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Best of Irvine

Fish spots

You are looking for fish prepared with traditional methods that highlight the quality of the ingredient. You want the flavor to speak for itself.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mandi Xpress Yemeni Restaurant and Coffee image 1
Mandi Xpress Yemeni Restaurant and Coffee image 2
Mandi Xpress Yemeni Restaurant and Coffee image 3
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Spacious interior with authentic charm and traditional music creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere like visiting family. The place stays clean and simple, inviting guests to order at the counter before settling in. Generous portions and fall-off-the-bone tender dishes define the dining experience.

Food offers authentic Yemeni flavors that are fresh and delicious. The interior shows authentic charm with beautiful, spacious decor.

Fish dishes feature a unique rich flavor and come perfectly prepared. Options include traditional grilled fish and a lighter choice served with fresh bread.

People are saying

"The service here is so friendly and helpful with the tea."

"The food here is so authentic and incredibly flavorful."

"The fish here is delicious and perfectly prepared."

Good to know

1

You must order and pay at the counter before seating.

2

The restaurant is open late until 12 am for late-night diners.

3

The portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

02
Super Yummy 远山少年 image 1

Small, unassuming wok restaurant with a lively atmosphere and cozy, welcoming vibe. Offers authentic Chinese street food with a wide selection of rich, spicy dishes including grilled fish and mala tang. Popular spot for late-night dining, open until 3am.

Northern style dumplings and soup dumplings offer rich, authentic flavors. Fish hot pot and Chinese street food bring comforting and exciting tastes with high quality.

Grilled fish here stands out for its tender inside and slightly crispy exterior. The fish hot pot offers a perfectly seasoned spicy sauce that makes the dish flavorful and fresh.

People are saying

"The authentic Chinese food here has comforting and exciting flavors."

"The grilled fish here is so tender and flavorful."

"The grilled fish is fresh, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Super Yummy 远山少年 is open until 3am, allowing for late-night snacks.

2

They charge $5.99 for 8 quail eggs.

3

Expect a variety of authentic Chinese dishes.

03
Biryani Pot Express image 1
Biryani restaurant

Hyderabadi biryani and curries define the menu with authentic flavors and generous portions. The space offers a cozy atmosphere with warm aromas and pleasant music that create a welcoming vibe. Seating is casual, using paper plates and plastic bowls, emphasizing food over formality.

Rich Indian spices and aromatic flavors define the dishes here. The menu features authentic Hyderabadi biryani and a great variety of fresh, well-prepared options.

Tandoori pomfret fish features as a Sunday special, offering a distinct seafood option. Apollo fish also appears on the menu, highlighting a focus on fish dishes alongside other items.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The authentic Hyderabad Biryani here has aromatic flavors and a finger-licking taste."

"The fish here tastes like authentic Hyderabadi cuisine."

Good to know

1

Biryani Pot Express offers a variety of authentic Indian dishes beyond just biryani.

2

The restaurant provides takeout options with some seating available.

3

They have holiday offers on starters around New Year.

04
Master Hu (湖一南) image 1
Hunan restaurant

Hunan restaurant offers authentic spicy cuisine with beautiful decor and a fast-food style atmosphere where diners serve themselves water and find chopsticks and napkins in table drawers. The place attracts those who appreciate genuine Hunan flavors despite smaller portions and higher prices.

Dishes capture traditional Hunan flavors with a taste that stays true to the region. Food comes out authentic and not too oily, reflecting genuine preparation methods.

Steamed fish arrives fresh and tender, cooked right in front of you. The chopped pepper fish head stands out with its spicy, flavorful taste and no fishy smell.

People are saying

"I found the Hunan cuisine here to be really authentic and flavorful."

"The chopped pepper fish head was tender, flavorful, and delicious."

"You've got to try the milk pudding dessert."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices with dishes averaging around $20 and small portion sizes.

2

Rice must be ordered as a separate dish, costing $3.50 for a small amount.

3

The restaurant gets busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

05
MooMoo Hot Pot image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Spacious hot pot restaurant with one-person-one-pot design and black-and-gold decor blending modern elegance and traditional Chinese elements. Atmosphere feels cozy and clean, suitable for small gatherings or dates with private rooms available. Self-service bar offers a wide variety of fresh ingredients and sauces, enhancing the all-you-can-eat experience.

Hotpot here delivers authentic Chinese flavors with a genuine taste. The Japanese sukiyaki stands out as a flavorful, traditional dish that captures the essence of authentic hotpot.

