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The Wayfarer

3.9 (324 reviews)
Open 5:00 pm - 1:00 am (Next day)
Updated over 3 months ago

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THE WAYFARER ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
DJ
Live music
Very loud
Hipster

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Recommended Reviews - The Wayfarer

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Pamela R.

Came to support a local band, and stayed for the food. This venue is 21+ and they do check ID's at the entrance and when you order at the bar. We got their nachos with carne asada, quesadilla, and 2 dozen wings (lemon pepper & buffalo). Of the 2 wing flavors, the buffalo definitely stood out and paired well with the ranch. The nachos were a pretty big and shareable portion. It also came with red and green salsa on the side. The wings came with celery & carrots. The quesadilla was pretty decent and came with salsas and chips. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Sound system for the live bands were great and the lighting and fog effects definitely created a vibe.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There are also couches and pool tables for you to enjoy.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

Moscow Mule
Thomas M.

Had a nice time at The Wayfarer tonight! The staff is always friendly and the service is prompt. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The Friday night house band Sega Genocide delivers countless memorable hits from the 90's and 2000's that keep the crowd dancing and singing along[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. The food menu has a lot of stand out items, and there are a number of craft beers on tap. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Other nights of the week are filled with touring and local bands, that help keep the OC live music seen thriving and vibrant.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I remember seeing the Last Anarchists Standing here and they were memorable to say the least. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Bring your friends and let yourself go at The Wayfarer. A good time is here for all comers. Enjoy![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

Acts
Neal T.

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Came for an open mic night on first Wednesday of the month and the lineup was decent.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] But what really got me going was their Rib Plate special $13 and literally the best ribs I think I've ever had. Thank you Luke for tip and great service! Tots and slaw as well were delicious but the ribs melted right in your mouth and fell completely off the bone with just a tap. Also boiler maker special with Redemption Bourbon and choice of beer which was $13 as well. Can't be beat!

Legend Zeppelin JUN2025
Franklin M.

Drove out here to see another tribute band called Legend Zeppelin. I had bought my tickets in advance through Eventbrite and had the ticket loaded on my phone's wallet. They don't have a scanner for the QR code so I had to show an email or be on the printed list with the names of all the prepaid tickets. Despite this drawback the staff was very nice and I enjoyed a night listening to some classic rock music.

Pulled Pork sliders

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1 year ago

The great band legend zeppelin was there for concert I'd enjoy the drink and play pool

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Ask the Community - The Wayfarer

Is seating first come first serve?

Yes it is but they have a good number of table seating for dining .

Do they serve food during concert nights & if so until what time? :)

Hi Lively, food is served during concerts until 10pm.

Do you have a karaoke night?

Yes, every Sunday night 9:30-1:30

Sunday have Live Music?

Sundays is Karaoke

Are you still doing trivia nights on Tuesday?

Yes we are Jacqueline!

For shows, do they kick people out at a certain time so they can start collecting the cover charge?

No, if you're inside prior, they don't charge you. But once the bands start playing they start charging to enter.

Is it 21+?

Yes they are ...

What's the average age?

26 to 34

View All 23 Questions

Review Highlights - The Wayfarer

Is definitely doesn't have the same shows that the Detroit bar but that place was pretty legendary...

Mentioned in 21 reviews

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The Pacific Amphitheatre

The Pacific Amphitheatre

3.5
(244 reviews)
2.3 mi
$$

I'm always looking for an experience, and I'm happy to say I officially kicked off my summer at the…read morePacific Amphitheatre with UB40. I've been listening to this band since the '90s, so hearing them live was such a fun nostalgic night. Of course everybody gets older, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that... let's just say maybe Dispatch should now be called UB80. Bad joke, but it had to be done. let's face it. That's the dream to do what you love till you're dying day. I'm down for that. I'm definitely that girl. I'll go see you No matter what age if I love you! I love this outdoor amphitheater. The tickets were very reasonably priced, the atmosphere was relaxed, and it felt like the perfect starter concert to set the summer off right. I'm already planning my return for Sugar Ray and English Beat on July 23.A little tip: if you drink, the venue advertises cocktails, but it's mostly canned beverages. I'm sober so it didn't matter to me, but good to know ahead of time. Also bring cozy clothes because it definitely got chilly once the sun went down.Overall, such a great summer vibe and an easy five stars from me.

This is a great venue - not too big and great acoustics. The reason I'm giving 3 stars is the very…read morepoor signage and customer service. We walked into the fair area and our tickets were scanned. No one mentioned where to go for the concert until we tried to enter the door area of the venue where a guard told us to exit and go left. No where was there any signs that said no entry go to blank. No wonder I love the Hollywood Bowl. Unless some band I love comes here this is the last time I come here

Photos
X concert, 2025 Orange County Fair
X concert, 2025 Orange County Fair
Cool Signage !
Cool Signage !
Looks like the llama got in for free. Lucky llama

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Looks like the llama got in for free. Lucky llama
Cafe Sevilla

Cafe Sevilla

4.2
(1.8k reviews)
0.9 mi
$$

We went to Cafe Sevilla this weekend to catch the Mexico World Cup game and we had a great…read moreexperience! First, our server was so attentive even though it was a packed house! What we love about this place is they have happy hour everyday from open to I believe 7, you can't beat that! The food and drinks: we got a tamarindo margarita and we liked it a lot. Good flavor although it could have used a bit more alcohol. For tapas we got: croquetas de queso y jamon (we loved them, they were probably our favorite), calamari (it was so good!), empanadas (my boyfriend said they were good), short rib tacos (they were okay but not the greatest), patatas bravas (only thing I wasn't a fan of). Overall, really great food, service and ambiance. We will definitely be back!

