Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Irvine

Chinese lunch spots

Made for those who treat their midday break as a serious culinary event and demand high-quality Chinese cuisine to power through the afternoon.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Nice to Meet You Skewer Hot Pot - Now AYCE image 1
Nice to Meet You Skewer Hot Pot - Now AYCE image 2
Nice to Meet You Skewer Hot Pot - Now AYCE image 3
View all

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.

Offers all-you-can-eat hot pot with a spicy beef oil broth that balances authentic flavor without overpowering. Features fresh, customizable ingredients and reasonable prices for quality.

Lunch offers very reasonable prices around $29.99 per person on weekdays. The value for money stands out compared to other times.

People are saying

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

"The all-you-can-eat hot pot Chinese food here is a great value with fresh ingredients."

"This Lunch Spot has a huge selection of fresh ingredients for hot pot."

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.

02
949 Grill Lounge image 1

Restaurant combines rustic and industrial design with an open kitchen where chefs cook over flames, creating a stylish and vibrant atmosphere. The space feels cozy yet lively, often getting noisy during peak hours, suited for casual dinners and social gatherings. Guests enjoy authentic Chinese barbecue skewers with bold seasoning and fresh ingredients.

Bullfrog hot pot stands out with rich flavors. The menu also features Hunan stir-fried pork belly and braised beef brisket noodle soup, both paired with sweet and sour sides and steamed rice.

Lunch features Bento style boxes with a main, two sides, soup, and steamed rice. Options like Hunan stir-fried pork belly and kung pao chicken come in sets priced between $17.99 and $21.99, offering good value for workers.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with generous portions."

"The Chinese food here is bursting with bold, authentic flavors."

"The lunch special box was very worth it."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to 30 minutes in front of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of dishes including skewers served after 5 pm.

3

Prices are reasonable considering the portion sizes and food quality.

03
Haidilao Hot Pot Irvine image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Hot pot restaurant offers spacious, clean design with personalized sauce stations and interactive dining including a dancing noodle show. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, suitable for families with children who receive toys and special meals. Amenities like hair ties and complimentary snacks add unique touches to the experience.

Offers flavorful hot pot with quality ingredients and exceptional service. Provides a top-notch hot pot experience with outstanding hospitality.

Lunch offers an all-you-can-eat deal for $19.99 with unlimited servings. Orders come through an iPad and include soup, meat, a large vegetable platter, and access to a big sauce station with snacks.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The Chinese food service is attentive, warm, and incredibly thoughtful."

"The lunch combo is a great deal with a vegetable platter and meat."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required before visiting, especially during peak hours.

2

The weekday happy hour offers a $2 shabu beef deal.

3

Happy hours are available Monday through Thursday before 5 pm.

04
Tigawok Mini Bowls - Irvine image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern space offers plenty of indoor and outdoor seating with umbrellas. Atmosphere feels lively and casual, often busy with a welcoming vibe. Food preparation uses AI technology, serving budget-friendly mini bowls that let people try multiple flavors.

Mapo tofu stands out at $4 with strong flavor. The Hunan spicy beef delivers a notable kick. The chow mein ranks as exceptionally good, and orange chicken offers mostly chicken meat rather than breading.

Mini bowls come in cute to-go containers that look like lunch boxes. The vibe stays casual and inviting, making it easy to enjoy a hearty lunch during a short break.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and has a serious kick."

"The Chinese food here, especially the orange chicken, is a standout."

"This lunch spot has amazing taste and price."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during promotions like the free mini bowl offer.

2

Prices range from $3 to $7, making it affordable for most visitors.

3

Get there early to avoid long wait times, especially on busy days.

05
Le Shrimp Noodle Bar image 1

Open kitchen with transparent glass walls showcases chefs at work, creating a bright and modern space inspired by Japanese artwork. Atmosphere stays lively yet comfortable, with great music and a warm, inviting vibe. Tables sit close together, encouraging a bustling, social environment.

