Izmir

4.9 (118 reviews)

Mediterranean, Kebab, Turkish

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Izmir - Bulgur Pilavı - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Izmir - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Izmir - 1/2 Chicken breast kebab and 1/2 chicken thigh, rice, hummus, salad, tzatziki - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Izmir - Kestaneli Pilav - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Erin K.

I ordered take-out online from Izmir, and was so impressed not only with the food, but also the service! I was greeted upon walking in, and offered a table as my food was finished being prepared. I ordered the Chicken Kebab Plate and Fire Roasted Eggplant. The Chicken Kebab Plate came with 2 large kebabs, rice, hummus, a side salad, and a pita. Amazing portion size, and absolutely delicious! Everything tasted fresh, and the chicken was cooked perfectly - not dry at all. The Fire Roasted Eggplant was also great! There was smokiness and tons of flavor in every bite. Next time I will ask for an extra pita with the dip.

MJ B.

The food is amazing and absolutely delicious, and the staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming. My only concern is the building itself, it looks a bit old and small, and there was a strong air freshener scent that was somewhat distracting during our visit. That said, everything else about the experience was excellent. If I could, I'd give it a 4.8 out of 5. The quality of the food and the good service more than make up for the minor drawbacks. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a great meal.

Yosmar J.

had such an amazing experience at Izmir Mediterranean Grill! I ordered the chicken plate with hummus, and WOW everything was incredible. The butter chicken was as soft as a cloud, and the chicken itself was sooo juicy and full of flavor. You can really tell the quality and care that goes into their food. The cucumber salad was super fresh and perfectly balanced, which made the whole meal even better. On top of that, the service was amazing, friendly, attentive, and made the experience feel even more welcoming.. To top it all off, they had live music on Friday, which created such a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Honestly couldn't have asked for a better experience. I'll definitely be coming back to try more of their menu!

Nikhil R.

While the service is good, and the atmosphere is decent, and the food is OK end the cost is pretty high for what you get. The chicken kebab plate is pretty expensive for just two strips of chicken and rice. The chicken itself is good, but the rice definitely could have used something to add more flavor. Even if it was some form of a hot sauce. The chicken thighs on the à la carte menu are decent, but again there's a little bit of flavor lacking. Do not get the ribeye skewer. While it looks like a good price for five dollars, the meat itself barely covers the skewer. It is probably 1 to 2 ounces of meat. Last, the mezze sampler is not worth it and very ok. For the price I expect a better quantity. Additionally, you only get two pieces of bread with the sampler. This is supposed to be something meant for sharing, and having only two pieces of bread is definitely not a sign of this. Overall, I don't recommend the spot as I think the food lacks flavor while the prices do not reflect the quality/quantity received.

Lots of food for $22! Danny was very friendly and the food is amazing. Coming back soon

Great service, great food, will be back again soon! They all are very friendly family-owned!

Tony T.

It's in a small strip mall next to Starbucks that's surrounded by another strip mall so it might be a bit confusing. Also all the parking spots outside say 15 mins but supposedly it's so Starbucks customers don't take up all the spots? Anyways to the actual place itself. Decor is a bit odd but that doesn't matter too much. The food the food is good. The rice was buttery and delicious, the steak was cut into bite size pieces and tender. The lamb shank was worth the order, the sauce it came was with good. The chicken skewer could have been skipped though. Not everything is going to be a winner. All in all it was good and well priced considering it's near south coast plaza.

Mahmut E.

First time trying this place and overall I had good experience. Food was very good. I tried a new dish which is kofte wrapped in eggplant. Also tried lentil soup and their dessert. Service was very good. Restaurant looked very clean. There's plenty of parking in front of the restaurant.

Teagan T.

Writing this review feels like I'm telling grandma sorry, your cooking bring me pleasure but your food does not. But I could just be uneducated in the ways of Aegean cuisine. But this doesn't seem like a place for pure vegetarian foods, the meat based dishes looked a lot more alluring than what we ordered, but the burnt eggplant dip was delicious. Good hot tea with sugar shaker/pourer. I wish we had ordered some of those enticing rice but seeing everyone park up and walk to 2 doors down for Mexican food solidified the reservation.

Alana V.

I met Chanel and her father on a cruise and they were so pleasant! They told us about their restaurant and my mom and I knew that we had to visit! Today was the day and WOW! We were amazed We saw Chanel again and she provided us with the utmost service. She selected the appetizers: salad, cheese rolls, grape leaves, and pita. The salad was delicious! The cheese rolls my absolute favorite and I could eat a whole plate of them! The grape leaves are served hot. The hot ones are my favorite and many places serve them cold so I was very excited to get hot ones! For entrees, I ordered the chicken kebab with meatballs. The chicken was SO tender and flavorful. The meatballs were tender as well and melted in your mouth. The hummus and pita were fantastic! Warm pita is always delicious. My mom ordered the ribeye kebab plate and it was scrumptious. The meat slid off the skewer and was SO tender. The portions are large as well. We finished off the meal with a slice of pistachio baklava and Turkish tea. The baklava was amazing!! So flavorful and melted in my mouth. The tea is very refreshing and was a lovely way to finish our meal. We really enjoyed our meal and will return with the rest of our family to share the joy. We can truly feel the love and tradition baked into every dish

Hummus and Cheese Rolls (6pc) and Pita Bread

Andre S.

