Every time we visit Costa Mesa, this Mediterranean restaurant is a must-stop for us. We've been loyal customers for years, and it's always a pleasure to return. The service is one of the many reasons we keep coming back. The servers recognize us and greet us like old friends, making every visit feel warm and personal. What makes this place even more special is that it's a family-owned business. The owners are often present, personally welcoming guests and ensuring everyone has a great dining experience. Their hospitality creates a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers returning time and time again. My go-to meal is the Boneless Chicken Kabab served with basmati rice and a fresh Mediterranean salad. The chicken is incredibly flavorful, well marinated, and cooked to perfection every single time. I honestly don't know their secret, but the chicken is always juicy and tender, never dry like many other kabab places we've tried. Consistency is hard to find and they absolutely nail it. Another favorite of ours is the Koobideh Combo, which includes both Beef and Chicken Koobideh Kababs served with Mediterranean salad and your choice of basmati rice or rice mixed with lentils and raisins. The flavors are authentic, the portions are generous, and every bite is satisfying. The prices are very reasonable, especially considering the quality of the food and service. It's no surprise that so many customers become regulars. The restaurant is usually packed during lunchtime, which speaks volumes about its popularity. We typically arrive around 11:30 AM to beat the lunch rush and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience. If you're looking for delicious Mediterranean food, friendly service, generous portions, and great value, this place is definitely worth a visit. It's one of those hidden gems that keeps us coming back every time we're in Costa Mesa. read more

An accidental find for lunch. My original lunch spot was not open and we had to make a last minute change since I was in the area. The restaurant was a bit dated but spacious. The lunch crowd wasn't too busy the day I visited. Got a combo plate. The food portion was good. Overall, the Koobideh was seasoned and cooked well. Will have to come back to try other dishes. read more

I use to frequent this place several years ago when I used to work in Costa Mesa. Excellent food, great staff, overall fun to go eat. Four years later, here I am visiting and the pita fries, are still to die for! Ordering that is a must! I love lamb, so lamp chops were the order. Succulent, tender, melt's in your mouth lamb chops. Still as good as ever! The Shawarma combo plate is pretty good too. If you love around town, or are just passing by with a hankering for greek food, drop by. You will be pleasantly surprised. read more

This is a must for the Mediterranean food lover! To start you have to order one of their pomegranate drinks! The pom lemonade comes with chia seeds, which is a great addition! We were lucky enough to have been served a complimentary order of the pita fries and hummus. This is probably my favorite way to enjoy pita and hummus! Both delicious and so much easier to eat and enjoy! The Cornish Hen meal is my favorite! You actually get a whole little hen, with two wings, two legs, two thighs, and two breasts. It's so cute and so flavorful! And you gotta end the meal with the pomegranate ice cream! It's very creamy and slightly resembling a yogurt taste, and with the added mini chocolate chips, it's the perfect dessert! Can't wait for our next visit! read more

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Average. Huge restaurant, quiet, not busy and not many customers during a weekday lunch. Prices were slightly lower than other fancy Mediterranean places. My chicken kebab seemed a bit drier than I would like. Service was just ok. Parking was crazy tight due to current construction. read more

Pom & Olive - Chicken Shawarma Platter - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Amazing food and service! The Costa Mesa location was not busy and food and service were fast and exceptional. This was an AI recommendation and we will be back next time in Costa Mesa!! read more

Pom & Olive - Dining room - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

They have their own parking lot If you have a Tesla, come charge here too The place is fairly spacious and has a large menu available read more

Pom & Olive - Inside seating - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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The food was terrible but the service was worse. The waiter was practically throwing dishes and cutlery at us. Ambiance?!!! HAHAHA nope. Filthy. Plastic poinsettias in the bathroom. In August. Will NOT be back. Ever. read more

The service here is really nice. The prices of the menu were also affordable, I got the pita with tzaziki, lentil soup and chicken plate. The interior was well kept and the bathroom was clean. The lentil soup was my favorite. I must have finished the whole bowl so quickly it had a hearty filling of vegetables and all. My chicken plate was good but the veggies were burnt so I couldn't eat them, so would just ask for them to not be? read more

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Pictured: Combination Platter * Beef and Chicken Shawarma, Falafel, Hummus, Mediterranean Salad, Basmati Rice Koobideh Combo * Beef and Chicken Koobideh Kabab, Mediterranean Salad, Basmati Rice with Lentil and Raisins Honey Cantaloupe * Cantaloupe and Honey Lemonade * a hidden gem with the friendliest service * proteins were juicy, tender, and well-seasoned * drinks were refreshing and natural * currently has locations in Costa Mesa and Newport Beach 9/10 read more

