Loved the experience of an old school steakhouse, classic Frank Sinatra music, awesome toasted cheese bread and a delicious dinner salad. The Porterhouse was ordered medium rare and it was not only delicious but a feast for the eyes. The char was PERFECT, and the pairing with the double baked potato was spot on. The service, excellent and constant service visits for drink refills. The greeters were friendly and professional as well as our waitress. The staff were VERY attentive! Sorry for the "red" tint to the pictures, it was the lighting inside which was really nice ambiance for fine dining. My only "beef", the steak knives were both pretty dull. The porterhouse's filet side didn't need a knife. The NY side was less forgiving and I could have used a sharper knife but that's on me. I should have asked for a better one. This is a fantastic date nite venue. I wish we had visited on an evening with live music but the music did fit the atmosphere! 5 stars, 5 thumbs up! read more

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After living in OC for years and a portion of those spent in Newport and Costa Mesa, La Cave was one of those places we all talked about going to one day because it had been there forever. Well last night, we celebrated my husband's birthday with my in-laws at La Cave. They have free parking in their lot which is in a strip mall area but if it is full, you could always park across the street. None of us had been there before, and [[HIGHLIGHT]]my in-laws loved the swanky retro feel of the lush booths, dim lighting, and old school steakhouse vibes.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]For a Tuesday night, the place was still busy which is a good thing I guess.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I checked in with the hostess and we were shown to our table. I was asked if it was my birthday but I let her know it was my husband's birthday. Our server put waters down immediately on our table, and let us review the menus. I ordered the Pear Paradise cocktail ($18) and my MIL had the dirty martini. The drinks came out quickly and my drink had shards of ice in it which may or may not be a turnoff for some people. It was fine for me since I like my drinks cold. My MIL liked that the price on the menu for the entrees included the sides. There was no soup that evening so we all got side salads with different dressings. I chose the Caesar dressing on the side while my husband asked for ranch. Hubs and I both asked for the filet medium rare ($60) with a twice-baked potato, while my MIL had hers, medium well with a baked potato. My FIL ordered the teriyaki chicken with the sauce on the side and a baked potato. He opted for no croutons in his salad so they gave him olives since he is gluten-free. We received the garlic cheese bread first followed by the salads. It's a basic iceberg lettuce salad with croutons. I knew that Caesar dressing was a solid choice for me. It hit the spot. My husband did not enjoy his ranch covered salad as much as I enjoyed mine. My steak was overcooked. I could tell by feel and it was so dim in there but I could tell by looks too. It was more medium than medium rare. My husband opted to swap my steak with his even though I would have just sent it back. His steak was still on the medium side of medium rare but rarer than my steak, if that makes sense. I ate it as I was hungry and we did not want to have to wait for another steak to be fired. My MIL received a twice baked potato instead of her baked potato and the server went to remedy it. We had an extra twice baked potato to take home. My FIL noted that his chicken was a tad dry but did not want to bring it up with the server. We ate our meal and caught up with family news. We had a nice time and the servers kept our water glasses full and bussed plates when they became empty. We asked for a few boxes to take our food home and the server took our plates to box up our leftovers. For my husband's birthday, he received a small chocolate fudge cake dessert with a candle and a little "Happy Birthday" sign. We sang to him softly and enjoyed the warm dessert. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The service was top notch and the ambiance was fun.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We could tell there were a few locals who showed up after work for drinks and food. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The food was a solid 3 stars. The ambiance and service was 4 stars. I'd give it 3.5 stars.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

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Made reservations on open table as this place gets booked. Surprised to see the mediocre review as had a fun time and good experience with food. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Love the speakeasy feel.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Our server was very knowledgeable about the menu and provided amazing service. I had a tasty rib eye and got the double baked potato. They have a comedy night once a month so will have to come back and check that out. read more

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the prep cook(s) here don't believe antiperspirant is natural. at least that's what i hear they've been telling people.

