Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Buena Mesa

    4.1 (259 reviews)
    Open 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    Order Buena Mesa Takeout or Delivery

    Buena Mesa Photos

    Business Info

    BUENA MESA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Trendy
    Intimate
    Classy
    Upscale

    You might also consider

    More like Buena Mesa

    Recommended Reviews - Buena Mesa

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Daisy A.

    This establishment used to be Marie calendars. The boy is out of the hospital so off to eat steak we go! It is a weekday around 530 pm and only one other couple here. Boy had the filet mignon it does not come with any sides which is perfect for him. He was so animated when he had the first bite. His exact words" what!!? It's so juicy and perfectly seasoned. I had a bite and yes he was not exaggerating That was a good quality great tasting piece of meat. I ordered a shrimp cocktail for myself which hit the spot. It had some nice heat to it. So nice to see a smile on my boys face while he's eating away. I will be back. Maybe I'll bring my flash light with me next time ha! It's a nice romantic vibe but I can't see!

    Unfortunately, I missed the jazz singer that plays Thursday & Friday
    Crystal G.

    So good. Coming in for a steak dinner potatoes and Brussels sprouts. The prices have gone down, which is really nice. I love an amazing fine dining moment. This place always hits the spots ! It's close to my House.. My stepdad loves it because they have a good wine five stars every time

    Horrible food! salsa taste so nasty as if it was just poured out from cans.. Ceviche de camarón was so bad not fresh! Place is stuffy along with cords on the floor.

    Octopus
    Chrissy G.

    This review is for Buena Mesa in Downey. This mariscos restaurant really impressed me. The camarón aguachile was vibrant and refreshing, with shrimp marinated just right and a spice level that brought everything to life without overpowering it. The octopus stood out--perfectly cooked, tender, and lightly smoky. The ostiones preparados were fresh and generously topped, balancing the oyster's briny flavor with a punch of seasoning with camarón and pulpo were amazing! A great place for high-quality, authentic seafood.

    Cesear Caesar Salad
    Kim U.

    We were the only ones here for over an hour and the server was not even attentive. The bread and dipping sauce were good. The bf liked his shrimp cocktail. I ordered the chicken plate and it was a bit dry even though it was slathered with a bright yellow sauce that was not mentioned on the menu. The macaroni and cheese was good I was looking at two places for brunch and accidentally picked the wrong one because o thought they had a brunch menu. My mistake. Ambiance? Music and eight TVs going on. The bf said he would come back. Tre desserts in the case look like they have been leftover from Friday night. It is now Sunday afternoon. Oh yeah, the Pork Bend had no pork belly in it. The bf said maybe it was thinly sliced. But to me, it seemed like bacon rolls with a sauce drizzled on it. And they charge for refills of ice tea. Yeah. Should have gone to LKSD. No wonder no one is here after an hour and a half after opening.

    Menu
    Roxana G.

    Just passing by to recommend VERDUGOS MEAT SALADS & DESSERT . I really loved the ambiance, algo tranquilo. If you feel like having a great dinner with either your husband/wife, boyfriend/girlfriend, friend well this is the place . You are able to have a conversation without screaming at each other. What I order was Rib eye steak with a side of lobster loaded with potatoes, omg it was delicious GIVE THEM A TRY FRIEND AANDDD LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK ;)

    Receipt Food Prices
    Myra L.

    5 stars for Samantha's singing but not happy with the service, we got there before the owner but got our food after. I understand he is the owner but that's rude We waited a while to even get water. Also when you order a New York Stake you have to order your side separately lol crazy. Only reason they are getting 3 stars instead of 1 is because of Samantha's voice and Steak was good but I won't be coming back

    Tiramisu & cafe de olla
    Sabrina A.

    Came in on a Wednesday for lunch, it was pretty empty considering the time but our waitress was so sweet and helpful! I've been wanting to try this restaurant for a while since I live nearby and heard good reviews. We were not disappointed! The louis jacot was amazing if you like sweeter white wine! We ordered the filet mignon and bone-in ribeye steak with a side order of their mac & cheese and loaded lobster mashed potatoes. It was absolutely perfect- they were not stingy with the lobster on the mashed potatoes and their blue cheese dip for the steak was amazing! Both the steaks were tender and cooked to perfection! We also ordered their cafe de olla and tiramisu for dessert- both really good as well, and authentic cafe de olla! I hope to come back for their Frank Sinatra night one of these weekends, restaurant was clean, service was great, and food was delicious!

