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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Irvine

Expensive spots

Made for those who equate a higher price tag with a superior experience and refuse to dine anywhere that doesn't feel exclusive.

Based on 702 Opinions
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01
S'wich Bistro image 1
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Outdoor and indoor seating surround a large patio with an oak tree, creating a relaxing atmosphere. Scratch-made kitchen offers fresh sandwiches that draw a lunchtime crowd. Prices run on the higher side, reflecting quality and setting near an office park with ample parking.

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch hours as the place gets really busy.

2

Parking is plentiful in the office park where the restaurant is located.

3

Prices for breakfast sandwiches or burritos are around $15.

02
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Vietnamese spot offers cozy ambiance with plaza seating and fresh dishes. Pho stands out for its light flavors but prices are quite expensive compared to others. Warm atmosphere invites diners despite dated decor.

Good to know

1

Expect to spend around $40-$80 for two people, depending on the order.

2

Parking is ample in the plaza, making it easy to access the restaurant.

3

The menu is straightforward and easy to navigate for first-time visitors.

03
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Korean spot shines with crispy fried chicken and generous portions in a cozy atmosphere. Meals feel quite pricey but serve two or three people well. Warm lighting and round tables make it great for small groups or dates.

Good to know

1

Parking is free but can get crowded during busy times.

2

Expect long wait times for large groups; put your name on the list.

3

The portion sizes are large, often enough for sharing.

04
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Small yet spacious French café with airy seating options including couches and high bar tables. Polished, modern interior creates a warm, cozy vibe where people feel welcome and unrushed. Beautiful displays of authentic pastries and breads add to the inviting atmosphere.

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak brunch hours on weekends.

2

Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of food is generally good.

3

The café offers a limited menu for online delivery, with many items unavailable.

05
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Coffee shop offers modern interior and cozy seating for study. Prices are higher end but coffee tastes great. Space feels lively and cramped with music shifting volume.

Good to know

1

Finding a parking spot at The Mugs can be difficult sometimes.

2

The hours are listed until 10 AM, but they stop serving at 9:30 AM.

3

I could place drink orders at kiosks.

06
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Casual Korean spot with cozy atmosphere and attentive service offers a calm vibe with K-pop tunes. Prices lean high, with $28 lunch and extra costs on tofu dishes. Perfect for diners seeking quality in a relaxed setting.

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.

07
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Coffee shop shines with a bright interior and a spacious patio perfect for relaxing. Prices are on the expensive side, especially for pastries and beans. Calm music keeps the vibe welcoming and cozy for all visitors.

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available right off Alton.

2

Online orders can speed up service during busy hours.

3

The shop has free WiFi, making it suitable for studying or working.

08
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Small juice shop offers fruit-rich smoothies in a clean, welcoming space. Prices are premium due to fresh ingredients without ice or cream. Expect long wait times from steady customers seeking healthy options.

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times for smoothies, especially during peak hours.

2

Medium-sized smoothies cost over $20, making them on the expensive side.

3

The store maintains a clean and welcoming environment for customers.

09
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High-end European market style creates a relaxed atmosphere with multiple bars for socializing. Prices are expensive, especially for meat and groceries, but quality matches the cost. Impeccable cleanliness and well-organized displays enhance the premium feel.

Good to know

1

$2 off share plates available on select days.

2

$2 off all draft beers on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

3

The store offers a wide selection of high-quality produce.

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Trendy sushi spot features a modern decor and a quiet atmosphere with spacious seating. Fresh sushi and sashimi shine alongside a fantastic sake selection. Prices are on the expensive side, especially for the Gurume omakase.

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.

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Outdoor market buzzes with live local music and diverse vendors. Prices lean high, making it an expensive experience. Crowds enjoy fresh produce and unique foods in a lively, fun setting.

Good to know

1

The market operates on Saturdays from 8 am to noon.

2

Parking is easy and plentiful at the farmers market.

3

There are over 100 vendors offering a wide variety of fresh produce.

12
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Small poke bar offers a chill vibe with nice patio and steady office crowd. Bowls are fresh and generous but come with a pricey tag. Limited indoor seating keeps it cozy despite business park setting.

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch hours, especially on weekdays.

2

Parking is free and easy to find in the area.

3

The price for a bowl of poke is on the higher side.