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Walking into this subterranean spot feels like stepping back into the 1960s![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There are no windows, and the dim lighting makes it incredibly romantic and intimate.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Heading down the stairs gives you that cool, secret speakeasy vibe.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's the ultimate spot for a romantic date night or anyone looking for a classic retro steakhouse experience[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

this place is absolutely delicious. [[HIGHLIGHT]]There's live music which I went to go and support a friend's friend's daughter sing live.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I love the history of this restautant & moody 80's & 90's vibe.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I got the steak and mushrooms and their bread is to die for. Honestly, their steaks are better than Mastros. read more

Complete waste of money and time coming here. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The outside of this place looks run down and I debated about going inside.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I decide to give it a chance since there's no reservations anywhere else at the time, for any other steakhouses. [[HIGHLIGHT]]We go inside it's dim which I like but it's so tiny and cramped up in there[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] . [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's COLD.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Service is not good tbh. [[HIGHLIGHT]]There's a musician and everyone started singing and we unfortunately had a migraine because we waited 30 minutes in order to be able to finally order our food[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] , we were told to wait because there was another table to order ahead? They bring out my steak BURNT AND CHARRED. Literally took a bite of just chard steak, when I ordered a medium rare filet mignon. I honestly do not recommend this place at all. I just wasted $180 on 2 steaks and 2 cocktails. I'm so upset. I have never had such a crappy experience at a restaurant. read more

Food and services outstanding.[[HIGHLIGHT]]if I had a complaint it would be the noise level. Hard to hear, even across the table.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Entrees were good and decent value. On the down - Appetizers - desserts selection is pretty poor and a rip off. A $20 basic slice of cheesecake for example & nothing special. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Ambience is unique & live music was cool making it a fun place to eat.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Another great meal at La Cave! Love this place which is located underground and deliciously mysterious. You can walk down or take the elevator. Food is consistently superb. Chef is wonderful. We had the broiled halibut and NY steak. Their dinner salad and garlic cheese bread is delicious. The ambiance is retro bar with TVs and red leather booths. Wait staff is experienced and friendly. read more

La Cave - This is a photo of their rolling cart menu! Retro and Fabulous! - Steakhouses Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Brings back the feel of restaurants with a dark moody vibe. Kind of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis,Jr. era. Honestly doesn't look like much from the exterior. It's the elevator ride down & the doors open to a very different era. Hence the red hue to all the photos. My iPhone was not able to color correct even close to reality. Entrees selections are showcased on a glass enclosed cart,reminiscent of old school restaurants. Back in the day, the gentleman's menus listed prices, while the women's menu did not. Probably due to extreme price fluctuations of product, prices were not listed. Saves on menu reprinting too, I imagine. A bit uncomfortable as a guest though. Really wanting my fav rib eye steak (16 oz.!), I took the plunge. Had the pear flower martini. Love a good cocktail when eating out. This one didn't disappoint. Had a sip of my MIL's raspberry lemon martini. Tasted like candy. This one could be dangerous since you're not even aware it contains alcohol. The wine list wasn't over the top. Every affordable. You can find a decent glass of wine. We did by the glass Pinot Noir & Merlot. The list may not please a high end wine connoisseur. Started with the shrimp cocktail appetizer. 4 plump, moist jumbo shrimp (u13-14) sat atop a robust cocktail sauce & lettuce mix. Loved this combo. If you're a true cocktail sauce lover, you'll need to poke around though. Personally I like a little lettuce for textural contrast. Dinner entrees come with soup or salad. Photos can't do justice due to lighting. Nice iceberg lettuce with beets & cuc. Since the soups are house made, I ordered the navy beans & ham soup. Perfectly uniform pieces of ham means someone back of house has serious knife skills or they used a chopper. Not knowing the prices, my MIL & I did order the 16oz. Rib eye & twice baked potato (house specialty). Our steaks were presented as ordered. Seasoned well, juicy & well marbled. A winner. Although the twice baked is a signature, it was a bit over-broiled. Next time I'll get the baked potato or rice pilaf. My brother-in-law really liked the pilaf. Yes we are Asian, mostly eating plain white rice. But we can appreciate rice cooked well. Not dry, sticky or over watered. Shared the double chocolate cake. Rich dark chocolate, dollops of whipped cream. Very shareable. Although the pricing wasn't listed, I'd return in a heartbeat. As many locals do. A stones through from Newport, it's a great little steakhouse. Old school, dark & cozy. On a Tuesday night, most men came in wearing hoodies or casual jackets. Besides, a 16oz. Ribeye dinner well prepared at $67 is a great value. read more

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Nothing has changed since my last review . After being scolded ( myself included) you would think that management would be proactive.

