Feed a family of four with 2 pounds of your choice of meat (carnitas, pollo, or Birria short rib), plus rice, beans, handmade tortillas, guacamole and chips + salsa. Fun for the whole family, you'll find comfortable seating areas throughout the restaurant, bar, and indoor and outdoor patios. Our spacious family-sized booths and tables, as well as larger communal seating are perfect for large groups.
In addition to lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and happy hour menus, we offer a full menu for your littles ones. Inspired by authentic Mexican foods and flavors found within the coastal regions of Baja and mainland Mexico, we use only the freshest, often locally grown and raised ingredients. Many chilies, herbs and veggies are picked fresh daily from our onsite garden.
In addition to lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and happy hour menus, we offer a full menu for your littles ones. Inspired by authentic Mexican foods and flavors found within the coastal regions of Baja and mainland Mexico, we use only the freshest, often locally grown and raised ingredients. Many chilies, herbs and veggies are picked fresh daily from our onsite garden.
Services
Inspired by the flavors synonymous with coastal Baja and mainland Mexico, Playa Mesa brings a refreshing approach to authentic Mexican food and drink. The menu draws from chef's travels and personal experiences throughout Mexico, including Ensenada, Jalisco, Michoacan, and Oaxaca, using the same type of farm-fresh ingredients and cooking methods passed down for generations.
From the team behind The Country Club comes Playa Mesa, a stunning haven for elevated Mexican fare and exquisite libations. Seventieth Street is bustling with good eats. The burgeoning gentrification is in full swing, and you can now curb your cravings for carnitas and killer margaritas on the Costa Mesa strip.
Reviews (26)
Tracy Foreman
Jan 30, 2022
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After a 1 hour hike through back bay my stomach was ready for food. I was going to try to be good but the margarita selection was way too tempting.
I went with a spicy mango skinny margarita. The waiter told us all of the juices are fresh and mango is one of my favorites. This drink was the best margarita I have tasted EVER! I wanted more but like I said, I was trying to be good.
The chips candy salsa were delicious. I had to stop eating them know I was ordering chilaquiles.
The chilaquiles were enormous. I asked for scrambled eggs since I’m not a fan of snotty eggs. The portion was huge so
I went with a spicy mango skinny margarita. The waiter told us all of the juices are fresh and mango is one of my favorites. This drink was the best margarita I have tasted EVER! I wanted more but like I said, I was trying to be good.
The chips candy salsa were delicious. I had to stop eating them know I was ordering chilaquiles.
The chilaquiles were enormous. I asked for scrambled eggs since I’m not a fan of snotty eggs. The portion was huge so
Songyi W.
Jan 30, 2022
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Beautiful decor with indoor-outdoor space and a fun cocktail list. I love a good espresso based drink for brunch and the one from Playa Mesa was delicious (and not too heavy/creamy). On weekends, you can choose from the normal menu or a special breakfast menu until 2pm. I was very tempted by the tres leches waffle, but ended Up going with a savory dish and got the birria burrito per the recommendation of our waiter. The meat was very tender and flavorful and was complimented by melted cheese, rice, and avocado. I really like that the burrito was toasted to have a nice crunch on the outside. Our
Brie O.
Jan 29, 2022
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Y'all, you have to come to Playa Mesa. You will not be disappointed. We came for brunch/lunch today, and it was TOP TIER. The food was bomb, our waitress Scarlett was INCREDIBLE, and the service was outstanding. As soon as you walk in, they treat you like family. I had the enchilada combo with the birria and shrimp. Chef's kiss! The drink I had was delicious. My friend had the cheese enchiladas, and Thank you to the new GM Bill! He's so friendly and personable.
Justin J.
Jan 29, 2022
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Jazmin V.
Jan 29, 2022
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Lili H.
Jan 26, 2022
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I ended up at Playa Mesa by chance, because I was going next door it was packed so instead of waiting for ever and getting elbow-to-elbow action (not safe) decided to go to a new place.
Playa Mesa has a really nice space, well decorated with Latino accents and great music. Everyone was super nice and attentive, first we sat at a table then we decided to seat at the bar. They have a parking lot with limited spaces and also valet parking, we were lucky and found parking in the street :)
We were greeted with chips and salsa, and this salsa was spectacular! spicy enough to be interesting but not
Playa Mesa has a really nice space, well decorated with Latino accents and great music. Everyone was super nice and attentive, first we sat at a table then we decided to seat at the bar. They have a parking lot with limited spaces and also valet parking, we were lucky and found parking in the street :)
We were greeted with chips and salsa, and this salsa was spectacular! spicy enough to be interesting but not
Monika M.
Jan 22, 2022
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The best place to spend your Taco Tuesday.
Note: there is only valet parking available and the cost is $4.
