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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Authentic salad spots in Irvine

You want a salad that stays true to its traditional roots and preparation.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse image 1
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse image 2
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse image 3
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Spacious, well-lit Brazilian steakhouse with tasteful decor and exceptional atmosphere. Meat service includes tableside presentations and a showy cocktail experience featuring flaming drinks. Offers a great salad bar and screens sports games, creating a lively yet elegant dining environment.

Freshly made items at the salad bar offer a wide variety and delicious flavors. Staff show attentiveness by opening chairs for diners returning from the salad bar.

Delivers an authentic Brazilian steakhouse experience with top-quality food and excellent service in a great atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the Brazilian barbecue."

"The service here is amazing, truly the best I've ever had."

"I experienced authentic Brazilian BBQ, not the watered-down version."

Good to know

1

Expect a variety of meats served continuously until you signal for a stop.

2

The restaurant offers a salad bar with numerous options included in the meal.

3

Prices are reasonable considering the quality and service provided.

02
Nice to Meet You Skewer Hot Pot - Now AYCE image 1

Hot pot restaurant offers all-you-can-eat skewers with a self-serve fridge stocked with diverse meats and vegetables. Interior blends modern and traditional Chinese decor creating a warm, cozy atmosphere suitable for groups and casual dining. Sauce station and drink bar add customization and convenience to the lively dining experience.

Salad bar offers a wide variety of fresh options. The tofu salad stands out with its texture and flavor.

Hot pot features a spicy beef oil base that balances flavor without overwhelming. Cooked dishes like cumin beef and chicken cartilage skewers capture authentic street-style charcoal grilling tastes.

People are saying

"The soup bases here are rich, flavorful, and satisfying."

"I loved the authentic street-style grilled dishes and fresh seafood."

"The salad bar and dessert bar were remarkable."

Good to know

1

Lunch special is available until 4 p.m. on weekdays.

2

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Dinner costs $38.99 plus tax and tips, while lunch is $28.99.

03
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.

Salads here stand out with crisp, refreshing textures and lightly spicy flavors. Options like the eggplant salad and marinated cucumber salad offer good portions and serve as great palate cleansers.

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.

People are saying

"The noodles here are so authentic and flavorful."

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

"This cucumber salad is so crisp and refreshing."

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.

04
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.

Salads include a tofu salad served alongside hot appetizers like agedashi and chicken karaage. The Hana combo features a salad paired with sashimi, soup, and nigiri.

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

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 seafood donburi had fragrant vinegared rice."

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.

05
Yakamoz Craft Ramen image 1
Asian restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant feels like someone's home with unique decor, vinyl records, and a view into the kitchen. Atmosphere is warm and intimate, suited for quiet meals with friends or solo. Attention to detail creates a comfortable, inviting vibe.

Salads feature refreshing dressings and flavorful ingredients like duck. Steak salad includes a small amount of beef, which may not be enough to balance the greens.

Noodles carry a family flavor that feels genuine. The atmosphere immerses you in an authentic Japanese setting from the moment you enter.

People are saying

"The duck ramen broth was delicious and not greasy."

"I felt immersed in an authentic Japanese atmosphere, tasting the chef's passion."

"The steak salad doesn't have enough beef."

Good to know

1

Customers who wait over an hour receive vouchers for less busy times.

2

The restaurant is small, so plan ahead for seating arrangements.

3

Parking can be full on weekends, especially during lunch hours.

06
Cafe Naderi image 1
Persian restaurant

Small dining space with outdoor seating offers a warm, cozy vibe filled with classic Iranian music and walls adorned by photos of Iranian legends. The atmosphere feels nostalgic and inviting, evoking old Iran while providing a familiar, welcoming setting.

Salads here have a fresh taste and include options like Shirazi salad with good pickles and a unique chicken and potato salad combo. Garden salad often comes as a side with kabobs, balancing the meal well.

Dishes like Dizi, Kabob torsh, and Koobideh showcase authentic Persian flavors made with care. The atmosphere feels genuine and nostalgic, reflecting a true Persian dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and flavorful."

"The Persian food here tastes so authentic and flavorful, like home."

"The Shirazi salad here is very tasty with good pickles."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Friday and Saturday night.

2

DJs perform on Friday and Saturday evenings.

3

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

07
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - Irvine, CA image 1

Greek restaurant offers a clean, cozy atmosphere with Greek music enhancing the vibe. Spacious interior includes a heated outdoor patio suitable for casual dining or private events. The setting feels welcoming and comfortable, attracting a diverse crowd seeking Mediterranean flavors.

Salads feature big chunks of tomato, cucumber, and red onion with a very fresh taste. Options include a Greek salad with chicken and a chopped salad served with meals.

Menu offers authentic Mediterranean flavors with a wide variety of options. Recipes reflect genuine Greek traditions and the food shows fresh, authentic taste throughout.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is so flavorful and cooked to perfection."

"The Greek salad here is so fresh and overflowing with big chunks."

"The authentic Mediterranean flavors here are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Catering services are available, but large platters are not offered.

2

Online ordering is easy to navigate, and orders can be placed a day in advance.

3

The location has free and ample parking for visitors.

