Super cool that such bars are finally opening up here. Bringing a bit of Japanese bar culture to Irvine/OC. Free parking in the lot. No reservations, you walk in, put yourself in the wait list n wait. This is the only thing I disagree with. Because for people who are on time and want to get to places, it is such an absolute waste of time to loiter in the lot waiting. The menu is long and diverse. I recommend almost all of their specialty drinks we tried, esp the clarified yogurt one. Like the name suggests, they have a dedicated highball section, which is a great opening if you're here for the long game. I'm hoping they refresh their menu seasonally because I'd like to visit often and it'll keep things interesting read more

Highball reached out about my last review hoping to make good but my friends and I chose to pay our own way for a completely authentic second look and the service was significantly better. We were warmly greeted, given snacks, and offered a welcome drink because the bar was running a bit slow. The moody atmosphere is great, making for a much-improved experience for our group of three. We each had two drinks, along 2 of us opting to try their tea options, but the cocktail menu still feels like a collection of good attempts that miss the mark: * **Sweet Potato:** Very dense and heavy; it leaned much more into intense sesame than sweet potato, making even half a drink tough to finish. * **The Daifuku:** An interesting concept, but the foam needs work to either lighten the texture or make the flavor more pronounced. * **The Melon Bar:** Tasted good, but the prosciutto garnish needs to be reimagined as it isn't very attractive. read more

See all

Came to The Highball before omakase and loved the hidden speakeasy vibe. The space is dark, intimate, and perfect for date night or drinks with friends. Cocktails were creative and well balanced, and the bartenders were friendly and attentive. I liked that they explained the menu and the story behind each drink, which made the experience more interactive and interesting. One of the coolest parts is the hidden omakase experience tucked inside, which makes the whole concept feel unique. Overall, a fun spot in Costa Mesa with great ambiance and service. read more

Highball - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

See all

Highball is a new bar and dining concept located in a small plaza in Costa Mesa. The front is Highball, a Japanese-style cocktail bar, and the back is Naisho, a omakase restaurant behind a door. They do not allow reservations at Highball and have a max party size of four people. It's not a big bar but we were able to get one of the tables. We got some Japanese bar snacks to start; note that the first is complimentary and you have to pay if you want refills. BUTTER MILK ($17) - this milk punch was sweet and downable. I liked the brown butter and the strong chocolate notes from the white cacao. This was my favorite. 5/5 DAIFUKU ($17) - this was tart and sweet with a foam that's thicker than a typical egg white foam. 4.5/5 SHIO UISUKI ($18) - this has a similar style of an old fashioned. They give you the glass with the drink on the side so you can choose your preferred level of dilution. 4/5 CLOVER CLUB ($16) - this is a classic drink and while I know it doesn't have any shiso, for some reason my taste buds had that note. 4/5 We saw a lot of people grabbing a drink and asking if there were any seats available in the omakase before heading in. There were a lot of people coming in and out for the omakase experience. The door kept opening which reminded us of the brightness from the outside, ruining the vibe a little bit. I understand the space is small but it still ruined the feel knowing there was light outside. This was a cool vibe other than the light issue. If you go later in the night then you won't have that problem. It'd be cool to check out Naisho when the hype dies down so reservations are easier but this is a cool new bar addition to the area. read more

See all

We came here on a whim but ended up staying for 2 hours. What a wonderful experience this place is. With pages of cocktail options in their menu, there's so much to try and experience. We sat at the bar and our bartender was attentive and patient with us. The inside is curated to perfection. I honestly came here because I thought the glassware was perfection and come to find out, the drinks were made great too. They were on top of service and the music, the lighting, and vibes overall were wonderful. We are already planning on coming back here with friends. read more

See all

I've had quite a lot of cocktails through my life and been to many bars all across the world - from NYC, London, Paris, Japan, Barcelona, etc. I'm not sure how many people travel specifically for bars and restaurants, but I'm certainly one of them. The TL;DR is the OC area is lucky to have an establishment like Highball, and if you love curated cocktails you are missing out if you don't come here. Its been quite a wait for Highball to open following DTTN 2.0s closure. The lead bartenders from DTTN 2.0 spearheaded the menu and curation at Highball, and they did an exceptional job. The bar is well stacked, the alcohol selection is top notch, and there is no lack of talent coming from both Justin and Tony. Justin is serving as the main bartender, and he's exceptional. From the OC area he's one of only 3 bartenders I've been impressed by. As of writing, advanced reservations are required and the entire concept mirrors the recently opened Bar 109 / Corridor 109 in LA. The bar serves as the front of the space, and there is a speakeasy restaurant specifically focused on a sushi omakase experience. The front bar area is very cozy and modern, my only real concern is it may not be big enough should traffic ever increase but with the reservation system hopefully they can keep it steamlined. Overall, the opening of this bar makes it one of the best in the area alongside Stone Groove Stillhouse. Couldn't recommend it more, so happy that it's finally open! read more