Self-serve seafood includes squid, scallops, octopus, fish, and tripe. The golden chicken soup with fish maw stands out as especially delicious.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's like it came straight from the ocean."

"I found the hotpot dishes here to be very authentic."

"The salted egg yolk seafood dish was insanely good."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available on weekdays from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM for $28.99.

2

The all-you-can-eat hotpot menu offers an impressive variety of fresh, high-quality ingredients.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and organization.

06
Uoko Sushi and Japanese Cuisine image 1

Small space with crammed tables and a busy sushi bar creates a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere. Authentic Japanese decor and family-oriented vibe make it feel like dining in Japan. Popular spot known for fresh, high-quality sushi at reasonable prices, especially during lunch specials.

Authentic Japanese style atmosphere creates a feeling of being in Japan. The menu features genuine dishes like Curry Udon and tofu appetizer that reflect true Japanese flavors.

Fish arrives fresh and cut to perfection. Staff often show the whole fish to prove its freshness. Quality rivals well-known spots, with top-notch sushi and a solid selection.

People are saying

"You have to try the lunch special; it always fills me up."

"I felt like I was in Japan because of the authentic atmosphere."

"The fish here is so fresh and cut to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The $20 lunch special is a popular choice and offers great value.

3

Expect a wait during dinner hours; arriving early is advised.

07
Noodle Nest 和悦 (formerly Dun Huang) image 1

Spacious Chinese restaurant with clean, modern decor and an open kitchen showcasing hand-pulled noodles. Bright and inviting atmosphere pairs with thoughtful amenities like iPad ordering and noodle-cutting scissors. Music adds to a casual, welcoming vibe suitable for relaxed meals.

Hand-pulled noodles and Northwest Chinese cuisine deliver a very authentic taste. Signature dishes like big plate chicken and siu mai match flavors found in China.

Grilled fish stands out with its flavorful spice and boneless preparation, making it easy to eat and satisfying. The Dunhuang grilled fish comes with a generous amount of accompaniments and offers good value.

People are saying

"The noodles here are so authentic and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's hand-pulled noodles have amazing flavor and texture."

"The grilled fish here is awesome and affordable."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is $21 and includes two cold appetizers and soup.

2

Cross-contamination risks exist for those with egg allergies.

3

Parking can be difficult in the area.

08
Spicy City image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Sichuan restaurant offers a clean, elegant space with soft lighting and a calm atmosphere. Subtle chili aroma fills the air, creating a casual and welcoming vibe. Generous portions encourage sharing, and the authentic spicy flavors stand out as a key feature.

Dishes show authentic Sichuan style with strong, genuine flavors. Portions come large and the food stays true to Chong Qing cuisine without greasiness.

Spicy boiled fish features tender slices stewed in a sauce with Sichuan peppercorns. Grilled fish and fish soup offer fresh, aromatic flavors with a spicy kick.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, hot, and perfectly balanced."

"The spicy boiled fish is tender and has bold, rich flavors."

"I found the Sichuan cuisine here to be super authentic and not greasy."

Good to know

1

You should notify the staff about any dietary restrictions.

2

The portions at Spicy City are generous and great for sharing with friends or family.

3

I was able to have bills under $100.

09
Sagami image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers authentic Nagoya dishes with a sushi bar atmosphere and Japanese-speaking staff. Several tables fill with Japanese families and businesspeople, creating a genuine vibe. Seating is limited, and outdoor waiting space is available but can be uncomfortable.

Food features savory, mildly sweet eel sauce that matches authentic Japanese style. Dishes reflect exquisite authenticity found outside Japan.

Fish comes straight from Japan, making it incredibly fresh and delicious. The deluxe Chirashi bowl features sweet uni and thick cuts of fresh fish, while some rolls like the rainbow have thin fish and dry krab meat.

People are saying

"The unagi don here is the best Japanese food I've had."

"I found the Japanese food here to be the most authentic I've had outside of Japan."

"The fish here is amazingly fresh, much of it from Japan."

Good to know

1

Sagami requires ordering an additional dish per person due to a new rule.

2

There is an outside area at Sagami where dogs are permitted.

3

The unagi bowl costs $30, while the premium chirashi special is $50.

10
Kaju Soft Tofu Restaurant (Walnut) image 1

Casual Korean restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and attentive service. It plays K-pop music, creating a lively yet relaxed vibe. The place is quieter than other branches, attracting diners who prefer a calm setting.

Rich, flavorful broth and silky tofu create an authentic Korean soft tofu stew experience. Bulgogi tastes genuine, matching flavors found in K-town Los Angeles.

