With a consistent crowd of people coming from different backgrounds, the Orange County hub is a natural breeding ground for a diverse and thriving culinary scene.
From fusion restaurants to your comfort Thai fare, there are lots of mouth-watering options in Irvine.
Here are 12 of the must-visit restaurants in Irvine for you to try out.
Our top picks, Il Fornaio Irvine and Bistango in Irvine, are most likely to make you drool and indulge in a gastronomic experience of a lifetime!
1. Il Fornaio Irvine
Il Fornaio in Irvine transports you to Italy with its award-winning cuisine and inviting ambiance.
Delight in the Ravioli Di Brasato, stuffed with rich, tender braised short ribs, or savor the Linguine Mare Chiaro, brimming with fresh seafood in a luscious tomato sauce.
Ideal for any occasion, from a romantic date to a family celebration, the warm and attentive service enhances each visit. Experience the taste of Italy without ever leaving Orange County!
What to order: Ravioli Brasato Norcina, Linguine Mare Chiaro
Address: 18051 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612
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2. Bistango in Irvine
Located within Irvine’s Atrium Building, Bistango blends upscale dining with an art gallery vibe. Each table showcases unique artwork for sale – which adds a creative touch to the warm, inviting space.
Don’t miss their iconic Sweet Garlic Soup, creamy with a bold garlic flavor that delights with every spoonful.
For a memorable main, the Oven-Roasted Chilean Sea Bass pairs beautifully with exotic mushroom risotto and truffle essence, creating an ensemble that’s both visually and gastronomically stunning.
What to order: Sweet Garlic Soup, Oven-Roasted Chilean Sea Bass
Address: 19100 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612
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3. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Irvine provides a classic steakhouse experience, with dim lighting, white tablecloths, and an elegant ambiance perfect for special occasions.
Their Lobster Mac & Cheese is a creamy, indulgent delight, worth every bite. For a steak option, the Petite Filet paired with Creamed Spinach creates a balanced, flavorful dish that’s hard to beat.
Service here shines, and every guest feels welcomed and well taken care of.
What to order: Lobster Mac & Cheese, Creamed Spinach, Petite Filet
Address: 2961 Michelson Dr Suite A, Building 10, Irvine, CA 92612
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4. Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
At Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, the industrial-chic decor and extensive whiskey selection create a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, perfect for casual get-togethers or celebratory nights.
Meat lovers, you will be thrilled with the 12-Hour Beef Short Rib, which is slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
For a classic American favorite, try The Bosscat Burger—each bite packed with savory flavors from crispy bacon, melted cheese, and their signature sauce. This spot effortlessly marries upscale dining with comfort.
What to order: 12 Hour Beef Short Rib, Bosscat Burger
Address: 18169 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612
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5. Habana
Habana at the Spectrum Center immerses you in Cuba’s vibrant flair with vintage accents and colorful decor. The Ropa Vieja, with tender shredded beef, peppers, and spices, melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with white rice and sweet plantains.
The Chicken Empanadas, encased in a crispy crust and filled with flavorful shredded chicken, make for a satisfying start.
Don’t forget to dip them in the unique banana-habanero ketchup for an extra kick!
What to order: Ropa Vieja, Chicken Empanadas
Address: 708 Spectrum Center Dr. Suite 708, Irvine, CA 92618
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6. Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails
For guilt-free dining with sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails is a stellar choice.
Their fan-favorite Lamb Lollipops are grilled to perfection with aromatic herbs, and served with sweet onion jam and a fresh arugula salad. For seafood aficionados, the expertly seared Scottish Salmon paired with creamy cheese grits and crisp vegetables is a must!
With attentive service and a classy atmosphere, Andrei’s is for those seeking delicious yet health-conscious meals.
What to order: Lamb Lollipops, Scottish Salmon
Address: 2607 Main St, Irvine, CA 92614
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7. Fukada
Fukada, a cozy Japanese spot on Irvine Center Drive, is a hidden gem for authentic tastes, handmade udon, and everything delicious in between.
