Caló Kitchen + Tequila

Can you dine in without making a reservation? Thinking of Mother's Day at 11:00 for party of 4.?

Good afternoon, Ricci! We do not require reservations, and will be accepting walk ins on Sunday, on a first come, first serve basis!…

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Is this business dog friendly?

Unless it's a service dog, no.

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Do you have outdoor seating? I have a small puppy. Can I bring her with me. Thanks

Hi J.A., Thank you for reaching out to us! While we welcome service animals in accordance with ADA…

Do they have Happy hour?

No, not advertised on any of their menus or website.

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Do you offer takeout?

Yes they do

What is the additional fee to booking the private room. Is there a food and beverage minimum or the amount of people to seat and dine there?

No additional cost , I had a partyy of 12 in there.

Any corckage fee?

I don't know but most upscale places do have one. Best to call them. Enjoy this place because it's very good.

Do they have any non alcoholic beer and cocktail options? Asking for a friend!

Yes! And any cocktail can be made without the alcohol too

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Do they have taco Tuesday specials?

No they don't

Do they have a happy hour?

They do not have a happy hour.

Can they accommodate a gluten allergy?

yes they can

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Ruin Bar

Fun little quirky bar with a lot of eclectic decor where you can enjoy some really novel drinks…read more Went here on a Saturday night and although there is a long line to get drinkservice was still very good despite the amount of people that were there. I ordered the halo halo and was not disappointed by the garnishes and was impressed by the amount of work involved in making that one drink.

A very special bar, from the drinks to the decor. I really like that they are open during the day…read moreand also late at night, with mixed indoor and outdoor seating (though the outdoor seating is a bit worn). Vibes are always good. If you have some time while browsing The Lab during the day, I recommend stopping by for a drink! It's also nice to include in your barhopping itinerary in the evening since there are a number of breweries around too. I've had mixed experiences with the bartenders. Luckily, the gentleman manning the bar during my most recent visit was very friendly. Drinks are always great. I've tried a variety of drinks from the menu here, but my favorites are: -Love in Drunk, a lovely cocktail with cucumber and grapefruit flavors that create a fresh watermelon taste when mixed together -Bee's Knees, short but strong and sweet -London Mule, very herbal thanks to the gin and very refreshing

Old fashion. House bourbon. Better than anywhere else.

Coconut pineapple peach shots. Phenomenal.

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Outside patio

VOX Kitchen & Bar - South Coast Plaza

I've been to the Vox Kitchen in Fountain Valley, so I was excited to see how this one fared. I was…read moresurprised at the amount of space they have, with a small patio outside of their storefront, the interior seating, and an outdoor seating area. We checked in with our reservation at opening hours and were seated pretty quickly. Service here is just as good as the other location; quick, attentive, and friendly. We ordered the saltado fries with filet mignon and garlic noodles with grilled salmon. The saltado fries were delicious; full of flavor, very rich, fries were cooked well, and the filet mignon was just amazing. The garlic noodles were tasty as well, but I wouldn't get it with salmon; while the fish was fine, it resulted in the dish being a bit dry altogether. Prices and portions for both dishes were very reasonable. Vox continues to deliver great quality service, and I look forward to returning!

Vox exceeded my expectations. I had them a bit low, and this surprised me…read more We went here for happy hour and were seated at the indoor patio which is a bit separated from the rest of the restaurant which was confusing. Scallops: 9/10. Probably one of my favorite dishes here. The presentation was stunning and it was delicious. The scallops were good quality but a bit small. Garlic noodles with crispy salmon: 8/10. Good flavor for the garlic noodles. Crispy salmon was excellent. Noodles with wontons: 7.5/10. Also pretty good but small portion Lomo saltado: 7/10. I like Lomo saltado in general. It's a bit oily but I prefer it over the carne asada fries. That sauce is insane, but I don't think the dish would've been nearly as good without it. Carne asada fries: 6.5/10. Good but not as good as Lomo saltado. Some people preferred this though. Corn ribs: 9/10. One of the best dishes, to my surprise. Great presentation and great taste Pistachio dessert: 7/10. Seasonal and I don't remember the name but it was pretty good! Glad we ordered two for the table. Mocktail: 6/10. Sounded good but nothing standout. Overall, good but a bit expensive. The price wasn't very justified for the portions. Being separate from the rest of the restaurant was a bit weird. Our server was great though.

