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Hook & Anchor

4.5 (2.4k reviews)
Closed 3:00 pm - 10:00 PM
Updated 1 month ago

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HOOK & ANCHOR ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Casual
Classy
Happy hour specials

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Recommended Reviews - Hook & Anchor

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Reviews With Photos

Oysters
Millie B.

Friday reservation for a party of 6 is not an issue so that's good. The service is also wonderful. Our server was attentive and made sure Al had a great experience. The ambience is "happening" a lot of families and date goers fill the room. Noise around is not bad as you can still carry a conversation with your party. The food... Raw oysters was the best out of all the ones we ordered. The risotto is a no. I found it runny and lacking flavor. The salad is over powering with dressing, masking the freshness of the seafood. Maybe I will ask the dressing on the side for next time.

4/22/26 2 year anniversary menu!!
Long H.

I've tried many lobster rolls during my trip to Maine and I can say the lobster rolls at Hook & Anchor is on par with and better than most lobster rolls I've had in Maine. The lobster rolls is definitely a must order!! It is so good!! worth every penny. I love that the lobster rolls come out hot, the lobsters are cooked in butter and season to perfection. The brioche bun is nicely toasted on both side with a nice pillowy center. The lobster rolled is served with the same butter that it is cooked in, and comes with season fries. Definitely one of the best lobster rolls I've had. I did come on their 2 year anniversary, so the lobster rolls were only $22 for 4oz. The clam chowder cup was also good. The fresh shucked oysters are definitely a must order as well.

Empty Clam Chowder Bowl
Rosa R.

On our way home from San Diego and decided to stop by here for a late lunch. We ordered a fried shrimp taco, clam chowder in a sourdough bowl and tuna poke, all was cooked and seasoned perfectly. Good customer service. If we're ever in this area again will definitely come back!

Counter seating facing the patio
Angela B.

My foodie adventures friend was hankering for a lobster roll, so we decided to take a drive down to Hook & Anchor to try theirs. Hook & Anchor is nestled in a long shopping strip right along Newport Blvd. There is a nice outside dining area with both bar seating along the wall and a few tables. The inside is medium sized with mostly booths and free standing tables, but there's also a bar (for cocktails or oysters) as well as counter seating that overlooks the patio. The whole space has a cozy and inviting feel to it. Since we arrived just after opening, we were greeted and seated right away. I believe for busier hours, they do take reservations. My friend did indeed order the small lobster roll (listed on the menu as "market price") which comes with a side of fries. She did enjoy her sandwich, doused in melted butter (yum!!), but felt that there was a little too much bread. There were so many delicious thins on the menu, but I went with a lobster taco, a fried shrimp taco, and a side of sautéed seasonal veggies. Portions for all 3 things were perfect. The veggies were fresh and perfectly sautéed. The tacos were generously filled and the first bites required both hands to keep the filling from tumbling out of the corn tortilla. The lobster taco was my favorite: the lobster was sweet, succulent, and perfectly prepared. The fried shrimp taco was tasty, although I was a little disappointed that there wasn't much crunch or crispness to the shrimp. Overall it was a fun outing with good food, great service, and a very welcoming environment.

Ceviche
Chanson Z.

Rating: 7.5/10 First time trying Hook & Anchor in Costa Mesa. The space has more of an outdoor seafood shack vibe. Pretty casual and laid-back, though the interior felt a bit warm since there didn't seem to be much AC and it was a hot day. Service was alright, albeit they were pretty busy. Fish & Chips Solid but nothing particularly memorable. The fish was crispy and flavor was standard. but the portion was small. Overall around a 7.5/10 dish. Ceviche Similar story here. Fresh and enjoyable, but it didn't really stand out compared to other ceviches. Good, just not especially memorable. Lobster Roll Definitely the highlight of the meal. Comes with a generous amount of lobster, and the flavor was great. Simple and well executed. Overall, a decent seafood spot with a casual atmosphere. The lobster roll is the standout here, while the other dishes were good but fairly standard.

Brunch menu egg benedict
Kristine Cross P.

This sure is a good find in costa mesa area! My family and I went from a whale watching trip and craved for seafood brunch place and whoa their calamari fries no joke but so gooood! Everything we ordered was top notch amazing! Service was great too, Alma our server was prompt in taking our orders, refilling our water and with her wonderful smile . The Ambiance was homey and relaxing for a 11am time-- love their seats too very comfy We will definitely come here again.. they had full bar too.

