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Guide to Irvine

Japanese dinner spots

A Japanese dinner should be a deliberate experience that justifies taking the time to sit down and eat.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Nice to Meet You Skewer Hot Pot - Now AYCE image 1
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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.

Three different broths stand out: bone broth, sukiyaki, and spicy miso. All taste delicious, with the sukiyaki broth especially rich and flavorful.

Dinner offers an all-you-can-eat hot pot experience with a price around $37 to $40. Premium items like lobster tails, scallops, frog legs, and abalones are available, and the ingredients stay very fresh throughout the meal.

People are saying

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

"These dinner spots offer a great value with tons of fresh ingredients."

"The Japanese hot pot broths are flavorful and customizable with three choices."

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
Sushi Atelier - Asian & Japanese Food Delivery & Takeout Irvine image 1

Order window setup with a small outdoor seating area creates a casual takeout vibe. Packaging and sushi presentation stand out as artistic and beautifully crafted. The place draws those seeking high-quality sushi with bold flavors and Slavic-style rolls.

Sushi here stands out for its incredible freshness and high quality. The sushi is well-presented and offers a flavorful experience that rivals high-end restaurants.

Dinner often involves ordering rolls to-go for family or parties. Regularly chosen for Friday night dinners, it suits both casual and group meals.

People are saying

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

"These dinner spots reminded my parents of home."

"The Japanese food here is incredibly fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

Sushi Atelier is a takeout and delivery-only sushi place.

2

The restaurant is open late and seven days a week.

3

Expect high-quality ingredients that rival top restaurants.

03
Chubby Cattle BBQ | Irvine image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Modern space combines cozy, friendly vibe with thoughtful family design and beautiful dรฉcor. Cramped layout creates a busy, energetic atmosphere with frequent movement. High-quality wagyu and a self-serve sides bar add to the engaging dining experience.

Sushi and sashimi come alongside marbled Wagyu cuts like ribeye and brisket. The menu blends premium Japanese dishes with BBQ, offering seafood, appetizers, vegetables, and sides.

Dinner features attentive service with staff like Emily and Joshua managing orders and cooking during busy times. Large groups get accommodated smoothly even during the dinner rush.

People are saying

"Our server helped us cook the steak and gave great recommendations."

"Our server made our dinner great and kept the experience smooth."

"The Japanese food here is amazing; the staff cooked it perfectly."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 1-2 hours during peak dinner hours.

2

Put your name on the waiting list early to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat option with high-quality dishes.

04
Marufuku Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant offers modern, lively ambiance with indoor and dog-friendly outdoor seating. Space feels cozy and visually appealing but can get loud inside. Menu features fantastic ramen with standout spicy chicken and tonkotsu options.

Ramen features a traditional Kyushu thick white broth with soft-boiled egg and chashu pork slices. Takoyaki and Gyoza also appear as popular side dishes with amazing flavor and attentive service.

Ramen serves as a warm, satisfying dinner option here. The spot works well for an early meal before other plans.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The Japanese food here is really good and tasty."

"The ramen broth here is so flavorful and piping hot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to guarantee a seat.

2

The average price for a ramen bowl is around $20.

3

Parking can be limited during busy times, especially around lunchtime.

05
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.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and quality, often compared favorably to sushi in Japan. The menu includes well-sized rolls like rainbow and spicy salmon, plus dishes like katsu curry, all served at a reasonable price.

Dinner features sit-down sushi and sashimi with options for quick lunch or dinner. Service stands out with excellent attention from staff like Chris and Masami, making meals enjoyable.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is seriously good and reasonably priced."

"The Japanese food's hand rolls are fresh and consistent."

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.

06
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.

Fresh sushi features artful rolls and fish that melts in your mouth. The menu includes authentic Japanese dishes like miso black cod, uni don, and teriyaki salmon with very good sashimi quality.

Dinner here features kind and patient service from servers like Joan. The setting suits a date night with a focus on a solid dinner experience.