Half Shelled Scallops. Part of our new Spring/Summer menu at VOX Kitchen & Bar.

Carne Asada Fries. Part of our new Spring/Summer menu at VOX Kitchen & Bar.

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Corn Ribs

Speakeasy Sunday Bristol

5.0

(9 reviews)

0.7 mi

On a recent Sunday morning, I'd discovered this place (only open on Sundays) -- and determined we…read morewere heading there that evening! Enter the parking lot from Bake. Friendly, welcoming, professional, and attentive service. We ordered the following cocktails -- all beautifully presented, each with fine details (including clear ice cubes), passionately prepared, and with fun-&-uniquely different flavor profiles... unlike any cocktail we'd tasted: Last Cloud, $20 Warm Fade, $20 Kembu Highball, $18 Complimentary (warm) popcorn was appreciatively offered -- and refilled. I understand that the menu changes weekly. Dimly-lit, intimate bar with (if I'm not mistaken) 10 barstools at the bar top and limited seating (I seem to recall about 12) between high top and round tables. Fun to discover another speakeasy!

Such an amazing experience, easily the best cocktails I've had in years. The mixologist putting…read moretogether our drinks was like watching a true artist at work. He is very detail oriented, and you can definitely taste the complexity in the drinks. This speakeasy is open only on Sunday nights from 8pm-1am. There is a dj spinning music to set the mood. Parking is easy and right up front because most of the businesses are closed. I definitely recommend!

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Ruscello at Nordstrom

Honestly, eating at Nordstrom cafe is always a must for me where ever I go. Their cilantro lime…read moresalad is the best thing on the menu. Can't go wrong with their service - they're always nice, friendly and on point. The establishment is always clean and no funky smell. It's like your typical restaurant setting but in Nordstrom. I will always recommend coming here even if you're not shopping at Nordstrom.

Russello is an Italian inspired restaurant nested inside the Nordstrom…read more Ordered the following: Salmon Salad Fried Panko Breaded Chicken Salad Overall, the salads were pretty tasty and I enjoyed watching the half time show here! The service was friendly and quick.

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Habana

Had my first visit here a couple days ago. Great environment , great service and great food…read more (Although I wish the menu was a bit bigger ) still had plenty of choices to make it work though. Also the Asian lady who was manager was very welcoming

Lovely atmosphere, great food and amazing drinks. Our server Tenka was very helpful and very…read morefriendly.

Outdoor patio

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Habana costa mesa patio

Verdant

4.0

(33 reviews)

0.4 mi

We were going to OCMA so my friend suggested we dine at Verdant which is in the museum, or at least…read moreit used to be. We checked in at the museum front desk and my friend said we were going up to restaurant on the third floor. The person at the desk said they moved it and it was on the first floor now. She pointed over to what I knew to be the snack bar that had been there since opening. We went over and sure enough it was just drinks snacks and a few pre-packaged light meals. I have to guess they just quietly went away.

I'd like to start out by thanking our server, Christian for being very accommodating and helping us…read moreout on Sunday! I had made a reservation online for 6 people at 12:30pm and my reservation was accepted. When we got to the museum, we were told the restaurant was closing at 12:30pm and I felt very upset. Why was the reservation accepted then? When I got to Verdant, there was no one in sight. The restaurant was empty and there was 1 other party, but no staff. I actually ended up making my way near the kitchen, and that's where I found Christian, who appeared really busy. He explained that they had a wedding later that day and had to close at 1pm for set up. He still sat our party and was very kind, accommodating and helpful. He gave me a great tip and said when making cafe reservations, it's best to call ahead, because they do sometimes have event buy outs. As far as the ambiance, it is a really beautiful space. But, it was SO cold. It seemed like the AC was on full blast. The food was pretty good, but the menu seemed to change since I was there last.

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Setting up...

Kitsch Bar

Great ambience and drinks were great Prices are typical like…read moreany other bar~ Clean place too~ Came on a regular Monday night, had indie Spanish music going. Great spot to go if your looking for quiet night -hang out Also~ Shout out to Juan who gave great service and was very patient towards us

We love Kitsch Bar and have always had a good time here, which is why this was so disappointing…read more The bartender, Sofia, completely ruined the vibe for us. She was rude and came off really disrespectful, and at one point said things that felt degrading. It made my boyfriend so uncomfortable that he actually left and went outside just to get away from it. Instead of calming things down, she got more aggressive and tried to intimidate me and my friend into leaving. She straight up told us to go and wouldn't even let me finish my martini. I had a long week and just wanted to relax, and that moment felt so unnecessary and frustrating. We still love Kitsch Bar, but that experience with Sofia was not okay and definitely left a bad impression. Hopefully it's not something others have to deal with.

