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My son noticed this spot on instagram, and wanted to come visit. I've seen it for years but never have wanted to stop. Well today we came, wow what a cute little outdoor mall. Little shops, from coffee, donuts, pizza, records, some clothing I think. Lots of outdoor seating. Not place to come n shop, it's mostly to hang out. At least that's the vibe.
Call me crazy. Call me a Facebook mom. Call me insane. But I feel The LAB Anti-Mall is a bit overrated and not a 10/10 or as "happening" as my 15 yr old daughter said it would be. She was getting me SO HYPED up about this place that I took time out of my weekend to drive 50+ minutes here for a visit - but I ended up disappointed. Of course, I know that Tik Tok are all over this place and there's a bunch of teens posing the same pose at the same spots for likes (like my daughter) so I am sure she had fun with her friends. However, I just wished they had more shops and restaurants for me to hang out at while the kids are in line to take their pics. Overall, I give a 6/10. (My daughter gives it a 11/10 but it's too bad she doesn't have her own Yelp account). Because I am a good mom (lol), I don't mind bringing her back here, but I personally think I'll have a better time shopping at South Coast a few blocks away. P. S. No admission charge. Free parking.
We had fun exploring here. Lots of art you can look at, walk through, old school memories that it gives you too. Shops also of all varieties. Parking is cray, we got lucky, but could have been circling for sure. Food and drinks too, also have a variety for kids and grown ups. Cool to visit.
The LAB Anti-Mall (established in 1993) is a hip outdoor shopping plaza in Costa Mesa and The LAB stands for "Little American Business". The CAMP is another hip shopping plaza across the street and many visitors check out The CAMP and The LAB Anti-Mall all at the same time. [Parking]: There's a designated parking lot for this shopping plaza, but the lot is usually packed during normal weekend business hours. [What to expect here]: The anchor shop here is Nook Coffee Bar as this coffee shop always has a long waiting line. There's also a public restroom for all visitors to use. The LAB Anti-Mall has more of a first date friendly vibe than The CAMP as visitors will find the following at The LAB Anti-Mall: * A tunnel with used CDs * The Wishing Tree * Art installations * A cool fountain right next to Nook Coffee Bar with water flowing out from colorful oil barrel drums * A larger open-air seating area than The CAMP [Conclusion]: If you ask me what's the #1 best first date spot in Orange County without having to consider parking nightmare, then there's no question it would be this shopping plaza. P.S. - The LAB has a sister property called The Casino in San Clemente.
The LAB is a pretty cool outdoor "anti" mall with a few shops including an ice cream shop, a record store, and a clothing store with more to come. It is a little underwhelming as it currently is but I believe the place is relatively new. I think most people visit here to work or hang out in the central common area that is actually a very cool spot with some benches and nice sunshine that comes through.
The LAB in Costa Mesa is one of those places that feels instantly cool the moment you walk in. I love that it's not your typical mall experience. Instead of just stores, there are open areas where you can hang out, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere without feeling pressured to buy anything. At the same time there are plenty of food spots and unique shops to wander through, so you get the best of both worlds. The vibe here is warm and welcoming, perfect for a casual day out with friends or even just solo time. I stopped at Seabirds for a bite during my visit and the food was pleasant, but what really stood out was how easy it was to just slow down and enjoy being there. The layout makes it feel like a little hidden community spot rather than a big shopping center. Another bonus is the location. It's right next to another shopping area within walking distance, so you can make a whole afternoon of exploring without having to move your car. Between the creative touches, the chill atmosphere, and the mix of shops and restaurants, I definitely plan to come back. This is the kind of place that makes you want to linger, whether you're eating, shopping, or just soaking in the scene. Highly recommend.
Loved the laid back vibe and handful of cute family owned boutiques and eateries. Savored a matcha chai latte from the Nook and triple berries vegan donut from GoodTown Donuts. A great outdoorsy space to read a book and spend with friends :)
Lovely indoor / outdoor experience for locals and visitors in the Costa Mesa area. From food and cocktails to retail and novelty experiences... there's something for everyone at the LAB.
This place is so cute ! Has so many places to get food and drinks . Parking may be difficult at certain times on the day but I've been lucky not to come during super busy hrs . I love the vibes here and places they offer . The prices at the places here are pretty high but they are all unique places . A lot of options and types of food to choose from . I went to two places the lady told I went a both places had great customer service.
There's a bunch of cool merchants in this mini Mall. All local and very cool vibe. Me and my Bestie enjoyed Stella's ice cream parlor.
