Husband made reservations and it's a good thing! The restaurant wasn't too big and if it were busy, you'd definitely need reservations. They do validate parking. It's great for a date night. We got the empanadas as an appetizer and it was really good. I got the lomo saltado. Only comes with 4-5 pieces of fries so we order an extra side of yucca fries. The lomo salad was great. A bit too salty for my taste though. My husband got the aji pasta w/filet mignon. He said it was really good. The portions were pretty good. We were full after our meal. It was a bit pricey for dinner. It came out to over $100+. read more

Costa Peruvian Restaurant is my go-to spot whenever I'm craving Peruvian food. I've been here multiple times and it never disappoints. The food is always flavorful, fresh, and consistently good every single visit. I love that I can always count on them for quality whether I'm in the mood for something light or a full meal, everything hits. The atmosphere is comfortable and the staff are always friendly, which makes me keep coming back. You literally can't go wrong with anything here. The whole menu is the special of the day or night! The pisco sours are amazing here. I love getting the one of Maracuya. I get the Ceviche Mixto which has raw fish cooked shrimp and calamari. The Causas come with 2 you can either get two chicken or two tuna or one of each. You can ever go wrong with the empanadas or the papa Rellenas. I'm not a big salad person but I love the salad that they offer I usually ask if they can add chicken (with an extra charge of course). Mmmm now for the entrées....... You ask what's my favorite out of the whole menu. It depends what day are we on? I'm a big Peruvian that loves her Lomo Saltado but I like getting the Lomo Mar Y Tierra. It's like a Lomo Salado they just add shrimp to it. A little surf and turf yum! Arroz Con Mariscos..... it's like a paella, it's green rice because they marinated it with dark beer and cilantro sauce with all the seafood in it. Pescado a lo macho...... it's a little spicy if you can't do spiciness. It's a Bronzino without the bone with different sea food in a delicious red sauce and a side of white rice. Out of ALL the pasta my all time favorite here is Tallarin A La Huancaina. It's a really good creamy yellow sauce and on top they put Lomo. To me it's literally like having pasta and Lomo Saltado with out the fries or the side of white rice. Arroz Chaufa...... Peruvian fried rice. I love fried rice. I usually get chicken with it. Aji De Gallina...... I'm picky with this dish because I only eat it when my sister makes it BUT here.... Yum! I love the one they make here. I can keep going on about the food here. Ohhh can't forget the Cancha that they serve you right when you get seated. It's a corn that they fry there at the restaurant. It's literally so addicting. You can't forget the dessert. They have 2, the first one is Crema volteará, it's a baked custard, kind of like flan. I'm not a flan person but this one I would eat every time I eat here. And they have Peruvian Alfajores, it's a powder cookie with like caramel inside, and there's 5 in the order. Big shout out to all the servers! If you're looking for a reliable Peruvian restaurant that actually delivers every time, this is it! read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Pisco Sour de Maracuya - sooooo good! - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

We tried Costa after seeing it on Instagram, and overall it was a solid experience, just not somewhere I'm rushing back to. The highlight of the night was definitely the fried seafood appetizer, super flavorful and cooked really well. That was easily the standout dish for us. The ceviche, though, leaned a bit too sour for my taste, and while my pasta had a really nice curry flavor, the filet steak that came with it was unfortunately pretty chewy. Service was great... the staff was friendly and attentive, which always makes a difference. Overall I'd give it a 7/10. Glad we tried it, but probably wouldn't go out of my way to return. read more

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I always have the best experience here. This is my third time at this restaurant.The Bartender always serves up amazing drinks and it's my go to place to bring my friends. Also, love that it's a cute small restaurant that has a parking garage attached for easy access. Can't wait til the next time to try some new dishes read more

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Came here with my family to celebrate a birthday and unfortunately didn't have the best experience. :( It's a small space by South Coast Plaza/Segerstrom Theater, so we made a reservation a few weeks in advance. They validate parking in the nearby parking garage which is nice. Our server was nice, but the service wasn't anything super exceptional. She did not check on us much but did bring out our food in good time which was appreciated. The food here is just okay, which is disappointing because everything was pretty pricey and portions were small for what was being charged. The calamari was bland and undersalted, the empanadas were a bit dry, and the salad was good but not worth the $15 (basic ingredients, no protein). I ordered the Tallarin Verde + Filete Mignon, and the pasta sauce was good but the filet mignon was underseasoned and a bit tasteless. Others ordered the Lomo Saltado, which was very salty. The restaurant kept flipping back and forth from very warm to very chilly, so it was kind of annoying to have to keep putting my sweater on and off throughout the meal, but maybe there was something going on with the AC? There was also an unexplained $10 surcharge on the bill. We just paid it to get out of the restaurant, but I kind of wish that we had asked about it, so that's on us. Sadly a disappointing experience. I hope it was just a fluke because this seems like it would be a nice place. read more

