The Absolute Best Chili in Costa Mesa [Updated 2025]

I dove deep into the heart of Costa Mesa, armed with a spoon and an insatiable appetite, to uncover the chili gems hiding in this vibrant city. After tasting my way through 12 top spots, I can confidently say that the chili scene here is nothing short of spectacular. Each bowl tells a story, bursting with flavor and character, just like the community itself.

As someone who's spent years collecting culinary experiences, I know what makes a chili truly great—from the perfect balance of spices to that rich, hearty texture that warms you from the inside out. So, trust me when I say, these aren’t just random picks; they’re the absolute best that Costa Mesa has to offer. Let’s dig in!

Broken Yolk Cafe

Highlights
Amazing service
Great breakfast options
Fast and attentive staff
Worth the trip
Cozy diner atmosphere

When I stepped into Broken Yolk Cafe, I was immediately enveloped by its cozy diner atmosphere, which felt like the perfect setting for what was to come. The amazing service I encountered set the stage for a delightful culinary adventure! Promptly greeted by friendly staff, I could tell that my experience was going to be special.

Now, let’s talk chili! I decided to try their signature chili—a mix of hearty beans, spices, and perfectly cooked ground beef. Each spoonful was like a warm hug in a bowl, and the flavors danced playfully on my palate. The touch of heat was just right, making it comforting yet exciting at the same time!

As I savored my chili, I couldn't help but reflect on the diverse breakfast options available at Broken Yolk. The inviting aroma of breakfast foods wafted through the air, tempting me to return for another meal. By the end of my visit, I knew this gem was worth the trip! If you’re hunting for chili in Costa Mesa, don’t miss out on this delectable experience. Go ahead, treat yourself—you won’t regret it!

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Los Dos Molinos

Highlights
Authentic New Mexico cuisine
Magnificent hatch chili flavors
Delicious burro with green sauce
Spicy but manageable green sauce
Welcoming owner and atmosphere

Los Dos Molinos in Costa Mesa is a true gem for chili lovers seeking an authentic taste of New Mexico. Upon entering, I was greeted by the warm, welcoming atmosphere, which seemed to echo the passion of the charming owner. The moment I took my first bite of their chili, I knew I was in for a treat.

The magnificent hatch chili flavors danced across my palate, striking a perfect balance between spicy and manageable. This wasn’t merely a dish; it was a flavorful journey through the mountains of New Mexico. I decided to pair the chili with a delightful burro topped with their sublime green sauce. The combination of textures and vibrant flavors made every bite an exciting adventure!

What sets Los Dos Molinos apart is not just its food but the genuine love for cuisine that permeates the entire establishment. If you crave rich and hearty chili that resonates with authenticity, look no further. This spot is a sizzling piece of paradise that should not be missed. For anyone seeking the best chili in Costa Mesa, Los Dos Molinos is the place to be!

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ZONA Cantina + Cocina

Highlights
Unique and diverse menu
Fantastic happy hour margaritas
Tasty street tacos
Great for large groups
Satisfied dining experience

Review of ZONA Cantina + Cocina

When I stepped into ZONA Cantina + Cocina, I knew I was in for a treat. This vibrant eatery boasts a unique and diverse menu that actively calls out for exploration. What’s a visit without indulging in their chili? As I dove into my bowl, I found the flavors dancing on my palate—spicy, hearty, and comforting all at once.

The ambiance was warm and inviting, perfect for both an intimate dinner or a spirited gathering with friends. Speaking of friends, their fantastic happy hour margaritas paired impeccably with the chili, elevating the entire experience; who knew chili and margaritas could bedazzle the taste buds this way?

To complement my chili, I savored some tasty street tacos that were bursting with freshness and flavor, embodying the essence of Mexican cuisine. The service was impeccable, ensuring that my dining experience remained smooth and enjoyable.

If you're looking for a place great for large groups or just a cozy outing with a loved one, ZONA is an excellent choice. Dining here leaves you with a heart full of joy and a belly ready for another round. Highly recommend adding ZONA to your list for the best chili in town!