We ate at Izmir for the first time and it was fantastic! We got the hummus, Cheese Rolls for appetizers and both were great. Everything comes out piping hot. Yummy pita bread was served with it too. For the entrees we got the Filet Mignon Kebab plate and the Butterfly Chicken plate with the meatballs as well. It comes with rice and a salad. Everything was phenomenal. The meats were very moist and well seasoned. Service was fantastic and we felt very taken care of as if we were family. The owner Eric was very nice and helpful when we ordered. Our server Nouf was wonderful as well. It's a small cozy place and they have live music on Friday and Saturday nights. They had a live saxophonist playing music! We certainly will be coming back and have already told our family to go check it out as well.

Meatball Anatolia (Iskender Kfte) - comfort food at its finest

Brian V.

Small mom and pop type restaurant located in a strip mall off the freeway in Costa Mesa. They specialize in Aegean food. Now, I've never technically had Aegean food, but as I understand it, and I don't mean to belittle it's history/culture, etc., it's essentially Mediterranean food that has elements of both Turkish and Greek cuisines. Based on the name of the restaurant, I think it's safe to say they lean more into the Turkish roots. The folks here are just so friendly. It really does feel family run (if not in fact) and it feels like you're going to a friend's house for a great meal. The aromas, tastes, textures, presentation, fresh ingredients, and reasonable prices - this truly is a gem of a restaurant that feels like it punches way above its weight. When I ordered, I was way too excited and ended ordering much more than I could finish in a sitting, but didn't regret the leftovers. I ordered: - Purple delight: beets/yogurt side or dip served with bread. - Piyaz: Turkish beans with tahini sauce, parsley, tomato, onion, etc. and a hard boiled egg - Meatball Anatolia: comfort food platter that had lots of good stuff. I would personally describe it as a Mediterranean chilaquiles (hopefully that makes sense) - Ayran: a refreshing yogurt drink to wash it all down I wish I could have ordered more. So many of the menu items looked great.

WOW!! Izmir was warm, welcoming and most importantly the food was DELICIOUS! I'm not sure how it's humanly possible to make such fluffy rice, but this place sure knows how! The cheese stuffed meatballs and meze sampler with spice bomb and hummus were the standouts! We will absolutely be going back! 10/10!

Hummus Butterfly Chicken (Lunch) Fire Roasted Eggplant Butterfly Chicken (Dinner)

Morgan L.

No words are needed--the empty plates speak for themselves. The butterfly chicken and beef casserole are sooooo good! Restaurants that take food seriously deserve to be rewarded. I hope this place is always packed!

1/2 Chicken breast kebab and 1/2 chicken thigh, rice, hummus, salad, tzatziki

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Carly S.

9 months ago

The good was delicious and fresh. The service was exceptional. Will eat there again for sure. read more

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Tony A.

5 months ago

This family ran restaurant is one of the best and cleanest restaurants I been too here in orange county their food is delicious, service is amazing and costumer service is top notch. Truly everything I was looking for read more

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Denny S.

Thank you so much! Being called one of the best and cleanest…

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Jonathan P.

1 year ago

Parking is a bit of an issue, but I couldn't recommend Izmir any higher. The food and portions were amazing, and staff were warm, welcoming, attentive, and food was served fast. I'll definitely be coming back read more

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Richard M.

1 year ago

This place was so tasty !! Everything was good . My meatballs were so tender and flavorful . There cheese rolls are unlike any others I've had . Can't wait to get back and try something else . read more

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Kevin B.

4721

465

1 year ago

Good food here. Me and my girl went here for dinner last night celebrating graduations. Meatball Plate and Chicken Kebabs are delicious here. My first time coming here. I am always driving past here everyday, so I had to try it out. They are not far from South Coast Plaza either. So come out here to eat. read more

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Tiffany C.

8 months ago

First time here and the food was so flavorful! Service was amazing too and the staff were so kind. We'll definitely be back!

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Mo E.

1 year ago

Just ate the kofte sandwich! Authentic and delicious, can't wait to try the other dishes.

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Miguel S.

2 years ago

Amazing food and great service. You need to try the all the meats. The chicken was really flavorful and they give good portions. read more

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Süleyman V.

1 year ago

Delicious Turkish food here! Chicken kabab was super tender and flavorful 10/10. We also ordered their cheese roll and dolma and man that cheese roll was AMAZING! 100% will be back! read more

Izmir - Meatball Sandwich (Ekmek Aras Kfte) & Chicken Kebab (Tavuk i) - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Aimee N.

