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Fish date spots in Irvine

A date over fish is a specific choice that keeps the evening feeling light and intentional. You want a place that respects the simplicity of the meal.

Based on 555 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Super Yummy 远山少年 image 1
Super Yummy 远山少年 image 2
Super Yummy 远山少年 image 3
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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.

Hot pot offers a shared dining experience that works well for couples. Options include spicy and non-spicy broths, like tom yum, to suit different tastes.

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 is fresh, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

"The owner here is super nice and welcoming."

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.

02
Hako image 1
Tonkatsu restaurant

Small restaurant with an industrial look and warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere that can get loud and crowded during peak times. Seating is comfortable and well arranged, supporting a buzzing energy. The vibe feels casual and self-serve, attracting a steady flow of diners.

Frequent visits show this spot works well for dates. The Tonkotsu meal offers a solid choice for sharing a casual meal together.

Fish katsu stands out with its thoughtful preparation and delicious flavor. It pairs well with other dishes like rolls and salmon sashimi salad, making it a favorite choice.

People are saying

"The curry katsu here is insanely good."

"The fish katsu is crispy, tender, and a must-try."

"The food here is pretty good, especially the chicken katsu."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a 15 to 40-minute wait during peak hours, particularly on Fridays.

3

Be cautious of peanuts in the sauce; call ahead for allergy accommodations.

03
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.

Good spot for a date with options like Tonkotsu soup base and Mongolian Herbal soup base. The experience can be intense, as both felt sick afterward.

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."

"The premium meat here makes it a great spot for hot pot dates."

"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.

04
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.

Dinner here suits date nights well with a relaxed vibe. Every visit offers a chance to enjoy an impromptu evening together.

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."

"The Gurume omakase is amazing for a date spot."

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.

05
Sushi Rev image 1
Japanese restaurant

Conveyor belts deliver a steady stream of fresh, thick sushi in a bright, modern space with minimalist design. The atmosphere stays relaxed and clean, with small seating and some hardwood chairs. Diners can order from tablets or pick plates directly, creating a casual, efficient experience.

Offers a full meal that leaves you satisfied. Suitable for both date night and family outings.

Fish comes in big, generous cuts that are consistently fresh and thick. The quality stands out for a revolving sushi spot, with flavorful portions served promptly at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"The sushi here is fresh, well-made, and beautifully presented."

"The servers here are super friendly and knowledgeable for Date Spots."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious, with generous cuts."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 1-2 hours on weekends, especially during peak hours.

2

Most plates cost $3.75, making it reasonably priced for sushi.

3

Reservations are not accepted; join the online waitlist within a 4-mile radius.

06
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.

Good for couples or groups looking for a casual spot. Menu lacks English descriptions, which can make ordering tricky. Lamb skewers are available but may not meet expectations for those familiar with authentic flavors.

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."

"The grilled fish here is awesome and affordable."

"Kevin's friendly service makes this a great spot for dates."

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.

07
Bass Pro Shops image 1
Sporting goods store

Massive indoor space features giant aquarium and waterfall that create an indoor adventure park vibe. Displays of wildlife and natural elements give a cozy cabin aura with a touch of wilderness. Families enjoy the interactive fish tanks, while the store offers a wide range of outdoor gear and firearm accessories.

Offers a low-cost date option with chances to shop for fishing gear and bait together. Checkout can feel awkward due to staff interactions with other customers nearby.

A huge, natural-looking fish tank with a live aquarium stands out, often paired with a waterfall and atrium. The fish tank is both amazing and beautiful to see.

People are saying

"It's a fun place to explore and just kill some time."

"You have to see the amazing fish tank; it's awesome!"

"The workers here are so friendly and patient with all your questions."

Good to know

1

Santa Wonderland offers free photos with Santa during the holiday season.

2

The store features a large fish tank located in the back near the fishing gear.

3

Parking is ample and easily accessible right off the 5 freeway.

08
Its Tofu image 1
Restaurant

Clean, modern space with spacious seating booths and classy table settings creates an inviting atmosphere. Korean dishes come with a wide variety of banchans served in bronze tableware, adding a royal food vibe. The vibe is hip and trendy, with an authentic feel and welcoming smiles.

Lunch here offers tastier tofu compared to other spots. It works well for couples looking for a reliable date spot with good food.

Small fish come out whole and fried, cooked really well with a crispy texture. Banchan includes a fried fish side that pairs with tofu soups, each served with an egg and stone pot white rice.

People are saying

"The Korean food's side dishes were so clean and delicious."

"The tofu soup here has a good kick, especially the spicy one."

"The service for date spots is friendly and efficient."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of up to 45 minutes for weekend dinners.

2

Prices for entrees can be high, with a tofu pot costing around $20.

3

The restaurant offers lunch and dinner service, as well as takeout options.

09
The Dive Oyster Bar image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with 90s and early 2000s throwback music creating a vibrant, fun vibe. Decor includes sea-themed artwork and chalkboard specials, supporting a laid-back yet chic atmosphere. Oysters are shucked to order and served fresh, with a focus on Cajun and Creole flavors.

Fish dishes feature a crunchy exterior with a tender interior, especially in the fish and chips and fried catfish. Portions lean toward generous, with fish outweighing batter, and fries come crispy with cajun seasoning.

People are saying

"The oysters here are super fresh and delicious."

"The happy hour oysters were so fresh and delicious."

"These Date Spots have seriously excellent, incredibly fresh oysters."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm Monday to Friday with $1 oysters.

2

On Mondays, enjoy 50% off draft beers; Wednesdays feature 40% off wine bottles after 5pm.

3

Parking is available in the Irvine Spectrum parking lot, near the theater.

10
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.

Offers a cozy atmosphere with authentic Persian cuisine that appeals to couples. Consistently recognized as a favorite spot for enjoying flavorful dishes together.

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."

"The kabobs here are authentic and perfectly seasoned for a great date spot."

"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.

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.

Food includes beef in hot and sour soup, live fish in water, and husband and wife lung slices. Service is attentive. Some dishes may cause digestive issues like diarrhea.

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."

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

"The food here is delicious and went really well with rice."

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
Kiyo Sushi & Sake image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers simple elegant decor with a chill, authentic vibe and a packed, lively atmosphere. Fresh seafood imported from Japan features prominently, with high-quality sushi and sashimi drawing a crowd. Sake presentation includes a special dispenser that adds to the experience.

Frequent visits highlight this spot as a solid choice for sushi dates. Couples enjoy the intimate atmosphere and consistent quality.

Fish arrives incredibly fresh and of high quality. The chirashi lunch features nice, fatty cuts that stand out.

People are saying

"The chirashi at this Lunch Spot has incredibly fresh, thick sashimi."

"The sake here is fresh, simple, and well presented."

"The fish here is incredibly fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Expect wait times of 30-60 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

The lunch special offers good value, typically under $15.

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Irvine, California

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