I have never ever had a bad meal here. The team is always spot on. The shrimp scampi is by far the best anywhere I've ever had. We absolutely love it. Our Server Edgar was very kind and checked on us often to make sure everything was going well. We love this place. It's always a special treat! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The dark booths are super romantic.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's a great date night.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

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Steak was great! Order steak if you go here. I first ordered crab legs which were dry, order cooked and bland. I sent them back and ordered the lobster for $95...what a joke. It was also over cooked and flavorless. Wife had a filet and it was really good. Salad was good, cheese bread was ok. The comped a glass of wine for the bad crab legs. Service really good, 5 star...loud atmosphere with very low ceilings and super old school vibe. If we return, I would probably get there at 4:30 when they open, get a steak and a cocktail...the cheese cake for birthday girl was great and we enjoyed it. read more

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The steaks here at great, very tender and tasty. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The place itself is definitely worth checking out, it's one of a kind old school and I've enjoyed coming in here each and every time.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The service was good, attentive and friendly. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambiance like I said is just one of a kind like going back in time to the old classic steakhouses of yesterday[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] . I definitely recommend this place . read more

We're delighted that we finally visited La Cave; not having looked at all of the interior pictures, it was truly an adventure approaching the door, walking downstairs, into ... the (dimly-lit) cave! Service by the entire staff was marvelous from the start: the cheerful-&-welcoming hostess, our friendly-&-attentive (and appreciatively unrushed) server, the sharp-&-efficient support staff, and even a visit from (our thoughts) the manager -- so elegantly old school! Given the ambiance, it was fitting starting with a classic martini as our apertif (great, by the way); in addition, we ordered Sauteed Mushrooms (nicely seasoned and so tasty). Their soup of the day, Manhattan Clam Chowder, was unlike any we'd tasted (thicker in consistency and comfort-food delicious). Between the 2 of us, our selected entrees: 9 oz. Filet Mignon and 16 oz. Boneless Ribeye; both were generous in size, cooked as requested, tender, and full of flavor (my husband noted his ribeye was well-marbled, extremely juicy, and the best steak he's had in a while). Our menus did not include prices (yikes!), yet I see posted pictures of menus with prices. Disappointed by more-&-more of the restaurants we've turned to for their food, service, and ambiance -- especially for special celebrations, it's wonderful discovering La Cave remains a nostalgic, romantic classic. read more

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Finally had the chance to visit La Cave to celebrate a birthday recently. I was easily able to make reservations online and was able to update the headcount the day of when we had a last minute change. When I entered the restaurant, it was dimly lit and they had just begun their live music in the neighboring room (will need to check that out next time). We ordered a few appetizers to share and I ordered the filet mignon (took a shot in the dark since there aren't any prices). My friend was ordering king crab legs and the waiter mentioned the price of that item since it is on the higher side - we appreciated this as she ended up changing her mind to another item. Their drinks were delish - I got an extra dirty martini and a French 75 and finished off dessert with an espresso martini. They have a full bar so you can order cocktails that aren't listed on their menu. Service was great, food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect for a date night. read more

We went to La Cave for a Valentine's Day dinner around 9pm and had a great experience. We were greeted by the host and seated shortly after arriving, which was a big plus since Valentine's Day dining can be rough, especially with later reservations. The service flowed really well all night and never felt rushed or chaotic. I ordered the filet mignon with the lobster bisque and double baked potato. My girlfriend also got the filet with mashed potatoes and a salad, and we added grilled asparagus to share. Everything tasted fresh and the steak was absolutely phenomenal. Easily the highlight of the meal. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The atmosphere was very cool. The restaurant is located in a basement and has a classic old school vibe with red accents. Watching the chefs grill the steaks in the open kitchen was a nice touch and added to the experience.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Our waitress was on point and made sure we had everything we needed. Overall, the food, service, and ambiance exceeded our expectations. After eating here, it makes total sense how this place has been around since the 60s. We will definitely be back. read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]This place is really nice. Old town vibes[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. Food and service was good. [[HIGHLIGHT]]They have live music during dinner which was great.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Happy 40th Bday Brian ! Cheers We have only just begun! Bartender was awesome and vibe was chil! Jazz tonight to dance night away for the old man lol read more

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Tucked away with a classic speakeasy vibe, La Cave offers a cozy, dark atmosphere perfect for date nights or a relaxed dinner out. My recent visit was elevated by the excellent service, especially from Nayeli, our server, who was friendly, attentive, and quick to keep drinks refreshed. The staff overall was impressively efficient--our plates were cleared almost immediately after we finished. We started with the shrimp cocktail, which came with four generously sized shrimp and a zesty, pretty good cocktail sauce that had a nice bite. For mains, the halibut was a standout--flaky, fresh, and perfectly cooked, served with a tangy tartar sauce on the side. While the rice pilaf that came with it was a bit bland, I'll definitely try the baked potato next time. The blackened rib eye was another hit--juicy, tender, and packed with flavor from the seasoning. A surprise highlight of the night was the complimentary dessert, a thoughtful touch that capped off the meal nicely. Bonus: we found out La Cave hosts a comedy night on the last Thursday of each month--definitely something I'd come back for. Overall, a great dining experience with strong service, solid food, and a moody ambiance. Looking forward to a return visit! read more