1 year ago

Best food! Best service! Great ambiance! I eat here about 4-5 times a week!!! 5 STARS! read more

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Sidney L.

1 year ago

amazing food, nicest owners, and remodel looks amazing! sandwiches are super filling and filled with veggies read more

Izmir - Baklava is so sweet i love it! - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Turkan T.

8 months ago

I think it's one of the best Turkish restaurants you can try in Costa Mesa. It's a perfect restaurant with its wonderful appetizers, delicious plates and friendly customer service. read more

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Joseph C.

8 months ago

Izmir in Costa Mesa is an absolute gem! From the moment we walked in, the staff were incredibly attentive and kind, making us feel so welcome. The food was SO GOOD--packed with flavor! Portions are also massive and super reasonably priced! Definitely coming back and highly recommend! read more

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Gianna M.

2 years ago

You won't be disappointed when you walk into this place--the food is absolutely incredible. Every dish is so delicious that you'll have a tough time choosing what to order. The customer service is excellent. read more

Izmir - The beef stew was delicious it reminded me of my childhood favorite dish. Come try this place because it will not disappoint you ;) - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Izmir - #05 Chicken Kebab (Tavuk i) #26 Rice (A La Carte) - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Kyarash M.

9 months ago

Food was awesome and the staff are so friendly. Recommend this place to anyone who like Mediterranean food

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Mercan Y.

9 months ago

Everything is beautiful. its the same as izmir. The food is The same. Its hard to find a turkish restaurant in california that is the same as turkey, this place is the same. The service was beautiful as we entered in, they greeted us with happiness read more

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Thomas S.

10 months ago

The food was delicious, fresh, and well-prepared. Best hummus I've ever had! The filet mignon kabobs were perfectly seasoned. Our server, Oralia, was gracious. Highly recommend. read more

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Dianne R.

10 months ago

The staff is friendly and attentive. The Chee Kafta vegan meatballs were incredible. The shakshuka was wonderful. I will be back.

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Neuro T.

1 year ago

Hit the spot. The chicken kebab with rice and hummus was super good. Pickup order was prompt and cleanly packaged.

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Ann M.

1 year ago

I just had my first meal at Izmir and it was outstanding. I'm so glad to have found this place as it's hard to find really clean and delicious food these days. Their menu is fantastic, they're really nice and they environment is great. Their menu owner Denny is super nice and said the recipes are his families recipes. They only use extra virgin olive oil and butter for cooking and their beef is angus beef. Give your self a treat and come here, you'll be super glad you did. Thanks to Broch who told me about to today at the gym. I'll be coming back to Izmir's again very soon. read more

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Jackie A.

455

475

343

2 years ago

Truly, the best my favorite was the spicy, meatball Gus on a plate and in a sandwich separately and both separate occasions! Lentil soup is delicious and absolutely love the complementary tea! read more

Business owner information

Denny S.

Thank you Jackie!

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Erik W.

1 year ago

Great food, great service, family owned establishment. The chicken and steak kebabs were perfectly cooked. The salad, rice, and side dishes were all fresh and high quality. Highly recommended! read more

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Noah M.

2 years ago

This place is fantastic. I've had Mediterranean food here and there and usually like it, but the spicy meatball anatolia dish I got here the other day might be my favorite yet. Definitely will be back. Shout out to their storemates healthy bistro too. That's how I discovered this place. Two places sharing a kitchen making really good, high quality food. read more

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David S.

1 year ago

Authentic and delicious food that takes you on a trip to the Aegean parts of Turkey. Each bite is better than the one before. Hands down one of the best restaurants in the area. Will be coming back again for sure! read more

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Leslie C.

1 year ago

Great food and service. We had the Turkish broken rice with the chicken kabob and it was one of the best rice dishes I have ever had! Very simple but wonderful. (I'm Asian so have had a lot of rice.) read more

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LifeOf C.

1 year ago

This was our first visit and what an amazing experience. Amazing hospitality and service from the owners. Also we tried most of the appetizers, kebab and baklava. All tasted authentic and very tasty coming from a fellow turk. Highly recommend if looking for food in the area read more

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Natalie W.

2 years ago

Finding this place was a happy little accident on our way to an event at the fairgrounds. The food was fresh and flavorful, and the staff were welcoming and friendly. For being in such a casual little setting it surprisingly felt like we were having a home-cooked meal. They had free hot tea available for us while we waited for our food, which was so reminiscent of being at a friend's house. The chicken kabob was one of the best I've ever had and all the apps and sides paired perfectly with it. Everything was satisfying and filling yet also felt light and healthy. The portions of food on their chicken kabob plate was quite generous and was enough for us to share. If we lived closer we would definitely keep this spot in a regular rotation, and if we find ourselves back in this area we will definitely be eating here again! read more

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Ebru T.

2 years ago

Great flavors, Izmir Kofte are perfect and of course the others too You should definitely try it read more

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Duygu C.