See all

What an experience!!! This place... you would never expect it from the outside - an unassuming plaza with your typical stores. But Highball... let me just say that I will be going back AGAIN! There's no food at Highball but you can eat next door if you feel like some omakase. Our bartender was the incredibly detailed and talented JUSTIN! Sitting at the bar is a must. You get to see the magic happening and hear about the vision behind the drinks. The drinks aren't super strong - and it doesn't need to be. You're looking for quality here. The freshest and best of ingredients blended together to make the tastiest and most satisfying of drinks. It's a really classy place for a great night out for some drinks. We will be back again! read more

See all

The cocktails are made to perfection and the vibe is cozy and intimate. It is a small space with limited seating which honestly makes it feel even more coveted. We started with the Whisky Highball and Clover Club, both drinks super clean and balanced. We loved watching the bartenders craft each drink. They even cut their own ice which made every step feel intentional. For our second round we tried the Shio Uisuki and a Negroni. The Shio Uisuki quickly became our favorite! Thomas was incredibly welcoming & friendly, and we really appreciated that he took the time to chat with us. The service was wonderful. Hope to be back soon! read more

See all

Had a wonderful experience. I love sweet and fruity cocktails and the cantaloupe island definitely delivered! Tastes like juice but the buzz hits strong! They have a variety of drinks, with the melon bar being more alcohol forward. Great vibes, attentive service and awesome cocktails. We'll be back for more read more

Having dined at Naisho Omakase twice and tried several cocktails from Highball during my meals, I feel it's appropriate to review Highball separately now from my sushi experience. You will pass the bar as you head to the dinner. The space is quite small and there are no reservations but it has a nice vibe. I know the bar doesn't take reservations so not quite sure what the process is like to get a seat or how difficult it is. As for the cocktails, they are fantastic. I cannot do whiskey and lean towards sake, shochu, vodka or gin. I have tried and enjoyed Chu-hi Yumi, Canteloupe Island, Melon Bar and Daifuku. As a lover of hojicha, I also really liked Dumpling Factory, one of their free spirited drinks. All of their cocktails are very well balanced and none of them are overly sweet (thank goodness). When the bar and the Naisho are busy, they can get backed up and it takes some time to get your drinks. read more

Visited Highball multiple times now and I always have a great experience! Great drinks, atmosphere, and service. Definitely will return again! read more

See all

This place was amazing; it might be a new favorite for us. We walked in 2 hours before closing without a reservation, and we got seated in about 30 min. It's a small little bar with a wonderful menu. We tried 4 different cocktails, and they're all unique and refreshing. Our two favorites are the buttermilk and the Jack Rose. The staff here are also on top of it. We had a few people help us; Thomas was very attentive, and his recommendations made our experience even better. We can't wait to try the omakase; it just seems to be fully booked out, unfortunately. read more

Highball - Junichi - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

See all

Loved their daifuku cocktail and ms Wednesday drinks at this spot. The vibes were immaculate and the bartenders were so attentive in explaining every drink and the story behind them. read more

Highball - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

The meticulous attention to detail can be felt - watching them make the cocktails is as fun as drinking them. We enjoyed the cozy intimate atmosphere and familiar yet creative menu. We started with high balls (pine & apple, chu-hi yumi), then enjoyed a Bobby Burns and accidentally shio uisiki, followed by a night cap of junichi. Bobby burns stole the show. Incredibly balanced! We'll be back. Come early or late, or expect a hour plus wait. Next time, we'll combine with omakase (if I can ever get a reservation!!) Ps It was a sad day when DTTN closed so we were thrilled when browsing the website and saw Tony. The cocktails here are some of his best. DTTN reunion! read more

Highball - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Good cocktail bar with good ingredients and preparation that justifies the prices they charge. Ambiance is modern and chic. Drinks can take awhile since they are servicing a restaurant in the back in addition to the bar. Music is too loud here and should be dialed down. read more

Highball - Negroni - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Highball was a nice experience. If you get the chance sit at the bar (only 6 seats there) and have Justin. He was knowledgeable , personable , and made the overall experience a great time. We had called in the night before to confirm they were taking walk ins, as we weren't able to get reservations for dinner, as we walked up there was a sign that they weren't taking walkins this weekend which was a big let down for us . Granted they are new but would've changed our whole itinerary for a Friday night. Justin did make up for it as he took us on a cocktail journey being considerate of which drinks to serve us. Hopefully we can update this review in the near future. read more