Pom & Olive - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

The Spicy Garlic Potatoes and the Cauliflower Shawarma Wrap were sooooo good! The vegetarian combo was very underwhelming, it was mostly just the rice and a few pieces of falafel (which wasn't the freshest or best tasting). The Baklava and the saffron ice cream were really good too! The service was fast and the ambiance wasn't bad, but we took it to-go. A little hot or miss with some of the dishes, but pretty solid overall. Food: 4/5 Service: 4/5 Value: 3.5/5 Overall: 4/5 read more

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We work very close to this restaurant and never knew it was here. We were getting bored with our lunch choices so I searched lunch spots near us and was thrilled to find this place! We were excited to try it and so glad we did. It's a very quaint place and the music is good . Not often one hears Vivaldi at lunch time! But the food we had was FABULOUS with very reasonable prices! I had the Cornish kebab and my husband had lamb shawarma wrap. I've been thinking about it all afternoon. There are so many more options on the menu I can't wait to try. I'm not sure if it was the owner who waited on us but she was nice and gracious and took our orders and two other tables orders without writing it down. Pom and Olive will definitely be on our rotation as a regular place for lunch time break! Wish they were located near where live because would also do dinner too! read more

After walking by a few times I was hesitant to dine in because the restaurant is always empty inside. Decided to give it a try and I'm not sure what to say. There was no ambience, there was no excitement. It seems Family Owned because our waiter seemed to be one of the owners. Started off with "Fried Cauliflower" priced at ($9.50) but came with only 4 pieces and no dipping sauce. Overpriced and underwhelming to say the least. For entrees I ordered the "Combination Platter" priced at ($17). Came with Beef & Chicken Shararma, Falafel, Salad and basmati rice. All I can say is there was a lot to be desired. I also ordered the "Koobideh Combo" priced at ($16). The kebabs were delicious and really the sole reason behind the 3rd star. I am willing to try again; plenty of good reviews so maybe they just had an off night. read more

Pom & Olive - Koobideh Combo - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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We're in town for the weekend and had the urge for Mediterranean. Found Pom & Olive in Yelp with great reviews for this family owned restaurant so gave it a try. Everyone was right! Not only was the food fresh and delicious, the owner and all the servers were so gracious and attentive. I didn't take a picture of my husbands lamb chops or the spicy hummus we also had but they too were great- chops very tender and hummus light and creamy, not too thick and "pasty" like you normally see in grocery store containers. We'll definitely be back when we are in town again! read more

Pom & Olive - Koobideh Combo - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Beautiful and spacious dining room. You are welcome immediately by the host as you walk in. There's a feel of elegance in the place but still welcoming for casual dining. Pom & Olive also offers cocktails, which is uncommon in Mediterranean/Middle Eastern dining. An Asian gentlemen also helps the servers. He is extremely friendly and helpful. He offered me some chili crisp that complemented my meal perfectly! I ordered the Lamb Shawarma wrap and Falafel & Hummus appetizer. Lamb was seasoned perfectly, tender and juicy. The falafel was crispy and tasty. The hummus was smooth and creamy with cut pieces of pickles and roasted eggplant in it. The contrasting textures and flavors in the hummus was unique and delirious. read more

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One of my favorite restaurants always consistent, always delivering quality, flavor, and a great experience. In a world where things constantly change, it's refreshing to find a place that never compromises on excellence. Great food, great people, and great memories every time. That's why I keep coming back love the ambiance and service. read more

Pom & Olive - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Every time I come here I am shocked once again by the prices. Usually good Mediterranean food breaks the bank, but here you get good quality for good prices. The koobideh kebab is yummy as well as the beef shwarma. We also usually get grape leaves for appetizers. I really like the pomegranate stew, but don't get it as you're entrée! It's very rich and flavorful, so it's better to eat a small amount and share. The only thing that would improve my experience here is being able to eat in the room with the beautiful bar and carpets hanging on the wall. Every time we walk through that room I yearn. read more

Do not get the shawarma. They were overcooked and very small scraps of meat. I would stick to the kebabs and koobidehs. The place had an old school vibe which was nice. read more

Not enough staff to provide service. We were told bar service and cocktails were shut down. We were better off ordering a bottle of wine, which we did. We order the beef shawarma and it was over cooked so match it was beef jerky. I worked in restaurant management and managed bars. This place is different. read more

