Mission Control Bar Arcade - Santa Ana, California

Erich Wenis

Exactly what I was looking for - an arcade with food and drinks.
Multiple options to eat and I went with the spiced burgers and their Bhangra smash.
Bar upstairs where you purchase tokens and pickup the occasional drink.
Lots of pinball games, taking 2-4 tokens each, and I think Godzilla was my favorite. An old school game of Diner was on the first floor but it kept eating my tokens. Regular stand ups are just single tokens but also can vary.
Wished I had more time to stay for the pinball tournament at 730!
Parking kind of sucks, and the outside signage makes you question yourself, but Google maps will get you there

Everett Jimenez

I've been going to MC since 2020. I really enjoy Friday or Saturday nights with Dj Ceaze. No cover charge. Mix drinks are prices between $12 - 15 bucks and they are good. The Arcade games and pin ball machines are fun. The Halloween parties are fun and music is always on point. I recommend MC to anyone looking to check out a new bar in Downtown Orange County.

Cliff J.

This nostalgic barcade is hidden inside McFadden Public Market in downtown Santa Ana. Two nights in a row this ended up being our starting off point for a night out and it didn't disappoint.

They have an assortment of games to choose from and a fun game themed menu. We're pretty patient people but the lines at the bar did take awhile to move along even for it being fairly early in the evening. Once we got our drinks we noticed they were made really well.

There's also an outdoor balcony with flame heaters in the cooler months. This area looked to be pretty popular for birthdays as half was reserved celebrations both nights.

Brian Brick

Great little spot, I only wish there was more of it. Bartenders are friendly and quick, the games are typically in good working order, and they have a lot of pinball machines for those interested; occasionally they will host pinball tournaments.
Really love the updated bar they just installed; looks great and the space feels way more open.
As far as I am aware, Mission Control only serves beverages, but there's a decent variety of good food on the first floor of the building.
It also has their often photographed neon sign on the wall that says "come play with me"
Lastly, and my favorite part, they have a fantastic trivia night by Geeks Who Drink host Ryan on Thursday evenings where you can hang out and play for free, and even win free drinks without having to win the whole game.

T D

I'm not entirely sure what happened to this place but they got rid of a lot of popular pinball machines. Where there once were tables is now a DJ booth. That's fine but when the DJ starts up the vibe changes into a dive bar with a few arcades in it.

Seems very popular so I don't knock them for it, just wish every place didn't turn into a loud club after 10pm

Derek Yarno

My first visit had me hooked. Great atmosphere, beer selection, and most importantly, 19 pinball machines (as well as other retro arcade games)! The staff are all incredibly friendly and helpful! Karaoke, Pinball League, Trivia, and occasional DJ's during the week. Pizza and tacos are available from the restaurants downstairs. Parking is behind the building down a ways. The happy hour specials are awesome! Tokens can be purchased with cash and card. Prices are reasonable! It's definitely a must visit for pinball enthusiasts and arcade fans!

Brandon Ramirez

Located in the heart of Santa Ana, California, is an eclectic gem - a trendy arcade bar, fondly referred to by locals and tourists alike. The venue is a niche blend of entertainment, adorned with great music, clever concoctions, and a clientele as diverse as the arcade games it houses.

What sets this bar apart is the ingenious blend of vintage and contemporary, evident in its retro-themed ambiance that takes you on a surreal journey back in time. It’s as though you've stepped into the golden era of arcade gaming.

But the real star of the show, apart from the plethora of arcade games, is their cleverly crafted cocktails. Each drink is a tribute to the gaming world, with witty, retro-themed names that will give anyone a hearty chuckle. The drinks are as varied and vibrant as the patrons themselves, embodying the spirit of diversity that this bar embraces.

The background score, featuring an array of tracks, subtly complements the playful atmosphere. From 80’s pop hits to modern chart-toppers, the selection is eclectic and thoroughly enjoyable, creating an animated, inclusive environment. This arcade bar is undoubtedly a must-visit in Santa Ana, steeped in nostalgia and cheer, and drenched in fun.

Unfortunately I was not granted the opportunity to experience the food but I will definitely be coming back to feat upon their delicious looking menu. They have takeout and dine in options located at a kiosk near the bar.

yoel hooper-antunez

A solid barcade! In terms of game variety, it’s no Dave and Busters - it’s kinda small, but there’s lots of retro games and a guitar hero machine. The drinks are good and creative as well. A nice lowkey place to go on a date or bring some friends. Also a good starting point for the night if you plan on hitting up multiple bars. No food there I’m pretty sure, but it’s connected to a good place downstairs.