The LAB Anti-Mall

I absolutely love The LAB Anti-Mall! It is such a refreshing escape from standard cookie-cutter shopping malls. The entire outdoor space has a super cool, artsy, and hipster vibe with incredible art installations, the famous CD tunnel, and plenty of cozy spots to sit down and relax. I highly recommend grabbing a drink at Nook Coffee Bar and browsing through the unique vintage clothing kiosks. It is the perfect place to hang out with friends, go on a casual date, or just enjoy a sunny afternoon in Orange County

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 Anti-mall feels like it is more about pretty photo ops and quirkiness than anything of substance. There were more restaurants here than shops, and the shops themselves were blah. I was promised a cool and local shopping experience but there was nothing local here at all. Easy skip.

Step away from the chaos of city life and into a space that feels like a time capsule. This hidden gem offers a refreshing escape like taking a quick detour out of traffic and into the charm of the past. Relive the nostalgia of the ‘70s and ‘80s, where everything feels simpler, slower, and more peaceful. It’s a place to unwind, recharge, and enjoy the freedom of a calm, retro inspired environment.

Not a lot of actual shopping it’s mostly coffee shops and one restaurant. It looked like it was under construction when I was there in November but maybe that’s changed. We shopped at probably 2 of the random stores for SUPER small things that weren’t an arm and a leg. Then we just walked into the Buffalo Exchange that they have there. It was my first time at one at all and boy did I get a rude awakening. What kind of a thrift store is that. I guess it’s a place that you have to see and look around if you’re in the area but I would not go back. “For an anti mall it’s pretty capitalistic” - my girlfriend’s words.

I love little treasure spots like this. It's so cute and fun! I visited several stores and restaurants and was not disappointed. Parking was wild and the place was packed and rather small, but worth it!!!

Very unique artistic establishment. Its like an industrial area under construction with plants and every color imaginable. If you enjoy the arts, food, craft beer, and shopping, this place is for you. My favorite part was the CD tunnel and the drum barrel water fountain.

The LAB Anti-Mall is one of Costa Mesa's most distinctive destinations and I always bring it up when clients are evaluating the local lifestyle. The indie, counter-culture vibe sets it apart from typical OC retail, and buyers who appreciate creative communities respond to it immediately. Unique boutiques, eclectic dining, and a genuinely laid-back atmosphere that reflects what makes the 17th Street corridor so appealing. A great contrast to South Coast Plaza right down the road — OC really does have it all.