As the night went on Kitsch Bar proves to be the hot spot I've heard about and I agree!

View from my comfy booth listening to beats I can't stop moving to in my seat at Kitsch Bar.

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Looking at the dance floor and Bar before the night begins as we got here early. Beats are already kickin'.

The Great Room

4.3

(7 reviews)

0.2 mi

The great room is a restaurant within the Weston. It's got a casual but ups ale type vibe. I had…read morebreakfast there and it was on point. I had the classic American breakfast of eggs, bacon, hash browns and sourdough toast. The servers were attentive without being too present. I always appreciate that. I'd come back tomorrow if I was staying another night.

Brunch at The Great Room in Costa Mesa was such a classy casual vibe. The ambience feels modern and…read morerelaxed, and we had a lovely view of the fountain outside which made everything feel a little more elevated and serene. We ordered the Lox and Bagel with smoked salmon, capers, cream cheese, pickled red onions, fresh dill, and sun dried roasted tomatoes. The salmon was fresh and silky, and I loved the brightness from the pickled onions and dill. The roasted tomatoes added a nice depth of flavor. I also had the white crab white omelette with spinach and substituted the fruit for hash browns. The omelette was light and fluffy, and the crab added a subtle sweetness. The hash browns were crispy and satisfying. Cappuccinos were great, rich, smooth, and perfectly foamy. Just note they are nine dollars each, which feels a little steep, but they were well made. Service was pretty good overall, attentive and friendly without being overbearing. Overall, a solid four stars. Great atmosphere, quality brunch options, and a polished setting that feels perfect for a relaxed weekend catch up. I would come back for the vibes and the cappuccino.

Fire Table

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Pioneer

Innovation and reverence for the classics can coexist beautifully…read more Hidden inside Dick's Church in Costa Mesa, P10NEER is an intimate, space exploration-themed speakeasy with a vintage 1970s aesthetic, small sharable bites, and rotating seasonal menu. P10NEER reimagines traditional classic cocktails through inventive techniques (yay, SCIENCE), curated ingredients, and thoughtful twists to make each drink feel both nostalgic and a new adventure. The creativity and hospitality of the team at @pioneer.cm is out of this world. For an experience that goes beyond great beverages, P10NEER is well worth the journey. Place for quiet conversations with a plus one or a small group. Resy recommended. Walk-ins accepted. Save a seat at the bar for me! PS: New Mission! Special Summer Program premieres July 17 on the Dick's Church Patio VACATION by PIONEER: A 1970s backyard barbecue. Fridays & Saturdays, 4 PM to sundown through the end of August. More info via Instagram @vacation.pioneer

Gem in a very odd place! Came here on a random Saturday night with some good vibes. The place is…read morevery small and basically is full by 8PM. There is another section hidden behind a door or some sort that opens up a bit later into the night. People come here to chat and drink, so the turnover rate is slow. It's located inside a restaurant and conspicuously placed thru a random door in the hallway, so you might be confused when you get there. As for the drinks, I didn't actually drink myself that night but my friends ordered at least 10 drinks (some of them 3 by themselves), and they all said the drinks were pretty good. I mean, the drinks just kept coming. If you like to yap and drink, this would be the place.

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Cowboys and Poodles

Get ready to be transported into an old-timey disco cowboy & poodle wonderland. Just walk in, no…read moreneed for a reservation. The speakeasy was super cute and has fun spaces for you to enjoy your drink like a confession booth or a carriage! There were so many things to see in there and each little nook and cranny had its own personality and character. Drinks were great too! Everything that we had were full of flavor and strength. My favorite drink was the hibiscus vodka cocktail. Bar tenders were awesome and personable too. They also had intriguing mocktails too, friendly for those who don't drink. Will need to come back here whenever I'm in the area!