People are saying

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

"The seafood omakase here is a once-in-a-year experience."

"The Gurume omakase dinner spot is amazing for $100."

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.

07
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.

Ramen here stands out for its authentic tonkotsu broth and fresh noodles. The shoyu ramen and crispy chicken karaage come in generous portions and deliver solid flavor.

Warm and welcoming ambiance suits a laid-back dinner with friends. Offers filling meals that satisfy hunger well.

People are saying

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

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

"The ramen broth here is rich and flavorful."

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.

08
Dupont Centre Cafe image 1

Spacious restaurant with Far East-inspired decor offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming with a friendly vibe throughout. It attracts a diverse crowd looking for a high-quality dining experience near the airport.

Steak udon stands out with solid flavor, while the garlic parmesan fries and Buffalo Chicken salad add variety. Yaki Udon beef dishes appear average, with beef sometimes lacking tenderness.

Dinner offers a satisfying experience suitable for families, including kids. The menu covers a range of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a reliable choice any time of day.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's burgers and fries combo is worth the price."

"I loved the breakfast burrito and crispy chicken sandwich."

"The Japanese food here has a really diverse menu."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated for free and is conveniently located next door.

2

Expect 30-cent beers all day on Thirsty Thursday.

3

The cafe offers daily specials and happy hour.

09
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 an all-you-can-eat shabu shabu buffet with freshly made noodles, especially ramen. Ends meals with soba and porridge for a complete experience.

Unique pho broth stands out for dinner hot pot. Dinner specials are available at lunch for an extra charge. The area offers a nice walk with a pleasant view after eating.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese food here has amazing broths and a great selection of meats."

"The pho broth for dinner spots is unique and flavorful."

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.

10
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.

Tonkatsu stands out with perfectly crispy and light breading and a tangy, sweet katsu sauce. The Hire-Katsu filet pork is tender and thinner, offering a rare quality pork option. Curry pairs well with the tonkatsu, and sides include rice, pickled veggies, miso soup, and cabbage salad.

Takeout dinners come with excellent miso soup that stands out. Suitable for a weeknight meal with solid flavors.

People are saying

"The curry katsu here is insanely good."

"The Japanese food, especially the katsu, is crispy with a juicy center."

"The katsu here is so tasty, you'll have leftovers."

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.

11
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.

Rich, sweet-savory Sukiyaki Broth stands out with authentic Japanese flavor, ideal for cooking meat. Broth options include spicy beef tallow and pork bone, all delivering superior quality compared to typical all-you-can-eat hot pot spots.

Offers hot pot dinners ideal for friend gatherings and family meals. Available for pickup through the TooGoodToGo app.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese Food here, especially the A5 Wagyu and seafood platter, is top quality."

"The food and service here are awesome for dinner spots."

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.

12
Mokkoji image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a cozy modern atmosphere with mostly bar seating and limited tables. The vibe is hip and lively, especially during peak hours with a notable wait time. It stands out for high-quality shabu shabu featuring various broth choices and a live drama show element enhancing the dining experience.

Shabu shabu stands out with various broth options like spicy miso, pork bone, and sukiyaki. The menu includes surf and turf with spicy sukiyaki sauce, plus starters like garlic shrimp and desserts such as mochi ice cream.

Dinner here combines Shabu Shabu with a live drama show, making it more than just a meal. It offers a healthier dinner option when eating out.

People are saying

"The food here is pretty delicious, especially the broths."

"I enjoyed the shabu shabu here; it's a great Japanese food option."

"These dinner spots are more than just food; it's like live drama."

Good to know

1

Sign up for the waitlist on Yelp to avoid a 20+ minute wait, especially on weekends.

2

Mokkoji gets really busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

3

Reservations are recommended as tables are held for only 5 minutes.

13
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.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and excellent fish to rice ratio. The menu offers authentic Japanese dishes like chirashi, karaage, and tonkatsu, all served with generous portions and great flavor.