Highball - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

See all

THE DRINKS ARE EXTRAORDINARY, even the mocktails. Every drink tells a story, and the bartenders go over the menu with you. The service is topnotch and the ambiance is cozy, dark, and sexy. It's a great beginning to an incredible night (if you manage to get in, of course!) The hype is reallllll. read more

Found another hidden gem in the OC...and this time its a cocktail bar! HIGHBALL IS FINALLY OPEN! And honestly... Orange County has been needing a spot like this for a long time. I love that OC now finally has a Japanese/Asian-inspired cocktail bar! The concept is super clean and intentional, and the layout of the space is awesome. It feels stylish but still relaxed, and you can tell a lot of thought went into the design. The cocktails were insanely delicious! Like the kind where you take a sip, dab your tongue, your eyes blow up, and then sit back in your chair, wondering what just happened moments. I also loved watching them shake the cocktails, especially since they use the Japanese Hard Shake. Something about that three-point shake is oddly mesmerizing to watch. I'm not sure why, but it's super satisfying and almost part of the show in a way. If you're the type of person who enjoys sitting at the bar and watching the craft behind the drinks, this place definitely delivers! I also have to shout out their ice cube game, because these babies are JACKED here. Those big crystal-clear cubes just hit different and make the drinks feel even more dialed in. I also really liked the weight and feel of the rocks glass with the cube. Something about lighter glassware with a big clear rock always vibes with me. Simple detail, but it adds to the whole experience. Vibes/feels here? The vibe here reminded me a lot of the downstairs bar room of Martiny's in NYC. More craft cocktail-focused, intimate, and not trying to be some loud party bar. Just really great cocktails with a great craftsmanship done right. Here were some of my favorites from the night: -CANTALOUPE ISLAND - Had no idea cantaloupe and banana worked so well together, but wow. Perfectly balanced and dangerously easy to drink. I could honestly drink a gallon of this stuff. -PINE & APPLE - I never really drank highballs before, but this one definitely opened the door for me. Super refreshing and crisp. Honestly felt like the perfect palate cleanser between drinks. -OLD FASHIONED and PENICILLIN - Amazing classic cocktails done proper. Nothing flashy, just executed exactly the way they should be. BRAVO! On top of that, the customer service was great. The staff was welcoming, attentive, and clearly passionate about what they're doing. Sitting there, drinking, and hanging out honestly felt like home and being with family. Maybe this wil become my 3rd home away from home, and I'll probably be one of those customers whose Uber history will be 90% to/from this bar. Thank you HIGHBALL for the fun night (and the most insane hangover this morning lol)! I can't wait to return to try out the rest of the menu. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!! UNTIL THEN!! ^-^ read more

See all

The service and drink quality at Highball is top-notch. Justin and Tony put together an amazing program, and it's a delight every time we come in. Every cocktail I've had here, from thoughtful and interesting on-menu creations to meticulously made classics, are all genuinely world class. I'm not a particularly religious man, but Justin's Penicillin is the closest I've come to believing in a higher power. The vibe inside is classy and refined. The bar is a small space with no reservations, so getting here early is ideal. I'm confident Highball is only going to get busier and busier as more people find out about it--completely well-deserved. 10 / 5 stars, will keep coming back and ordering the Penicillin--it's as good as it gets. Amen. read more

Highball - Amen - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

See all

I just witness the best server in OC named Thomas. I will highly recommend the penicillin!!!!! 10000/10

I had such an amazing experience at Highball! From the moment we walked in, the energy was vibrant and welcoming. The food was absolutely incredible and full of flavor and beautifully prepared. Huge shoutout to the chefs, they really outdid themselves! The service was just as impressive very attentive, friendly, and made the whole experience even better. And the drinks? Sooo good!! Everything came together perfectly. Definitely a spot I'll be coming back to again and again. Highly recommend! read more

Highball - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Had an amazing dinner. Best Sushi I have ever had. The drink Menu and drinks are The Best as well... With an amazing Asian twist. If you are up for an incredible meal with lots big Sushi with not a lot of rice (Lots of Protein) ALL made with Perfection. All was absolutely Amazing! When you want the ultimate Best, check out this intimate place with perfect service... read more

New amazing bar in Costa Mesa OC! Came here for date night and it did not disappoint. We ordered the Melon Bar, Junichi, Penicillin, and Shio Usisuki--each cocktail was unique, well-balanced, and honestly they were very solid for the price. The vibe is perfect for a date night, intimate, stylish, and not too loud. Service was attentive without being overbearing, and the ambiance really ties the whole experience together. If you're looking for amazing cocktails with a great atmosphere, this spot is definitely worth it. We'll be back! read more