They say "big things come in small packages" and this speakeasy no exception…read more.. SUCH A VIBE WITH A WESTERN TWIST the cocktails will have you feeling buzzed in no time , plus the bartender are always on their A game. Simply love it here *sip*

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Habana

Lovely atmosphere, great food and amazing drinks. Our server Tenka was very helpful and very…read morefriendly.

Outdoor patio

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Habana costa mesa patio

Playa Mesa

I came here because of the great reviews, and I couldn't agree more with all of them! The service…read morewas great, as soon as we walked in the gentleman at the front were so welcoming, and our server was just as great! He was very attentive and funny. My mom did say she wished she had more carne asada because it was so good. My Birria plate was so juicy, along with my michelada that was made just as I like it! I would definitely come back. This would be a good place to come for a birthday, as it is a beautiful restaurant.

Playa Mesa has a great atmosphere with beautiful aesthetics. In the evening, the open windows…read morecreate a nice breeze, though they do let a few flies in. The hostess was friendly, and our server was funny and kind. He was a little less attentive as it got busier, but the staff worked well as a team, so we never had to wait for refills or anything we needed. Parking in the back can be a little tight. The birria tacos were packed with flavor, and I loved the inside-out cheese crust. My husband's fajitas were flavorful, although the chicken was a little overdone. The guacamole was excellent, especially with the pepita seeds adding great texture. Overall, we enjoyed the flavorful food, service, and atmosphere. We'd definitely come back!

Weekend Brunch served Sat - Sun, 9am-2pm.

Margarita flights!

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Seasons 52

Always changing always new, this is one of the best places…read morein the OC to eat. Fantastic atmosphere, great service, always good. Five stars all the way.

Good food, great service, beautiful restaurant!…read more Stopped by for dinner with the wife to spend a gift card she got and were very satisfied. I'll start off by saying thank you Grayson! He was such a great server, on top of refills, clearing the table, getting orders in, checking on food that hadn't come out yet, and awesome conversation. He made the evening perfect. The dining area is on the dark side, quite intimate honestly, and very upscale feeling. There's a large bar area too if you're just looking for a couple drinks. We started with a plate of artichoke hearts, radishes, celery, preserved lemon hummus, and olives. It was very good and a nice start to the meal. Also ordered the caramelized brussels sprouts which were good. The best starter however were the lump crab and shrimp stuffed mushrooms with creamed spinach and panko bread crumbs. My picture does not do them justice, they were perfect! Very tasty, a slight crunch, and quite hot right out of the oven. I got the cedar plank salmon with French green beans and asparagus. My wife got the 6oz filet mignon with the same veggies. The salmon was cooked perfectly, still juicy inside, very hot, and just the right amount of flakey. The filet was also cooked perfectly, seasoned well, and tender. All our veggies were tasty and fresh. They have a ton of cocktails, wine, and beer to choose from. The drinks we got were made well and delicious. I will absolutely go back often especially to try their other seasonal menus.

Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops served with broccolini and mascarpone risotto.

Cedar Plank-roasted Salmon with seasonal vegetables, marble potatoes and dill-mustard sauce

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Seasons 52 has a wide selection of varietals on our wine menu

Highball

4.9

(44 reviews)

0.6 mi

Super cool that such bars are finally opening up here. Bringing a bit of Japanese bar culture to…read moreIrvine/OC. Free parking in the lot. No reservations, you walk in, put yourself in the wait list n wait. This is the only thing I disagree with. Because for people who are on time and want to get to places, it is such an absolute waste of time to loiter in the lot waiting. The menu is long and diverse. I recommend almost all of their specialty drinks we tried, esp the clarified yogurt one. Like the name suggests, they have a dedicated highball section, which is a great opening if you're here for the long game. I'm hoping they refresh their menu seasonally because I'd like to visit often and it'll keep things interesting

Highball reached out about my last review hoping to make good but my friends and I chose to pay our…read moreown way for a completely authentic second look and the service was significantly better. We were warmly greeted, given snacks, and offered a welcome drink because the bar was running a bit slow. The moody atmosphere is great, making for a much-improved experience for our group of three. We each had two drinks, along 2 of us opting to try their tea options, but the cocktail menu still feels like a collection of good attempts that miss the mark: * **Sweet Potato:** Very dense and heavy; it leaned much more into intense sesame than sweet potato, making even half a drink tough to finish. * **The Daifuku:** An interesting concept, but the foam needs work to either lighten the texture or make the flavor more pronounced. * **The Melon Bar:** Tasted good, but the prosciutto garnish needs to be reimagined as it isn't very attractive.