La Cave - Complimentary cheesecake for my fiancé's birthday, from a local French bakery - Steakhouses Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Went on a Friday night! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Crowd was medium-full.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Waitress was friendly as were other staff members, however did not stop often to check in - e.g. for water/drinks. Food: - cheese bread was not bad. Probably my highlight. - filet mignon, ribeye, NY strip : all were tender, ribeye the best without a doubt. I'm sensitive to salt, so they were a but salty to me. However, to others, may have been a good level of salt. - salad: no frills, dressing heavy - twice baked potato: I'm neither here nor there for it. But if you enjoy baked potatoes and what not, give it a try. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Ambiance: live music was going on. Guy had a nice voice. Not too loud for the music.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Affordable, no frills, simple. Would rate a 3.5 or so. read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Fabulous 1962 time machine restaurant with excellent food, service and this magnificent original interior.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]All that and live music, cheese bread and attentive waiters.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Excellent! read more

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Food and service was amazing!! Steal comes with a salad and potato side. The garlic bread and mushrooms were unreal. Thank you Patty for amazing service! read more

I cannot be the only one to feel like I had entered HELL. Red dim lighting. Carpeted floor! A Rams head above the bar. No prices on menu. Food was gross. Overly salty and expensive. Dry steak and overcooked shrimp. The cheese toast they serve instantly became hard and rubbery as it cooled. I cannot believe people accept this place as acceptable. I even read a review AFTER I ate here that a couple found multiple cockroaches in their food. Pics to confirm. Avoid! read more

La Cave - A Rams head and eerie red lighting. Maybe to make one feel like they are in Hades? - Steakhouses Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Great ambience! The restaurant is located downstairs, where you will find live music entertainment, multiple TV screens, and a meat cart for your viewing pleasure. Service was fast! We didn't have a reservation and were seated within 2 minutes of arriving at a romantic corner booth. Edgar greeted us within a couple of minutes. He took out cocktail order, explained the specials and promised us delicious garlic cheese bread. We ordered the prime rib and tib eye steak medium rare. Both with twice baked potatoes and Caesar salads. Would highly recommend for a date night! read more

We had a wonderful server name Najeli gave us great service. She was very attentive with a smile. She kept asking us if we needed anything a few times. We told her it was our anniversary .When we were leaving she gave us a beautiful red rose for celebrating our dinner andValentines and Anniversary. That was very thoughtful. We give her a APLUS for service read more

Best steak I have ever had. Value is amazing. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Environment is a little claustrophobic for me, but others enjoy a cozy space.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Went to see my nephew play in a band and had never been here before. It's very dark but kind of swanky. Gives off fun rat pack vibes. Service was top notch from hostess to waitress to support staff. Steak was cooked to perfection and salad was very good. The twice baked potato was a little hard, not super creamy and the skin was hard and dry. I will get a regular baked potato next time. The wine and cocktails were superb and the live music sounded really good! Would go back!! read more

La Cave - Band is With Delaney. Really good!! - Steakhouses Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

We have gone to La Cave several times, especially for birthdays and anniversaries, and the food has always been spot on. I was disappointed the last time that my wife and I went, because I thought I knew the prices from having gone there several times, but this time, the menu didn't have prices on it. I assumed that they would be the same, or maybe a little bit higher, but I was kind of shocked when I got the bill and each entrée was $20 more than it used to be. That's quite an increase. I think the menus should have the prices on them so that the customer is not surprised at the end of their meal. Most customers don't want to be tacky and ask what each thing costs when they're getting ready to order. If it wasn't for the issue with the menus, I would've given it five stars, but I had to deduct a star for that reason. Not sure if I will return until I know that prices appear on the menu, and I could download a copy in advance. read more

The food was very sub par! Shrimp scampi broth was soooo salty... it wasn't edible. For the cost of their steaks they shld be outstanding. They were not much more than an inch thick on their porterhouse. Plus not even close to rare plus. Just can't justify with cocktails, and even brought in our own wine, for seven adults the bill with tip was $1000. Our server was very sweet, but she couldn't make up for the poor food. read more

