Costa Mesa is a great place to grab a cup of coffee. The city has many coffee shops that offer tasty drinks and nice places to relax. From small local spots to bigger chains, there’s something for everyone.
Costa Mesa’s coffee scene has grown a lot in recent years. You can find shops with unique flavors, comfy seating, and friendly staff. Whether you want a quick espresso or a place to work for hours, Costa Mesa has you covered. Let’s look at some of the best coffee shops in the area.
1. Coffee Dose
You’ll love Coffee Dose, a trendy spot in Costa Mesa. It’s known for its fun, quirky vibe and Instagram-worthy drinks. The cafe’s signature pink cups and cheeky slogans make it stand out from other coffee shops.
Coffee Dose offers a variety of unique beverages. Their menu includes classic coffee drinks, as well as specialty lattes with fun names. You can also find health-focused options like matcha and collagen-infused drinks.
The shop has a cool, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place to hang out with friends or get some work done. The staff is friendly and always ready to help you choose the perfect drink.
Don’t forget to try their tasty treats. Coffee Dose serves up delicious pastries and snacks to go with your coffee. Their menu changes often, so there’s always something new to try.
Rating: 4.9 (3400 reviews)
Location: 2675 Irvine Ave suite e, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Contact: (949) 656-9005
Website: Visit Website
2. Original Barista
You’ll love the cozy vibe at Original Barista in Costa Mesa. This hidden gem serves up some of the best coffee in town. The baristas take pride in their craft, creating perfectly balanced drinks every time.
The shop’s interior is warm and inviting. You’ll find plenty of seating options, from comfy armchairs to shared tables. It’s a great spot to catch up with friends or get some work done.
Original Barista offers a wide selection of coffee drinks. Try their signature lattes or go for a classic espresso. They also have tasty pastries and light bites to pair with your coffee.
The service here is top-notch. The staff is friendly and always ready to help you pick the perfect drink. You’ll feel right at home from the moment you walk in.
Rating: 4.9 (115 reviews)
Location: 1920 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Contact: (949) 791-8211
3. MoonGoat Coffee
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at MoonGoat Coffee in Costa Mesa. This local gem serves up fantastic brews that will wake up your taste buds.
The baristas are friendly and knowledgeable. They’ll help you pick the perfect drink to suit your mood. Whether you prefer a classic latte or want to try something new, you’re in good hands.
MoonGoat takes pride in sourcing high-quality beans. You can taste the difference in every sip. Their menu also includes tasty pastries and light bites to complement your coffee.
The shop has a relaxed vibe that’s great for catching up with friends or getting some work done. You’ll find plenty of seating and free Wi-Fi to keep you comfortable and connected.
Rating: 4.6 (650 reviews)
Location: 1985 Placentia Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Contact: (949) 612-2875
Website: Visit Website
4. Hola Adios Coffeeshop
When you step into Hola Adios Coffeeshop, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, instantly perking up your senses.
The baristas at Hola Adios are skilled and friendly. They’re happy to chat about their coffee selection and help you find the perfect drink to suit your taste.
You’ll find a variety of coffee options here, from classic espresso drinks to unique specialty beverages. Don’t forget to pair your coffee with one of their tasty pastries or light bites.
The coffeeshop’s decor is stylish and cozy, making it a great spot to relax, catch up with friends, or get some work done. You’ll feel right at home in this welcoming space.
Rating: 4.8 (216 reviews)
Location: 120 Virginia Pl Unit 101, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Contact: (949) 329-8987
Website: Visit Website
5. The Caffeine Club
You’ll love The Caffeine Club, a cozy spot on Adams Avenue in Costa Mesa. This charming coffee shop is perfect for your caffeine fix and a relaxing break.
The Caffeine Club offers a wide range of coffee drinks to suit your taste. From classic espresso to fancy lattes, you’re sure to find something you enjoy. Their skilled baristas take pride in crafting each cup to perfection.
Don’t forget to try their tasty snacks and pastries. They pair perfectly with your coffee and make for a great light meal. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with comfy seating and a quiet space to work or chat with friends. You’ll want to come back again and again to this local gem.