1 year ago

We tried grilled meatballs and izmir meatballs. They were both super delicious. I highly recommend this restaurant to those who would like to try delicious homestyle Turkish food! Freshly brewed Turkish tea is a must to digest everything you eat read more

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Chantal L.

239

2 years ago

Today was my first time trying Turkish food so I decided to choose Izmir's Cheese Stuffed Meatballs. The quality and flavor of the meal exceeded my expectations! The meatballs were very soft with the hint of melted cheese was the perfect touch to it alongside with their salad, rice, fries and also onions included. I will definitely be coming back to try more items on their menu but overall - this is my new favorite go to dish! Not to mention; their customer service is top notch as well. Please check this hidden gem spot out if you're ever in the Costa Mesa area! read more

Izmir - #12 Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Kaarl Kfte - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Izmir - Salad - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Amador A.

2 years ago

The food is amazing. This is a pick up only location, but it doesn't disappoint. Good was hot and fresh and authentic. You have to try this place. No regrets ! read more

Izmir - Mix and Match Plate - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Business owner information

Denny S.

We are so happy that you enjoyed the butterfly chicken and beef kofta…

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Valerie C.

2 years ago

Best kebabs in town! Really good portions for a great price. Everything was well made, no complaints whatsoever. Will definitely be going back soon. read more

Izmir - Chicken Kebab Plate - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Maggie D.

2 years ago

I am so glad we discovered this place, by far the best Turkish food we have had in the US! Exceptional dishes, authentic with impeccably balanced seasoning and very nice people working there! It was the best kofte and the chicken tavuk was simply amazing! The pistachio baklava at the end was delicious! This is a real neighborhood gem, I will come often! read more

Business owner information

Denny S.

Thank you for your wonderful review Maggie!

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Nancy E.

2 years ago

I have never had Turkish food before. I stopped in thinking this was Healthy Bristro and found out Izmir is open during the evening. I will say that at first I was worried that I wouldn't like it. I ordered the Kofta sandwich and fries. I was surprised at how fresh everything was and was told they make everything, no frozen stuff. The real test was taste and let me tell you it was amazing so amazing that I forgot to take a picture before I started eating. you get free tea with an entree and I was shocked no stuff comes free anymore and the portion is huge well worth the money. let me tell you when I say I will be a forever customer. I can't wait to go back and try other stuff off the menu. I even went through 2 taziki sauces it's so good. What I had tasted fresh not greasy at all. So happy with everything. Much thanks to the mom and son that prepared my food. read more

Izmir - This is the dessert please forgive me as I forgot name - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Izmir - My left overs of the Kofta sandwich it was huge and fries and taziki sauce - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Marianne H.

2 years ago

I work next door and have been hearing from customers and co workers how good the food was here so after my shift I decided to try. I purchased the grilled meatballs and added chicken skewers which included jasmine rice w/ orzo, steak fries, 1/2 grilled tomato, a grilled sweet pepper, pita bread, a small side salad with tomato and cucumbers and cucumber yogurt dip. This could have been enough for 3 meals for me but I didn't want to stop eating! The food was fresh and well seasoned. Chicken was tender, the meatballs were juicy and light yet hearty. The rice was moist and flavorful and the pita bread was soft and light. I will be back to try more! read more

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Adam J.

2 years ago

Outstanding little hidden gem. I honestly loved the food here and the service. We will be back soon :)

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Nam L.

2 years ago

You'll be greeted by Denny and his family, the owners and main chef cook there. They provide, offer Delicious foods & great hospitality.

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Fatih A.

2 years ago

Great, very delicious food. Had chicken kabab and köfte cooked just right. Friendly staff. I highly recommend.

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More info about Izmir

2590 Newport Blvd
Ste B
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Directions
(949) 791-2020
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
http://izmirkitchen.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Izmir open?

Izmir opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Izmir close?

Izmir closes at 8:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Izmir closes at 9:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.Izmir is closed on Sunday.

Mon-Thu 11:00 AM - 8:00 PMFri-Sat 11:00 AM - 9:00 PMSun Closed

Payment methods

Does Izmir take Bitcoin?

No, Izmir does not take Bitcoin.

Does Izmir take credit cards?

Yes, Izmir takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Izmir have catering options?

Yes, Izmir does have catering options.

Does Izmir have a drive thru?

No, Izmir does not have a drive thru.

Does Izmir have a happy hour?

No, Izmir does not have a happy hour.

Does Izmir serve alcohol?

No, Izmir does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Izmir allow dogs?

No, Izmir does not allow dogs.

Does Izmir have TVs?

No, Izmir does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Izmir have bike parking?

Yes, Izmir has bike parking.

Does Izmir have outdoor seating?

No, Izmir does not have outdoor seating options.

Does Izmir have parking?

Yes, Izmir has parking options. Private Lot Parking, Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Izmir wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Izmir is wheelchair accessible.

Does Izmir have free WiFi?