Side dishes like pickled cucumbers and dumplings stand out for their taste and presentation. Egg rolls come off as bland and tasteless.

Quick 30-minute lunches fit well here with a lunch special available. The spot works for casual meals with friends during a short break.

People are saying

"The seafood here has an intense, rich shrimpy flavor."

"The shrimp wonton soup's rich, shrimpy broth is so flavorful."

"I loved the shrimp ramen and the garlic oil in the broth."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-5pm, Monday to Thursday.

2

Enjoy a buy one, get one 50% off deal during happy hour.

3

The restaurant offers a kids' meal for free with the purchase of a main entrée.

06
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.

Authentic Sichuan flavors shine through with dishes like Boiled Duck Blood and Double Fried Pork Intestine that stay true to tradition. The menu includes a secret selection of spicy specialties and the dry chili chicken hits late-night cravings perfectly.

Several customers eat lunch here in the early afternoon. The spot works well for grabbing a quick lunch or dinner. Timing around 2:30 pm still finds people enjoying their meals.

People are saying

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

"I found the Sichuan Chinese food here to be very authentic."

"This Lunch Spot is super flavorful and fresh."

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.

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 stand out with their fresh texture and flavor. The menu features Szechuan style cuisine with dishes like mapo tofu and a hot and sour soup that balances spice and salt well. Cold appetizers with chili oil and generous servings of garlicky bok choy add variety and depth.

Lunch offers a $21 special with two cold appetizers and soup. The menu features Chinese noodles that attract regulars.

People are saying

"The noodles here are so authentic and flavorful."

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

"The hand-pulled noodles have a flavorful, chewy texture."

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
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.

Offers a vast selection of fresh ingredients for hot pot, including tender meats and crisp vegetables. Features flavorful Sichuan dishes like spicy beef slices and Mao Xue Wang. Provides an all-you-can-eat hotpot buffet with customizable broths and options for both adults and kids.

Offers an all-you-can-eat hotpot lunch special from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays for $28.99. The under $30 price makes it a solid choice for a filling midday meal.

People are saying

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

"The Wagyu beef hot pot here is insanely good and tender."

"The lunch special is a great value at $28.99."

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.

09
Northern Cafe Westpark image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright, bustling Chinese restaurant with barcode ordering and generous portions creates a lively, noisy atmosphere. Crowds gather for authentic and Americanized dishes, including skewers and hot pot, making it popular for small groups and casual meals.

Mini hot pots stand out with big, flavorful broths like spicy beef and golden soup beef. Chinese BBQ and cold dishes add variety to the menu.

Visits include both lunch and dinner options. Limited exploration of the lunch menu so far. Plans exist to return for more.

People are saying

"The Chinese food skewers are smoky, juicy, and flavorful."

"The beef roll dumpling here is twice as big and less expensive."

"The Chinese BBQ skewers here are flavorful and use high-quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

BBQ skewers are available after 5pm, perfect for late-night cravings.

2

The late-night menu is limited to skewers and hot pot options.

3

Prices average around $30 per person, offering good value for the area.

10
JA Jiaozi Authentic Dumplings image 1

Visible kitchen showcases dumpling masters crafting fresh dishes in a modern, clean space with comfortable seating. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, suited for families and friends, though tables sit close together. Vibrant decor and good music create a casual, lively vibe.

Variety of dumplings stands out with options like scallop and shrimp that burst with flavor and have a soft texture. Boiled jiaozi and Xiao Long Bao offer memorable, comforting tastes, while the shrimp chow mein and hot and sour soup deliver strong, distinct flavors.

Late lunches get served quickly with minimal wait times. Seating happens fast, making it a reliable spot for a quick meal during off-peak hours.

People are saying

"The food here is simple, tasty, and comforting."

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, tastes fresh and comforting."

"This Lunch Spot's dumplings are delicious and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-40 minute wait due to long lines during peak hours.