    Menu
    Eddie G.

    The food was all very very good. The loaded lobster potatoes were the only dish lacking a bit of flavor. The steak cooked medium well was D-licious! The roasted brussel sprouts were the first thing to go they were so good. Haven't had an old fashioned that good in a long time. Came for dinner on a Friday night and there was plenty of seating. Definitely give this place a try I know I will again.

    Ralph and a Downey customer! We will be back!
    Natalie H.

    So much to say about this place but I want to start with the owner - Ralph Verdugo is amazing. 10/10 owner but even better of a person. This man cares about his community so much and cares about his customers even more. The friendliest, kindest man who just so happens to also run an amazing establishment! The vibes of the steakhouse are great - live music, great quality steak for a fair price, and delicious drinks! I recommend the ribeye, truffle fried, and Downey girl! Side note: Ralph hosted a dinner for 7 senior couples from Downey - took care of their whole meal, including appetizer salad, steak, dessert, and drink - all because he wanted to show appreciation to the senior community. Such a great man!!

    Ribeye Steak Oyster Rockefeller Lamb Chops Mac and cheese w/lobster

    See all

    18 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    17 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 2

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 3
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0

    15 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    16 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    18 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 59
    Thanks 17
    Love this 57
    Oh no 1

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    24 days ago

    The carnitas tacos were incredibly authentic and packed with flavor. The friendly service made my lunch visit truly enjoyable.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jazmin D.
    138
    74
    40

    9 months ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 4

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    18 days ago

    the ribeye steaks and seafood is the seafood tower is mouthwatering the drinks are amazing

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Myra L.
    55
    101
    63

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Luis A.
    73
    10
    1

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Wendy W.
    43
    150
    160

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Luis M.
    0
    10
    23

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Michael B.
    19
    96
    133

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Monica K.
    302
    16
    3

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Karla C.
    92
    30
    35

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Went i went they didnt have anything. No drinks, no sides for my kids. This place was also too dark.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Food is delicious drink are amazing nice hang out bar an grill to watch games and get your drink on

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Danna B.
    43
    70
    46

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Ralph V.

    Ralph V.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    Page 1 of 7

    Ask the Community - Buena Mesa

    You might also consider

    The LKSD

    The LKSD

    4.1
    (2.5k reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$$

    I didn't get any food, but I did have a virgin coffee martini! Typically it is hard to make a…read morecoffee martini I was told however the bartender did an amazing job! It was delicious! The ambience is really cute and perfect for a date!

    Everything was good EXCEPT the STEAK.. No... Seriously…read more This was probably the biggest steak disappointment I've had in a while. The place comfy, the ambience is dark and bar-like, the drink vibes look chill, I have no complaints about the service. The service was good and the staff was nice. All this makes the steak disappointment that much worse for me. We ordered Ribeye and Shrimp Salmon Lobster Mac and Cheese Asparagus Lobster Roll (Sushi) A drink from the bar The Steak.. The steak came served on a cast-iron skillet. I ordered it medium-well. It arrived a little more medium than usual, but that was not an issue. What disappointed me was the puddle the steak was sitting in. Traditionally said puddle is a mixture of butter, thyme, and whatever seasonings you used on the steak when cooking it. In this case, that puddle was flavorless. It really tasted like the steak was just sitting in a flavorless oil. The steak was very bland, very difficult to think someone could send out a piece of meat out like that, especially when you find out what it costs. It was not worth it and not worth the final tab unfortunately. Really wanted to find a steak W for Downey but I don't see myself being interested in this place again.

