Top Pan Asian Restaurant in Costa Mesa
Bonchon
1534 Adams Ave B, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
WORST EXPERIENCE EVER!!We came in around 6PM on Saturday night. There were 2 people of our group of 5 came in first and were told that they would only seat us with the full party. We understood and willing to wait until our friends came in even though there were still many open tables.After we decided what to order, it took 15 mins to get the server's attention and finally someone came to our table to take order. (It was a Saturday night and there were only 2 servers on the floor...)Things got worst when 1 of our friend who was currently sick and she wanted to change table to inside (we were seated at the table next to the main entrance, very cold and windy since people keep open the door to get in and out). 1 of us decided to ask the male server (not wearing nametag so I couldn't know his name) if he could kindly move us to the table next to us (there were 2 open tables next to our table).At that time, he was just bussing the table, not even looked at the person who was talking to him and replied “No, I can't. Sorry”. My other friend approached him again after 5 minutes and explained the situation, he replied “If you get cold, other guests will get cold too.” - with a very rude and cold tone of voice then walk away without saying something like “Sorry for the inconvenience.” (It seemed like you didn't care about your customers.)We were very disappointed about the poor customer service and decided to leave because we couldn't accept that bad attitude from the server. Before we left, we told the other female server that we would cancel our food. She just replied “Okay” without asking what happened.This isn't my first time here in Bonchon. I like their chicken so that's why I'm bringing my friends here to enjoy but it might be the last time I visit.
Top other services in Costa Mesa:
Trader Joes
640 W 17th St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, United States
And so who doesnt love Trader Joes every time I go here theres always a wonderful surprise where you can sample things and taste things in the back the same goes with the wine area its just a great place to shop everything is fresh people are busy everybodys there seems to be happy and I do never encounter the problems at a regular grocery store in terms of long lines poor politics and bad management. This door is always clean neat and tidy has a great selection its what Trader Joes is all about I would go here time and time and time and time again and I would recommend for everyone else to do the same if its for bottle of wine a great piece of cheese some fresh meat these guys are dialed in and theyve got it going on I love Trader Joes and this is why!
Kashiwa Ramen
1420C Baker St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
Went on a ruse cruise ordering from here:My partner and I ordered two bowls of ramen from here to-go. I got the Black Garlic ramen. Upon arriving a gentleman behind the counter just stares at us as we entered the restaurant and after a bit of an awkward staring match, the woman working the front comes to help us out. When we returned home to eat I noticed there was this ominous black layer at the top of my broth that looked quite similar to burned food or the char that you find at the bottom of your pan after burning something. Took a slurp of broth to find what tasted like pieces of charcoal in my food. After closer inspection, I noticed a large burned blob of something (looked like actual charcoal). Outside of the weird, burned, sandy texture of my broth, it just tasted like pure cooking oil.Turned off to the taste and texture, I called the shop to let them know and see if maybe I could drive back and swap it out for a different broth but was not met with that level of hospitality. The woman who picked up the phone sounded like she was either in a rush or just wanted to be curt. After explaining my problem with the broth, she transferred me to the chef who clearly sounded like he didnt want to take my feedback and at no point offered to make the situation better.Apparently, they burn the black garlic before adding it to the broth. This would have been fantastic news to have known in advance or include on your menu. After telling the chef my problem there was a long pause, he thanked me for the feedback then asked if he could help me with anything else before hanging up. Since the broth was inedible and contained a truly odd texture that Ive never experienced in ramen broth before, I ended up having to purchase broth from another (and much better) ramen shop so I could fuse that with the other ingredients I received from Kashiwa to have an edible dinner.Once again, thank you to the staff for providing zero assistance and not listing this anywhere on your menu. The ramen market in O.C. is saturated with infinitely better choices, sorry guys.
The Capital Grille
3333 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
One of the greatest steak restaurants and service of all time. I love steak and this is my go to place. They make you feel comfortable while you are here. The steak has always been on point and the mashed potatoes are some of the best mashed potatoes I've ever eaten. They have a great selection of food, I usually eat steak here but the seared tuna Ahi is also the best I've ever had. They give you three different sauces on the side to try with the tuna and they honestly are all good haha I can't remember what ones they give you but they are absolutely phenomenal. This can be a great place to take a date, your boss, co-workers, friends, family or even just go eat and drink alone. They also have a few TV's and it's not over burdensome, it adds to the nice upscale vibe. I've also heard that the burger here is really really good, and I've heard that from multiple people. The salad here is also really damn good, it's like a nice puffy mountain of greatness. Capital Grille is one of those place where you can NOT order a BAD thing. Like I don't even like lobster but I bet I could eat lobster here haha anyways, nice bathrooms too, they don't have that random guy in there giving you soap and all that jazz like they do at night clubs, which is totally fine, it has great amenities too. The service though is by far some of the best. I eat out a lot, like a lot a lot, almost every day because I hate cooking. I leave cooking to the professionals and they are certainly professionals here. If you've been debating on going here by now after this review you better go, what are you waiting for? Get up and put your phone down and just get a damn table here you won't be disappointed. Also I would highly suggest getting whatever steak you like with the porcini rub and aged balsamic. Top 3 steaks I've ever had and yesterday I actually had steak for lunch and steak for dinner haha and in the picture here was steak for lunch and it was amazing. I've had the ribeye and the filet with the porcini rub and aged basil, both are top notch, they probably could charge more for how good it is and I would still pay it, like I would pay double for what it's listed as and still be happy, it's that good, it will change your life and make you question everything, like have I even been eating foot my whole life before this steak? Beyond grateful for this place, the food, the great staff and management. If you guys read this, thank you very much, truly some of the best world class food anyone could cook up and offer. See you next week.