Rating: 4.6 (105 reviews)
Location: 1534 Adams Ave A, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Contact: (657) 218-4303
Website: Visit Website
6. Portola Coffee Roasters
You’ll find Portola Coffee Roasters tucked away in Costa Mesa’s bustling SoCo Collection. This coffee shop stands out for its commitment to quality and craft.
When you step inside, you’re greeted by the rich aroma of freshly roasted beans. The sleek, modern interior creates a welcoming space for coffee lovers to gather.
Portola takes pride in its sourcing practices. They work directly with farmers to bring you the best beans from around the world. You can taste the difference in every sip.
The baristas here are true experts. They’re happy to chat about coffee and help you find the perfect drink. Whether you prefer a classic latte or want to try something new, you’re in good hands.
Rating: 4.5 (881 reviews)
Location: 3313 Hyland Ave STE B2, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Contact: (714) 656-7996
Website: Visit Website
7. Coffee Nature
Coffee Nature is a hidden gem in Costa Mesa. You’ll find this cozy spot tucked away on Bristol Street. It’s a great place to grab a quick cup or settle in for a longer stay.
The shop offers a variety of coffee drinks and tea options. You can also choose from their selection of pastries and light snacks. Many customers rave about the quality of their espresso drinks.
The atmosphere at Coffee Nature is warm and inviting. You’ll notice the friendly staff and clean environment as soon as you walk in. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Coffee Nature is perfect for both work and relaxation. You can bring your laptop and use their free Wi-Fi or catch up with friends over a latte. The shop’s layout provides plenty of seating options for your needs.
Rating: 4.7 (307 reviews)
Location: 355 Bristol St #J, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Contact: (714) 545-2274
Website: Visit Website
8. Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee
Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee is a must-visit spot in Costa Mesa for coffee lovers and doughnut fans alike. You’ll find a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for starting your day or grabbing an afternoon pick-me-up.
The star of the show here is their amazing selection of freshly made doughnuts. You can watch as the staff crafts these sweet treats right before your eyes. The flavors change often, so there’s always something new to try.
Don’t forget to pair your doughnut with one of their expertly brewed coffees. The baristas take pride in their work and can whip up everything from a simple drip coffee to fancy lattes. You’ll taste the difference in every sip.
Sidecar is more than just a quick stop – it’s a place where you can sit, relax, and enjoy your treats. The friendly staff and warm vibe make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Rating: 4.7 (2100 reviews)
Location: 270 E 17th St #18, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Contact: (949) 873-5424
Website: Visit Website## 9. In-sīt Coffee – Costa Mesa
You’ll find a cozy spot for your caffeine fix at In-sīt Coffee in Costa Mesa. This charming cafe offers a warm atmosphere and friendly service that’ll make you feel right at home.
The coffee here is top-notch, with expertly crafted espresso drinks and smooth pour-overs. You can pair your beverage with tasty pastries or light bites for a perfect morning pick-me-up or afternoon treat.
In-sīt’s modern, minimalist decor creates a calm environment for you to relax or catch up on work. The cafe’s clean lines and natural light make it a great place to snap some photos for your social media feed.
Whether you’re meeting friends or looking for a quiet spot to read, In-sīt Coffee has you covered.
Rating: 4.4 (71 reviews)
Location: 891 Baker St B19, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Contact: (714) 852-3040
Website: Visit Website
10. Milk & Honey
Milk & Honey is a cozy coffee shop in Costa Mesa that’s perfect for your caffeine fix. You’ll love the warm atmosphere and friendly staff that greet you as you walk in.
Their menu offers a variety of coffee drinks to suit your taste. From classic lattes to unique specialty beverages, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to try their delicious pastries and light bites to go with your drink.
The shop has a trendy vibe with comfortable seating areas. It’s a great spot to catch up with friends or get some work done. The WiFi is reliable, making it ideal for remote workers and students.
You’ll appreciate the attention to detail in their drink preparation. The baristas take pride in crafting each cup to perfection, ensuring you get a high-quality coffee experience every time you visit.
Rating: 4.2 (313 reviews)
Location: 2981 Bristol St B6, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
History of Coffee Culture in Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa’s coffee scene has evolved from humble beginnings to a thriving part of the city’s culture. Local roasters and coffee shops have shaped the community’s taste for quality brews over the years.