08
Mito's Doner Express image 1
Doner kebab restaurant

Small, cozy doner kebab spot inside a relaxed market hall offers a casual and inviting atmosphere with 24-hour service. The place fills with people seeking authentic Turkish flavors and generous portions at fair prices. It stands out for juicy kabobs and a laid-back vibe ideal for quick or easy meals.

Freshness stands out in the Mediterranean style salad. Options include a half salad paired with fries for variety.

Doner kebab features authentic spices and fresh bread that capture the true European wrap experience. Every bite delivers a savory, fresh taste that stands out.

People are saying

"This late night spot has delicious, fresh food and tasty doner."

"The doner kebab here is super authentic, just like back in Europe."

"The salad flavors here were amazing."

Good to know

1

Mito's Doner Express is open 24 hours.

2

The ordering process is convenient with huge self-service tablets.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

09
Aria Kitchen image 1
Persian restaurant

Persian and Mexican flavors blend in a fusion cuisine setting with modern elegant decor and cozy booths. The atmosphere is lively with live DJs playing Persian music and a full bar offering creative cocktails. Outdoor patio seating includes heaters, creating a warm and inviting space.

Salads come as refreshing, crisp sides that balance the main dishes well. They often accompany meals like grilled branzino, beef Soltani, lamb koobideh, and chicken, adding a light, healthy contrast.

Sophisticated and authentic vibes come through in every dish. The salad features an authentic dressing and the flavors stay true to Iranian roots without dilution.

People are saying

"The Persian and Mexican fusion food here is amazing."

"The salads here are fresh, flavorful, and taste great."

"The food here is delicious and feels made with tradition."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Nowruz celebration.

2

The program for events runs from 6 to 10 PM.

3

Live music occurs on Fridays and Saturdays, starting at 8 PM.

10
Northern Cafe image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious Chinese restaurant with large outdoor dining area and dark brown wood decor creates a casual, lively atmosphere. The place fills up quickly, becoming noisy and crowded, with authentic spicy food drawing many families. Seating includes both booths inside and patio options outside, supporting a warm, welcoming vibe.

Mushroom medley salad stands out with its rich flavors. Beef roll and cucumber salad comes with a chilly sauce that adds a nice kick.

Northern Chinese dishes come with large portions and a family-style atmosphere. The food is authentic, spicy, fresh, and prepared quickly.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious Chinese."

"The food here is authentic, spicy, and delicious."

"The cucumber salad with chilly sauce really hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Expect large portion sizes, often enough for 2-3 people.

2

Ordering by phone is cheaper than online orders.

3

The restaurant is busy, especially during peak hours.

11
Nara Thai Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Sleek decor with warm wood accents and soft lighting creates a welcoming, upscale atmosphere. Music ranges from fun background tunes to live performances on certain nights. The vibe suits fine dining occasions, blending cozy and elegant elements.

Crunchy papaya salad stands out with its fresh texture. Fruit salad features a spicy dressing that balances the sweetness well.

Dishes showcase authentic Thai flavors with fresh, colorful ingredients. Presentation is creative and beautiful, matching the upscale vibe.

People are saying

"The food here tastes authentic and is really delicious."

"I found the food to be flavorful and authentic, with just the right balance of spices."

"I found the papaya salad here to be amazing and crunchy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant was closed at 3 PM on a Saturday due to plumbing issues.

2

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to typical Thai restaurants.

3

The posted hours indicate the restaurant should be open from 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM.

12
HiroNori Craft Ramen image 1

Narrow space with tight seating and hard surfaces creates a loud, fast-paced atmosphere. Mostly younger crowd fills the small room, making it unsuitable for quiet or intimate dining. Unique decor includes minimalist design with wood accents and a vertical garden.

Freshness stands out with the poke and salad offering crisp, clean flavors. The Cucumber Crab Salad serves as a refreshing starter, paired with a side salad dressed lightly and topped with shaved white garnish. Warm seaweed adds a chewy texture that contrasts well with the cold elements.

Ramen here delivers a rich, flavorful taste that feels truly authentic. The pork bowl offers a juicy-meaty experience that matches traditional Japanese flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was the best around."

"I found the ramen here to be truly authentic and rich."

"The tonkotsu ramen broth was savory and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking can be difficult during peak hours; consider arriving early.

3

A 16% service charge is automatically added to all bills.

13
DönerG Turkish & Mediterranean Grill - Crossroad image 1

Outdoor patio and indoor seating create a comfortable dining space with a lively atmosphere and friendly bilingual staff. Music plays loudly inside, while outdoor areas offer a quiet, relaxing vibe with a nice view. Decor blends fast food style with beautiful touches for a unique setting.

Fresh, tasty salad comes as a side with both beef and chicken doner dishes. The crew makes their own salad concoction that pairs well with rice and meat on a plastic plate.

Food offers fresh, flavorful Turkish-Mediterranean dishes with authentic doner and kebap. Kefir tastes salty and acidic, enhancing the genuine culinary experience.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really delicious."

"I found the doner here to be so authentic and fantastic."

"The salad here is delicious, especially with the beef or chicken doner."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of halal dishes for those who require it.

2

Parking is ample and available in the strip mall where the restaurant is located.

3

Portion sizes may be smaller compared to other similar restaurants.

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Irvine, California

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