Santa Monica Seafood (Market & Cafe)
154 E 17th St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, United States
Its not cheap but it sure is delicious. I ate here about a decade ago and really liked it but didnt end up in the same area again until now. My wife was itching for some great seafood and this came to mind immediately. Visiting CA during the pandemic is generally a pain in the @$$. Theyre way more locked down than most everywhere else despite the fact that the lockdowns have done nothing to curb the spread in the state. I mention this because I appreciate the care that this place has put into making sure that customers still have a stellar experience when visiting, Theres no logical rhyme or reason to the lockdown policies but Santa Monica Seafood has created a comfortable environment in a tent outside their store to enjoy their delicious food. The service was very friendly and each dish tasted better than the one that came before it. We got excited and wanted to sample a lot of stuff. the crab cakes made me feel like I was in Maryland and the Lobster roll made me feel like I was in Maine. The fish and chips made me feel like I was back in my hometown of Seattle. These were some of the best fish and chips Ive had anywhere though its pretty much impossible to beat Spuds on Alki. The good news is that I wont be back in Seattle anytime in the foreseeable future but this spot is only a four hour drive from my new hometown of LV and we love to get away to the beach for the weekend. We could never live in CA but its fun to visit and well be visiting this place regularly when were in town. The final win was the Salmon Burger. I usually dont like that kind of stuff but my wife does and I tried a bite of hers and it was fantastic. The jumbo coconut shrimp were the best either of us had eaten anywhere as well. All in all, a fantastic experience!
Tokyo Central
2975 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
Review for Tokyo Central Costa Mesa:As a longstanding patron of Marukai and Tokyo Central for over 15 years, my recent visit to the Costa Mesa location left me profoundly disappointed. While shopping for groceries, including a significant purchase of several hundred dollars, I encountered an exceptionally discourteous incident revolving around a clay pot.Having previously purchased the same clay pot twice for my parents, I sought a smaller size for their convenience. Upon reaching the display, I discovered the small size was sold out, leaving only a sample stand atop a box. Unsure if the box contained the product, I cautiously checked. To my shock, an older Japanese lady with shoulder-length hair and glasses began shouting at me, accusing me of breaking rules and treating me with disdain.Despite my efforts to explain the situation calmly, she continued to berate me, refusing to listen or allow me to clarify. Feeling deeply embarrassed and upset, I attempted to seek resolution by asking for her name. However, her response was dismissive and unhelpful. Seeking further assistance, I requested to speak to the manager.Unfortunately, the managers response was equally disappointing. Instead of addressing the mistreatment I endured, he seemed more interested in minimizing the situation. The lack of apology from both the staff member and the store management was profoundly disheartening.What was particularly troubling was the subtle change in demeanor once it became apparent I was not a Chinese tourist, suggesting a potential issue with racism within the establishment. As an Asian customer, experiencing such poor treatment raises concerns about how non-Japanese customers are perceived.It is unacceptable for any customer to be subjected to such disrespectful behavior. The absence of basic customer service standards from the staff member is deeply concerning. In light of this experience, I feel compelled to share my story on social media and boycott Tokyo Central Costa Mesa. I urge others to reconsider supporting an establishment that fails to prioritize respect and professionalism towards its customers.