    Photos
    Indoor Seating
    Indoor Seating
    New York Steak, Sweet potatoes Fries, Old Fashioned Original
    New York Steak, Sweet potatoes Fries, Old Fashioned Original
    Moruko roll

    See all

    Moruko roll
    Mandala Cantina

    Mandala Cantina

    4.1
    (286 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    Speaks Spanish
    Locally owned & operated

    In order to honor Cinco De Mayo, with festivities that were okay for me, I went to Mandala Cantina…read morefor Latino beats and Loteria--- otherwise known as Mexican Bingo, which kind of takes the red, white and green flavor of the game. But quick understanding the term suffices. As I entered Mandala Cantina, I knew that I had stepped inside a vibe of Latin frenzy and buck--- it was replete with a sophisticated backyard boggie energy. Or in other words, the carne asada barbecue had adopted an elegant, glamorous and modern Talum motif that hit with bright mellow lights, beige beauty all around and a good time fueled by tequila shots and cocktails. I was sat at the bar, but I was warned that my sit would be bellow the regular bar line. So I sat alone, and I could look up at everyone else sat from by de-elevated sit. I was ok, I had arrived late, I was by myself with no reservation and on a whim, so I took my corner seat and did my best to forget that I sat below everyone's eye level. The party vibe was strong and palpable all across the bar. In fact, I have been to very few bars where the move was to sit, yet, the music and crowd almost demanded that we acted like we were on a club, but sitting down. More clearly, I wanted to move and dance but since there was no space, and we were playing Mexican bingo, we were implicitly required to sit and dance. For those who did not, the party still pulsed. There was this huge Cantaro (Mexican clay cup or vase) with six straws. So like a fishbowl drink that is commong in Tiki or Island theme bars, but in a large Mexican mug. This guy was moving it around while he was filmed in a way where he showed the drink for six like Mufasa showed Simba to the residents of Pride rock. So I am basically saying that all the people in the bar and crowd found a way to honor the old school hits of Reggaton and Banda that dominated the airwaves of the spot. I could not help but beat my head back and forth when Oye Mi Canto played and the lasers of the spot moved around wildly. In short, it was an experience that can be described as lit. The experience of game play was also electric. As soon as you entered, you were asked to pick a card from a large stack. You were also required to get some frijolitos-- small beans, that did not jump. I put all my beans into my card and removed them as my cards were called. I came close to winning, and maybe I did, but it was hard to focus amidst the noise and bop, so maybe I did win and did not register that one of my cards had been called so its frijolito remain on top of that square. Regardless, of the lack of victory I expeirenced I was still very happen I went here to celebrate Cinco De Mayo with appropriate festivities. After I soon sat, some tacos were placed in front of me. They were for my neigbor. I was honest and made them aware that they were not for me. After all a Mexico Hero-- Benito Juariez reminds us that respeto a lo ajeno es la paz. Or in other ways, respecting what is not yours equals peace.

    If I could give 0 stars, I would. I'm honestly disappointed with how disorganized Mandala was…read moreduring the Mexico game on July 5, 2026. I've tried multiple times to call and speak to a manager about what happened, but after receiving no response, here I am leaving a Yelp review. This wasn't my first time at Mandala, but it will very likely be my last. I made my reservation the same day Mexico won and reservations opened. I reserved a table for 8 people at 3:45 PM, which was the maximum party size available. I arrived around my reservation time, definitely before 4:00 PM, and security directed me to wait in the line designated for guests with reservations. By around 4:30 PM, the reservation line had barely moved, yet I watched other people walk up, give their names, and be let inside. At the same time, I could clearly see two reserved tables for eight sitting completely empty.I finally asked one of the waitresses, "I reserved for 8 people, and I see those two tables are empty. May I ask what the hold up is?" She asked for my name, looked up my reservation, confirmed it was there, and then told me, "It was canceled." I asked, "What was the reason? I've been here." She replied, "You never checked in before 4:00 PM." Which in fact I did, and security even confirmed that I had arrived before 4:00 PM. Despite that, no one was willing to honor my reservation. At that point I told her, "Only three people from my party of eight are here. Can we just get a table for the three of us?" She spoke with another waitress, and they came back saying it would be standing room only. I asked, "Why?" Again, they referred me back to my supposedly canceled reservation. By now I was beyond frustrated. While they spent another five minutes trying to "figure something out," I continued watching people walk up, give their names, and immediately be seated. Meanwhile, the two reserved tables for eight were still sitting empty. Then I was told, "The best we can do is standing room at the bar, or you can stand anywhere in the restaurant with one of the cocktail tables, but there's a $100 minimum per person." That requirement was never advertised or mentioned when I made my reservation. I reminded her, "This isn't my first time here." She simply replied, "Or you can stand at the bar. No minimum." At that point, it was so close to game time that I just wanted to get inside. We were never greeted--menus were simply placed in front of us. And throughout all of this, those two reserved tables for eight remained empty. The biggest lie I heard all afternoon was, "We're at capacity." I must have heard that at least 10 times. If Mandala was truly at capacity, how were people continuously walking in without reservations and being seated? Why were guests with confirmed reservations turned away while empty reserved tables sat untouched? Thankfully, the game was delayed until 6:00 PM, which gave us enough time to leave and take our business elsewhere. This was poor planning, poor communication, misleading reservation practices, and some of the worst customer service I've experienced. I wasted my time, my gas, and what should have been an exciting afternoon watching the Mexico game with family and friends. I expected much better from a place I'd enjoyed before. Instead, I left feeling ignored, frustrated, and completely disappointed. I rest my case.