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96 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Jay H.

2 years ago

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Calo Mexican Restaurant in Costa Mesa, where I experienced exceptional service from Mark. From the moment I walked in, Mark's warm greeting set the tone for a memorable dining experience. He went above and beyond to ensure that my dining companion and I felt welcome and attended to throughout our meal. Mark's attentiveness to our needs was unparalleled. He provided insightful recommendations from the menu, guiding us to select dishes that perfectly suited our tastes. His knowledge of the cuisine and ingredients showcased his dedication to delivering a personalized dining experience. Throughout the meal, Mark demonstrated impeccable timing, ensuring that our drinks were replenished promptly and our dishes were served with care. He anticipated our needs before we even had to ask, exhibiting a level of professionalism and hospitality that truly elevated our dining experience. Beyond his exceptional service, Mark's genuine warmth and friendliness left a lasting impression. He engaged in genuine conversation, making us feel like valued guests rather than just customers. His enthusiasm for the restaurant and its offerings was infectious, further enhancing our enjoyment of the meal. In addition to the delicious food and inviting atmosphere, Mark's exemplary service was the highlight of our visit to Calo Mexican Restaurant. His dedication to providing an outstanding dining experience exemplifies the commitment to excellence that sets this establishment apart. I highly recommend dining at Calo Mexican Restaurant and experiencing the exceptional service provided by Mark firsthand. read more

Angelessa F.

3 years ago

I was thrilled to visit this restaurant due to its appealing interior, hoping that the food would match the overall experience. Unfortunately, my expectations were not met. I decided to try the Chile verde, but to my disappointment, it arrived cold on top and only slightly warm when I tasted the chicken. Additionally, the sauce lacked authenticity and tasted as if it came from a can. However, I must commend the exceptional service provided by my waiter, Lalo. He was attentive and observant, ensuring that I had no complaints in that department. When I informed him about the temperature issue with my food, both he and the restaurant manager promptly took action. They were quick to rectify the situation, prioritizing my order and even bringing me a salad to enjoy while I waited for my new dish. The service I received was truly outstanding, scoring a perfect 10/10. The restaurant itself holds great potential, and I genuinely appreciate the consideration and attentiveness shown by the staff. It is with a heavy heart that I have to admit, though, that the food fell short of my expectations. In an attempt to salvage my dining experience, I opted for the chicken enchiladas as my replacement dish. Unfortunately, the sauce still lacked authenticity and tasted like it was straight from a can. Furthermore, the chicken was disappointingly dry. Despite my love for the atmosphere and the exceptional service, I regretfully won't be dining here again due to the food not meeting my standards. read more

Kristy N.

Elite 26

1717

573

2658

1 year ago

Caló Kitchen + Tequila is an absolute gem in Costa Mesa! I've dined here many times in different settings--business casual lunches, family outings, and date nights--and every experience has been top-notch. The vibe is warm and stylish, and the service is always attentive and welcoming. Let's talk food--every dish is packed with bold, vibrant flavors and clearly made with care. The chips and salsa trio is the perfect way to start (the salsa is SO fresh), and their guacamole never misses. I always have to order an extra of their Ahi Ceviche--it's that fresh and delicious. Some of my absolute favorites include the Mushroom Quesadillas--Mexico City style, fried to perfection with a rich umami flavor--and the Smokey Caesar Salad, which has the perfect mix of adobo dressing, bacon, crispy onions, avocado, and more. For lunch, my go-to is the Caló Combination--I love being able to mix and match my favorites with a side of their Mexican corn or rice and beans. For dinner, I like to indulge in their upscale entrées like the Filet Mignon with tequila cream sauce and jalapeño scalloped potatoes, the flavorful Prime Ribeye with morita salsa and crispy onions, or their sizzling Chicken Fajitas. Caló never disappoints. The food, the drinks, the atmosphere--it all keeps me coming back. Always a great time, no matter the occasion! read more

Leslie R.