Fried fish comes out very tasty and pairs with sides like kimchi and a small mackerel. Pan-fried fish appears alongside Korean veggie pancake and fish cake.

People are saying

"I found the soft tofu soup here to be great and tasty."

"I found the Korean food here to be truly authentic and delicious."

"I found the fried fish to be very tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times after 7:30 PM, especially on weekends.

2

Paying cash grants a 6% discount at this restaurant.

3

Lunch prices average around $28 per person, which may be considered high.

11
Kuan Zhai Alley image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern design combines with authentic Sichuan vibe to create a clean, well-lit space. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and relaxing to noisy and lively, with an easy, chill energy. Small, crowded layout features careful attention to detail in furnishings and decor.

Sichuan cuisine here offers authentic flavors with a wide selection of traditional dishes. The menu includes secret items that showcase genuine Szechuan tastes beyond the regular offerings.

Fresh fish dishes stand out with tender texture and well-balanced flavors. Sour pickled fish and scallion fish offer authentic, flavorful experiences with generous portions.

People are saying

"The fish dishes here are authentic, tender, and packed with flavor."

"I found the Sichuan food here to be so authentic and flavorful."

"You'll find the fish flavors rich, bold, and true to Sichuan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant does not use MSG in any of its dishes.

12
Jinbei image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with about a dozen tables and sushi bar seats creates a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Calm music plays quietly, supporting a chill vibe. Fresh fish and authentic Japanese flavors stand out, especially in sushi and chirashi dishes.

Japanese cuisine offers authentic sushi and dishes with very good, authentic taste. The food matches traditional flavors closely and delivers a genuine experience.

Fish here is remarkably fresh with a buttery, soft texture. Sushi balances a great fish to rice ratio in a relaxed setting.

People are saying

"The lunch special here is a great deal for fresh, delicious sushi."

"I found the Japanese food here to be very authentic and delicious."

"The fish quality here is top-tier and remarkably buttery."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during busy hours.

2

Arrive early to secure a spot, especially for the lunch special.

3

The lunch special offers three dishes daily, limited to ten orders.

13
Tasty Garden image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious dining area features modern decor, a huge fish tank, and a robot server that adds a unique touch. Atmosphere stays family-friendly and chill, with noise levels rising when large groups arrive. Seating includes comfortable booths and an open entrance with a bar, creating a relaxed vibe.

Offers authentic Hong Kong-style Western food with large portions and a variety of flavors that match what you'd find in Hong Kong. The Guifei Chicken stands out with its bouncy texture and flavorful dipping sauce.

Fish dishes stand out with crispy outside and tender inside textures, especially the salt and pepper fish fillets. Sweet and sour fish offers a crispy texture even under sauce, while options like fish fillet with black bean sauce and fried fish with spicy sauce add variety.

People are saying

"The Cantonese comfort food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"The Seafood here is so fresh and fragrant, especially the shrimp."

"The fish here is so tender and crispy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only offers takeout service.

2

Reservations aren't accepted at this restaurant.

3

The restaurant adds a 20% service charge automatically to your check.

14
Kirin Express image 1
Chinese restaurant

Noodle and dumpling house with simple modern design and cozy atmosphere. Busy and welcoming, it offers authentic Chinese dishes with generous portions and reasonable prices. Friendly staff support a down-to-earth dining experience.

Menu features a wide range of authentic Chinese dishes crafted by an owner from Nanjing. Food delivers bold flavors with consistently excellent service.

Fish dishes come with options for non-spicy preparation and often include pickled vegetable soup. Sichuan boiled fish offers a spicy kick for those who want heat.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup here is fantastic and flavorful."

"The authentic braised beef noodles have tender beef and savory broth."

"I loved the Fish with pickled vegetables soup dish."

Good to know

1

A grand opening special allows a 5-star review for any dish to cost $1.

2

Parking is not available on weekends and weekday evenings.

3

The restaurant uses QR codes on tables for ordering.

15
Chef Chuan image 1
Chinese restaurant

Large, clean space with few people creates a quiet atmosphere. Strong, authentic Sichuan flavors cater to fans of spicy and offal dishes, often paired with rice. Language barriers and simple service reflect a straightforward, authentic Chinese dining experience.

Sichuan dishes here deliver authentic flavors with a clear Szechuan style influence. Speaking Chinese enhances both the food and service experience.

