Costa Mesa Grind Guide
Expiration: 365 days after purchase
Take a sip-by-sip journey through 30+ local coffee shops in Costa Mesa. This is your guide to the city’s best brews and your next favorite caffeine fix. Check in along the way to score limited-edition prizes!
*You can check into each venue one time monthly, prizes available while supplies last.
Included Venues
See locations on an interactive map.
A coffee speakeasy hidden inside a garage? Only in Costa Mesa. Fuel up on seasonal espresso blends, drip, cold brews, and signature drinks like their Burnt Honey Latte or iced Americano with house cold foam. Oh — and don’t sleep on their merch.
Neat Coffee in Costa Mesa has that effortless neighborhood feel — warm, welcoming, and always buzzing with good energy. By day, it’s all about perfectly crafted coffee and by night, the space transforms, serving wine and hosting fun community events that make it feel more than just a coffee shop.
It’s pink and totally extra — welcome to Coffee Dose, Costa Mesa’s sassiest coffee shop. Tucked along Irvine Ave, this cheeky gem isn’t just a spot to grab a latte; it’s a full-on vibe. The bold pink décor, witty signs, and overall aesthetic begs for an Instagram story.
Hola Adios captures the spirit of adventure right here in Costa Mesa. Inspired by travel and connection, this cozy spot serves espresso, chai, matcha, and even draft kombucha alongside house-baked pastries, breakfast burritos, biscuit sandwiches, and their fan-favorite pacos (yes, pancake tacos!).
Salty Horse is a cozy and charming neighborhood restaurant located on Newport Boulevard in Costa Mesa, California. With its inviting atmosphere and delicious menu, it has become a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant offers a diverse selection of dishes inspired by Mediterranean and American cuisine, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The interior of Salty Horse is warm and welcoming, with rustic decor and comfortable seating. Guests can choose to dine indoors or opt for a seat on the outdoor patio, which offers a lovely view of the bustling street. The restaurant prides itself on its friendly and attentive service, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and well taken care of. The menu at Salty Horse features a variety of options to suit every palate. From hearty salads and sandwiches to flavorful pasta dishes and succulent seafood, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The restaurant also offers a selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails to complement your meal perfectly. One of the highlights of Salty Horse is its commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. This dedication to supporting local farmers and producers not only ensures the freshness of the dishes but also helps to sustain the community. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch with friends, a romantic dinner for two, or a special celebration with loved ones, Salty Horse is the perfect destination. Its welcoming ambiance, delicious food, and excellent service make it a must-visit spot in Costa Mesa. Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean and the warmth of Southern hospitality at Salty Horse.
This community-focused coffee bar provides the perfect blend of thoughtfully curated wine, fresh brews, and crafted bites. Their regular event collaborations with local vendors make it a welcoming hub for creativity and meeting new people.
Tucked inside a gorgeous Spanish-style plaza, it’s the kind of spot that turn a quick coffee run into a full afternoon hangout. Their espresso? Handcrafted perfection. Their menu? A love letter to local, seasonal ingredients — with rotating dishes that keep things fresh. But Milligram isn’t stopping at caffeine — they’ve got craft beers, curated wines, and playful cocktails for when your coffee break turns into happy hour. And with live music popping up on select days Milligram becomes a whole mood, served al fresco.
Tucked beside the Giorgio Armani boutique inside South Coast Plaza, Armani Caffè is the perfect spot to grab a coffee in between shopping. Sip an espresso, grab a flaky pastry, or linger over a fresh salad or panini. It’s sleek and luxe vibes make it totally selfie-worthy.
MoonGoat Greenhouse is where sunlight and good coffee flow in equal measure. With its airy design and plenty of space to unwind, it’s perfect for catching up, working, or simply taking a break. And while you’re there, take a stroll through the nearby Noguchi Garden — the ultimate spot for a peaceful pause in your itinerary.
Craving an authentic Mexican treat? Head to El Moro Churrería tucked inside Mercado Gonzalez. Try Mexico City's most popluar churros, crispy, soft on the inside, and made fresh to order. Pair it with rich Mexican hot chocolate, or café con leche for the ultimate combo.
Buenas Coffee is all about Good Coffee, Community, & Culture. Savor Latin-inspired drinks like Cafe de Olla and Palo Santo cappuccinos. Don’t miss the creamy oat milk horchata or the nostalgic Taza de Maza with Mazapan syrup. With regular art shows and collabs with local artists, it’s a cozy spot where coffee and creativity come together.
In-sīt Coffee is one of those spots that just gets it right — great coffee, chill vibe, and super friendly people. The matcha and Spanish lattes are fan favorites, and you’ve got to try their croffle — a buttery croissant pressed in a waffle iron for the perfect mix of crispy and flaky.
MADE Coffee’s new Costa Mesa location keeps the same relaxed, welcoming vibe that’s made it a local favorite in Orange County. They’re known for smooth espresso, creative matcha drinks, and signature cold foams that hit just right. The best part? It’s super dog friendly — you can bring your pup along while you grab your go-to drink or try something new from their friendly baristas.