Cafe Sevilla has been open since 1987. It is located in downtown Costa Mesa at Triangle Square…read more Cafe Sevilla is at tapas bar, restaurant & nightclub. They have live music and sometimes dance they have a full bar. The place is clean and really pretty inside and out. They even have brunch and salas dance classes if you are up to that. We just dined there. It can get crowded so make a reservation. It is also loud when there is music or dancing and all of it is great fun. You can hear each other. Just sit close. The service is amazing and the servers will help you with the wonderful tapas menu. The menu has something for everyone. We the shareable plates. Their TORTILLA ESPAÑOLA which is a traditional Potato & Egg Tart with wonderful roasted garlic, tomato and goat cheese served warm with greens. Their GAMBAS AL AJILLO which is shrimp made with roasted garlic, chile arbor and white wine was our favorite. All of it is great. They have rooms for private events, but I don't know about that. Have fun.

Photos
Full indoor bar
Full indoor bar
Bacon Wrapped Dates, Potatoes, and Meatballs.
Bacon Wrapped Dates, Potatoes, and Meatballs.
Espresso.

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Espresso.
The Red Room

The Red Room

4.9
(237 reviews)
1.0 mi
Luxury
Speaks Spanish

My wife and I have been coming to Red Room since it first opened. Last night, we came for dinner…read morewith our son and were treated with the same incredibly welcoming, fun, luxurious, and delicious atmosphere that brings us back again and again and again. The owner, Domenico, not only gives a masterclass in hospitality every night, but he truly is a warm and generous man who will ensure that your evening is special. He treats everyone as family. He provides live entertainment every night (rare anywhere these days), and when he gets up on stage, he sings from his heart wiith a talented charm and love for music. The chef, Carmelo, is a young master. His food is excellent and if there is a special...try it! He puts his heart and soul into his dishes. The staff follows in Domenico's footsteps and, even when the night gets busy, they treat us like family and ensure our night is the best. The entertainment last night was the duo of Marcelo on guitar, and Walter on saxaphone. Both are talented, seasoned professionals and gentlemen whom we have come to know and appreciate. From rock, to jazz, merenge to George Benson, they kept the vibe going all night. Obviously, I can't recommend spending your evening at Red Room enough! It's a rare gem.

All the positive reviews about Domenico is what brought us to celebrate our 25th wedding…read moreanniversary at the Red Room this past weekend, and it did not disappoint. From the moment we were greeted warmly by the maître d' to the bartenders and servers welcoming us with their radiant smiles and gestures, to Domenico personally tending to our needs throughout the evening, we could not have asked for a better way to celebrate. Domenico was particularly welcoming, genuinely engaged in conversation with us and not just superficial small talk...but fully engaged in a heartfelt conversation about family, life, and food. We did not feel like we were at a restaurant, but at Domenico's house where we were welcomed as his guests to partake in an intimate gather. He checked on us throughout the meal and made sure we were taken care. And yes, the food was OUTSTANDING! It's an extensive menu and so much to choose from. We got the short ribs, pollo al funghi, and octopus/potato salad. All were amazing, with Domenico providing background on how each dish was derived and prepared. Don't hesitate to visit. It's a positively unique experience you shouldn't miss out on. Domenico and his family will take care of you!

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Top Shelf Bar
Top Shelf Bar
Dinner and live jazz
Dinner and live jazz
Interior Red Room

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Interior Red Room
The Harp Inn

The Harp Inn

4.0
(346 reviews)
0.9 mi
$$

The harp is definitely an institution in Costa Mesa. I mean I cannot tell you how many times I have…read morebeen here. Long before Yelp was even a thing, and long before the internet really was put into the hands of the cow in person, this was the hub. This is where you went to meet people, exchange ideas, have conversation and more. The harp is really an institution in Orange county. And not just because it has longevity, there's a reason that it has sustained power. This place is probably one of the most authentic Irish pubs I've been to. Having been to Ireland. I can attest that this is right there with a standard pub in a small town. Which makes it wonderful. The people that run the place, especially Paul, is one of the reasons why I keep coming back here. He's personable, funny, and no-nonsense right. I like his way of thinking and his approach to customer service a second to none. Now let's talk about the food and drinks. From a drink standpoint. You cannot go wrong with this place, the drinks are thoughtfully made, this guy knows how to pour a beer. As far as food goes. I highly recommend the beefeater sandwich, and you cannot go wrong with the chicken wings. Some of the best wings I've had ever. Friday and Saturday nights is usually popping pretty hard when they have bands playing. So, good luck trying to find a seat anywhere in the place. When there is an event that night. You will have to get there early for sure. The bottom line? This is a go-to hangout. If you are looking for a good watering hole to meet people, just hang out and have a good time, or watch a game on the big screen TVs. F*** I would highly recommend the harp to anybody and everyone in the Orange county area.