Spicy fish dishes stand out here, especially the spicy boiled fish and pickled fish soup. Grilled fish appears alongside other hearty options, though some fish dishes can be a bit salty.

People are saying

"I found the Sichuan food here to be really authentic."

"The spicy boiled fish is a must-try dish."

"I found the Szechuan food here to be really authentic."

Good to know

1

The average meal cost is around $34 per person.

2

Rice bowls are available for a quick lunch option.

3

Expect a language barrier; speaking Chinese may enhance your experience.

16
Taiko Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Interior shows aged decor with a cozy atmosphere and a Japanese vibe. Dining area fills with a friendly, lively crowd, especially during family dinners. Sushi bar offers limited seating, and the place features large, fresh fish in its dishes.

Food offers a very Japanese and authentic taste when ordered right. Dishes stay true to traditional flavors without feeling Americanized.

Fish comes in very fresh and large cuts here. The chirashi bowl features a tasty mix of fresh fish, and sushi offers a variety of options with quality fish and rice at affordable prices.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is so fresh and tasty."

"This lunch spot has great lunch combos and bento boxes."

"The fish here is incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be easily made at Taiko Japanese Restaurant.

2

Expect generous portion sizes for the price at Taiko.

3

Prices for bento and sushi bowls range from $16 to $25.

17
Gurume Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Trendy sushi restaurant with modern decor and an exhibition-style kitchen behind glass. Atmosphere stays quiet and intimate with spacious table arrangements that avoid crowding. Sushi and sashimi come fresh and well-regarded, complemented by a fantastic sake selection.

Menu offers some of the most authentic Japanese cuisine outside major hubs. Sushi tastes genuine, though sashimi slicing lacks traditional precision.

Freshness stands out with a variety of fish that melts in your mouth. The mix of traditional and contemporary sushi styles highlights the excellent quality and preparation of the fish.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"I found authentic Japanese sushi here, like in Southern California."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is advised due to busy hours, especially by 6:30 pm.

2

Lunch specials are available daily until 4pm, with deals around $25.

3

Omakase 10 pieces are priced at $50, offering a premium experience.

18
Rachael's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, industrial-style Mexican restaurant offers a laid-back, casual vibe with indoor/outdoor seating and a self-serve salsa bar. The place gets busy during peak hours and opens early, attracting those seeking authentic, high-quality dishes like breakfast burritos and enchiladas.

New owners serve authentic high-quality Mexican dishes with a well-priced menu and a laid-back casual vibe. The food reflects traditional flavors often missing in local options.

Fish tacos feature mahi mahi but sometimes come out overcooked and dry. Lent brings more fish options alongside other dishes like enchiladas and tortilla soup.

People are saying

"I thought the salsa here was very tasty."

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be delicious and high-quality."

"The fish here is quick and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens very early, making it a good breakfast option.

2

Expect busy lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

3

The portions are large, providing good value for the price.

19
Meizhou Dongpo image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Expansive interior blends traditional Chinese lanterns with modern pendant lights for a balanced, refined ambiance. Warm and inviting atmosphere contrasts with occasional coldness inside. Crowded tables limit server access but support flexible seating for large groups with low wait times.

Dishes deliver authentic Sichuan flavors with fresh ingredients and precise seasoning. Options like chicken fried rice and bang bang chicken taste just like in China, showing real skill in cooking.

Sweet and sour sliced fish stands out with its balance of flavors. The crispy fish and sui zhu fish offer tender textures, while fried fish dishes often outshine other options.

People are saying

"The Peking duck here is so tasty, especially the crispy skin."

"I found the food here to be authentic and full of flavor."

"The fish filet was incredible and crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required in advance for weekend visits.

2

Parking is available but can be crowded on weekends.

3

The restaurant offers a private room for parties or business events.

20
Irvine Grill image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with patio heaters and modern decor featuring blue chairs. Atmosphere ranges from relaxed to lively and noisy when crowded, with a Middle Eastern vibe. Background music plays softly, enhancing the welcoming and clean environment.

Authentic Persian kabobs stand out with perfect seasoning and genuine flavor. The menu offers high-quality cuisine that stays true to traditional Persian tastes in a friendly setting.

Fish dishes vary in quality here. The whole grilled fish and salmon with beautiful design stand out as good, while some fried fish and fish with rice show mixed results.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned."

"You get a free bread basket with butter when you arrive."

"The fish here is really good, especially the grilled whole fish."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-40 minute wait for a table during busy events.

2

The restaurant closes at 9 PM even on weekends.

3

Hygiene issues were noted with unclean glassware.

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