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Service Charge. After we received our check, and gave our card, an additional charge was added AFTER the fact. My husband told me to let it go since it wasn't a lot (about $6). But, I wish I said something. It felt so sneaky. I was bummed because the food and service were amazing! We got the check,looked it over- I gave my card and saw the "surcharge" added in when I needed to sign. The receipt didn't say anything about the surcharge and neither did the menu (only mention was 20% gratuity for a party of 6+) and it was just my husband and I. Again. Sooo bummed! Papa Relleno 7/10 Lomo Saltado 9/10 Mar y Tierra Salgado 9/10 Carajillo 10/10 Dama Pisco 10/10 Flan 9/10 We sat in quieter spot away from where it was jam packed. There was music so it was nice. read more

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I was looking for a place to dine with my colleague, a Nicaraguan guy from Georgia, who enjoys food and had already been to a few places in the area. Never been here, but it looked good and there was free parking in the structure next door. We ordered the fried seafood appetizer which was delicious. I had one of the fish dishes and he had the other. I loved the hot sauces too. My colleague loved the food and said that Peruvian is very similar to Nicaraguan. I would absolutely love to come back. They validate parking and it's a great spot! I;ve only ever been to Inka Mama's which didn't really impress me and I've had a few lomo saltados, which I'm not a huge fan of, so I'm glad they offer much more than that. read more

So, this is where you want to eat. Order the empanadas and the lo macho (or a steak), get a handmade drink or two, enjoy your friends or solitude w a sidebar of excellent service and feel like you are out for a real, time-stopping dinner. Excellent food. Quality without pretense. And something more interesting than your usual spots. read more

We came here for a girls night before watching a broadway musical. This was walking distance to Segerstrom Center of Arts. The corner location is convenient and very easy to find. I was surprised that the interior was smaller than expected. Thank goodness we had a reservation. I started off with a glass of pisco sour and ceviche for appetizer. The pisco sour was so good I was tempted to order a second one! The entree I got had a little of everything. You really can't go wrong with pescado a lo macho. It had branzino, calamari, scallop, shrimp, and mussel in a creamy sauce with rice. The sauce wasn't overpowering. All the elements perfectly complemented each other. The server was warm and friendly. We had a memorable dining experience! read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Pescado A Lo Macho - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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What an amazing spot, so glad my husband found it! We were going to Segerstrom and this spot is basically on campus; you just park once and you're set! We sat at the bar and I'm glad we did. Hector was the best! His service, generosity (making my husband mocktails), and conversation were 10/10!!! I'd love to come back and sit at the bar if he's there. Oh and of course the food was phenomenal. The tuna tartare was sweet and so good! The lomo saltada on pasta was great! Loved the papas too. We will be back! read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Papas Rellenas - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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They start by giving the table a bowl of these yummy, crunchy ?corn? things tat are just plain old addictive! Our service was perfect, and the food was great. We ordered beef bowls and they were huge. We weren't that hungry, but we ate all of it because it was just too tasty to leave anything in the bowl. read more

Conveniently located right next to south coast plaza. There's a parking garage attached the restaurant and they do validate parking. There's food was great. The arroz chaufa (fried rice) was my favorite. The flavor of the ceviche mixto was great. I loved the sweet potato in it but which the fish was cut a little smaller because it was a little chewy. read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Arroz Chaufa - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Another unforgettable dining experience at Costa! Amazing service by their staff , even considering the fact that it was a very busy Saturday evening. Jose the bartender never fails to amaze me with his specialty drinks. Always surprises with a delicious drink- and the presentation is always on point! At this point, anything and everything on their menu is a hit in my book. Seriously though- please do yourself a favor and come check them out. I will never stop raving about this gorgeous restaurant and their amazing Peruvian cuisine! read more

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Great intro to true Peruvian food! I've always loved passing by this restaurant, but I was excited to finally go in with my bf for dinner. It was quite busy and cozy. Loved the vibes. We ordered the lomo saltado, the yucca fries, the ceviche, and the risotto. I loved the risotto and the ceviche. The ceviche was so flavorful and tangy and different from any ceviche I've tried before. The risotto was a lovely creamy texture and seasoned so well with great shrimps. I loved that it wasn't a heavy meal that risotto normally is. The saltado and the yucca were both ok, but they didn't blow me away. I think the meat could've been a little more tender and stronger in flavor. The yucca fries were nice to snack on, but I would order a different starter next time. I'd love to come back and try more! read more