2 years ago

So disappointed! I called to make reservations for my grandmas 88th birthday dinner. There was 3 of us. I was told no reservations were available but could come in and it's first come first serve. So we went. We walked in and there was a hostess, whose name I did not get but wore a type of makeup, had the absolute worst attitude and told us it was a 2 1/2 hour wait. I had just called prior to us driving there and was told that there was hardly any wait. There were probably half of the tables completely empty. my grandma can't stand very long, considering she is 88 so there was a couple who stood up at the bar and let her have a seat. We ordered some drinks and none of the drinks available that we wanted. The bar tender was miserable. To be honest, we had come previously and it was great however, when you can't even order drinks and the hostess has RBF , it makes for a horrible experience. Since we couldn't have drinks that we wanted and had a so-called 2 1/2 hour wait with, like I said half of the tables empty, we ended up leaving and properly celebrating her birthday at a different restaurant who was thrilled to have us. After calling ahead of time, having such horrible service and the hostess being so unfriendly, we will not be back. read more

Ann T.

Elite 19

242

5600

1 year ago

After five years away from restaurant dining, I couldn't have asked for a better experience. From the moment I sat down, the attention to detail and thoughtful accommodations stood out. To start, the complimentary, separate basket of gluten-free tortilla chips was a delightful surprise for our gluten intolerant guest in our party. Knowing they were prepared in a dedicated fryer gave us peace of mind, and their crisp, golden perfection made them nearly impossible to stop eating. Paired with a rich, smoky bean dip and a fresh pico de gallo, it was a fantastic opening to the meal. For the main course, I ordered the Pork and Pineapple Tacos, and they were nothing short of spectacular. The homemade corn tortillas were warm and tender, offering the perfect base for the flavorful combination of marinated pork and juicy, sweet pineapple, garnished with fresh cilantro and onions. Served with a side of fragrant red rice, creamy refried beans, and guacamole, every bite was balanced and satisfying. The overall experience was far better than I had imagined for my first meal out in years. The quality of the food, the attention to gluten-free preparation, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere made it truly memorable. I'll definitely be back! read more

Tanya W.

2 years ago

Spent a delightful Tuesday date night at Calo, discovered thanks to Yelp's 'Hot and New' search. This gem is conveniently located right by the entrance shared with Boudin We kicked off with a Mexican-style quesadilla that primed our palates for what was to come. For our mains, we chose the pork and pineapple tacos and the short rib enchiladas. Each dish brought its own unique flair to the table. A special shoutout goes to the Chips & Salsa with Beans -- hands down, the best I've ever had! The chips were exceptionally thin and crispy, and the dips were bursting with flavor, making it hard not to fill up right away! Although the pork and pineapple tacos were not quite what I expected, mistaking the pulled pork for Al pastor, the flavor was still enjoyable. Realizing I was less than thrilled, our server Cassie, attentive and empathetic, surprised us with a plate of beautiful churros to make up for the taco mishap, which was a delightful touch and was soooo good! Calo not only impressed us with its food but also with its thoughtful service. We're already looking forward to our next visit to try more dishes! Highly recommend for a heartwarming and satisfying dining experience. read more

Adriana O.

3 years ago

This restaurant in South Coast Plaza is a true gem. The ambiance is inviting with a perfect blend of modern design and Mexican charm. The food is outstanding, with fresh and flavorful dishes like tableside guacamole and delicious tacos. We ordered shrimp taquitos, shrimp ceviche, and beef queso tacos for the appetizers and they were out of this world! For the tampiquena de carne asada, the meat was tender and flavorful. We ordered the shrimp & crab enchiladas and the tomatillo salsa tasted so close to true authentic home cooking. The flan at this restaurant is a heavenly treat, boasting a velvety-smooth custard that practically melts in your mouth. The tequila selection is impressive, and the knowledgeable staff ensures you find the perfect match. Our waitress, Alexis, was so helpful in helping us choose which tequilas to try from the Tour de Mexico tequila cart. Our friend ordered a cilantro cucumber margarita, which I highly recommend as it was delightfully crisp and refreshing. The attention to detail and impeccable service make this restaurant a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable Mexican dining experience. read more

Cristina C.