    Photos
    Sin City refreshing
    Sin City refreshing
    Mandala cantina
    Mandala cantina
    Flan with a birthday candle

    See all

    Flan with a birthday candle
    Same Ol' Saloon

    Same Ol' Saloon

    4.5
    (88 reviews)
    2.1 mi
    $$

    Was a bit confused initially, as this place apparently has 2 names. I had heard "Pow Wow Saloon…read more(see picture) bit signage when trying to find it is "Same Old Saloon". Obviously a super old school dive bar, low prices, older crowd. Adorable Natalie has been here on my 2 visits. Something to note: " happy hour" well drinks = $3.50..wow. And Fwy adjacent, love that.

    It was my first time here, and I've always been curious about this spot--especially since I knew…read morethey had karaoke. It's very much your classic dive bar, nothing fancy, but everyone was friendly enough and the vibe was easygoing.We had just come from a celebration of life, so my mood was a little off. Still, I appreciated being out with friends. One thing I really liked was the hamburger stand behind the bar--the guy working it was super nice, which made the experience even better. As with any dive bar, there's always some interesting people-watching, and this night definitely delivered. At one point, an angry wife came in yelling at her husband... so yeah, never a dull moment.I was also kind of impressed with myself for staying out that late. Usually I don't, but this time I did--and I did it as the sober driver. There's always something fascinating about being the one who stays clear-headed and gets everyone home safely. Last night, that was me, and honestly, I was really proud of that.Overall, it was definitely a night to remember.

    Photos
    I know I wasn't wrong, so I'll gladly accept any, and all consequences.
    I know I wasn't wrong, so I'll gladly accept any, and all consequences.
    Clarity
    Clarity
    Same Ol' Saloon

    See all

    OLA Restobar

    OLA Restobar

    3.2
    (621 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    Went to Ola to celebrate my birthday and had the best time. Paola was our hostess and she was the…read moreabsolute best! She was constantly checking on us, making sure we had everything we needed, and she really went out of her way to make me feel special. I really appreciated her kindness, humor, attentiveness, and overall great energy. You can tell she genuinely cares about making sure her guests are having a good time, and she definitely made my birthday memorable. I woke up with the WORST hangover but that's proof of how much fun I had. Totally worth it Thank you, Paola!

    Ola, is a place I would go to frequently. I use to like the ambiance & the food. However, I went…read moreyesterday & walked out extremely disappointed. Our waitress, Ale didn't bother to check up on us until towards the end. Since no one was checking up on us, we asked another waitress, Paola for ketchup & sour cream. Paola, walked by various times & never brought it to us. I can understand if she forgot but it's hard to do so, since it was in the early morning & was not busy. Also, since she was walking by various times she could have asked if we're ok & or needed anything (in case she forgot). However, no one approached us. Ale, eventually brought us the sour cream and ketchup but we were basically done eating. I truly suggest to encourage their staff to be more attentive & friendly towards their customers. It will take some time to go back after this experience.

    Photos
    OLA Restobar
    Fried Churro
    Fried Churro
    Aguachiles

    See all

    Aguachiles

    Buena Mesa - bars - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...