What a find! Great Mediterranean food that is reasonably priced. Ordered the hummus appetizer which had plenty of pita bread. Ordered both chicken breast and chicken thigh kabob entrees. Would recommend the thigh kabob because it was so moist and flavorful. Came with salad and side of rice. Parking is easy and service was great. Ample seating in the restaurant. Only negative was the construction next door. Would definitely come back read more

Finally got to try this place! My parents love coming here and getting the lamb shank, kale salad w/ chicken, and pita fries with all the dips. I've only previously had the leftovers they take home haha, so being able to try the food fresh and hot was so, so good! They have great service and friendly staff (who remember the regulars), giving it that warm, homelike vibe! read more

What a wonderful find!! We went to the Orange Coast College Planetarium for a show and found Pom & Olive on Yelp. The food and service were outstanding. This is truly a hidden gem for excellent Mediterranean Food, from appetizers, and through the main courses. Generous portions at an affordable price! Yes, wine, speciality alcohol, and non-alcohol drinks. We truly recommend Pom & Olive for a comfortable down home dining experience. We will definitely be back for more of their delicious food and wonderful service!! read more

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Wanted some Mediterranean food and found this place, we weren't disappointed! I ordered the veggie combo plate (if you want it vegan make sure to leave off the feta cheese in the salad!) and their watermelon mint lemonade. Wow! Their selection of flavored lemonades was impressive, and the one I ordered was delicious. Would be fun to try their other flavors. The food was very flavorful and filling. Our waitress was friendly and accommodating. When we walked in, the upscale appearance made us wonder if we would be turned out for being too casual, but that wasn't the case. Laid back atmosphere. read more

I don't even know where to start! Probably the best Mediterranean food I have had in Orange County in the last 15 years. I've never heard of the restaurant and was meeting friends. What a great suggestion. We went for lunch and there was plenty of seating so we didn't have to wait. We all had the Cornish hen kebab. It was so tasty and I have to admit a little messy. But so worth it. Some of us had their mixed rice which had lentils and raisins in it. Some had plain white rice. It came with a little side salad. The price was very good and worth every penny. I will definitely go again because it was a huge menu and would like to try more things. read more

Pom & Olive - Front of restaurant - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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We are Always catering from here. They always do a great job. Samoas are so good, rice , salad yogurt tizaki, , Kobeedia etc my family always requests them. The man at the front is so kind and helpful. Love this place read more

Parking all around this spot, large place with plenty of seating. Looks like they could handle seating very large parties as needed. Prices are reasonable and portions are fair. I got the Shawarma chicken platter it came with pita, hummus and salad. They also offer a salad upgrade to the more fancy salads. I enjoyed the one that came with the meal. Shwarma was also really tasty. I enjoyed every bite. I had a Turkish coffee to finish my meal. Probably should have got dessert too but no room. The coffee was sweeter than Im used to but also really good. Nice way to finish the meal. Spotlight on the waiter. They had a larger party celebrating a birthday and his interaction was amazing, he really had that table rolling and the place enjoyed the great energy from that table. Making me think this might be were Im going for my birthday. LOL He was really helpful and ran the floor well. My grandkids love airplanes and there is a nice view of the jets taking off along the side windowed area, I think they will enjoy that too. Looking forward to going back soon. read more

This is my go to Mediterranean place in Orange County. Everything is fresh, healthy and homemade. My favorite is the Koobideh Combo! The watermelon mint drink is refreshing and their baklava is the best! read more

I do not recommend the beef shawarma. It is extremely salty, fatty/grizzly and tough. The rice was mushy. To go orders are small portions. The reviews are great, so this may be an off day or choice. Staff was friendly! read more

We loved this restaurant. The waiter name Handsome is wonderful- friendly and funny. Food is delicious. Will be back again read more

Pom & Olive - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Don't hesitate - come enjoy this amazing food! My husband wasn't even hungry and he ate every last bite!!! The owner was very sweet and kind. The only area of improvement would be to check on the table a little more often to refill drinks or ask how things are going. Luckily, we were extremely busy eating our delicious food! We will absolutely be back! read more

Pom & Olive - Lamb Shawarma Platter Boneless Chicken Kabab - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Oh my goodness... So good. The best baba ghanoush I've had. Well seasoned and not sour. I had the beet salad and shared the lamb shawarma with my husband. Perfectly cooked and so tender. We will definitely be back. read more

