On a recent weekday afternoon, the South Coast Collection in Costa Mesa is inhabited by an eclectic crowd — young hipsters sipping lattes at Portola Coffee Lab, professionals in business suits nibbling on carnitas de pato at Taco Maria, moms pushing strollers, and employees from nearby businesses simply enjoying the open-air courtyards.
Designers can be spotted in the design showrooms too, as they stop to eye the furnishings on display in the more than 20 stores specializing in home design.
Sure, South Coast Plaza is just down the street, as are Ikea, Room & Board and Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. But what makes the South Coast Collection, or SoCo, so compelling is its thoughtful layout, diverse offerings and easy accessibility, with ample free parking.