Chill and cozy vibes set the tone with peaceful music during dinner. Sushi comes with a chef-selected tasting that adds to the casual, family-friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"These dinner spots have the freshest, most flavorful fish I've ever had."

"I experienced the best sushi I have ever had in Orange County."

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.

14
All That Shabu image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Spacious shabu-shabu restaurant with self-serve ingredient and sauce bars and clean, well-organized cooking stations. Atmosphere balances family-friendly and bustling energy with comfortable noise levels and room to move. Offers varied broth and meat selections alongside sides and desserts, creating a lively yet inviting dining experience.

Shabu shabu features personal pots for cooking with a choice of broths like Sukiyaki and Yukgaejang. Tempura Chinese pumpkin is a frequently refilled side that pairs well with the meal.

Unlimited meat is served during dinner, with options available only in the evening. The meal costs about $40 per person and offers delicious flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the shabu shabu buffet with its great variety of meats and ingredients."

"You get all-you-can-eat meat with unlimited toppings and broth."

"The dinner spots offer a huge selection of delicious meats and ingredients."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat price is $35.99 per person on weekends.

2

Reservations require the entire party to be present.

3

Expect long wait times on weekends; arrive early around 4:30 PM.

15
Curry House CoCo Ichibanya - Irvine image 1
Japanese curry restaurant

Japanese curry restaurant offers cozy ambiance with casual, comfortable seating that can feel cramped in smaller tables. The space is busy and loud, with music and echoing noise that may affect conversation. Tables feature service buzzers for quick staff attention, and outdoor seating is available for waiting.

Japanese curry here features deep, savory flavor with options to customize spice levels and toppings like crispy katsu, cheese, and vegetables. The Chicken Katsu Curry stands out as a notably rich dish.

Dinner hours draw a crowded crowd, especially midweek. The atmosphere feels lively and busy during dinner time.

People are saying

"I loved customizing my Japanese food with spice levels and toppings."

"I found the curry here to be simple and delicious."

"The Japanese curry here is flavorful and customizable for your spice level."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy in the evenings.

2

Expect long wait times during weekends and lunch hours on weekdays.

3

The kitchen closes at 9:50 PM, despite a 10:00 PM closing time.

16
Niko Niko Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers a modern, clean interior with a small, intimate space that can get busy and a bit loud. The atmosphere shifts from quiet to lively depending on the crowd. Sushi features fresh, high-quality fish with large, flavorful rolls and some standout dishes like tuna sashimi and wagyu.

Sushi here features big, fresh rolls and sashimi like bluefin tuna with crispy kale chips. Bento boxes come with super-sized portions and sides like spicy garlic edamame add bold flavor.

Offers quick dinner options with takeaway available. Suitable for early dinners and casual meals.

People are saying

"The sushi here is spectacular and very tasty."

"The food here is so tasty and beautifully presented."

"The bluefin tuna sashimi with kale chips was so fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is fairly small and can fill up during busy times.

2

Niko Niko Sushi was super busy on New Year's Eve with to-go orders.

3

Each Bento Box includes rice, miso soup, salad, pickle, and orange slices.

17
Oishi Shabu Shabu image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Robot servers deliver meats with a playful touch, adding fun technology to a modern, clean dining space. Each diner has an individual induction cooker, creating a calm, authentic Japanese atmosphere. The open kitchen and upscale decor enhance the experience, making it suitable for casual meals and quiet conversations.

All-you-can-eat hot pot features constant broth switching and high-quality meat. Crispy chicken wings and Takoyaki stand out alongside excellent tonkotsu and miso soups.

Dinner offers good value with a regular weekend all-you-can-eat price of $33.99. It suits groups looking to chat with friends over a relaxed meal.

People are saying

"The bottomless prime meats and vast buffet were amazing."

"The Japanese food here offers an amazing all-you-can-eat hot pot experience."

"These dinner spots offer generous portions of tender, excellent tasting meats."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat lunch special is $25 on weekdays, including Fridays.