Highball - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Had the pleasure of getting in Highball on a Friday night. The hostess greets you are the door as you ring a door bell. The ambiance is beautiful and intimate. The main bartender Justin is an absolute gem and EXTREMELY passionate about his creative cocktails, the origin, and every cocktail made, it seems, is like watching an artist put on a show. I highly recommend sitting at the bar although not many seats there but it's truly spectacular to watch the master at work. Tony does an incredible job as well making sure the guests are taken care of and happy. This is a magical spot and I would bet if 50 BEST BARS took notice they would be on the list. I've been to numerous speakeasy's and bars on that list and this spot is right there with them all. read more

Owners, Thomas and Sean made the experience lovely. Fun atmosphere and cocktail menu. Small, but cozy. read more

See all

Drinks are fantastic! Recommendation for the ladies to try the Clover Club. Wonderful service. Bartenders cut their own ice cube and watching them make drinks are really fun. Very chill upscale intimate vibes. Definitely make a reservation. Will come again. read more

See all

Costa Mesa's latest and greatest! You want good and cool bar vibes? This is definitely the place for you. Drinks were so good, and if it's not good, it's not on the menu. Service and conversation were immaculate! It was like watching a magic show right in front of you. Can't wait to return. :) read more

See all

This new Japanese craft cocktail bar is difficult to review. On one hand the vibes are immaculate, service spectacular and drinks luxurious but on the other hand the space is cozy with limited seats so demand will absolutely outpace supply....what to do...what to say...all I know is that 2 days later I am still thinking about the highball cocktail and old fashioned I savored at the bar. read more

Highball - Highball - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

We grabbed drinks at Highball Bar, which honestly made the night even better. The cocktails are super clean and easy to drink, and it's a nice contrast to the more focused omakase experience. Great spot to just hang out and keep the night going. read more

Highball - Bars Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

See all

We slipped in to meet up with a friend and we loved the place! A great find! They can make whatever combination cocktail you'd like.

Drinks were good but won't be back. Waiting an hour isn't ideal . Why not allow reservations? Only a few seats inside. Plenty of other options in Orange County . read more

Very intimate bar. Wife and I arrived here at 5:30 on Saturday to get seats. They stagger guests to introduce the bar and its story which is great. Drinks were fantastic and not over priced which is amazing. Loved the vibes and team working. Definitely have to make our way back to try more drinks!! We had highball and cocktail each. read more

Got to Highball right when it opened and there was already an hour wait--but absolutely worth it. Super intimate space with about 14 bar seats, which makes the whole experience feel special. The cocktails are incredible--high-quality ingredients and clearly a lot of care put into each drink. The atmosphere is exactly what you want from a speakeasy: cozy and well done. Best part? The drinks are actually really well priced for the quality. Plan for a wait, but it's worth it. read more

my husband and i had the best time at highball. justin helped us and he was amazing! we really felt welcomed and like we were hanging out with one of our friends. he had great explanations and suggestions. the cantaloupe island and the old fashioned were our favorites. we can't wait to be back! read more

See all

Shio Uisuki, Junichi, Negroni, and Gin & Tonic were all exceptional. Atmosphere was solid. Stoked to have a spot with good cocktails in CM.

Highball knocked it out of the park! What an amazing experience. Phenomenal service, and hospitality delivered at the highest level. Cocktails were amazing. Food was phenomenal. Vibes were on point. We did the 16 course Omakase, and were fortunate to enjoy the evening with Shimpei. Talented, and personable, Shimpei has all the qualities you want in a chef, and artist. Great job Thomas, Tony and the rest of the Highball team. You have built something beautiful, and I can't wait to tell everyone about it. read more

See all

Great cocktail bar with attention to detail! The mixing glasses are always ice cold along with the serving glasses, which leads to the proper dilution for drinks. I enjoy the creativity of their "Originals" as well as their twists on the classics such as the Negroni and Old Fashioned. read more

Love the unique cocktails and intimate atmosphere. My friends and I were lucky enough to sit at the bar and the bartenders and service was excellent. I really enjoyed Pine & Apple and if you like something a little sweet, Cantaloupe Island was delicious as well. Can't wait to come back to try the rest of the menu! read more

Amazing! Small n intimate. Service was rly rly phenomenal! Felt like they actually cared that you enjoy the drinks and help you pick out a good option if you can't decide. The drinks were seriously SO good read more