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Rancho de Tia Rosa

Highlights
Festive atmosphere
Extensive menu options
Large outdoor patio
Consistent good service
Iconic dish-shaped plates

As I stepped into Rancho de Tia Rosa, I was immediately greeted by a festive atmosphere that set the perfect tone for my chili adventure. The vibrant colors and lively decor truly capture the essence of a traditional Mexican cantina, making it an inviting oasis for any soul seeking warmth and flavor.

The extensive menu options offered a dizzying array of choices, but my heart was set on their famous chili. Served in their iconic dish-shaped plates, it arrived with a hearty helping of toppings that made my mouth water in anticipation. The first spoonful transported me straight to flavor town! The chili was an exquisite blend of spices, rich meat, and a hint of smoky goodness, bringing comfort to each bite.

The large outdoor patio provided an enchanting al fresco dining experience, perfect for enjoying the California sun. Throughout my meal, the consistent good service kept my glass filled and spirits high. If you’re on the hunt for a delightful chili experience in Costa Mesa, Rancho de Tia Rosa is a must-visit. It’s a playful twist on tradition that will leave your taste buds doing the happy dance!

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The Chuckbox

Highlights
Old-school BBQ ambiance
Mesquite wood grilling
Flavorful chicken sandwich
Tasty grilled green chilies
Excellent toppings selection

The Chuckbox in Costa Mesa is a hidden gem that delivers a flavor-packed punch! From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by an old-school BBQ ambiance that sets the stage for a satisfying culinary adventure.

Mesquite wood grilling wafts through the air, offering a tantalizing hint of what's to come. I indulged in their flavorful chicken sandwich, but what really stole the show was the delightful addition of their tasty grilled green chilies. These vibrant, spicy beauties bring a wonderful depth to any dish!

As I navigated their extensive toppings selection, it was clear that The Chuckbox takes its chili seriously. With an array of options to enhance your meal, you can easily concoct a bowl that's as unique as your taste buds demand.

Savoring each bite, I couldn't help but appreciate the dedication to quality and flavor. If you're on the hunt for the best chili experience in Costa Mesa, you owe it to yourself to swing by The Chuckbox. It's a perfect stop for those who appreciate a good bowl of chili amidst a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Prep your taste buds for a lively culinary experience!

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Ghost Ranch: Modern Southwest Cuisine

Highlights
Fantastic customer service
Delicious margaritas
Complimentary appetizers
Tasty chips and salsa
Great atmosphere

Ghost Ranch: Modern Southwest Cuisine is an adventure for the taste buds that goes beyond the ordinary, especially when it comes to their chili offerings. Upon entering, I was charmed by the inviting atmosphere, which perfectly sets the stage for what’s to come. The moment you sink into your seat, you are greeted with fantastic customer service—the kind that makes you feel like a guest at a friend’s home.

As I sipped on a delicious margarita, the anticipation for their chili grew. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The chili was robust, infused with a vibrant mix of spices that danced on the palate. Each bite was a glorious explosion of flavor.

Accompanying my meal were complimentary appetizers, including tasty chips and salsa, which I couldn’t resist. They perfectly complemented the chili, creating a delightful combo. The ambiance of Ghost Ranch not only made me feel at home but also enhanced my overall dining experience.

In the end, Ghost Ranch delivered more than just chili; it served up a culinary adventure that is not to be missed. If you find yourself in Costa Mesa, this spot is a must for chili lovers!

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Texaz Grill

Highlights
Fantastic Texaz Dip
Huge Chicken Fried Steak
Amazing Peach Cobbler
Great Atmosphere
Attentive and Nice Waitress

Texaz Grill in Costa Mesa is a real hidden gem for chili lovers like me. As soon as I stepped inside, the great atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm embrace, beckoning me to explore their menu. I opted for their signature chili, and let me tell you—it's an experience worth savoring.