WOK-IN
2394 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, United States
We live 0.2 miles away from this place, and because my daughter is vegan their veggie pho was a perfect choice for her at least twice a week. Last time when she stopped by she ordered 2 egg rolls for me, and thats it. The young guy, who is part of the ownership told her - for two egg rolls we are not going to charge you this time. Its not worth charging the card. She asked him if he was sure, as she felt uncomfortable leaving without paying. He confirmed it was okay, and the restaurant was nearly closing anyways. There was no mention of payment for them next time. It seems shady to manipulate a minor this way because this man intended to charge for these rolls the next time we made a purchase here but never intended to explain that to her.Today I went to pick up her phone order and the guy was trying to tell me, that I have to pay for a tea she never ordered, after I called my daughter she could only assume he wanted money for the rolls. Two rolls that they told her she would not be charged for.Of course I paid but also my two egg rolls that I ordered tonight were burned, hard and obviously not fresh, plus no sauce included. Was this revenge ? Or some sort of sick joke? Or was this just a true reflection of the restaurant and the people who work there. They have lost us as customers forever, and to anyone reading this review questioning if you should try here, go to Pho Saigon Pearl down the street.We will never ever go inside this little place again. We previously spent tons of money there for pho and this rude disrespect over 2 egg rolls is absolutely unacceptable.
Anjin
3033 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
Anjin is a small Japanese BBQ restaurant sitting in a busy plaza in Costa Mesa, serving good quality meats in diet friendly portions.With dinner service starting at 5pm, you can always count on there being a wait a little after the restaurant opens. The later into the evening you go, the longer the wait, until peak hours settle down (past 8:30/9pm). The good news is that theyre open late for folks that dont mind a late dinner or are hungry for a late night meal.Some of their best cuts of meat include the beef tongue, short ribs, and prime rib eye. Theyve got other proteins like chicken, sausage, and even asparagus wrapped in bacon. Their marinades are mild but flavorful (as is characteristic of Japanese food), but theyll seve you sesame oil with salt for dipping if youre more used to Korean bbq.The uncooked meats are also a treat here with the beef carpaccio and raw marinated beef (yukke, a personal favorite). They even have kimchi and similar pickled vegetables, which I find very tasty. Just dont expect the level of kick youre used to at a Korean place! Theyre all about umami here.There are decent soups and side dishes like bibimbap as well if you want variety. Ive yet to try their soju drinks, but theyve got an assortment of fruity options, including red grape soju, that look colorful and promising. Their almond jelly dessert is a really refreshing way to end your meal.The restaurant is cozy and warm with red booth seats and grills built into the table all around. Service is also usually pretty fast moving as theyre trying to keep up with their neverending wait-list. One of the better Japanese BBQ places near Irvine, but expect to pay a premium that you may not be used to with other types of barbeque. If youre more about volume over quality, youll want to go elsewhere. With that said, Anjin a good option to switch things up for a date night or hangout with friends.
Seiwa Market
3151 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
Seiwa Market provides a user-friendly, affordable, and unique grocery store experience. If you want some pre-made sushi, assortment of Japanese treats/candies, and great prices on meats and produce you have found the place.Although Seiwa certainly caters to tastebuds attuned to Asian cuisine, outsiders are very welcome. The staff is as diverse as the city of Costa Mesa and they are helpful in guiding you to the products youre looking for, even if the labels are in a language you dont understand.Deals abound at this market! You can often find packs of meats, great produce, and noodles/grains for 50-70% less than at other mainstream grocers. Personally, I like picking up Yam Noodles for 89 cents to $1.18, baby bok choy (3 for $1.60 or so), and packages of freshly prepared sushi for $3.99-$6.99 each. Candies, Asian beverages- snacks, and baked goods are also available throughout the store and there are always deals on a variety of those items. There are also things like bowls, cups, glasses, plastic containers, and chopstick sets to add to your kitchen drawers and cabinets.Once youve visited a couple times, youll come back again and again--like me!
Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai - Costa Mesa
891 Baker St B21, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States
Came here with great expectations based on large amounts of raving reviews.To preface this, I am comparing Kitakata to the other ramen places that I have been to. I have been to many of the ramen places in the area, including, Shin Sen Gumi, Santouka, Yamadaya, ect. Though I personally prefer the tonkatsu broth for its rich and creamy qualities, I also like shio, and shoyu broths for their lighter tastes. So I understand that there are many different varieties of ramen.Personally, I found that the shio broth at Kitakata ramen was very mediocre. It was overly salty and lacked any true flavoring. When compared to the broth that you get at Santouka ramen, this falls way short. It tastes like a very basic broth seasoned only with salt and possibly mirin or kombu. Not only that but it was overly salty. It really took away from the rest of the dish. Secondly, their actual ramen noodles themselves were very overdone. They were soft to a point of breaking in your chopsticks and seemed to be overcooked. Remind you, this is how the ramen was like when we first got it, before we even started eating. Finally, I ordered the menma bamboo shoots as a side and they just dumped a truck load onto the bowl. The ratio of menma to noodles was 1:1.One good thing I do have to say about them is that they do their Char Sui very well and it was extremely tender and tasty.When compared to other ramen places, I do not think Kitakata is good. Even as a stand alone restaurant, I do not think it is worth it to wait here to eat. Personally, I still think Santouka is best ramen place outside of LA.