Great day to watch football in a Irish bar. Two World Cup matches on the telly with fans on both…read moresides of France-Norway. Paul is amazing and has a great memory for people and faces. He remembered my wife and I, where we sat and how we found the place when we visited three months ago. One of the few places to get Kilkenny.

Photos
The Byrdes
The Byrdes
The Harp Inn
This place is pretty popping on a Friday or Saturday night. Get there early to get good parking.

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This place is pretty popping on a Friday or Saturday night. Get there early to get good parking.
Observatory

Observatory

3.1
(1.2k reviews)
4.1 mi
$$

This is mostly for the VIP area. I'm at the age where I don't want to stand for an entire show nor…read moredo i want to push and throw elbows with fellow music fans. Bought reserved seats upstairs. Decent view of the stage. Great sound. I paid extra for premium parking. There is free parking within a couple of blocks. I think premium parking is worth it as I've heard there are predatory tow services that tow cars parked in lots of nearby CLOSED businesses. Douchey move. Enjoyed the show, food was decent "pub grub" but pretty limited menu. Nice selection of beers, cocktails and seltzers, really limited wine options.

I have been to many shows at the Observatory and I am quite disappointed with my last experience. I…read morecame to see Plain White Tees, New Found Glory and Yellow Card, who were playing at their festival grounds. I saw a bunch of bands play at that space many years ago, and it was a great time. I go to shows often and have never experienced something as horribly organized and planned as this. The first thing is that there was no approved parking in the nearby area. They had everyone park at Santa Ana College and take shuttles and buses to the venue. There are several businesses in the area, with large parking lots and it would have made way more sense to have people park there (even for a fee). We drove by one and there were actually security guards from the venue posted up, not allowing anyone in. I even asked a guy if there was paid parking options, because I really didn't like the idea of my car being so far away + feared the lines and getting back (post show). We couldn't find an alternative, so we did park at the college and waited in an enormous line to take a city bus. The bus was packed with concertgoers and was not comfortable, with many of us standing. The driver drove extremely erratically and I felt very car sick. He slammed on the breaks and even stopped in the middle of the road at one point. I was so happy to get off the bus and we realized the driver dropped us off at the front, which meant we had to walk nearly a mile to get into the back of the line. The line moved somewhat quickly, but it was wrapped around the nearby buildings 2xs. It was so awful, especially because that whole experience made us miss the first band, despite getting there over an hour early. I heard many other people talking about how terribly organized this was and how they came just for the first band and were pretty upset. Going through security was ok, but they made some people go through the serpentine line and others didn't, so if you were the one in the serpentine line and your friend didn't, guess what, they're waiting for you! It's just so strange, everything felt so horribly planned, despite the fact that this is what the venue does on a regular basis. I honestly don't feel a huge draw to go back to this venue for a long, long time.

Photos
View from my seat.
View from my seat.
Venue clearing out after the show.
Venue clearing out after the show.
Table seating at the balcony.

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Table seating at the balcony.
Mesa

Mesa

3.7
(1.9k reviews)
3.7 mi
$$
Full bar
Boutique

I've been to Mesa twice now in the past few weeks and I love it! I've arrived later in the evening…read moreand it's a fun time. I did not order any food, however, I did order drinks and I thoroughly enjoyed the lychee martini. I didn't talk to the bartenders much, but security and everyone working was nice. They did check IDs and check our bags when we went inside. It was more like a club by the time we entered, but I've heard that earlier on it's a different ambiance. I personally love the club vibes and it's a fun place to go dancing with the girls. I think I prefer it over the club because it's not as crazy. I would definitely go again.

A dependable cross between a lounge/nightclub, bar and restaurant that's classy without charging a…read morecover. Quality cocktails and food such as Neapolitan-style pizza, albeit a limited beer selection. On weekends and on Thursday nights it turns into a club after 10pm or so, which is fun until or unless it gets so crowded there isn't much room to maneuver around, as a consequence of most of the space being dedicated to VIP seating and there not being much of a dance floor. The music typically tends towards hip hop with some reggaeton sprinkled in. The bathrooms are the real star of the show; call it VIPee. There's about 10 individual unisex bathrooms with their own doors, rather than a girl's and guy's group setup. It's managed by a vigilant attendant guiding you to the next available vacancy. And no, they don't let you bring anyone in with you--or so I've heard.

Photos
Lychee Martini
Lychee Martini
Craft Cocktails at Mesa
Craft Cocktails at Mesa
MESA DJ

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MESA DJ

The Wayfarer - bars - Updated July 2026

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