This was our 2nd time trying Pom & Olive and it was delicious again! I tried the chicken shawarma this time and it was great. The flavor of the garlic sauce with the freshness of the salad really brought the meal together. The spicy hummus plate (not pictured) is also delicious. The service is great, our waitress let us try one of the refresher drinks for free along with our meal. We will be back! read more

Pom & Olive - Chicken Shawarma - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Such a find!! The portions are generous and the staff very friendly! My friend and I both ordered the boneless chicken with beet salad! So tender and fresh! Parking was not difficult as some have mentioned but there was construction. read more

Pom & Olive - Boneless chicken with rice and beet salad - Mediterranean Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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This food was average, nothing special about it. Staff were not very friendly but not rude. No smile or friendly greeting. Restaurant was dull and lacking in energy. Price wasn't bad. The filet mignon shish kebab was flavorless. The taste of the Mediterranean mediocre. The sour cherry lemonade was a nice treat. Didn't hate it but wouldn't go back. read more

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Next door to the Travelodge budget motel. I was pleased to find a reasonably priced, healthy, food option walking distance from the motel. They have an extensive menu of authentic Mediterranean dishes with detailed descriptions. I had the Chicken Koobideh Kabab (ground chicken breast skewers). He said that it came with grilled vegetables; it did have grilled onions and a few pieces of zucchini. The salad that it came with was tossed with balsamic vinegar and topped with cheese, the greens were fresh and crisp, the salad was good. It also come with either basmati rice or I opted for the rice mixed with lentils and rasins. It was flavorful and mellow. It was a very balanced plate. The menu reads $14, but I was charged closer to $17? I dunno, I was traveling all day, handed him cash and didn't get a receipt. Too tired to care. I would come here again for a casual dine in or takeout. Next time I will ask for a receipt ;) read more

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Terrible service. Guy totally hounded us til we ordered then disappeared. Food was not good. Waste of $35 never coming back read more

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I think this is hidden gem! The food was fresh , handmade authentic. We had filet mignon kabab and lamb kebabs, both were tender and delicious. The PITA fries with hummus dip is a must try! If you're in the mood for a sweet treat the baklava was superb, lots of nuts and sweet but not dripping with honey , Kash and Sheila go out of their way to make it feel warm friendly. The service was fast and efficient! Never had an empty water glass. I almost never do reviews but the deserved a five star ! read more

When I walked in I initially thought it was pretty nice but when we went to the next room it really needed some updates. The food was not very good. The chicken kabob was the only thing that was okay. I feel like the ratings kind of tricked me. I was expecting so much more. The people were nice but that's the only thing I can say that was good. read more

My colleague and I were looking for a greek restaurant on our drive back to the Central Coast from San Diego and stumbled upon Pom & Olive. There was construction going on next door so at first we didn't think they were open but THEY ARE! :-) I ordered the falafel platter and she ordered the chicken shawarma platter. We also ordered the Watermelon Mint Lemonade and baklava. Both of us thoroughly enjoyed our meals. The servings were very generous and we both agreed that the food was delicious! The service was also very fast. To note, the falafel was by far the best falafel I have ever had - they were crispy on the outside and moist on the inside - not dry at all. And very flavorful. Highly recommend! read more

I came here for lunch around noon on a Tuesday back in April with a friend. This is located off of Bristol Street right near Santa Ana Avenue (I think there's a Taco Bell at the actual corner of Bristol and Santa Ana). I heard about this place as being really good, so I was surprised to see how empty it was during lunch hour. Maybe it's more busier during dinner time? An older gentleman (owner?) helped us to our table. We started with cheese borek ($7.00) and samosa ($7.00), and I got the combination platter ($17.00) and my friend the koobideh combo ($16.00). Everything was very delicious! The cheese borek came with honey, which was tasty when drizzled on top (borek: golden fried flat bread stuffed with feta and mozzarella cheese). Who knew? My combo platter came with beef and chicken shawarma, falafel, salad, rice, and hummus. The chicken was a bit overcooked, but I enjoyed the meal as a whole. Their hummus was really good. Food was good and service was nice, but I did have a problem with the iced tea. There was something slimy in my glass that looked like dark iced tea. Our server couldn't explain it, and even got me a new one, but it still had slime in it. I wasn't sure what it was either, but if I had to guess, their dispenser machine probably hasn't been cleaned. This was back in April, so hopefully they checked and took care of it afterwards. read more

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