I LOVE The Lab so much!! I've been coming here for years and I've loved seeing it evolve. It has a really cool, trendy vibe. I love that while it has evolved over the years, some things have remained the same -- like the CD tunnel! There's a great selection of shops and restaurants, as well as hangout spots. I do miss the huge Urban Outfitters and Gypsy Den, but hopefully something new will take their place too! I also love all the art and attention to detail too. Parking can be tough some days, but they do offer valet and it's very affordable.
Every time I went on a date, for the past 30 years, this is where I went! The ambience is always fascinating to me because it's like life, always changing, something always unexpected. I do miss the gypsy den restaurant, that was located here. - not sure I'll ever get over that. When I want to buy something wonderful secondhand, that's hard to find lo and behold, we have the Buffalo exchange, great prices as well. I'm just gonna leave it at that, with that information, and just suggest that you go here. Here in Orange County (where are many things are the same ). This LAB location is a blessing ! read more
Business owner information
Linda S.
Thank you Tony for shopping small and for the great review and pics!
My sister and I decided to stop by The LAB Anti-Mall while exploring Orange County. This place is such a fun and unique spot, especially if you enjoy shopping, art, and discovering local businesses. The whole area has a cool, laid back vibe that feels different from your typical shopping center. There are lots of unique shops to browse, along with great food and drink options like Seabirds, Stella Jean's, and other local favorites. Since it's an outdoor shopping center, we got to enjoy the beautiful California sunshine while walking around. One of my favorite parts was all of the art installations scattered throughout the property. They add so much character to the space and make it feel creative and fun. Plus, there are plenty of Instagram worthy spots if you love taking photos. We spent some time checking out the different shops and ended up stopping by Blends. The service there was excellent. The staff was friendly, helpful, and took the time to answer my questions without making me feel pressured to buy anything. I ended up finding a pair of Asics sneakers that I absolutely loved. The pricing was also surprisingly good, which made the purchase even better. Whether you're hanging out with friends, looking for unique stores, or exploring Orange County for the day, it's definitely worth a visit. I'll definitely be back! read more
The LAB has a good selection of many cute and unique areas to chill or to take pictures. They have shops and restaurants as well. It's for everyone at all ages. My kids and I usually come here to check on new stickers, card tradings or just enjoy the crowd. The prices are very reasonable and all the staff are always friendly and welcoming. Take your time to look at each shop and you might find the next treasure :) read more
Business owner information
Linda S.
Wendy, thanks for the love! It's great to know the whole family can…
My son noticed this spot on instagram, and wanted to come visit. I've seen it for years but never have wanted to stop. Well today we came, wow what a cute little outdoor mall. Little shops, from coffee, donuts, pizza, records, some clothing I think. Lots of outdoor seating. Not place to come n shop, it's mostly to hang out. At least that's the vibe. read more
Call me crazy. Call me a Facebook mom. Call me insane. But I feel The LAB Anti-Mall is a bit overrated and not a 10/10 or as "happening" as my 15 yr old daughter said it would be. She was getting me SO HYPED up about this place that I took time out of my weekend to drive 50+ minutes here for a visit - but I ended up disappointed. Of course, I know that Tik Tok are all over this place and there's a bunch of teens posing the same pose at the same spots for likes (like my daughter) so I am sure she had fun with her friends. However, I just wished they had more shops and restaurants for me to hang out at while the kids are in line to take their pics. Overall, I give a 6/10. (My daughter gives it a 11/10 but it's too bad she doesn't have her own Yelp account). Because I am a good mom (lol), I don't mind bringing her back here, but I personally think I'll have a better time shopping at South Coast a few blocks away. P. S. No admission charge. Free parking. read more
5 months ago
We had fun exploring here. Lots of art you can look at, walk through, old school memories that it gives you too. Shops also of all varieties. Parking is cray, we got lucky, but could have been circling for sure. Food and drinks too, also have a variety for kids and grown ups. Cool to visit. read more
The LAB Anti-Mall (established in 1993) is a hip outdoor shopping plaza in Costa Mesa and The LAB stands for "Little American Business". The CAMP is another hip shopping plaza across the street and many visitors check out The CAMP and The LAB Anti-Mall all at the same time. [Parking]: There's a designated parking lot for this shopping plaza, but the lot is usually packed during normal weekend business hours. [What to expect here]: The anchor shop here is Nook Coffee Bar as this coffee shop always has a long waiting line. There's also a public restroom for all visitors to use. The LAB Anti-Mall has more of a first date friendly vibe than The CAMP as visitors will find the following at The LAB Anti-Mall: * A tunnel with used CDs * The Wishing Tree * Art installations * A cool fountain right next to Nook Coffee Bar with water flowing out from colorful oil barrel drums * A larger open-air seating area than The CAMP [Conclusion]: If you ask me what's the #1 best first date spot in Orange County without having to consider parking nightmare, then there's no question it would be this shopping plaza. P.S. - The LAB has a sister property called The Casino in San Clemente. read more