No, Izmir does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Experience authentic Turkish food at Izmir Aegean Cuisine. We use premium halal meats, organic vegetables, and pasture-raised eggs, prepared with butter and olive oil. No seed oils! From handmade manti and kebabs to our signature meze and lamb shank, enjoy modern family dining in Costa Mesa. Dine-in, delivery, catering, and private events available.

More Info

Health Score

Ask the Community - Izmir

Does anyone know if the kabobs and rice are gluten free? Always looking to expand my restaurants I can go to!

Hi Lori! The white rice is gluten free, we do not use orzo anymore :) . The butterfly chicken, chicken kebab, ribeye kebab, filet mignon kebab are gluten free. The meatballs have breadcrumbs, they are NOT gluten free.

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Do you serve halal meat?

Hello S. K., Yes we do serve halal meat.… Read more

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Grilled Chicken Mediterranean Plate.

H.B. Pita Grill

Discovered this place a couple of years ago and took my cousin who lives here in FV less than 2…read moremiles away, but had never been. She's a regular now. Decided to have dinner here again, and so glad we did. Ordered the combo with gyro meat and kefta. Serving size is decent, less meat than expected but tasty and filling, Love the rice and hummus with warm pita. Also ordered the grrek salad. My husband and I shared both entrees. The combo ones with a side salad with a lemony deessing, which was really good and different from the Greek salad dressing, also really good. You can request the pickles id happened to notice when I wsnt to order more pita. 1 cones with the meal but its not enough for the amount of hummus. There are 3 sauces also. A tzaziki, hot sauce and another green one im not sure if it was a pesto. No matter, all good. I'll definitely be back. Its popular for sure, lots of takeout and call in orders. Steady line of customers at meal times.

Service-good Ambiance-poor…read moreFood- ordered stuffed pita lamb/beef EXCELLENT Outstanding flavors

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Inside

Gyro stuffed pita

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Bei Restaurant

Locally owned & operated

Private events

The food is amazing and the service is great. My wife asked about a drink that wasn't on the menu…read moreand they didn't have it but our server mixed it up for her. Lebanese style falafels are the best and this place nails it. I commented to my wife how beautiful the chicken had come out, the colors, little black charred corners and edges from the fire, golden reflection on the glaze. It is not cheap but worth every penny. Our server was great and we can't wait to go back. The place is so unassuming from the outside and beautiful on the inside.

Came in on a Saturday night, we didn't have reservations but were greeted kindly and they were able…read moreto accommodate us and have our party of 6 seated in about 20 mins. We waited about 15 mins for someone to come and offer us menus or beverages but it seemed as though we had been forgotten. It felt like we were an inconvenience. My husband ended up calling over a waiter and asked if we could order as we had looked up the menu's online. Our waiter, George, was phenomenal! Super kind, apologetic and kept us updated throughout the night. He understood that we were not having the best experience, and was trying his best to make us feel comfortable and welcomed. We had a baby with us so we asked that we be seated away from any hookah, and they really honored that request and made sure nobody near us was smoking. The food was decent, well seasoned and tasty, but nothing mindblowing. Slow to arrive but it seemed like this evening in particular was just a new kind of busy for the restaurant. In any case, I think if you've got time to sit and chat and wait for food and service, you won't feel it as much, but we had a baby, and a group of hungry adults who felt every minute of the waiting. I'd probably come back on a weeknight and try it out again; hoping that we don't get forgotten about by our first waitress.

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CAVA

I had to take a second to write this because the experience was that good…read more Andres at CAVA is on another level. From the moment I walked in, he brought great energy, was genuinely welcoming, and made the whole experience feel personal instead of rushed. You can tell he actually cares about what he's doing -- not just going through the motions. He helped me build the perfect bowl, gave solid recommendations, and made sure everything was dialed in exactly how I wanted it. On top of that, his attitude stood out the most -- positive, attentive, and just real. That kind of service is rare. People like Andres are the reason I'll keep coming back. CAVA is lucky to have him. Give that man a raise.

CAVA is my favorite Mediterranean fast-casual spot and easily my go-to for healthy fast food…read more I love the salad bowls, and the braised lamb is always my order, it's flavorful, tender, and really satisfying. The toppings are great too, with plenty of options that let you build something fresh without it feeling boring. I used to go to CAVA all the time when I lived in New York, so I'm genuinely happy to have one here in Costa Mesa now. Reliable, healthy, and consistently good, this place never lets me down.

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Pom & Olive

Women-owned & operated

Outdoor seating

Okay, as a restaurant owner (5 locations in D.C. on Military bases) and a chef I take many things…read moreinto account before making any kind of decision. Let's start first with the visualization. Pom Olive is in a nice neighborhood with parking. Before walking up to the restaurant you can tell this isn't a place to take someone you're trying to "impress"! The restaurant could use a little art mural on the walls...a little of touch and woom! Now let's get to the service. The service was friendly and not pushy which made me feel very relaxed. Food options ---- plenty! Pricing ---- very reasonable! Taste was very tasty. If you're with a friend or a small family it's a great spot. This wasn't a big restaurant so if you're a bigger party it makes a great take-out! Enjoy!