Cauliflower steak (too much oil on bottom, I'd ask for less next time)
Linda C.

Had this place bookmarked forever and finally made it happen. It's in the same plaza as Elixir: the boba speakeasy (fun little pre- or post-dinner stop). From photos I was expecting a super casual, toss-the-peanut-shells-on-the-floor kind of place but it ended up being way more charming than that. Chill, cozy, low key romantic Friday night energy, especially with the plush booth we lucked into. FOOD Grilled octopus - 7.5/10 Really enjoyed this. The frisée was great and added a nice bite. Wasn't obsessed with the bed of beans but overall solid. Cauliflower steak - 6/10 I was so excited for this one. The cauliflower itself was cooked beautifully and the mushrooms were tasty but wow...way too much oil on the bottom. Like, drowning. It got hard to eat after a few bites. I'd try it again but would 100% ask for less oil next time. Half dozen oysters - 8/10 We did 2 of each variety. All were fresh, clean, and delicious. No complaints here. Seared scallops - 9/10 Best dish of the night, hands down. Perfectly cooked, sitting on a bed of mushrooms that were amazing, with a lemon caper sauce that totally worked. Fries were ok. CORKAGE - $20 We brought our own champagne. They brought out properly chilled glasses which I really appreciated. SERVICE We had Sam. She was friendly and pleasant, no issues. PARKING Easy and free, right out front. Overall, a great spot for a relaxed date night or a nicer dinner without feeling stuffy. A few tweaks (looking at you, cauliflower oil situation) but definitely somewhere I'd come back to.

Rebecca C.

Cannot say enough good things about this location! Came in and sat at a bar and had an absolutely phenomenal bartender. I got one of their seasonal cocktails, which was really good. My boyfriend and I shared their lobster fries and I was a very big fan of the sauce that came with it. I got a burger and he got a lobster roll. We split everything in a half and everything was made very well. The manager came out and checked on us quite frequently to make sure everything was up to our standards. This location is very beautiful on the inside with tons of seating. I would definitely say this is a little higher end on the price range but so well worth.

Inside dining area
Victoria P.

Fresh fish perfectly prepared and packed with flavor is found here. My ceviche was not only visibly beautifully, it was perfection. Yes you can taste freshness. The mahi fish and chips were the best I've ever tasted. Crispy, not greasy, tender pieces of mahi perfectly paired with tartar sauce and/or malt vinegar. The french fries were hot and crispy just as they should be. Kat, our server was friendly and attentive. Thank you Kat. Lastly, thank you Chef for your skillful preparation of these fresh and tasty meals. I'm hooked.

Lobster rolls, clam chowder
Jonathan L.

Second time we've been here. Honestly the food is pretty unreal. I've had quite a few lobster rolls from all over and this one's up there. They have a 4 and 6 ounce option. 10/10 The calamari frites were probably the standout of the night outside of the lobster rolls. For the price, these might be the best value on the menu. Cut fresh and fried instead of being previously frozen really makes a difference. 10/10 Clam chowder was awesome too not the best I've had but solid. 8.5/10 Service: our server Gina, was great. She explained each entree and gave me a lot of feedback on the prep that goes into each one. She was attentive and gave us recommendations even off the "secret menu". 10/10 Ambiance is very casual. Nothin to dress up for which I preferred. It's more lowkey but was busy the whole night. Quality of the food outperformed the "ambiance" which I think was a pleasant surprise and always welcome. Will be back!

lobster roll
Carla R.

PERFECT! Went here per parents request for lobster and seafood and their cravings were satisfied!!! We started off with the calamari fries which were demolished quickly. The lobster roll was a perfect size they do not skimp out on the meat. I was expecting not so much lobster in my carbonara but wow there was a great amount. Our server was friendly and helped us w any questions. Plenty of parking in the lot and close to the beach if you wanna go by after

Lobster roll
Natali C.

The absolute best lobster roll I've ever had. I am not a local, but I do travel to this area a lot. They were out about to close, to start setting up for dinner I assume, when we got there so we were going to get out sandwiches to go. However, they were very welcoming and reminded us that the bar stays open even if the kitchen closes. The staff was very nice and helpful with the menu. I am a lobster roll "connoisseur" and I have tried many from all over California and this one is the best so far. The lobster was fresh and flavorful. The bun was toasted perfectly. Absolutely will be coming back and I definitely recommend.

Fish & chips Monday special
Jaclyn R.