2

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

An automatic 20% tip is added to all bills, so budget accordingly.

11
Dpot image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Shabu-shabu restaurant offers all-you-can-eat menu with fresh ingredients and a DIY sauce bar for personalized flavors. Indoor and outdoor seating create a family-friendly atmosphere with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Noise levels vary, sometimes making conversation difficult during loud gatherings.

Offers a reasonably priced all-you-can-eat hot pot option. Serves as a solid spot for satisfying hot pot cravings with unlimited servings.

Lunch offers affordable prices, with meals just over $50 for two. The place stays quiet on Saturdays, and you can order the dinner special during lunch by paying a bit more. Stackers come with both lunch and dinner and are always delicious.

People are saying

"The meats at this buffet, especially the rib eye, were super fresh and delicious."

"The Chinese Food here is a fresh, all-you-can-eat hot pot."

"This lunch spot offers a great all-you-can-eat hot pot experience."

Good to know

1

Dpot offers an all-you-can-eat menu for $35 per person.

2

Lunch prices are around $50 for two people, including tax.

3

The restaurant is closed every Sunday.

12
Bao Chick image 1
Chicken restaurant

Food hall setting offers shared seating with a modern, casual vibe and lively atmosphere. The spot features high-quality fried chicken and unique dishes like soup dumplings and lamb soup. It attracts diners looking for flavorful comfort food in a relaxed environment.

Pan-fried dumplings stand out with rich, juicy filling and better flavor than steamed ones. The pork Xiao Long Bao tastes very authentic and fresh, matching those from China. Dumplings and chicken rolls come with a delicious dipping sauce shared freely by the owner.

Late lunches have no wait and plenty of seating. The spot draws many first-time lunch customers in a lively area and serves notable lunch dishes.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is so crispy and juicy."

"I thought the chicken sandwich was the best I've ever had."

"The crispy chicken sandwich at this Lunch Spot is juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Free 90-minute parking is available near the food hall.

2

Expect a wait time of about 24 minutes during peak hours.

3

Prices for meals range from $8 to $9 for generous portions.

13
Zhangliang Malatang Irvine(张亮麻辣烫 尔湾店) image 1

Mandarin restaurant offers self-serve sauce bar with classic condiments and authentic spicy hot pot options. The atmosphere is clean, cozy, and laidback with low seating at small tables. Music features nostalgic Taiwanese hits, creating a unique dining vibe.

Spicy hot pot stands out with a build-your-own concept that satisfies warm and soupy cravings. The bone soup base adds rich flavor, making the mala tang very delicious and versatile.

Offers quick service suitable for a business lunch with portions large enough to cover both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"I loved having complete control over my food choices from so many ingredients."

"This Chinese food's mala tang tastes just like the ones in China."

"This is a great lunch spot for a fast meal."

Good to know

1

Zhangliang Malatang Irvine opens until 2 AM.

2

The restaurant offers a self-serve style for meal customization.

3

Expect a variety of soup bases to choose from.

14
A&J Restaurant image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Taiwanese restaurant with tight seating and crowded, noisy atmosphere where loud conversations fill the space. Interior features dark hardwood furniture and simple calligraphy decor, creating a cozy yet bustling vibe. Large tables accommodate groups, making it lively but not intimate.

Hand-pulled noodles and pan fried gyoza dumplings stand out here. The beef noodle soup balances meat, bok choy, and tendons well, while the Xiao long bao and spicy wontons add variety to the menu.

Lunch draws a steady crowd with inexpensive options like Xiao long bao and pan fried beef buns. Portions satisfy hunger without being too large, and the atmosphere suits both quick and relaxed meals.

People are saying

"I found the beef noodle soup to be authentic and delicious."

"This beef noodle soup is the best Chinese food I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's food is so delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking in the plaza is often crowded and difficult to find.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

You need to show up with your entire party to get a table.