13
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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.

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.

14
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Open kitchen shows chefs crafting rich broth and homemade noodles in a bright wood space. Crispy fried chicken draws families despite high prices. Digital waitlist eases busy times, blending authentic taste with modern convenience.

Good to know

1

During busy periods, there may be a wait to be seated or served.

2

If it's the weekend, be prepared to wait.

3

You should put your name down and keep your phone in your hand at all times because the wait can be between 10 minutes and an hour.

15
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Rooftop bar offers beautiful views with overhead infrared heaters creating a warm outdoor space. Music features a DJ playing early 00's R&B, setting a lively tone on weekends. Crowd tends to be diverse and older, mostly in their 30s and 40s.

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to avoid long wait times at Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar.

2

Valet parking costs $18 with validation; otherwise, it's $28.

3

Only the C elevator accesses the rooftop bar, and it operates after 4pm.

16
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Small shop offers official Sanrio products like bags and plushies with a cute interior. Prices are high and only cashless payments are accepted. Atmosphere feels uncomfortable despite the charm.

Good to know

1

Sanrio Irvine does not accept cash.

2

The prices are higher than average for official Sanrio merchandise.

3

The store offers a wide variety of items from bags to toys to stickers.

17
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Asian grocery store features a large produce section and a hot food deli with a bakery. Prices are higher than other markets, especially for durian, making it a pricier choice. Harsh fluorescent lighting and a crowded space add to the shopping experience.

Good to know

1

Parking can be very difficult on weekends, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect higher prices for fresh fruits and vegetables compared to other local markets.

3

The market has a large selection of live seafood, including fish, crabs, and lobsters.

18
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Golf course features beautifully maintained greens with challenging holes and serene scenery. Driving range is fabulous but pricey, with a large bucket of balls at $24. Patio and dining areas offer a relaxing atmosphere after play.

Good to know

1

The driving range charges $22 for a bucket of range balls.

2

A Saturday morning tee time costs $295.

3

Purchasing a players club membership for $600 reduces the round fee to $150.

19
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Chic design with velvet seating creates a cozy vibe. Prices are on the higher side and some dishes feel over seasoned. Busy, lively atmosphere suits social dining with communal tables and outdoor seating.

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times around 10:00 am on weekends.

2

Parking is available in a large strip mall with plenty of free spots.

3

The breakfast menu is available until 2pm.

20
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Bright, spacious interior with whimsical decor creates a lively, Parisian café vibe. Large portions balance the expensive pricing, especially the princess snow dessert. Pet-friendly outdoor seating adds charm to the energetic atmosphere.

Good to know

1

To celebrate the grand opening on 4/29, they offer a limited free mini snow cake and free Sangaria, along with live music from 7 pm to 9 pm.

2

There was plenty of free parking available.

3

The establishment is pet friendly and offers pet friendly entrees.

21
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Shop offers a large selection of Funko pops and anime merch with a pop culture focus. Prices are consistently high but deals appear often. Unique items make it worth exploring despite the cost.

Good to know

1

BoxLunch offers a large selection of Funko pops and unique merchandise.

2

You can find character merchandise that is hard to find elsewhere.

3

Prices at BoxLunch are generally higher than average for pop culture items.

22
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Giant wheel offers breathtaking views of a vibrant mall with colorful lights. Families enjoy interactive play areas and smooth rides in a peaceful setting. Experience feels pricey without much extra value.

Good to know

1

Tickets for the Giant Wheel cost $8 per person, with a $12 Speed Pass available.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait for general admission to the Giant Wheel.

3

Parking can be difficult to find near popular stores like H&M and Nike.

23
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Small ceramic grills create a luxury dining vibe with top-quality meats served in small portions. Modern decor and a spotless kitchen add to the clean atmosphere. Prices are higher, reflecting the premium experience.

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dinner hours.

2

Expect limited availability as they serve only 10 pieces of cap steak daily.

3

The restaurant does not offer all-you-can-eat options.

24
Zhangliang Malatang Irvine(张亮麻辣烫 尔湾店) image 1
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Mandarin restaurant features a self-serve sauce bar with classic and spicy options. Cozy, laidback vibe with nostalgic Taiwanese music sets a unique mood. Prices can climb fast since you pay by weight, making it easy to overspend especially on veggies.

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.

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