2

Dinner prices are $33.99 on weekends for all-you-can-eat.

3

Parking is available in an underground structure, but can be hard to find after 6pm.

18
Dada Shabu Shabu image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Shabu-shabu restaurant with individual hot pots and a fully stocked self-serve buffet featuring seafood, vegetables, and cooked dishes. Atmosphere feels cozy but cramped, often busy and hectic with tables arranged back-to-back. Popular for authentic Asian flavors and a variety of dipping sauces, though seating can be tight for larger groups.

Exceptional shabu shabu features fresh ingredients, excellent meat quality, and a variety of broths and sauces. A fully stocked food bar offers tofu, seafood, tempura, and a shaved ice station for dessert.

Dinner costs about $40 per person. Kids pay by height, with very small children eating for free and smaller kids at 50% off.

People are saying

"The shaved ice dessert station had so many ingredients and combinations."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh with tons of delicious options."

"These dinner spots have so many fresh ingredients and combinations to try."

Good to know

1

The price for a weekday all-you-can-eat lunch is $28.99, including a drink and dessert.

2

Dinner prices are $39.99, which may be considered pricey by some.

3

There is a 90-minute dining limit for all guests.

19
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.

Sushi here stays perfectly fresh and leans authentic when you know how to order. The Wagyu sushi stands out as a unique and tasty option. The sushi bar seats about six, keeping the vibe intimate.

Family dinners work well here with no wait on Sundays. Hiro helps make the dinner experience enjoyable for groups celebrating special occasions.

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 dinner spots here are incredibly fresh and delicious."

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.

20
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.

Ramen here blends classic Japanese noodle soup with Chinese and Japanese flavors for a unique taste. The broth and noodles closely match the style found in Japan, especially appealing to prawn lovers.

Dinner here often happens after shopping, making it a convenient spot. Meals come in family style, letting everyone share a variety of dishes quickly.

People are saying

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

"The shrimp ramen broth is rich, aromatic, and deeply flavorful."

"The food at these dinner spots tasted delicious and was flavorful."

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 entrรฉe.

21
Yoshiharu Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Cozy ramen restaurant with clean, sleek design and outdoor seating in a charming shopping center. Atmosphere shifts from quiet at lunch to lively during dinner rush with regulars. Offers unique ramen dishes including fusion options and a variety of price points.

Ramen here features bold garlic and roasted sesame flavors without being overwhelming. The menu includes specialty items like Seafood Ramen with lobster and fresh takoyaki with octopus tentacles, all served in a clean, sleek, and homey setting.

Dinner here starts quiet but fills with regulars during the rush, creating a lively vibe. The food may leave some feeling unsatisfied, prompting a second stop elsewhere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"The ramen here is flavorful and filling."

"The dinner spots here offer tasty fusion ramen dishes."

Good to know

1

Ample parking is available near the restaurant, close to Spectrum mall.

2

The restaurant is often understaffed, leading to longer wait times.

3

Expect a high price point for ramen dishes compared to other places.

22
HiroNori image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small indoor space feels cramped with limited seating, while large outdoor patio offers ample room and a pleasant atmosphere. Noise rises near the ordering area, but outdoor seating remains lively and clean. Casual setting emphasizes comfortable chairs and mostly outdoor dining.

Ramen here stands out for its tonkotsu broth and vegan sesame ramen with charred broccolini. Options like shoyu ramen and pork rice bowls complement the menu with consistent, rich flavors.

Dinner features craft ramen that appeals to families. Takeout is available even during the dinner rush. Kids enjoy the menu enough to suggest returning.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was really good and had lots of toppings."

"The ramen here is really good, with lots of toppings."

"The Tonkotsu ramen here is so creamy and comforting."

Good to know

1

HiroNori Craft Ramen does not accept cash; bring a card or electronic payment.

2

Expect long wait times, especially during busy hours with limited outdoor seating.

3

A 10% service charge is automatically added to all bills unless waived upon request.

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