15
Yu's Garden image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Bright, modern decor creates a welcoming atmosphere with authentic Taiwanese feel and warm hospitality. The menu offers varied small plates featuring dishes like sweet potato porridge and spicy beef with Sichuan flavors. Pricing favors carry-out orders, making it a cost-effective choice for Taiwanese cuisine.

Spicy beef dishes feature a Sichuan numbing flavor and come with either bamboo or bok choy. Options include a 3-item combo with rice or sweet potato congee, plus hot and sour soup and boiled beef in spicy sauce at reasonable prices.

Popular dishes can sell out later, so visiting during or before peak lunch hours helps. The 3-dish lunch special offers good value and the price applies for takeout all day and dine-in at lunch.

People are saying

"Their congee and homestyle small plates are comforting Chinese food."

"I always get the three-dish takeout combo for a great value."

"This lunch spot offers a great value with its three-dish combo."

Good to know

1

Carry-out orders are cheaper, costing less than $15 for three selections.

2

Credit card usage incurs a $0.80 fee.

3

The restaurant is located in a plaza with plenty of free parking.

16
HI House Shabu Shabu & Grilled BBQ image 1

Hot pot and Chinese barbecue fill a space with extensive menu variety and reasonable prices. The atmosphere stays fun and welcoming, suitable for groups or solo dining. Late hours and authentic Northeastern Chinese BBQ distinguish the experience.

Authentic Northeastern Chinese BBQ stands out alongside hot pot that consistently satisfies. Shrimp chow mein adds a classic touch to the Chinese cuisine offerings.

Weekend lunch comes with a discount here. The spot feels surprisingly quiet during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The lamb BBQ skewers were tender and tasty."

"I found the beef noodle soup to be phenomenal and authentic."

"The Chinese food skewers here are tender and delicious."

Good to know

1

The owner offers a 20% discount during weekend lunch.

2

HI House specializes in hot pot, barbecue, and Chinese cuisine.

3

Everything on the menu is shareable.

17
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.

Black bean beef chow fun and honey walnut shrimp stand out with authentic flavors. Cantonese-style dishes mix with Sichuan favorites like Mapo tofu and Kung Pao shrimp. Honey garlic sesame chicken wings add a sweet and savory touch.

Lunch prices come in cheaper than many other spots. Meals suit an early dinner or late lunch timing well.

People are saying

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

"I found this place to be a great spot for authentic Cantonese food."

"This Lunch Spot has generous portions for a reasonable price."

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.

18
Mad Dumplings image 1
Restaurant

Small shop with limited seating offers quick kiosk ordering and generous portions of flavorful dumplings and fried chicken. Cool vibe with artwork contrasts occasional sticky floors. Busy shopping center location means parking can be challenging during peak hours.

Dumplings come steaming hot, juicy, and in huge portions with a crispy outside and flavorful inside. Sauces pair perfectly, enhancing the bold flavors of varieties like chicken, cheese, and longanisa.

Offers a quick lunch option with the chance to sit outside. Works well for an afternoon meal or a casual dinner.

People are saying

"These dumplings are super flavorful and juicy."

"The Chinese food dumplings here are super flavorful and juicy."

"The dumplings at this Lunch Spot are great, especially the combo deal."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during peak hours in the busy shopping center.

2

Expect long wait times if visiting during lunch hours.

3

Kiosk ordering is quick and convenient for placing your order.

19
Bafang Dumpling image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Bright, modern space with limited seating and convenient location. Atmosphere suits fast-casual dining with many ordering takeout or frozen options. Menu features authentic Taiwanese dumplings and beef noodle soup with customizable sauces.

Handmade dumplings and potstickers stand out with good texture and frying. The wonton soup offers a unique Taiwanese flavor, and sauces let you adjust spiciness and savoriness. Portions are generous and prices fair.

Popular for takeout and quick meals, this spot suits those unsure about what to eat. Avoid lunch and dinner rush hours due to limited parking and seating.

People are saying

"I found the potstickers here to be amazing and tasty."