The chili was rich and flavorful, striking a perfect balance between spice and heartiness. I couldn't resist pairing it with the fantastic Texaz Dip, which added a creamy texture that complemented the chili beautifully.

While I was there, I also couldn't help but gaze at the colossal Chicken Fried Steak heading to another table—it made my mouth water just watching it glide by! And of course, I saved room for dessert; their amazing peach cobbler was the cherry on top of a delightful meal.

The service was equally impressive, with an attentive and nice waitress ensuring my visit was exceptional. All in all, if you’re in Costa Mesa and craving a delicious chili experience, Texaz Grill is where you should be! 🍽️

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Recreo Cantina

Highlights
All-day happy hour Sundays
Delicious Mexican candy margarita
Generous appetizer portions
Cute outdoor seating
Flavorful, juicy steak fajitas

Recreo Cantina is truly a gem tucked away in the bustling heart of Costa Mesa, and let me tell you, it serves up a chili that is nothing short of exceptional. As soon as I settled into the charming outdoor seating, I couldn't resist my adventurous spirit and decided to pair their famous Mexican candy margarita with a delicious bowl of chili. The combination leaves a lasting impression!

What I love most about Recreo is their all-day happy hour on Sundays, which means that indulging in generous appetizer portions is not only permissible but highly encouraged! The deeply rich and flavorful chili was packed with tender chunks of beef that melted in my mouth, perfectly complementing the refreshing margarita.

As I savored each bite, I appreciated how Recreo Cantina manages to blend traditional and modern culinary techniques effortlessly. Their chili is not just a dish; it's an experience that dances on your taste buds. It’s hard to find a place where every element is as delightful as at this location. If you're on the hunt for the ultimate chili in Costa Mesa, don’t miss out on a visit to Recreo Cantina—this place is a true fiesta for the senses!

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Chili's Grill & Bar

Stepping into Chili's Grill & Bar felt like a warm hug from a favorite friend. Their signature chili was a hearty blend of spices and tender meat, delivering a comforting kick without overwhelming my palate. The generous portion was perfect for sharing—or not! Topped with a crown of zesty cheese, it was pure bliss in a bowl. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff only added to the charm. If you're seeking a place where flavor meets fun, look no further than Chili's—it's a delightful spot to indulge your chili cravings in Costa Mesa!

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The Original Blue Adobe Grille

The Original Blue Adobe Grille in Costa Mesa offers a chili experience that dances on the palate. Their Red Chili Con Carne bursts with rich, slow-cooked flavors and a delightful kick that warms the soul. Topped with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro, it’s a bowl of comfort that expertly balances heat and savoriness. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff make for a delightful dining experience. If you’re seeking a chili that packs a punch while being incredibly satisfying, look no further. This gem is a must-try for chili lovers exploring the culinary landscape of Costa Mesa!

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Chilaquiles Modern Kitchen

Nestled in the heart of Costa Mesa, Chilaquiles Modern Kitchen offers a delightful twist on traditional chili. Their signature chili is a vibrant mix of flavors, featuring tender meat and a perfect blend of spices that dance on the palate. The boldness of the roasted chilies is balanced by a hint of sweetness, making every spoonful a moment of joy. The cozy ambiance amplifies the experience, inviting you to savor each bite. This culinary gem is a must-visit for chili lovers seeking something refreshingly unique. I left with a happy heart and a craving for more!

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Old Ellsworth Brewing Company

Nestled in the heart of Costa Mesa, Old Ellsworth Brewing Company serves up a chili that dances on the palate! Their spicy beef chili is a bold blend of chunky beef, vibrant spices, and a hint of smokiness that lingers just long enough to entice your taste buds. The velvety texture is complemented by a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, offering a burst of freshness in every bite. Paired perfectly with a house-brewed beer, this chili is an absolute delight. If you're seeking a unique twist on a classic comfort dish, Old Ellsworth's chili might just be your new obsession!

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