Early Beginnings
Coffee culture in Costa Mesa started small. In the 1980s, a few local shops began roasting their own beans. Wilson Coffee Roasters was one of the pioneers. They focused on sustainability and fair trade before it was trendy.
Another key player was Carl Diedrich. He started a coffee roasting business that later became Diedrich Coffee. His son Martin founded the company in 1984. It grew from a single shop to a chain.
These early shops laid the groundwork for Costa Mesa’s coffee scene. They introduced locals to fresh, high-quality coffee. This sparked a growing interest in artisanal brews.
Modern Influences
Today, Costa Mesa boasts a diverse coffee landscape. You’ll find a mix of established roasters and trendy new cafes. Many focus on specialty coffee and unique brewing methods.
Shops like MoonGoat Coffee and Lion and Lamb Coffee Roasters carry on the tradition of local roasting. They offer single-origin beans and craft blends.
Newer spots like Bad Coffee and Hola Adios Coffeeshop bring fresh energy to the scene. They combine quality coffee with Instagram-worthy aesthetics.
Costa Mesa’s coffee culture now attracts both locals and tourists. You can explore a range of styles, from traditional to experimental. The city’s coffee shops have become community hubs, fostering connections over cups of joe.
Characteristics of Costa Mesa’s Coffee Scene
Costa Mesa’s coffee shops stand out for their eco-friendly practices and innovative brewing methods. You’ll find a mix of sustainability-focused cafes and spots that experiment with unique ways to prepare your favorite drinks.
Focus on Sustainability
Many Costa Mesa coffee shops prioritize eco-friendly practices. You’ll often see reusable cups and compostable packaging. Some cafes source their beans from fair trade farms. Others roast their own beans in small batches to reduce waste.
Local ingredients are common too. You might find pastries made with California-grown fruit or milk from nearby dairies. Some shops even grow herbs for their drinks on-site.
Energy-saving is another focus. LED lights and energy-efficient equipment help cut power use. A few cafes even use solar panels to power their operations.
Unique Brewing Techniques
Costa Mesa’s coffee scene is known for trying new things. You’ll find shops that specialize in pour-over coffee, which brings out subtle flavors. Others use siphon brewing, creating a theatrical coffee experience.
Cold brew is popular, with some cafes aging it in whiskey barrels for extra flavor. Nitro coffee, infused with nitrogen for a creamy texture, is also on many menus.
Some places offer coffee flights. This lets you sample different beans or brewing methods side by side. It’s a fun way to explore coffee’s diverse tastes.
Specialty drinks are common too. You might find lattes flavored with house-made syrups or topped with intricate latte art.
Frequently Asked Questions
Costa Mesa has many great coffee shops to explore. Let’s look at some common questions about the local coffee scene.
What are the top-rated coffee shops in Costa Mesa for a cozy atmosphere?
MoonGoat Coffee and The Caffeine Club offer comfy spaces to relax. Both have cozy seating and warm lighting. You can enjoy your drink while chatting with friends or getting work done.
Can you recommend any coffee shops with unique blends near South Coast Plaza?
Coffee Dose is close to South Coast Plaza and known for creative drinks. They make fun blends like their purple-hued lavender latte. You can also try their signature “Slay All Day” blend for something different.
Which coffee shop in Costa Mesa is known for having the strongest coffee?
Original Barista serves up powerful brews. Their espresso shots pack a punch. If you need an extra caffeine boost, try their “Rocket Fuel” drink. It’s sure to wake you up fast.
Are there any must-visit coffee spots in Costa Mesa that locals love?
Hola Adios Coffeeshop is a local favorite. It has a fun, laid-back vibe and tasty drinks. Many Costa Mesa residents stop by for their morning cup. The friendly staff makes you feel welcome.
What are some popular coffee shops in Costa Mesa that offer plant-based milk options?
MoonGoat Coffee and The Caffeine Club both have lots of non-dairy choices. You can get oat, almond, or soy milk in your drink. Some shops even offer coconut milk as an option.
Where can I find the best latte art in Costa Mesa?
Original Barista and Coffee Dose are known for pretty latte designs. The baristas there take pride in their foam art skills. You might get a cute bear or flower on top of your latte.