First off, I've never been here but wanted to get together with 7 of my friends (total party of 8) for drinks and tacos. With $8 Michelada and Margarita specials all day and $3.50-$5 taco and taquitos, why would I want to go anywhere else ? Also happy hour was going on until 6pm with additional specials.
We arrived around 4:45pm with no reservation and the hosts were able to accommodate us and sit us all by 5pm (this place is great for larger parties). The inside is a vibe and super
Note: there is only valet parking available and the cost is $4.
First off, I've never been here but wanted to get together with 7 of my friends (total party of 8) for drinks and tacos. With $8 Michelada and Margarita specials all day and $3.50-$5 taco and taquitos, why would I want to go anywhere else ? Also happy hour was going on until 6pm with additional specials.
We arrived around 4:45pm with no reservation and the hosts were able to accommodate us and sit us all by 5pm (this place is great for larger parties). The inside is a vibe and super
Jared D.
Jan 22, 2022
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I went during the happy hour and tried out the all the tacos, taquitos and a couple mango micheladas. Ones that I would order again are the potato taquitos, asada tacos, and fish tacos. The rest are kind of subpar and don't have much flavor. The mango michelada was delicious and if I didn't have to drive definitely would have had more.
What made me give it such a low rating was the staff not all but mainly a busboy and our server. The hostess was nice and other people that passed by and checked in with us. Well we were actively eating and drinking the bus boy was clearing our table
What made me give it such a low rating was the staff not all but mainly a busboy and our server. The hostess was nice and other people that passed by and checked in with us. Well we were actively eating and drinking the bus boy was clearing our table
Jonathan W.
Jan 22, 2022
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Millena P.
Jan 20, 2022
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Check in: Happy New Years! Make sure you check in on Yelp because you'll receive one free mimosa coupon when you do!
Environment: Parking was a bit confusing; one side of the parking lot is valet for the restaurant next door and the other side is for Playa Mesa. Valet was nice enough to park our car for us. Once we walked in, we were greeted and seated by a hostess. Vibes are amazing. The music, people, and staff made it fun. The music is loud (which is my type of vibe), but if it isn't your vibe, I don't recommend eating here. You can choose to be seated at the bar or a table.
Environment: Parking was a bit confusing; one side of the parking lot is valet for the restaurant next door and the other side is for Playa Mesa. Valet was nice enough to park our car for us. Once we walked in, we were greeted and seated by a hostess. Vibes are amazing. The music, people, and staff made it fun. The music is loud (which is my type of vibe), but if it isn't your vibe, I don't recommend eating here. You can choose to be seated at the bar or a table.
Kristy N.
Jan 18, 2022
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First time here, shared parking lot with Wild Goose. I really enjoyed our dinner at Playa Mesa. We were quickly seated, easy to make reservations, and service was wonderful. Large portion entrees, great sharing plates, and tasty drinks! The tequila range offerings are amazing! Definitely a fun vibe. I had a combo plate, a mix of tacos and enchiladas. We also had some ceviche, fajitas, and desserts. Marco take care us and did a tremendous job with recommendations and personality. Extra stars for him. Would definitely come back.
Tyonni N.
Jan 17, 2022
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I happened to stumble across this place about a year ago while staying in Costa Mesa for the OC fair and I'm so glad I did. We've been back many times since, even living an hour plus away. Always with a reservation. Parking is valet only, I always just self park even though you still pay I think $4. The restaurant is small but the inside is beautiful. They also have an outside area with a fire pit. The bar in the center is really pretty. Their chips and salsa are really good and fresh. All of their margaritas are made with all natural ingredients. I've had the watermelon and tamarindo
Amber Steeves
Jan 07, 2022
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This is a great place for dinner with friends, date night, or group event. There is plenty of seating both indoor and outdoor, the outdoor patio is heated with super comfy seating ❤️
Our food was fresh and delicious; the churro dessert is perfect for sharing. Ask your server for drink recommendations, you won't be disappointed🍸🍸
Our food was fresh and delicious; the churro dessert is perfect for sharing. Ask your server for drink recommendations, you won't be disappointed🍸🍸
Maya T.
Jan 05, 2022
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Jasmine C.
Jan 01, 2022
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Michael Gorman
Dec 21, 2021
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Isabella S.
Nov 17, 2021
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Made a reservation for 3 on a Sat night. Restaurant is dog friendly:)
I didn't like how they originally sat me at the fire pit area during dinner hours just because it's hard to eat for 3 people on small tables. Our waiter was super accommodating and allowed me to switch to a table. This was much easier to eat, especially with a dog! My friends are vegetarian and they enjoyed their meal. I was pleasantly surprised by the carne asada tacos. The meat was tender and the rice was amazing. The free salsa and chips were a nice touch--especially when Carlos refilled them without us asking
I didn't like how they originally sat me at the fire pit area during dinner hours just because it's hard to eat for 3 people on small tables. Our waiter was super accommodating and allowed me to switch to a table. This was much easier to eat, especially with a dog! My friends are vegetarian and they enjoyed their meal. I was pleasantly surprised by the carne asada tacos. The meat was tender and the rice was amazing. The free salsa and chips were a nice touch--especially when Carlos refilled them without us asking
Seon M.