8 months ago

I want to give a huge shoutout to Calo for an unforgettable dining experience! From the moment we walked in, everything felt top-notch -- truly a five-star experience all around. First, our waiter Joey absolutely deserves recognition. He was incredibly nice, provided excellent customer service, and was so attentive throughout the entire meal. He made sure we were comfortable and had everything we needed, and we really appreciated his kindness and professionalism. I also want to recognize their general manager, J.P. He personally checked on us multiple times and made sure we were well taken care of. You can really see he takes pride in the restaurant and in making every guest feel valued. The food was amazing -- full of flavor, fresh, and perfectly prepared. And I HAVE to mention their margaritas... they are soooo good! Definitely a must-try. The ambiance was beautiful and welcoming, with a great vibe that made our meal even better. Overall, Calo exceeded our expectations in every way. Outstanding service, delicious food, amazing drinks, and a fantastic atmosphere. Highly recommend and will definitely be coming back! read more

Loren E.

1 year ago

We recently hosted a large corporate dinner at Calo, and I cannot say enough good things about our experience! From start to finish, everything was handled with such care and professionalism. The food was absolutely delicious -- every dish that came out was perfectly prepared, fresh, and beautifully presented. Our entire party kept raving about how great everything tasted! What really made the night special, though, was the outstanding service. Our servers were attentive, friendly, and made sure everyone was well taken care of throughout the evening. A special shoutout to Courtney, the event planner, who truly went above and beyond to make sure our group had an amazing time. She was incredibly accommodating, responsive to every question, and made the planning process seamless. From helping us with menu selections to organizing the space perfectly for our group, she handled everything with such grace and attention to detail. If you're looking for a place with amazing food, top-notch service, and a team that genuinely cares about your experience, I highly recommend Calo. We'll definitely be back! read more

James S.

161

4 months ago

We came here right when they opened for lunch, and the restaurant was still mostly empty. Despite that, we were seated in a booth section right next to the kitchen, separated from the main dining area. There were no other customers seated there at the time, and some staff members were sitting nearby on break. At first, we tried not to think too much of it. But as more customers arrived after us, they were consistently seated in the main dining room, while we remained stuck in the back section. Only after the main dining area started filling up did the restaurant begin seating other guests near us. As Asian customers, this felt deeply uncomfortable and hard not to question. We are not making accusations lightly, but the way we were singled out for seating while other guests were welcomed into the main dining room left a very negative impression. It did not feel respectful, and it certainly did not feel equal. Management should take this seriously. No customer should leave wondering whether they were treated differently because of how they look. read more

Madison G.

1 year ago

Caló is hands down one of my favorite spots to dine at in OC. Tonight really proved that to me. I am a frequent diner at Caló. The vibes are always so fun, the food is always so delicious and the service they provide is alwaysssss, without a doubt, top notch. With that being said I chose to dine here for my big 21st birthday. A specific standout I wanted to mention is Mark. Mark went above and beyond to make my family and I feel so welcomed and special. He has great taste in recommendations, charisma like no other, and was on top of literally every single thing, there was never a moment where any of us needed anything because he already had it there for us. The staff was so kind enough to introduce themselves to our table and wish me a happy birthday, they also all wrote me a customized happy birthday card which I found to be so sweet. Never has any restaurant ever done that for me before. Seriously I couldn't thank Mark and the rest of the staff at Caló enough for making my birthday so memorable. I will absolutely be back ! read more

Jasmine S.

1 year ago

I recently had an amazing dining experience with my girl friends the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The food was absolutely delicious--authentic flavors with a perfect balance of spice and freshness. But what really stood out was the service. Our server, Mark, was outstanding. He was friendly, attentive, and made sure our glasses were never empty. Mark took the time to recommend some excellent dishes based on our preferences, and his suggestions were spot-on. His enthusiasm made the meal even more enjoyable, and he truly made us feel like valued guests. I also received a very thoughtful card from the servers, it was a cherry on top. Overall, this was one of the best dining experiences I've had in a while, and I'll definitely be returning! Highly recommend it! read more

Whitney T.

1 year ago

We came to Calo for my sister's birthday on Easter, and honestly, it was such a special experience from start to finish. The vibe of the place is beautiful--warm, stylish, and perfect for a celebration. The food was absolutely delicious, every dish we tried was carefully crafted. But what really made the night unforgettable was our server, Mina. She was the sweetest, most attentive server I've ever had. So thoughtful and genuinely kind--you could tell she really cared about making our experience great. She even wrote my sister a hand-written birthday note, which was so special! It's rare to come across service like that. The whole staff was lovely, but Mina truly made the night. We'd honestly come back just to be in her section again. 10/10--highly recommend. read more

Charlene C.