"I loved the signature potstickers and wonton soup; it reminded me of Taiwan."

"I found the food at this Lunch Spot to be decent."

Good to know

1

Parking can be very difficult to find during weekends.

2

The restaurant is small, making seating limited during peak hours.

3

Prices for dumplings are around $1 each, making them affordable.

20
Tim Ho Wan image 1
Dim sum restaurant

Dim sum restaurant features a modern, lush interior blending Hong Kong, Chinese, and Singapore influences with an Orange County vibe. Atmosphere feels authentic and comfortable, though it can be loud and rushed during busy times. Dim sum offerings are highly authentic and well-regarded for quality and taste.

Dim sum here features authentic Hong Kong style with a smaller menu focused on quality. Signature items include BBQ pork buns and turnip cake, both standing out for their unique taste and texture.

People are saying

"I loved the dim sum; it's the best I've had in the US."

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"This Lunch Spot's dim sum, especially the lava bun, is elevated and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers reduced prices on most items.

2

The restaurant doesn't get busy until around 6 PM on Saturdays.

3

Ordering via QR code speeds up the process.

21
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.

Sichuan dishes here are authentic and flavorful, featuring classics like Mapo Tofu and boiled beef. The Peking Duck stands out with very thin meat and refreshing skin.

Quick and efficient service delivers food rapidly during lunch hours. The spot offers a late lunch with no wait and costs about 100 dollars for two.

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 roast duck for lunch was as good as advertised."

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.

22
Qin West Noodle image 1
Noodle shop

Small noodle shop with authentic Chinese flavors and affordable prices offers both indoor and outdoor seating in a simple setting. Atmosphere ranges from calm and relaxed when not crowded to cluttered and unwelcoming at busy times. Known for traditional northern Chinese dishes and careful to-go packaging that keeps noodles fresh.

Mongolian beef stands out among the dishes. The menu features hand pulled noodles, Mapo tofu, and twice-cooked pork with good portion sizes. Orange chicken appeals to kids and sesame chicken is notable.

Lunch hours get very busy with a long wait, sometimes pushing quick meals to takeout. They offer lunch specials and serve food that ranges from okay to good.

People are saying

"I loved their Guilin soup; it had a perfect balance of flavors."

"I found the Chinese Food here to be delicious."

"This Lunch Spot has great hand-cut noodles."

Good to know

1

For to-go orders, they separate the noodle and broth so the noodle doesn’t get soggy.

2

Parking is very limited with a 30-minute time limit.

3

There was a free parking structure nearby.

23
Tasty Spot Cafe Irvine image 1
Hong Kong style fast food restaurant

Hong Kong-style fast food restaurant with big neon signs and a modern, clean interior creates a casual, inviting atmosphere. The space fills with lively Cantonese music and clanking dishes, making it busy and noisy, especially during peak hours. Families often dine here, enjoying authentic Cantonese food in generous portions.

Offers authentic Cantonese cuisine with standout dishes like har gow and shumai. Serves generous portions of beef and prawn congee with fresh ingredients and crisp youtiao.

People are saying

"This Chinese food captures Hong Kong's taste and atmosphere."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are so nice and attentive."

"This is still the best Hong Kong style roast duck."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but the private room is first come first serve.

2

Expect long lines for Sunday lunch; arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

Dimsums are served daily but only until 3pm.

24
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.

Generous portions include individual hot pots with a pleasant spicy kick, like the golden soup beef hot pot. Soup dumplings, beef rolls, and mapo tofu stand out, alongside dishes like orange chicken that serve multiple people.

Crowds fill the space during lunch on weekdays, showing its popularity. Expect a busy atmosphere at lunchtime.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious Chinese."

"The spicy beef hot pot is a warm hug with a little sass."

"The Lunch Spot's ma po tofu and spicy beef rolls are amazing."

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.

Discover more

Irvine, California

Area guide
Loading Map...