Oct 12, 2021
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I grew up in OC and moved to LA a few years ago. I was shocked to see that no one wearing masks indoor at all! Not even the employees. I do know that the masks are not required in OC, but the pandemic is still going on... Not like this restaurant is being proactive in checking covid vaccine cards either. I feel bad for its employees.
The food and the ambience were okay. I definitely have had better Mexican food and drinks before. The service was decent. The valet guy was surprisingly nice (unlike in other reviews).
I am sticking with my rating after the message from the manager. 3 stars are
The food and the ambience were okay. I definitely have had better Mexican food and drinks before. The service was decent. The valet guy was surprisingly nice (unlike in other reviews).
I am sticking with my rating after the message from the manager. 3 stars are
Denise R.
Oct 09, 2021
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Had brunch with my besties at Playa Mesa and everything was delicious! We did reservations through yelp and valet was $4. It does get busy during brunch so make sure to get there early if you do not have reservations. I will definitely come back to try their dinner menu because I've heard good things.
Not pictured : our drinks + Café de Olla with Churros
Featuring: (IG : foodwithdeni)
Huevos Rancheros
Tres Leches Waffle
Playa Breakfast Torta
Not pictured : our drinks + Café de Olla with Churros
Featuring: (IG : foodwithdeni)
Huevos Rancheros
Tres Leches Waffle
Playa Breakfast Torta
Nidhi M.
Oct 05, 2021
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Came here for dinner and had a 30 minute wait, so our group just walked around until we were texted that our table was ready.
We ordered a few items to share for the group:
- Squash blossoms (requeson, honey beer batter, ranchero salsa, cilantro): OK, sounds better than it tastes - needs more flavor
- Guacamole (avocado, serrano, red onion, lime, cilantro, cream, chips, pepitas): good
- Quesadilla de Champinones (confit oyster mushrooms, queso oaxaca, flour tortilla, huitlacoche crema): this was very mushroom heavy, if you're a fan
I got the vegetarian tacos which had avocados, mushrooms
We ordered a few items to share for the group:
- Squash blossoms (requeson, honey beer batter, ranchero salsa, cilantro): OK, sounds better than it tastes - needs more flavor
- Guacamole (avocado, serrano, red onion, lime, cilantro, cream, chips, pepitas): good
- Quesadilla de Champinones (confit oyster mushrooms, queso oaxaca, flour tortilla, huitlacoche crema): this was very mushroom heavy, if you're a fan
I got the vegetarian tacos which had avocados, mushrooms
Chris Castle
Sep 14, 2021
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Be advised that it is valet parking only, not bad $4. Make reservations if you have a big party. The guacamole was creamy and tasty. All the food that we ordered was delicious and fresh. We celebrated my wife's birthday and the crew came out and gave her a birthday gift. A free dessert and a song. The only downside is that this place was very busy on the Saturday night we were there, so sometimes didn't see our server for long periods of time. So maybe go for lunch during the week first, before going on a Saturday night with family or friends.
Marcella E.
Jul 21, 2021
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Wanted to love this place based on the ambience and great service, but the food just didn’t meet expectations. Chips and salsa were good, as well as the strawberry watermelon margarita. However, the chicken taquitos were just okay, with a bland flavor. The ceviche was also mediocre in terms of flavor. Nothing stood out in terms of wanting to come back and try another dish. However, three stars because the service was great, and the restaurant itself is nice.
Colleen Talkov
Jul 01, 2021
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We ended up here on a whim because The Country Club down the road doesn't let kids in (21 & up only) and we had our 4 yr old with us. We were pleasantly surprised with everything about this restaurant though. The kiddo was exceptionally pleased with his burrito and churro for dessert, and the adults were impressed by the delicious food (including vegetarian options), and the great drinks! The server asked what I like, I mentioned that I like anything sweet but am not very knowledgeable about drinks. She brought me the most delicious, visually appealing drink I have ever had! Will definitely be
Elizabeth Lutz
May 16, 2021
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Jesus Zapien Jr
May 16, 2021
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Came here for taco Tuesday, it's definitely a thriving place that everyone wants to be at. Valet parking only, when we went it was 3$ so very affordable, cash only. The wait wasn't that long, got sat in about 30 minutes. The staff wasn't over attentive , always a plus if you're out with friends and trying to have conversation, not so good if you have menus questions. The ambiance was definitely upbeat, the 'it place' to go hang out and have a fun time after work. The food however definitely was mass produced to meet their demand for taco Tuesday, needed more seasoning. You could also tell that
Claudia Ruiz
Apr 19, 2021
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