The LAB is a pretty cool outdoor "anti" mall with a few shops including an ice cream shop, a record store, and a clothing store with more to come. It is a little underwhelming as it currently is but I believe the place is relatively new. I think most people visit here to work or hang out in the central common area that is actually a very cool spot with some benches and nice sunshine that comes through. read more
The LAB in Costa Mesa is one of those places that feels instantly cool the moment you walk in. I love that it's not your typical mall experience. Instead of just stores, there are open areas where you can hang out, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere without feeling pressured to buy anything. At the same time there are plenty of food spots and unique shops to wander through, so you get the best of both worlds. The vibe here is warm and welcoming, perfect for a casual day out with friends or even just solo time. I stopped at Seabirds for a bite during my visit and the food was pleasant, but what really stood out was how easy it was to just slow down and enjoy being there. The layout makes it feel like a little hidden community spot rather than a big shopping center. Another bonus is the location. It's right next to another shopping area within walking distance, so you can make a whole afternoon of exploring without having to move your car. Between the creative touches, the chill atmosphere, and the mix of shops and restaurants, I definitely plan to come back. This is the kind of place that makes you want to linger, whether you're eating, shopping, or just soaking in the scene. Highly recommend. read more
Loved the laid back vibe and handful of cute family owned boutiques and eateries. Savored a matcha chai latte from the Nook and triple berries vegan donut from GoodTown Donuts. A great outdoorsy space to read a book and spend with friends :) read more
8 months ago
This place is so cute ! Has so many places to get food and drinks . Parking may be difficult at certain times on the day but I've been lucky not to come during super busy hrs . I love the vibes here and places they offer . The prices at the places here are pretty high but they are all unique places . A lot of options and types of food to choose from . I went to two places the lady told I went a both places had great customer service. read more
2 months ago
Love everything about this place the vibe was awesome can't wait to go back. Very artsy I love it! read more
Business owner information
Linda S.
Thank you, Sarai! In the coming months we'll be welcoming several…
10 months ago
There's a bunch of cool merchants in this mini Mall. All local and very cool vibe. Me and my Bestie enjoyed Stella's ice cream parlor. read more
11 months ago
1 year ago
I LOVE The Lab so much!! I've been coming here for years and I've loved seeing it evolve. It has a really cool, trendy vibe. I love that while it has evolved over the years, some things have remained the same -- like the CD tunnel! There's a great selection of shops and restaurants, as well as hangout spots. I do miss the huge Urban Outfitters and Gypsy Den, but hopefully something new will take their place too! I also love all the art and attention to detail too. Parking can be tough some days, but they do offer valet and it's very affordable. read more
Ot's just a cool place to hang out - I love Habana restaurant, the amazing donut shop at the other end, a large Hippy Dippy oils candles shop a beer establishment and LOVE the little card, shops, etc., in the tiny Airstreams buy your vinyl in the in the V dub. There's a cool vintage shop that has newer and older. Parking can be a bit of a challenge sometimes on the weekend your mileage may vary. ! read more
This place is incredibly cute, the atmosphere is extremely artsy and pleasant to walk around at. Most of the stores were closed when I arrived around 6 PM but I can imagine earlier, its probably packed and lively. This is a quick go to shop spot or a spot for foodies. Definitely worth checking out. read more
The LAB Anti-mall, a small outdoor plaza, is located across the street from The CAMP and near South Coast Plaza; parking there can be challenging during peak hours. The LAB Anti-mall，一個小型室外商場，就在The CAMP對街和南海岸精品廣場附近。熱門時段的停車位不好找。 read more
2 years ago
This place is an artsy girl's dream the layout is so rustic, eclectic, and beautiful to me. I love outdoor layout and the cool stores they have here. I found some cool things at Buffalo exchange and Urban outfitters and would like to come back and work in the common space. There seems to be a lot of thought and artistic presence in how everything is organized. I really enjoyed taking it all in. It felt like a museum and shopping experience all in one. Parking is free and some residential areas are around for overflow. It was a little bit hard to spot from the main road so just keep an eye out for a rustic "the lab" sign. Definitely coming back to work and try the Nook cafe read more
2 years ago
The LAB stands for "Little American Business" and that's exactly what they are, although they do have a few chain stores. The LAB opened in 1993 to try to counter retail monotonies. It is super cute, not huge with okay parking. It is clean and all the stores have great service. We loved it and will be back. There really is a need for an original, indoor-outdoor unconventional "mall" packed with a super cafes, restaurants and retail. The LAB pushes creative art installations and local artist features and musical events. It has rotating murals, graphic design, a walk thru gallery and other installations. It is a great place for coffee with family or friends and some super shopping. It is not inexpensive, but what is in Costa Mesa. It is really nice and we like it ever so much. read more
9 months ago
Amazing spot with nice seating to use for free. Slightly small on parking here. Pretty chill to come enjoy locally owned businesses. A bunch of things to offer. read more
2 months ago
Business owner information
Linda S.