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Amazing food and service. Had dinner here last night for a friend's birthday. It's a small restaurant so I imagine a reservation is always necessary. I really enjoyed my meal and drink. The waiter was really nice. Parking is in the nearby parking garage. They will validate although when I left the bars were up. read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Lomo Saltado with chicken - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Let's start with parking. There's a parking structure right behind this place. From what I've read, they validate for 2 hours which is a good thing. This place touts itself as having Peruvian cuisine. I ordered the Lomo Saltado and an Apple Salad. Those dishes were both pretty good although it is definitely more on the contemporary side as their name mentions. Surprisingly, this place looks much larger on the outside. It is actually a pretty intimate restaurants with limited seating. read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Green Mix Apple Salad - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I always come here whenever I'm in the area & craving Peruvian food! Their brick of fries on the lomo saltado is perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. And my go-to, the Pescado A Lo Macho, always hits the spot! Service is lovely, thanks to Andrea. read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Pescado A Lo Macho - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I tried this Peruvian restaurant that was near the hotel I was staying at for a work function. The food transports you back to Peru. The flavors transfer from the country. Although the staff was getting ready for a big party to come in, the service was spectacular and attentive. I sat at the bar and ordered their old fashion and as well their chicha morada that is a staple drink made of purple corn. I ordered the lomo saltado that was cooked to perfection. They provide with sauces for extra request upon request. Both food and restaurant are beautifully presented. read more

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What an amazing experience!! My wife and I went for the first time to try it and we loved it, amazing service, delicious food, and great atmosphere. We recommend this place and food 100%. Great place to have dinner with your significant other. Our first time trying Peruvian food and definitely liked it. We will come again. -Carlos Munoz read more

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The food is delicious, the service is excellent, the ambiance is very cozy, and the Flan was perfect . What else can one ask for? read more

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We had a wonderful dinner, great service. Yvette was lovely, she explained and suggested menu items. Food was great lots of flavor and the purple drink was delicious. read more

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Absolutely delicious! A hidden jam for sure in the heart of Santa Ana, Orange County. Good vibes good music the food is exquisite.

Both causas are amazing. Couldnt decide which was better. I liked the texture of the chicken and I like the flavor of the tuna. My friend got arroz con mariscos and he loved it. I ordered ceviche mixto. Yum read more

First time here and already planning our next visit! The food was absolutely delicious from start to finish, but what really made the experience exceptional was our bartender, Hector. He went above and beyond to make sure we felt welcomed, took the time to explain the menu, and made great recommendations. His attention to detail and genuine care elevated the entire night. Service was a solid 10/10, the food delivered on every level, and the overall vibe was exactly what we were hoping for. Huge thanks to Hector for making our first visit such a great one; we'll definitely be back! read more

I'm trying to come up with the words to explain I have cooked Peruvian food for over a decade. I have been to hundreds of Peruvian restaurants most of them after I left the industry professionally Peruvian food everywhere has unfortunately gone down in certain areas, especially to the common people When I tell you that this restaurant has understood that you can never stay comfortable and you have to continue to push the barrier and increase the standard when it comes to representing the culture. hats off for this restaurant. I look forward to bringing many business meetings to this location. read more

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Came to Costa Contemporary with a group of friends. The food is really good and the vibes are amazing. Highly recommend the Tuna Tartare. read more

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Food is amazing. We came here so many times. Their servers are so nice and warm, especially Andrea. Everybody pleas read more

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So I finally went back to costa today for a pleasant and exquisite little lunch with some colleagues. I would've reviewed this restaurant much much sooner but was waiting to get more photos and try more dishes and turns out I couldn't find the original pics and videos from my first visit cus it was so long ago. Anyways. This Peruvian restaurant is legit. The freshness and high quality ingredients basically say it all. You could argue it's pretty authentic but your Peruvian friends most likely won't agree. I think the appeal of this place is just how well put together the recipes and overall menu is. This place is amazing. My friend was telling me how he's never had calamari so soft, tender and well cooked as the one is his arroz con mariscos. Their ceviches were so juicy and fresh. Accompanying them with the wontons was a nice little take but I don't think it could ever replace or surpass a good ol' chip or tostada. The Lomo Saltado is balanced and cooked to perfection. The estofado de carne was simple but scrumptious. I finished that up in like 2 minutes or less today. Haha. I could go into detail with every single dish but you're just gonna have to trust me. This place deserves credit. Even The non alcoholic drinks there are incredibly tasty and flavorful. Props to those damn cookies and insanely rich and decadent flan. Cheated on my new years diet today for sure. Salud Gente Bonita. read more