Blending South Asian roots with California cool, Chailo Coffee Club brings a fresh take on café culture to Costa Mesa. Known for its signature chai, rose lattes, and pistachio-spiced drinks, this spot is all about bold flavors.
General Store by the Pour Kids is a cozy little spot tucked on Randolph street in Costa Mesa. Known for their smooth pour-overs and specialty drinks, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger with a cup in hand. While you’re there, you can browse a mix of vintage finds, Japanese home goods, records, and so many unique finds.
Wake up and smell the coffee (and fresh bread): Hamada-Ya Bakery is a Costa Mesa hidden gem inside Mitsuwa Marketplace. This Japanese bakery is a caffeine-lover’s dream spot, where a warm latte pairs perfectly with a fluffy melonpan or a slice of cloud-like matcha chiffon cake. From sweet delights to savory bites like curry bread and sausage rolls, every item is crafted with the kind of quality that makes you want “just one more."
Tucked inside The LAB Anti-Mall, Nook Coffee Bar is a longtime local favorite known for its smooth, hand-crafted drinks and cozy atmosphere. Signature sips like the Honey Oat Latte, Spanish Latte, and Honey Lavender Latte keep fans coming back. We recommend leaving a little extra time on your itinerary to wander The LAB’s eclectic shops and creative corners to get the full experiance.
The G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time) of coffee comes straight from the moon. With their own roastery and a series of retail cafes located in Orange County, MoonGoat Coffee is a must-visit for coffee fiends and casual sippers alike. Stop by their flagship location in Costa Mesa for a warm welcome, tasty snacks, and delicious beans sourced from a conscious, global network.
Step into Eller Bakery and you instantly know you’ve found something special. This cozy bakery fills the air with the irresistible scent of freshly baked breads and pastries. From flaky croissants to warm cinnamon rolls, every bite is a little moment of joy. Their artisanal breads are baked fresh daily and perfect with coffee or a sandwich.
Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a photo-worthy pit stop. Cruise through for “The Quickie” frozen vanilla latte, a “Valley Girl” blueberry marshmallow moment, or the iconic “Basic Bi*ch” vanilla latte. Add sweet cream (because you deserve it), snag a bagel or banana bread, and live your best drive-thru life.
Coffee Nature is your go-to spot for pour-overs, fresh teas, and house-made syrups that’ll hit just right. Need a pick-me-up? Their breakfast burrito, packed with bacon, turkey, scrambled eggs, avocado, and chipotle sauce, is a game-changer. Plus, with tons of parking and space to hang out, it’s the perfect place to vibe with friends or get work done.
If you haven’t been to 602 Coffee & Acai yet, you’re missing out. Tucked on Newport Blvd, this spot nails both coffee and acai bowls—think perfectly brewed lattes, caramel macchiatos, and bowls piled with granola, fruit, and coconut. Grab a quick pick-me-up or treat yourself to a coffee and croissant.
Original Barista is where coffee feels personal again. Tucked along Harbor Blvd, this cozy spot turns your daily caffeine fix into an art form — from rich espressos and velvety lattes to perfectly chilled iced brews. The vibe is laid-back but thoughtful, with flaky pastries, minimalist design, and friendly baristas. It’s the kind of place that feels like a secret — even after you’ve told all your friends about it.
At Philz every cup is brewed to order, so whether you’re craving a bold dark roast, a silky latte, or something sweet and creamy, the baristas make it exactly how you like it. Pair it with a pastry, settle into the laid-back space, and sip your way to peak chill.
This Orange County favorite has been redefining the coffee scene from its flagship spot inside The OC Mix. Here, craft and creativity meet — you can even watch beans being roasted on-site during the week. Their seasonal menus love to experiment, with drinks like the Rose Orgeat Latte and Honey Bee Latte made with real flowers and bee pollen. Plan some extra time to explore The OC Mix while you’re here — it’s full of local shops, design finds, and restaurants worth discovering.
You haven’t really been to Costa Mesa until you’ve stopped by Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee. Tucked on 17th St, this shop serves doughnuts that are just as fun to look at as they are to eat—classic glazed, rich chocolate, or daring flavors like huckleberry and maple bacon. Pair it with a brewed coffee for a perfect morning start.
The Lost Bean is Costa Mesa’s go-to spot for thoughtfully sourced coffee and tea. This cozy café brews organic, ethically grown beans and handcrafted teas. From smooth pour-overs to rich espresso drinks and freshly baked pastries, it’s the kind of place where locals linger—and newcomers quickly feel at home.
Their menu is packed with crowd favorites—from bold House Coffee to the must-try Mung Bean Milk Tea and refreshing Strawberry Hibiscus Cooler. Pair it with a sweet macaron, and you’ve got the perfect mid-day pick me up.
At Vitaly you can sip a rich Italian espresso in the morning, treat yourself to some gelato after lunch, then return for handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza by night. It’s part café, part modern Italian eatery, all fueled by fresh ingredients.