Thank you for stopping in, Jie! In the coming months we're welcoming…
Such a cute and fun area! Lots to explore, restaurants, bars, shops etc. love that they have an urban outfitters, Habana (yummy food and cocktails) and lots to walk around and see. Art instillations, plenty of free parking, you can spend the day here. Great to come with friends, family, or on a date! You can eat, drink, and shop! Love areas like this with outdoor shopping! read more
2 years ago
Birthday dinner here at Habana was nice and different! Food was pretty good, looks better than taste but still pleasant! A little pricey but it's what's you expect for the presentation Service was nice, but not above average especially for a birthday. Resto was quirky and cute. Fun place to go and hang out! read more
I've heard of this place before, but I've never been. Can't really say that I've been to an "anti-mall" before but I guess I can kinda see what an "anti-mall" is. No huge retailers or shops that you see at every mall (unless you count Urban Outfitters). It's mostly outside with some covered awnings and areas with shops and benches and tables for people to sit and enjoy the food that they have there or just to catch up (they have free Wi-Fi!). Many of the shops and businesses are those that are eco-friendly and sustainable, eateries use organic and locally sourced ingredients, etc. Very creative and unique and perfect for pictures or photoshoots. Lots of plants, greenery, and artwork (art installations, murals, etc.). I actually got lost trying to find the restroom and stumbled upon some neat things like hop scotch, random seating and tables inside what looks like a large ribcage, cat paintings, a walkway of CD's, etc. Definitely worth spending an afternoon to explore. read more
I found out there is an across the street part of the Camp /Lab anti mall and wow, the place is huge. I just love all the art work and care that people put into this place. I want to spend more time, checking out more stores. It is a really beautiful place. My kind of place to chill out. Enjoy this very special place in Orange County. read more
3 years ago
Really small place with a lot cool features! While visiting the OC, we went to the South Coast plaza which was filled with a lot of people. We heard about the Anti-Mall and decided hey let's go check it out! So firstly, parking can be a little confusing as we found out there's like two or three different lots. It's also a little tight, but no biggie. I like the cute little stores they have around the area, from clothing, to non-dairy ice cream, to plants, crystals, bars. It's very fun and eclectic! I love that they have little things to do, and I honestly wish they could expand more. Everyone is super nice there and help. Service from all the stores is great and informative. Highly recommend coming here. read more
This anti-Mall is really strange but its quirkiness by definition is fascinating n deserves a visit. I had never heard of this place until I was looking for the 2nd location of the Habana Cuban restaurant. It's a mixture of retro 60s n Greenwich village where hippies n now lbgt folks congregate to dance, parade n protest too. You walked in n thought you were in a different world bc you really were! The entrance to Habana was decorated w a dome full of cds, come back for a review of Habana. There was a boutique, the buffalo exchange selling funky shoes, shoes folks used to wear to Studio54 in nyc or the band KISS dudes used to wear. It's hilarious they sell used clothing at higher prices than the Nordstrom outlet about 5,10 min away in SouthCoast plaza n people spoke highly of this store. There was a gazebo like called the wishing tree where you can put in your wish, girls leaving messages to their x bf, lol a pizzeria where u walk in a Halloween like dark place it's all gimmick I'm sure they'd sell only frozen pizza. The entrance to this antimall entrance was closed at 6:30pm so I could not go in but I remember there were a lot of little businesses inside nothing special maybe souvenirs and knickknacks. So Habana is the anchor restaurant, many others did not survive the COVID lockdown, there was a chicken restaurant still standing n of course the pizzeria. Next to Habana was the RUIN bar! The decoration was 1/2 French boudoir 1/2 Halloween props store w an ominous looking buffalo or boar head at the entrance! lol they had happy hour n I tried to catch it but it was over after I finished dining next door i didn't want to pay $19 for a margarita if the bar didn't look conventional. The Urban Outfitters was a big apparel store here, I love the one in Waikiki, this one just sells a lot of hats n Texas cowboy clothing. There was a big lounge people can relax on a date or hang out w buddies. The people that come here are mostly college kids, young adults coming w their date to hang out at the brewery. The bootleggers brewery had about 30 tabs it reminded me of a brewery in the Block outlet mall that went out of business, if you drink beer it's definitely worth a trip here. I think this place is waiting for a buyer, real estates price skyrocketed n this hippy village is not a good fit n not making business sense so if you are adventurous come to take a look before it's gone. read more
