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Best Italian Restaurants in Costa Mesa

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33 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Vitaly Caffe restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(72)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 10 times today
Welcome to our Italian restaurant, where the essence of Italy comes to life in every dish! We pride ourselves on crafting homemade Pasta, Pinsa Pizza, Piadina Sandwiches from scratch. From a wide-array of coffees, pastry and breakfast in the morning, to the very freshest, authentic Italian food and Artisan gelato throughout the day and night. Come and relax in our courtyard and enjoy our Italian wines and beers. We can't wait to serve you from breakfast through dinner, making us your go-to destination.Please note: We accept reservations for diners only. Coffee or Gelato/Desserts are available on a walk-in basis. Join us for a delicious Italian experience!
A photo of Maggiano's - South Coast Plaza restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(8052)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 187 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 North Italia – Irvine restaurant
4.5
Awesome(5438)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Irvine
Booked 193 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 Il Fornaio - Irvine restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4021)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Irvine
Booked 40 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
4.7
Exceptional(2779)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Newport Beach
Booked 87 times today
CUCINA enoteca in Newport Beach offers an exquisite take on Californian cuisine, skillfully combining "great food, great service, and beautiful ambiance" to create an unforgettable dining experience. Nestled in the vibrant Fashion Island, the restaurant's open kitchen showcases the culinary artistry of Executive Chef Tim Kolanko and Chef de Cuisine Cesar Sarmiento. Using fresh, local ingredients, they craft Italian classics with a modern Californian twist, ensuring every dish is "absolutely delicious." Diners rave about their diverse wine selection and warm service, noting that the "food is always good here and this time was just great." CUCINA enoteca is truly a standout in Californian dining.
A photo of Antonello Ristorante restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1702)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Santa Ana
Booked 17 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
4.7
Exceptional(1445)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Newport Beach
Booked 38 times today
Louie's by the Bay is a premier Cocktail Bar destination in Newport Beach, offering an exquisite cocktail experience that complements its stunning waterfront location. Diners rave about the "perfect margaritas" and the expertly crafted Manhattans that are "great" and perfectly paired with the menu. The lively late-night cocktail scene is a vibrant addition to the elegant ambiance, making it an ideal spot for both casual get-togethers and special celebrations. Guests are consistently impressed by the "fantastic service" and "superb" drinks, which make every visit memorable. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a delightful evening out, Louie's promises an exceptional cocktail experience.
A photo of Ruscello - Nordstrom South Coast Plaza restaurant
4.5
Awesome(207)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 2 times today
Ruscello at Nordstrom South Coast Plaza is a hidden gem for Italian cuisine lovers seeking authentic Mediterranean-inspired flavors in Costa Mesa. With rave reviews highlighting the "best kept dining secret" in the area, this restaurant offers a delectable menu of bold appetizers, salads, and brick-oven pizzas that capture the essence of Italy. Diners are particularly fond of the "best lobster bisque ever," paired perfectly with a scrumptious cheddar chives scone. Guests revel in the warm and attentive service, whether dining indoors, on the lovely outdoor patio, or at the vibrant bar. Ruscello promises a delicious Italian culinary experience that diners can't stop praising!
A photo of Prego Restaurant restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1433)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Irvine
Booked 26 times today
Prego Restaurant, nestled in the vibrant locales of Irvine and Tustin, is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, celebrated for its authentic and high-quality offerings. Known far and wide, patrons rave about their seafood, with standout dishes like the Market Salmon and the Tuna Tartare. One delighted diner exclaimed, “The Salmon was delicious!” while another praised their “fantastic” lobster ravioli. Prego's commitment to excellence is evident in its meticulous preparation and presentation, making every seafood dish a culinary masterpiece. With accolades from the Restaurant Writers Association and the Wine and Food Society of Southern California, Prego promises an unforgettable seafood experience.
A photo of Il Girasole restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(22)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 33 times today
Il Girasole, now open at SOCO & The OC Mix in Costa Mesa, CA, brings a refined, modern Italian dining experience to Orange County. Named after the Italian word for "sunflower," the restaurant embraces a family-owned ethos, with a menu inspired by classic Italian flavors elevated through fresh, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy a variety of beautifully crafted dishes, from handmade pastas and creative flatbreads to thoughtfully curated seafood and meat selections. Each dish is prepared with a focus on authenticity and quality, delivering a dining experience that balances traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine.Highlights from the menu include unique offerings like King crab ravioli, pistachio-crusted ahi tuna, and handmade pasta with truffle enhancements. Il Girasole has quickly become a must-visit destination for both Italian food aficionados and those seeking an elegant yet welcoming dining environment in Costa Mesa.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • YigitVIP
    Orange County •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Always great with kids and family, food excellent and service great as well.
    More info
    CUCINA enoteca - Newport BeachPrice: Moderate• Italian• Newport Beach
    4.7
  • Andrea
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I had brunch/lunch with my bridal party on Saturday afternoon and we were serviced extremely well. We had the: Seasonal Vegetable Salad, Hot Honey & Smoked Prosciutto Pizza, Bolognese (House Specialty) and Trottole Chicken Pesto. All plates I HIGHLY recommend. I have been here for dinner in the past and I had the same experience, great service, delicious food and drinks. Make sure to make reservations in advanced for dinner. Will be coming back very soon!
    More info
    North Italia – IrvinePrice: Moderate• Italian• Irvine
    4.5
  • Mark
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    So glad that you brought the saltimbocca back! I liked it better with the olive oil than the truffle sauce. Also, the Maggiano salad, the spring mix is fine, but the iceberg lettuce had more depth to the salad. I love Maggiano’s! Mark
    More info
    Maggiano's - South Coast PlazaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Costa Mesa
    4.7
  • BrianVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •30 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The food was some of the best ever! Delicious calamaretti, gnocchi, lasagna, ravioli zucca, linguine mare chiaro, fradiovola pizza, tiramisu, etc. Also, Geraldo was a wonderful server. Thanks so much for a memorable evening with my family members who had just flown into LAX from Morocco where they live! We were hoping to see Managing Partner Marcello, who is always a delight to chat with, but just missed him!
    More info
    Il Fornaio - IrvinePrice: Moderate• Italian• Irvine
    4.6
  • Ann
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Warmly Greeted, impeccable service, and delicious entrees! Dessert was excellent also.
    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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