This was a delightful find! The food so fresh and excellent , outrageously inexpensive $13 for my…read moreshish kabobs meal, friendly service, quiet setting, outdoor seating! As I love Mediterranean food, I am so happy to find my most affordable favorite here!

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Taste of Mediterranean

Olive platter

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The Halal Guys

** this is from several months ago** t'was sitting in my drafts for a bit,…read more... Several beer pitchers in @ HACHI (just next door-shout out to them)-- for a celebration of a breakup, the end of midterms, or simply the triumph of continuing to exist (in THIS economy?? were all needing to praise ourselves for simply surviving) -- we found ourselves drawn, like moths to a fluorescently lit flame, to Halal Guys. Now listen. The food? Solid. Reliable. The kind of food that understands you are not here for nuance. You are here because life has punched you in the throat and you require a plate of rice, chicken, gyro meat, and mysterious white sauce to spiritually stabilize. I used to go to the OG one in NYC when i was getting punched in the throat there too. (PUNCHED IN THE THROAT BY ACADEMIA, FIGURATIVELY, y'all haver crazy imaginations outthere). BUT it;s the people... It's always the people... The staff. My siblings in falafel... it was 10 PM. You could feel the collective energy of "we have been serving drunk people since sunset and you are the 437th group tonight explaining your breakup story while pointing at the menu." Not judging, just warmth and the quiet aura of people who have seen things. Who have witnessed humanity at its lowest point: ordering extra hot sauce and then immediately regretting it. JC looked in my soul and I think he understood,,, everything. AND JESS! (my fairy wielding a spoon scooping the heavenly meat and talking to me like a therapist??) And they fed us. Efficiently. Respectfully. Would I return? hell ya i would. only to see if Jess and JC remembers me. JK the food is always reliable. y'all stay away from the hot saucres,

Overall (1/5) This was easily my worst Halal Guys experience…read moreand honestly left me really disappointed. I came craving something familiar and left feeling like I wasted both time and money. First Impressions (1/5) When I walked in, there was only one person working, handling the fryer, the register, and assembling plates. I genuinely felt bad for her, especially considering the steady line forming. What We Got (2/5) I ordered a regular plate, which is what I usually get at Halal Guys. Nothing customized or complicated, just the standard order I have had many times before at other locations. Taste and Quality (0/5) The food was shockingly bad. The rice was raw and crunchy, which was hard to believe at first. The meat pieces were tiny and very chewy, and the pita bread was extremely soggy. On top of that, it was only around 4 pm and the usual spinning meat and grill were not even on, despite the line picking up. Service (2/5) The worker was clearly trying her best, but one person running everything in a busy location is not realistic. She was constantly running back and forth between the fryer and the line, which made the whole operation feel chaotic and slow. Space and Atmosphere (3/5) The space itself was fine and what you would expect from Halal Guys. Clean enough, but nothing stood out positively enough to offset the food experience. Was It Worth It (0/5) Not at all. As someone who is pretty frugal and almost always finishes their meals, I could not finish this plate. It genuinely felt like a waste of $18. Final Thoughts This location does not seem to be held to the same standards as other Halal Guys in the area. This experience was disappointing from start to finish.

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Menu 12/22

Din Tai Fung

The wait is too long…read more I had to stand and wait the entire time; there were no seats and no water available. I suggest making some improvements.

Always the best tasting! Everything comes out perfect temp. Worth the wait times for sure.read more

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Shaved Snow with Fresh Mango

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Salty Horse

Locally owned & operated

Free WiFi

Steak and eggs estaba muy bueno y los pancakes de mi prometida también, y la música de los…read morecocineros estaba muy perrona

I came to this spot on a weekday dinner time, it's a little hidden u go through a short alley and…read morewalk through outdoor seating which is very aesthetically pleasing with a rustic vibe. It's a quick service type of spot, and you see quite a few people studying as well. Starting off, we ordered the spicy vodka rigatoni, the parmesan fries, and the poke bowl, and the cashier at the front was very nice and accommodating with recommendations and questions we had. After we ordered, we sat down and were quickly served with our strawberry lemonade and blueberry mint lemonade, which were both pretty solid a bit on the tart side. Shortly after, we were served with all the dishes we ordered. I was not expecting to like the poke bowl so much, it had tuna, avocado, rice, cucumber and veggies, and the poke was super tasty, great texture and surprisingly fresh. I loved all the textures in the bowl. Into the parmesan truffle fries, they were super hot, very crispy, loved how much parmesan was on top, but I wish it had a little more truffle as some bites tasted more like truffle than the other. It came in a super big, shareable portion which I loved. Lastly the spicy vodka rigatoni, very solid pasta, I liked how it was cooked all dente, not overcooked. Came very hot as well which I loved. It was a solid pasta, but nothing too crazy. Overall the service was great, I love how quick the service was. The ambience was lovely, you can come here to catch up with friends, or have a nice study session, or a cute date spot! The food was solid, but I would say if u come here definitely get the poke bowl! Super delicious and fresh!! Highly recommend you try this spot!

