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🎨 The LAB Anti-Mall: Where Art Meets Retail in the Heart of Costa Mesa

  • Writer: Jhon Garcia
    Jhon Garcia
  • Jun 27
  • 2 min read

If you’re the kinda person who thinks traditional malls are a total snoozefest, lemme introduce you to the quirky, artsy, and flat-out legendary spot known as The LAB Anti-Mall. Tucked right in the middle of Costa Mesa, this place is giving major cool kid energy with a rebellious twist that says, "Nah, we don’t do basic here." It’s not just a shopping center—it's a vibe, it’s a community, it’s that hidden gem where indie meets Instagrammable and sustainability meets style


🧡 What Makes The LAB So Anti-Mall?

  • 🎭 Creative Architecture: Think upcycled materials, funky art installations, and photo-worthy murals around every corner

  • 🛍️ Boutique Shops: No big chains here—expect vintage threads, local designers, rare finds, and stores that actually care about the planet

  • ☕ Chill Cafés & Eateries: From organic lattes to fusion tacos, the food scene is as artsy as the surroundings—yes, they’ve got vegan options and gluten-free goodies

  • 🎶 Live Music + Pop-Ups: There’s always something going down—from live DJ sets to spontaneous pop-up markets and poetry readings

  • 🪴 Green Vibes: It’s not just about consumption—it’s about conscious consumption. Expect compost bins, native plants, and a zero-waste mindset all around


🌟 The Vibe? Straight-Up Creative Chaos (In the Best Way)

  • 🎨 Art Everywhere: The LAB literally stands for "Little American Business," and they support 'em hard—with installations, murals, and curated local events

  • 👩‍🎨 A Creator’s Playground: Whether you're snapping selfies for the 'Gram or sketching in your journal, this place breeds creativity like whoa

  • 🤝 Community Energy: You’ll meet musicians, skaters, artists, and plant moms all hanging in the same space. It’s eclectic in the best way possible


🗺️ Other Cool Spots Nearby? You Bet

  • 🛒 The CAMP: Directly across the street—it’s The LAB’s eco-conscious sibling with yoga, vegan eats, and wellness vibes

  • 🎭 Segerstrom Center for the Arts: A quick drive away if you’re craving high culture after your indie day out

  • 🌴 South Coast Plaza: If you wanna flip the script and dive back into luxury, it’s right down the road (but don’t forget where the real vibes started 👀)


📸 Pro Tips for Your Visit

  • 🧃 Try Cafecito Organico or Habana for serious flavor bombs

  • 🎒 Bring a tote bag—you’ll wanna shop small and carry big

  • 🕶️ Come camera-ready because yeah... it’s that photogenic


🚗 Need a Ride That Matches Your Vibe? JB Auto Rental Has You Covered

If you're cruising through Orange County and need a car that vibes with your unique style and hustle, hit up JB Auto Rental. Whether you're headed to The LAB for a chill hang or hitting every artsy corner of Costa Mesa, we've got the ride to match your mood. Book your whip now by visiting JB Auto Rental or call us at +1 657-837-1010. Let’s roll out in style—no basic rides allowed.












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