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What a great stop. I've been looking for an upscale Peruvian place for a cool date night with the Mrs. and this place fits the bill. Located near seagerstrom center, man is this place is amazing. First off, you gotta order the original pisco sour. Such a great compliment to the next items I'm going to recommend. Next, get yourself the ceviche Classico with the tigers milk. I just wanted to drink the sauce they put over the fish it was that good. I ordered the pescado a lo macho fish (branzino) with shrimp, scallops and calamari. The sauce was delicious and just the right amount. My wife had the lomo de mar y Tierra. Man the filet mignon made all the difference. Plus the sauce paired with these amazing thick potatoes paired with blistered tomato's and red onions? So darn good Don't forget the alfajores (they're homemade little shortbread filled with dulce de leche). So good. This wasn't a typical Peruvian restaurant either a huge menu. The really specialize on what they want to make and do it so very well. Can't forget the cancha and the service was top notch. We'll be back soon. read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Lomo Mar yTierra and Pescado a Lo Macho - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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This has to be my new favorite place. Every single food and drink we ordered was exceptional! I loved the lomo saltado of course & the grilled bransino. Our server was so knowledgeable and friendly. Loved all her recommendations to us. You have to come here. You will love it. read more

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Exelente comida y el servicio de la mesera extraordinarily pendientes en todo momento read more

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Can really count on consistent quality and service from Costa. It has become our mainstay for pre-show meals at Segerstrom. Fun drinks and very focused menu on what they do best, Peruvian cuisine. Service has varied from extremely attentive to somewhat less based on how crowded it is, but I would never say we were unattended. Reservations recommended. We go at 530-545 for weeknight shows and are walking to the theater (10 minutes away) before 7 (730 shows). read more

Hands down the WORST "dining" experiences I've ever had. The first time we came, we were left standing forever before being seated -- my fiancée was in heels left to stand by the door for at least 20 minutes, and no one cared. We assumed it's because we didn't have a reservation (but at least say hello! Or at least offer a bar seat?) We decided to give it another chance and even made a reservation this time, hoping that at least we'd be seated promptly. Big mistake. We stood at the entrance for 15 minutes while FOUR employees stared at us, made eye contact multiple times, and then turned back to their little gossip session. Not one "hello," not one "we'll be right with you" -- nothing. They clearly saw us and just couldn't be bothered. This staff is a disgrace to hospitality. To the owner: fire the clowns in the front who hate both their job and your customers, and get a host who knows how to greet paying guests. This is the stuff that causing you to lose money and customers. We walked out 20 minutes later without even being greeted once. Never again! read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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This restaurant was amazing! Food was absolutely delicious, drinks were top-tier, and service/workers were so sweet. The restaurant itself is beautiful and definitely worth every penny. 10/10 experience. 100% recommend to anyone and everyone! read more

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Great restaurant to go if you are craving for Peruvian food. They have great food, cocktails and service. This is become my favorite place for Peruvian food. My favorite is lomo mar y tierra. Don't forget to saferoom for the flan. read more

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Great food! We had the apple salad, ceviche mixto, pescada a lo mocho, and flan. Everything was seasoned well and tasted amazing. Would come back and recommend. read more

Friendly staff. Quick service. Bartender's drinks were excellent! Everyone enjoyed the food. Very tasty.

Amazing food drinks and ambience. Cozy atmosphere. Service is very personal. Great place to drop in before a show at Segerstrom. read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Whatever this is, it's awesome! - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

We had an amazing time, the staff are always welcoming no matter the time, and the atmosphere and vibe is beautiful! I recommend the tuna tartare and ceviche heavily! It's an always, whenever coming here! Thank you to our server Andrea for being just as welcoming and kind as this restaurant! read more

Costa Contemporary Kitchen - Lomo Saltado - Peruvian Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I had an amazing experience at Costa and couldn't wait to share it. From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcoming and attentive, making me feel right at home. The food was phenomenal.i started with the ceviche, which was fresh, zesty, and perfectly balanced. I also ordered the lomo saltado, and it blew me away - tender beef, flavorful sauce, and those crispy fries soaked in all that deliciousness? Perfection. Highly recommend this gem if you're craving something different and delicious. I'll definitely be coming back! Small cute very cozy ambiance :) read more

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