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Poke bowl

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Skate the Bowl, Turkey Focaccia Sando, Cortney's BB Matcha & the Classic Cowgirl

Habana

Jereny was amazing serving us this weekend, and the manager Tawny took hospitality to the next…read morelevel with her attentiveness and enthusiasm. The ambiance was like stepping out of OC and into a setting out of a fantasy- intimate, rustic, and romantic. The food was delicious and the cocktails were refreshing. Will be coming back for more memories with the girlfriends!

Love coming here for any excuse! It's perfect for a romantic dinner, love their romantic vibe of…read moredim light with candles and they usually welcome you wit a small Sample of rose! If it's your anniversary they do a little cute message in the table for you with Fake rose petals! Make it's more special night! My favorite dish!! Rum pepper shrimp , it's just perfect! Their cocktails were on the sweeter side for me, but all depends on how you like your cocktails! They always have the best fast service and easy to book a reservation online! Parking could be a little bit complicated since they don't have valet!

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Outdoor patio

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Habana costa mesa patio

Pradera Brunch

I came into Pradera today for breakfast and was immediately greeted with a big smile from the…read morestaff. As for the service they were all very attentive and friendly especially when it came to our waitress Sam. She was super helpful when it came deciding what dishes we wanted to try. I will definitely be coming back!

Pradera Restaurant! I just wanted to say that my recent visit was fantastic! The food was amazing,…read moreand the service was top-notch. My server, Sam, was outstanding and very attentive. Thank you for a wonderful experience!

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Tabla de Quesos

Birria

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Part of the inside inspiration.

Paradise Dynasty

AMAZING food and excellent service from Emily!…read more Quick service with the freshest food, no matter how busy they are. I couldn't recommend this restaurant enough. A+++

Liz was amazing 10/10 very attentive, very nice and overall amazing service from her. Oh food was…read morealso really good too.

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Crispy Salt & Pepper Calamari with Nori and Wasabi Aioli 椒鹽海苔魷魚

Singapore-Style Creamy Butter Lobster with Udon 星加波奶油龍蝦配烏冬

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Char Siu Puff Pastry with Toasted Sesame 芝麻叉燒酥

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21 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Erica Z.

1 year ago

A Hidden Gem of Fresh Flavor and Warm Hospitality This Middle Eastern restaurant is an absolute standout -- a perfect balance of fresh ingredients, mouthwatering flavors, and exceptional service. From the moment we walked in, we were welcomed with genuine warmth and professionalism that instantly made us feel at home. The food is nothing short of spectacular. The grilled chicken was incredibly moist and perfectly seasoned, with that irresistible char that only comes from true mastery of the grill. Every dish was vibrant with fresh, crisp vegetables and high-quality ingredients that you can taste in every bite. You can tell nothing here is pre-made or overly processed -- just clean, honest cooking that lets each ingredient shine. What truly sets this place apart is the attention to detail and care in both the food and the service. The staff are not only attentive and friendly but truly passionate about what they do. It's rare to find a place where you feel both well-fed and well taken care of. If you're looking for a place that delivers authentic Middle Eastern flavors with a modern, health-conscious twist and a welcoming atmosphere, look no further. This spot is a must-visit, and we'll definitely be coming back again and again and bringing all of our out of town guests! read more

Gaukhar R.

121

3 months ago

We visited this restaurant during Ramadan and unfortunately had a disappointing service experience. Water was brought quickly, which we appreciated. However, after that we were left sitting with a completely empty table for about 40 minutes while waiting for our food. During Ramadan, when guests have been fasting all day, it would be thoughtful to bring something small to the table -- bread, appetizers, or dates -- especially since dates are traditionally used to break the fast. I asked twice if we could have some dates while waiting, but they were never brought to the table. I completely understand that the kitchen can be busy and that grilled dishes take time to prepare. Waiting for the main dishes is not the issue. The problem was the lack of basic service and attention during that wait. Even something simple like bread or a small appetizer would have made a big difference. We were especially surprised because other tables seemed to receive food much faster. The food itself may be good, but the service experience left us feeling overlooked and uncomfortable. I hope the restaurant improves how they take care of guests during busy Ramadan evenings. read more

Ada A.

3 months ago

I recently had an outstanding experience with Aegean Restaurant in Costa Mesa, and I can confidently say it's one of the best Turkish restaurants in the area. We placed a large catering order for about 20 people, and every single dish exceeded expectations. The food was incredibly flavorful, authentic, and clearly prepared with care. Portions were very generous--what we ordered for 20 people easily could have served closer to 30. What really stood out was the organization and service. Even though I arrived about 10 minutes late for pickup, everything was perfectly packed, ready, and waiting. The entire process was smooth and professional. The staff and owner were exceptionally friendly and welcoming, which made the experience even better. It's clear they take pride in both their food and customer service. If you're looking for authentic, high-quality Turkish cuisine--whether dining in or catering for a group--I highly recommend Aegean Restaurant. We'll definitely be ordering again. Thank you for the great service. read more

Alexis K.

