La Cave: A Classic Steakhouse and Seafood Dining Experience in Costa Mesa, CA

Great food and great service! Very fun place to go. The scampi is amazing. Our waiter was super nice and had wonderful suggestions.

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.

We have been there many time spanning across many years and have seen a decline every time. This last week, we went just for drinks and apps and sat the bar. The bartenders have quite an attitude, so don't plan on chit chat. The food was good, but our steak was overcooked! And the ambiance seems to be declining (clean wise) and had a slight smell. I understand they want to keep it "authentic" but a few upgrades here and there would help!

Food and atmosphere are awesome. We have been coming here for years. Great steaks and stiff drinks. We usually sit at the bar to forgo the wait. Either way the service is the same.

This place is always so much fun. As you enter the elevator and go downstairs, you get the 1970s feel right away. Dark, leather booths and a very nostalgic feeling. The servers have all been there a while and are super friendly and helpful. The food it's incredible and hard to finish, but I hate to waste any bite. We had the warm carrot cake for dessert this time and it was incredible how the icing began to melt. Outstanding.

I love coming here! The double stuffed potatoes are good. The steaks are good too. The service is always good. I never have any problems here. I always come in without reservations and they always get me in. I like the darkly lit vibe tot he place. Its always nice here.

First off don't let these reviews fool you! I hadn't been here since 1987 for my prom. Wanted to treat my boyfriend for his bday. Sure there's feelings, Morton's etc. But those are chains. The Service was impeccable. Le Cave is known for their martini's I'm advised. Now I know why, Cosmo was perfect When you order they take your order & proceed to bring the cart around so you know exactly what your ordering. Portions are big! And well under what Morton's would charge. I ordered the filet, my boyfriend ribeye w/half lobster tail. Which looked almost like a whole one. They don't rush you even as the crowds roll in. It's a very quaint restaurant and is the same as it opened in 1962 on Valentine's Day. My boyfriend was given the fluffiest cheese cake for his bday! I love it here! May go back to chill at the bar soon...

I must be talking a lot about speak easy's. Because my friend and I had dinner plans but we wanted to get together before dinner so we can have some quality time. She did NOT disappoint me! When I pulled up I thought this looks like a nice tiny bar. I enjoy dives. Upon entry and she turns into the stairwell I came to a sudden stop and said "NO WAY! Is this a speakeasy?!" With a lot of smiles and laughter we made our way downstairs. Once we entered the hostess found us 2 seats together at the bar. Very quick and attentive service from both the bartender and hostess. I loved the red leather booths and lighting. Song with The dark wood and the noise level of this place. Granted I had my back to the entrance so she had to explain to me everything that was going on behind me. Cash is still accepted here because it is king. This is a proper establishment and there are some amazing stories that come out of this place when I told friends about it. I am very excited to return. I will be making reservations and enjoy a fine dining experience in the near future. Does anyone know if they still have Jazz bands here in certain nights? Anyways.... Cheers!