Big fan of this place! Went for the first time last night with some friends. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Atmosphere is really cool, and live music[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. We enjoyed the New York steak, halibut and swordfish. All were excellent. Our server was friendly and helpful. We will be back! read more

Cool speakeasy-type spot, located underneath the building. It was reminiscent with old school artwork. The service here was great, everyone was super attentive and I loved the way they explained the menu. That being said, the food was very okay. The lobster bisque and cheesy bread were great, but the steak and the twice baked potato lacked flavor--not sure if it's worth the price (which is hidden on the menu). Cool experience and ambiance, but not sure if Ill need to come back read more

My second visit, came with OC natives one of who had not ever been before.. We had a wonderful time. The food was well prepared and delicious. Guests enjoyed the martinis. Our server was very attentive and chatty at first sharing information about the colorful history of the restaurant which was entertaining. We were at John Wayne's table! After our entrees were delivered she seemed to forget about us though.. Took a while to flag her down for some horse radish and the other guests never got offered condiments for the twice baked potatoes! [[HIGHLIGHT]]We did really enjoy our meal and the people watching was off the hook! Very colorful interesting crowd ( my wife says don't forget all the tall people!!!) .[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I would echo the non published prices is a little shifty sentiment, but kind of on brand for a place that comes off like the rat pack or old mob bosses would frequent it in the 60s. Back to the service, My friend had to remind staff I was there to celebrate a birthday and then they brought me a desert with a candle.. and as we were leaving the server came up and wished the couple we came with a happy anniversary.. I think it got busy and she got a bit overwhelmed. I give it 4 stars because while we had a wonderful time and meal, I don't believe it's at the standard of a restaurant that doesn't publish prices. [[HIGHLIGHT]]PS the bathroom is in serious need of a refresh.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

My... How this gem has lost her luster! I have great nostalgic memories of dining here for prom and other "fancy dinners" in the '80s. After many years, we finally returned. Service was mediocre-to-OK. Food quality was just OK. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Ambiance is way more shabby than shabby chic.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Menu prices are crazy high for the quality/value. With SO MANY other WAY BETTER options nearby, pass on La Cave. She hasn't aged well. read more

Ok here is my take. I came last night with a couple friends on a business meeting. They both had never been so wanted to know what it was like. My last visit was at least 20 years ago and I only remembered that I sat next to a structural support column next to my seat. When we were seated I immediately recognized the seat with the annoying column, but this time we were not in that booth!! The staff was very friendly. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The atmosphere was fun and expected for a place that's been there since 1962.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The live entertainment was a bit loud, but good songs to sing or hum along with! Who could resist singing along with "Sweet Caroline"by Neil Diamond?[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The menu did have prices on it, but my only disappointment was the quality of the food! My $55.00 ribeye was not Prime cut by any standards and my Rice pilaf was a Rice A Roni quality as well. If they can bring the quality of food up a notch or two I think it would do better, but the place was packed so good for them! I guess as I'm getting older I just am looking for a little more quality in my meals in those price ranges. read more

Awesome place with great steaks cooked to perfection! Great bar and ambience too. Would highly recommend!

Greatest service ever!! And the food was amazing as well! Aylin, Andres, Richard, Jorge, Pablo, and Aaron were great!

The food is so fresh & delicious, the service from all employees is exceptional! Favorite server is Edgar!

How can I give a single star to a place with excellent food and service? They do not put prices on the menu! It felt like there was something sneaky going on so I braved the socially awkward request for prices and it was painful. After asking our server to name those prices, he stopped halfway through, as if the process was too awkward for all of us (it took awhile for all 18 items). And because they have items over $90, this feels shifty and socially manipulative- especially if you're hosting the table as we were. One of our guests was planning on ordering lobster that night, and gasped out loud at the $98 announcement of the price. And that wasn't even the most expensive entree!! Our guests changed what they ordered, which again was uncomfortable since we were hosting. It put both us and our guests in an awkward place and affected our evening in an uncomfortable way. If we ever decide to brave the waters again, I will ask if they've switched to a priced menu. The only thing I can imagine is that they're going out of business and want to take advantage of as many high checks as possible, because this certainly is not a practice that makes me want to return- especially as a host!! read more

La Cave - No prices, hiding that fact that one of these dishes was $98 and another was $132!! - Steakhouses Near Me - Costa Mesa, California