Elite 26

302

415

8 months ago

We stopped by this family-run Turkish restaurant for lunch on a Saturday afternoon. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The service was incredibly friendly. The food was true homestyle Turkish cooking. It was simple, comforting, and full of flavor. The yellow lentil soup was the classic "lokanta" style: smooth yet hearty, served with lemon wedges and red pepper flakes on the side. Others at the table tried the Köfte Sandwich, which was an excellent value. The portion was generous, and the meatballs were juicy, well-seasoned, and packed with flavor. Everything we had tasted fresh and thoughtfully prepared. A wonderful spot for anyone craving authentic Turkish comfort food. We'll definitely be back! read more

Lauren B.

3 months ago

Food, service and the ambiance of this restaurant are always a 10/10 for me. I am Turkish- so I enjoy having my favorite dishes I've grown up having. Manti is my all time favorite dish and Izmir does an excellent job of filling that craving for me. I can never eat enough dolma (stuffed grape leaves or stuffed bell peppers )!! Their Sekerpare is the best I've had in the U.S. and you can never go wrong with Baklava. So I highly recommend enjoying anything off their menu -whether it's your first time trying it or if you're craving your favorite dish you haven't got to eat in a while. read more

Berik B.

3 months ago

Very disappointing experience. We arrived at 6:45 PM while fasting for Ramadan and were hoping for respectful and timely service. Three other tables who were also fasting received their food around 6:50 PM, but we didn't get ours until 7:50 PM -- more than an hour later. Waiting that long after fasting all day is extremely frustrating and unacceptable. What made it worse was that no one apologized or explained the delay. Unfortunately, this ruined our evening and we will not be coming back. read more

Em S.

1 year ago

Absolutely incredible experience! This Turkish restaurant transported me straight to Turkey with its authenticity and freshness. We ordered the ground beef meatball dish, which was perfectly seasoned and juicy. The Turkish rice was flavorful and fluffy, and the beet salad added a refreshing, tangy balance. The fresh, warm bread tied everything together beautifully. Every bite tasted homemade and true to its roots. If you're craving real Turkish cuisine, this place is an absolute gem. read more

Etka T.

3 months ago

I am Turkish and whenever I feel like homesick, I come by. I have their special of the day and chopstick kebab. I am good as new. I ask for Turkish tea in a Turkish Tea cup once the meal is over. This pretty much sums up an authentic Turkish dinner for me. The restaurant has several rectangular tables. Walls are decorated with nostalgic items and 3 TVs showing movieclips from Turkey. 90s Turkish pop music is in the low volume behind. I would take a date here :) read more

Ozgur A.

8 months ago

Absolutely amazing experience! The soup, the meatballs, the kebabs -- everything was delicious! The flavors truly reminded me of authentic home-style Turkish food from the Aegean coast. The staff and servers were incredibly friendly and welcoming, and even the owner was kind and attentive. Great food, great people, and a warm atmosphere -- I'll definitely be coming back again. Highly recommend this place to anyone who loves real Turkish cuisine! read more

Mehmet K.

3 months ago

Great family run restaurant in a cozy environment. Excellent variety of home made food, which is a relief from all the kabob and shawarma places. One can taste the care given in providing natural quality meat, as opposed to cheaper and less healthy options. Price justifies the quality as well as quantity of meals served. Highly recommend this place. read more

Anne B.

5 months ago

Izmir is one of those places you leave happy. The menu has so many great options, and everything we tried was delicious. The grilled meats were tender, the sides were fresh, and nothing felt heavy or rushed. It's the kind of spot you'd bring friends or family to and feel confident everyone will love it! read more

Leil D.

4 months ago

We almost didn't try this place because there are so many Mediterranean spots around, but I'm so glad we did. Everything came out hot, fresh, and packed with flavor like the grilled meats. It feels casual and comfortable, but the food quality really stands out. Definitely earned a repeat visit from us. read more

Katy D.

4 months ago

If you're craving authentic Mediterranean flavors, they absolutely delivers!! The kebabs are tender, the portions are generous, and the service makes you feel right at home. One of those places that quietly becomes your go-to. read more

Erhan Y.

2 years ago

Awesome food, healthy highest quality ingredients. Clean, clean, super good employees. There are several Turkish restaurants around but this place is a totally diamond gem. Great for locals, family owned. read more

Evren K.

3 months ago

Delicious food, fast service, and friendly staff. All the dishes are very tasty; I've tried them many times and been satisfied. You can arrange to have your meal prepared in advance by calling ahead. read more

Canan K.

3 months ago

Amazing Mediterranean food! Everything tasted fresh and authentic. The service was friendly and the atmosphere was very welcoming. I'll definitely be coming back again! read more

Metin Y.