We’ve been missing pizza from Italy, and this is by far the best pizza we have ate!” The restaurant's commitment to natural, fresh ingredients and its cozy, comfortable ambiance make it a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts. Whether it's the "best pizza" or the "home made bread," Il Dolce delivers an exceptional Italian dining experience right in the heart of Costa Mesa.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Williamvip
    Orange County •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    As always, il Fornaio in Irvine is the perfect place for a business lunch. A but noisier than normal due to holiday spirit
    More info
    Il Fornaio - IrvinePrice: Moderate• Italian• Irvine
    •
    4.6
  • Mikevip
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •50 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Have been there multiple times and the food and experience continues to be consistently good. Went for brunch menu. Omelette ( a repeat order) was excellent as always. Spicy meatball pizza was great. Friendly service. Recommend getting a seat on the patio.
    More info
    North Italia – IrvinePrice: Moderate• Italian• Irvine
    •
    4.5
  • Gloria
    Orange County •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We reserved a table for 5 for a birthday celebration. we were seated promptly and service was great. The food was delicious. We had the stuffed mushrooms, caesar salads, italian salad, chicken parmesan, Chocolate cake and made affogatos with ice cream and espresso. Our waiter made the birthday dessert special and had a great sense of humor. Fun all around. Great memories were made this afternoon. Thank you!
    More info
    Maggiano's - South Coast PlazaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Costa Mesa
    •
    4.6
  • Bianca
    Toronto / Ontario •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    So friendly and helpful waitresses and great food. They accommodated my small dog’s presence and made me very comfortable having her with me despite other restaurants in California these day!!! I really appreciated that and enjoyed my food, beautiful patio ambiance and nice atmosphere with my friends. We had a 2 years old child with us too, gave him a paper snd crayon to draw/get busy, brought his pizza quick and everything was great. Amazing wine options to drink and buy! We bought 2 bottles of an amazing 2020 red wine from their collection at the end. I will be definitely back with MY DOG and friends! The steak was delicious and great quality. Thank you CUCINA enoteca :)
    More info
    CUCINA enoteca - Newport BeachPrice: Moderate• Italian• Newport Beach
    •
    4.7
  • Alex
    Washington, D.C. Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 2, 2024
    This is real, authentic Italian pasta, the best you’ll find in the south coast area. It seriously tastes just like pasta you’d find at a nice place in Italy. The ragu is my favorite. In my opinion the prices for pasta are a little high for such a casual place, but I keep coming back, so clearly it’s worth it. The service is always very good as well. The patio is nice with a fire pit and good heaters. It’s in the camp which provides nice ambiance, but parking is a nightmare. It took us 15 minutes to valet.
    More info
    Vitaly CaffePrice: Expensive• Italian• Costa Mesa
    •
    4.6

Discover best Italian restaurants in Costa Mesa

Explore the vibrant Italian dining scene in North Orange County, Costa Mesa, where a plethora of restaurants serve up authentic Italian fare that delights locals and visitors alike. These establishments are renowned for their commitment to authenticity, often utilizing fresh, high-quality ingredients to craft traditional Italian dishes such as wood-fired pizzas, rich pastas, and sumptuous desserts. Many of these Italian eateries in Costa Mesa also cater to various dietary needs, offering gluten-free and vegan options to ensure everyone can enjoy their culinary offerings. The dining experience is enhanced by the warm, inviting atmospheres and excellent service that are hallmarks of these restaurants, making each meal a memorable event. Whether you're a connoisseur of Italian cuisine or simply in search of a delightful dining experience, Costa Mesa's Italian restaurants promise an exceptional gastronomic journey. The area is not just a hub for great food but also a vibrant testament to Italian culinary traditions, making it a prime destination for anyone looking to indulge in genuine Italian flavors.

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