Place is so nice And clear enough to the water that u you can smell it. Service was amazing, staff was really kind and helpful with the oyster selection. Lobster roll was 100/10. Best we've ever had. Clam chowder was 100/10. Best we've ever had also. Monday had a fish & chips special with a cup of clam chowder was delicious too. We also ordered the side of mushroom medley and it was delicious alone but even better topped on the clam chowder. Side of fries were super yum too! Can't wait to come again.

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Overall pleasant experience. Food was good, server was attentive. We ate early ... not noisy. Will return

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We love when families join us! We hope to see you all again soon.

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Hook & Anchor Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Hook & Anchor

Do they have patio sitting? Are small dogs allowed?

Yes to dogs and yes to outside seating.

Is there a package deal for a dozen lobster rolls and fries?

I didn't see that advertised on their menu but it wouldn't hurt to ask.

What is the price range at Hook and Anchor?

I paid for a table of 8 people with everybody ordering different things. It worked out to an average $40 per person

Do they take reservations?

Yes, they do. Thanks.

Is there private lot free parking ? Or where do we park?

No parking lot, there is free street parking.

Do you have any oyster happy hours?

Yes, 2.50 each oyster!

Since moving to Costa Mesa - is there seating outside if you have a dog?

YES there is still outdoor seating for dogs!

Are there Taco Tuesday specials?

They no longer have Taco Tuesday specials.

Are they dog friendly? Can we bring our fur baby along?

They have a couple outside tables on the sidewalk

Is there a long wait?

Sometimes a line at peak times, but the staff is organized and zips through quickly.

How close to the water?

It's about 2 blocks off from the beach.

Are the lobster rolls hot or cold?

Hot and awesome 🤘🇺🇸🏁

Does this place take reservations? On Yelp, it shows reservations as a feature.

I would not think so. It's just a walk up and order type of casual place. It only has a few tables. Delicious food tho.

Is there outside seating and ocean views?

There are a few 2 person only tables outside the restaurant on busy Balboa Blvd with people walking by your table. There is no ocean or water view at all. You can walk to the ocean in a few blocks with your food to eat if you have beach chairs or… Read more

Do they require reservations for dine in?

No they don't!! Very small place and with Covid your eating outside but worth it!!

That phone number is not working. Voicemail picks up and says "no routes found"?

949 423-7169 should be working

I saw a review of Halibut fish and chips, but I don't see it on the menu. Is this still something that can be ordered?

This perhaps was a special? Or the person reviewing made a mistake. I was there today and did not see halibut as a fish option

I'm confused - what are the vegan/vegetarian options?

Fries, Caprese salad, Quinoa salad, Grilled romaine, grilled veg sandwich. Ask our chef and he will set it up!

Does this restaurant have gluten free options?

They do have some gluten free items on the menu, like soups and salads. I'm not sure if they have gluten free lobster roll though.

What delivery apps do they use? Doordash? Eat24? Grub hub?

They have a personal delivery service for a $5 fee radius of 5 miles. More information will be on the website soon!!!

View All 22 Questions

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Initially, I made a reservation for two through Resy, but wanted to change it to three. For some…read morereason, you cannot book a table for three. but you can book for two or four. Instead, I called them and they were able to accommodate that change. Since, Bar Tinto is in WIP, we know that parking here sucks. So come early for parking, luckily they were able to hold our table. This review is for Jonathan Garcia's menu. Kushi oysters were served with a lime mignonette already in the oyster shell. Oysters tasted fresh and good quality. The ribeye vampiro was served on a corn tortilla, with a sheet of cheese, and balanced salsa. I was expecting nice thick chunks of ribeye, but it was a thin crispy slice. I enjoyed the dish, but I was hoping for more. I tried my friend's pork belly taco and it's delicious. The fattiness was decadent. I wish I ordered one for myself. In addition, as a wine bar I would expect a wider variety of wines. They are knowledgeable about the 5 wines on the menu. It's ironic facing a wall of wines, but only able to sip on 5 varietals and some spritz options. However, the desserts were delicious and I recommend saving room for both of them. Unfortunately, I would not return here. The customer service was attentive, but kitchen is slow. If you do decide to come here, then I suggest you practice patience or come here on a date with someone you really like. Also, check their IG for an updated menu, since it probably changes often.

Semi Tropic Wines - Jazz nights in Thursday's

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Hi-Time Wine Cellars - Me and wines

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Hook & Anchor - seafood - Updated May 2026

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