The Spicy Tuna Don is a classic favorite, boasting a line-up of fresh tuna mixed with spicy mayo over fluffy rice – an irresistible combination of textures and flavors.
For a lighter option, the Seafood Salad, with organic greens and seared albacore, salmon, and crab meat, is refreshing and satisfying.
With quick service and generous portions, Fukada is perfect for casual takeout dining.
What to order: Spicy Tuna Don, Seafood Salad
Address: 8683 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618
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8. Inkas
Get ready for a trip to Peru without leaving Irvine!
For authentic Northern Coastal Peruvian cuisine in a vibrant yet cozy setting, head to Inkas.
For an unforgettable relish of Peru, their Lomo Saltado is a superb option – juicy beef strips with onions, tomatoes, and crispy French fries all tossed in a unique, flavorsome sauce.
And don’t overlook their golden-baked Empanadas, filled with seasoned beef and onions. The warm atmosphere perfects the checklist, and along with the lovely dishes, you will surely come back craving more.
What to order: Empanadas, Lomo Saltado
Address: 16277 Laguna Canyon Rd Ste. A, Irvine, CA 92618
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9. Siam Station Thai Street Food
SSiam Station Thai Street Food captures what it’s like to lively live in Thai with a showcase of street cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Try the Pad Thai, where stir-fried rice noodles mingle with bean sprouts, scrambled eggs, and your choice of meat, all enhanced by a delicious homemade sauce.
Another can’t-miss is the Pad See Ew, with flat rice noodles, tender meat, and crisp broccoli, perfectly coated in a savory soy-based sauce that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for that one-of-a-kind Thai palate.
What to order: Pad Thai, Pad See Ew
Address: 92 Corporate Park H, Irvine, CA 92606
10. Hironori Ramen
For ramen that lives up to its name and taste, Hironori Ramen has you covered.
The Tonkotsu Ramen shines with its rich, creamy pork broth, tender cha shu pork, and perfectly soft-boiled egg. The noodles are delightfully chewy, soaking up every bit of the flavorful broth.
Plant-based diners can savor the Vegan Ramen, served in a sesame miso broth and topped with broccolini, tofu, and kale. This bowl offers a hearty, wholesome twist on the traditional Japanese classic.
What to order: Tonkotsu Ramen, Vegan Ramen
Addresses:
-6626 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92619
-2222 Michelson Dr #234, Irvine, CA 92612, United States
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11. Herb & Ranch
Herb & Ranch in Irvine reinvents American comfort classics with locally sourced ingredients.
Try the Roasted Chicken Curry, where tender chicken meets a well-balanced, creamy curry sauce with apples, currants, and peanuts.
The Salmon Poke is another fantastic choice, with fresh salmon and a hint of spice from gochujang mayo and scallions. With its inviting ambiance and thoughtfully prepared dishes, this restaurant has something delicious for everyone.
What to order: Roasted Chicken Curry, Salmon Poke
Address: 5301 California Ave #140, Irvine, CA 92617
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12. All That Shabu
Here, you’re in control of your meal, cooking your own hot pot creation with a vast selection of top-notch meats, veggies, and broths.
The expertly prepared Beef Bone Broth takes pride in tender beef, mushrooms, and hearty vegetables, and is the epitome of a rich, warming dish.
If you’re up for some heat, the Spicy Beef Broth brings intensity to the table, enhanced with tender slices of beef and pork belly.
All That Shabu the ideal place for gathering with friends over a satisfying, customizable feast.
What to order: Beef Bone Broth, Spicy Beef Broth
Address: 15315 Culver Dr #145, Irvine, CA 92604
Hungry for more options? If you want to go on a gastronomic trip, there’s lots of excellent options near Irvine! Head on over to our list of the best restaurants in Anaheim for more recommendations.