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A Big Year Ahead for Costa Mesa’s SoBECA District

03.08.26

More than 20 new small businesses are set to join the LAB’s portfolio in 2026, marking the largest single year of openings in the history of Costa Mesa’s SoBECA District.

The expansion will bring more than 20 new businesses across 50,000 square feet, making it the LAB’s biggest growth to date.

Located just down Bristol Street from South Coast Plaza, the South on Bristol Entertainment, Culture and Arts District, known as SoBECA, is home to some of Costa Mesa’s most recognizable destinations, including The LAB Anti-Mall, The CAMP, CAMPOUT, The SOLO Building and PLANT. The new mix of retail, dining, wellness and experiential concepts will continue to strengthen the district’s long-standing reputation as one of Southern California’s most creative neighborhoods and a hub for independent businesses in Orange County.

The 2026 expansion also reflects a renewed investment in the district’s founding vision, supporting local entrepreneurs while transforming underused spaces through thoughtful, design-focused redevelopment.

For more information regarding new developments, please contact both jenna@cmcoc.net and
amanda@thelab.com.
For more information regarding leasing opportunities, please contact dominic@thelab.com.

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Luke’s Lobster Brings the Heat With Chili Crisp Crab Melt

03.08.26

Luke’s Lobster has a location on Balboa Island, making it an easy coastal stop for seafood lovers in Newport Beach. Founded in 2009 by third-generation lobsterman Luke Holden, the Maine based, family owned restaurant group has built a loyal following for its commitment to 100 percent traceable, sustainably sourced seafood. Luke’s Lobster has been a certified B Corp since 2018 and continues to lead with transparency from dock to plate.

For a limited time, Luke’s is turning up the heat with a new Chili Crisp Crab Melt, created in collaboration with Fly By Jing. Chili crisp has become one of the most influential condiment trends in recent years, and this seasonal special brings that bold, savory heat to the seafood counter.

The Chili Crisp Crab Melt features 2 ounces of Jonah crab, cheddar cheese, crunchy cabbage and a chili crisp mayo made with Fly By Jing’s Xtra Spicy Sichuan Chili Crisp, pressed on classic white bread and served with chips for $18. It is Luke’s Lobster’s first limited time offering of 2026 and is available at participating shacks, including the Newport Beach location on Balboa Island.

To round out the experience, Luke’s Lobster is offering a few easy pairings with the Chili Crisp Crab Melt. Seasonal tomato bisque with oyster crackers is available in two sizes, 8 ounces for $8 and 12 ounces for $10. Soup and sandwich combos include a half Chili Crisp Crab Melt with 1 ounce of Jonah crab and 8 ounces of tomato bisque for $16, and a full Chili Crisp Crab Melt with 2 ounces of Jonah crab and 8 ounces of tomato bisque for $20.

Luke’s Lobster is located on Balboa Island at 329 Marine Ave., Newport Beach.

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