Where to Eat After Visiting the Segerstrom Center: Art and Food in Costa Mesa

Whether you’ve just watched a thrilling showcase at the Segerstrom Center, or are planning a visit soon– It’s a great idea to make a day out of it and grab a bite before heading home. In this blog, we’ll explore the best restaurants in Costa Mesa. But, right before we do- what’s a dinner without an interesting conversation? To help you lead a cool discussion about the center’s history, we’ve compiled some intriguing facts about it below.

Discovering the Segerstrom Center

Nestled in the heart of Cosa Mesa, this cultural hub has been captivating audiences since 1986. It was originally known as the Orange County Performance Arts Center and was renamed in 2011 to honor the Segerstrom family, whose philanthropy shaped the artistic landscape of Orange County. 

Broadway hits, jazz concerts, ballet performances, and family-friendly shows are some of the many lineups in store. Even though the performances are exhilarating- the architecture of the place sets it apart. 

Designed by the renowned architect Cesar Pelli- there are several stunning venues at the center.  The grand Segerstrom Hall seats nearly 3,000 people and is the main stage for large productions. Adjacent to it is the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, a more intimate space designed for acoustics and features the impressive William J. Gillespie Concert Organ. 

The center also houses smaller venues like the Samueli Theater, ideal for jazz and cabaret performances, and the Judy Morr Theater, which primarily serves as a rehearsal space for ballet companies. 

Do any of these names sound familiar? To learn more about them take a look at this interesting article on the venues. 

A Rich History

Once upon a time, a family arrived in Orange County as humble farmers. They worked hard and eventually became influential in cultural development and real estate. They began making donations that established the center as a premier performing arts complex. The Segestrom family is a big reason why the first public performance at the venue featured the legendary soprano, Leontyne Price. 

Today, programs like Arts Teach provide students with opportunities to engage with artists and learn about different art forms, ensuring that the love for the arts continues to flourish among the youth.

How to Reach the Segerstrom Center 

To reach the Segerstrom Center in Costa Mesa, CA, head to 600 Town Center Drive, easily accessible from the 405 and 55 Freeways. Parking is available at the Center Tower, Plaza Tower, and Park Tower structures, with rates typically at $15 for performances and $30 for valet service. 

Accessible parking is provided in all structures. For those using public transportation, OCTA bus services are a convenient option.

Where to Eat After the Show

After a short 15-minute walk through the bustling lanes of Costa Mesa, you’ll find yourself at Sessions WCD. We’re located near the center and are super excited to host you after your show! Where we’ll do our best to serve you food that parallels the breathtaking performance at the center.  

This area has a lot to offer, so how do we stand out? Well, it’s simple– fresh ingredients, unique flavors, a laid-back atmosphere with gourmet food, and friendly staff. Our food tastes like it was made in your kitchen- no joke. That’s literally how fresh it is. 

We treat your body like it’s our temple and make sure that what you eat is not just healthy, but tastes great too. So, what’s on the menu? As we said, we keep things simple and house all your favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for a big ol' sandwich or a refreshing salad, we’ve got you covered. 

The Spicy Crispy Crunchy Chicken Sandwich is quite popular– crispy fried chicken, chili garlic slaw, cucumber, pickled chilies, and sriracha aioli, all nestled in a sesame brioche bun. If you're in the mood for something lighter, try the Wedge Legend Salad– a refreshing mix of smoked bacon, chicken, goat cheese, heirloom tomato, croutons, and a tangy balsamic reduction. 

Other Popular Eateries in the Area:

• Water Grill South Coast Plaza

Their reputation precedes them, with a menu filled with sustainably sourced seafood it’s a great choice if you’re a seafood lover with a relaxed ambiance and a design inspired by nautical details. Some must-tries on their menu include the WIld California Spiny Lobster and the Wild Alaskan Halibut. 

Also, did you know that the Wild Florida Stone Crab (another specialty of theirs) has claws that regenerate? After a claw is removed they take a year to regenerate. 

• Seasons 52  

This restaurant is a great choice for those who love to indulge in dishes that emphasize fresh seasonal ingredients. Here, a sense of guilt-free indulgence is developed without an accompanying compromise on taste.

The menu's highlight is the Cedar Plank-Roasted Salmon; it's extremely juicy, fresh from the fireplace, and loaded with smoky flavor. 

• Vaca

Chef and owner Amar Santana ensures this vibrant restaurant truly rings out as a beacon of real Spanish cuisine. Each bite brings a piece of Spain alive via tapas and full entrées.

With its lively atmosphere, open kitchen, and signature dishes like the Paella Valenciana– Vaca feels like a slice of Spain in the heart of Cosa Mesa. 

• Mastro's Steakhouse 

For steak aficionados, Mastro's meets old-time elegance with some modern flavors. Their ambiance is a combination of dimmed lights, plush seats, and live music, their setting stands are great for an intimate and sophisticated evening.

Try their Bone-In Ribeye or  Lobster Mashed Potatoes presented with great service and an excellent wine list to accompany your meal. 

Things to do After Your Meal

Costa Mesa has so much more to offer beyond its culinary attractions. After dinner, take a stroll through the Noguchi Garden- an overlooked treasure with breathtaking sculpture art and panoramic views. 

South Coast Plaza, one of the largest luxury malls in the U.S., is literally within walking distance so if you’re on a holiday- it’s a great place to pick up some gifts for your family and friends back home. 

The TeWinkle Park is another lovely place for a stroll. An expansive 49-acre park with a beautiful lake, The Moon Park is a small but charming park with a playground and dome simulating the lunar surface, commemorating the Apollo 11 moon landing.

There’s lots to explore here beyond the restaurants in Costa Mesa! We hope you have an awesome visit and stop by Sessions for a meal, or a coffee too. It’s rumored that no visit to the area is complete without a stop at our restaurant. 

For more information, give us a call @ +1 (714) 760- 4015!