3 years ago
I have to say, this mall is absolutely adorable! It's not your typical shopping center; it's a place that's perfect for bringing your date or hanging out with friends. The selection of shops is amazing, with each one embodying great ideals and offering unique designs and styles. From charming small shops to cozy coffee houses, delightful dessert places, trendy clothing store and a variety of food options, there's something for everyone's taste. My favorite part is their out-of-the-box thinking type of decoration and design. It embraces environmental friendliness, creating a refreshing and sustainable environment. Oh, don't forget to bring your camera for some IG posts. read more
I loved this anti-mall. What a great mix is cool shops in a fantastic indoor/outdoor setting. The kind of place you only find in California. Definitely will keep this handy for future shopping or for taking friends around in Costa Mesa. read more
been here couple times, just 2 walk around, as we were inda neighborhood, shoppin in SOUTH COAST PLAZA + waitin 4 restaurants 2 open 4 dinner theres a variety of stores & fun places 2 take fotos ~ i personally have not dined in this plaza but its a kool lil place 2 check out when inda area read more
5 months ago
2 years ago
I haven't been here for almost 11 years. I took my daughters here over the weekend and the three of us really enjoyed what this anti-mall offered. Loved the little stores and the art in and around the Lab. Brought back many memories. We got lucky by getting there before the parking lot got full. read more
2 years ago
This was fun to explore. The vibes are completely opposite from the Camp. We came here first and then the Camp. It's got hipster grunge vibes. The art installations are very cool! We walked around quickly and I was a bit disappointed there wasn't more shops around. I think when we came, some shops were close to closing. There's also a brewery nearby. Parking was easy. There's a clean public bathroom. I'm really glad we came and explored this spot! read more
Visited the other day with a friend and love the artwork installations and small shops. Vibes remind me of Rodeo 39 in Garden Grove but more outdoors. It's a great place to chill with friends while checking out some clothing/jewelry/plants etc and it's right across from the Camp which has plentiful of food places. Parking can be a hassle but luckily, my friend and I got a spot as someone was leaving. read more
I wish the OC had more spots like this: public art and outdoor shopping in a unique urban feeling setting. The retail here is limited but it's a good spot to buy some plants in a Airstream, get metaphysical with crystals, buy vintage records, browse gently used clothes at Buffalo Exchange, enjoy a craft beer and take a photograph next to a colorful fountain incorporating painted metal barrels. There is a large parking lot adjacent to LAB Anti-Mall and it does include some traditional retail :ie a large Urban Outfitters. Fun, unique and quirky. read more
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More info about The LAB Anti-Mall
2930 Bristol St
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Directions
(657) 232-0049
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.thelab.com
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Ask the Community - The LAB Anti-Mall
Is this place suitable for studying?
Hard to say. If you can find the right restaurant in back.
I came here to planning to study but could not find any guest Wi-Fi. Does anyone know if they offer free Wi-Fi and if so what's the password?
Hi Brian! The LAB does offer free Wi-Fi - the password is LABLOVESU in all caps. Hope that helps!
Does it get crowded on saturday afternoon for taking pictures?
I just went there today, a Saturday, during the afternoon hour from 3-ish to 6. Not very crowded during the first half but all of a sudden got jam-packed around 5. However, I expect it to be even more crowded around dinner time at 7 tonight!
Is it LGBTQ+ friendly? Are there gender-neutral restrooms?
They have bathrooms for men and women if you happen to fall into either category.
Does this place have decent wifi?
I wouldn't even call it decent. It is constantly connecting and disconnecting for me. Cant really get anything done because it is a WiFi for anyone to use and thus the sheer number of people connected to it reduced the bandwidth
Are dogs allowed?
Yes! People often come here with their dogs to take cute photos. It is an outdoor mall. Each store might have their own pet policy though.
Do they have bike locks there, a place to store bikes?
It's all the way passing seabirds, basically behind urban outfitters facing the windows of the van it was very hard to find but I found it haha ! No where near the car parking lot.
Any restaurants that you could recommend for a group of 10 folk an the Anti Mall Lab?
Hi Rosaline, Thanks for reaching out today! We recommend that you contact our restaurants…
Review Highlights - The LAB Anti-Mall
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