1 year ago

A Night to Remember! We had such an incredible experience at this restaurant! The food was absolutely amazing--every dish was flavorful, beautifully presented, and truly memorable. But what really made the night special was the outstanding service we received from Nealie. She went above and beyond to make our birthday celebration unforgettable. From the sweet note she wrote on our birthday card to staying with us while we sang and took pictures, her warmth and thoughtfulness made us feel so cared for. Nealie's kindness and energy brought so much joy to our night--she's a true gem! We'll definitely be back, not just for the amazing food, but for the exceptional hospitality that made this celebration so meaningful. read more

Lusine K.

127

158

2 years ago

Calo Kitchen offers a vibrant dining experience with a beautiful ambiance that truly enhances the meal. The service was good, adding to the overall positive atmosphere. The steak fajitas were flavorful, though the onions could have used a bit more grilling for that perfect char. The mushroom taquitos were delicious, but the avocado topping made them a bit soggy for my taste. The ribeye enchiladas had great flavor but were on the dry side; I would have loved a bit more sauce to elevate them. As far as the drinks go, the strawberry jalapeño margarita was a standout, absolutely amazing! The Fuego drink with mezcal was enjoyable but leaned a bit too sweet for my liking. Overall, a lovely spot with great potential! read more

Dalilah M.

2 years ago

Absolutely fantastic experience! The food was incredible--each dish was bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The drinks were equally impressive, with a well-curated selection that perfectly complemented the meal. The ambience of the restaurant was spot-on, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere that made the evening truly special. A special shoutout to our server, Jake. As a server myself, I can appreciate the level of expertise and attentiveness he demonstrated throughout the night. Jake was knowledgeable about the menu, offered excellent recommendations, and ensured that our dining experience was top-notch. Highly recommend this place! MY FAVORITE DATE NIGHT SPOT HANDS DOWN! read more

Sarah B.

407

498

391

2 years ago

Calo Kitchen is truly a gem! From start to finish, everything here is exceptional. The ambiance is fantastic--such a fun vibe with thoughtful details throughout the restaurant that make it feel special. The food is phenomenal; you have to try the guac, chips, and salsa. They even bring out beans for dipping, which are absolutely to die for--and that's just the appetizer! All the margaritas are delicious (they have many flavors to try), and the entrees were equally impressive, with generous portions that offer great value and high-quality ingredients. To top it all off, the service is outstanding. Calo Kitchen has definitely earned a spot on my favorites list, and I can't wait to come back! read more

Lisa Y.

1 month ago

Visiting from LA and the girlies wanted Margs and a bartender I know recommended Calo. I was told that the tequila selection is top tier and I love a reposado espresso martini. we had such a fun server who really made the lunch enjoyable. She was so quick and thoughtful, even continuing to refill our salsa and beans. I do love the little outdoorsy vibe while not being sun soaked as well, but I have to say, maybe it was the recommendations or the bubbly personality, but Ri was soooo good and helpful. I haven't had a server this amazing in a LONG time. So glad I took the chance to stop in because Calo may be an everytime stop even if it's just for a drink o read more

Brea C.

2 years ago

Ok first off don't use the valet there is plenty of parking and other ways to get around it. The decor on the inside is great super reminiscent of places like Sevilla, Javier's, sol etc. think high end Mexican restaurants. However couple of odd things all of our drinks were handed to us from our servers hands gross. And for the rest of the night this was pretty much the norm. The food was just alright you would think for this price point the food would be perfect however their tortillas were lukewarm as was the rest of our items once we finally got them. The drinks were the only saving grace. Hence the 2 stars. I'd skip dinner and just do drinks next time read more

Maggie R.

218

280

1 year ago

I had a truly memorable experience at Caló. Not only was the food absolutely delicious - fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented, but the drinks were just as impressive, with a creative and well-balanced cocktail menu that perfectly complemented the meal. What really set this place apart, though, was the personal touch. The staff went above and beyond to make our visit special. My cousin and I celebrated my bday n engagement. So to our surprise and delight, they gave us a handwritten postcard congratulating me on our engagement. That small gesture meant the world to us. It's rare to find a place that delivers both. Excellent food and service. read more

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Caló Kitchen + Tequila - cocktailbars - Updated July 2026

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•$$

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4.2

(699 reviews)

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