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Lunch pasta spots in Irvine

Made for those who want a quick, reliable pasta fix during their midday break.

Based on 530 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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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.

Uni pasta stands out with a rich flavor and a price of $28, up from $22. The Uin Spaghetti also offers a unique twist worth trying.

Lunch offers affordable combos with a variety of items. The lunch special includes good quality chirashi and sushi, making it a solid choice for a quick meal.

People are saying

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

"I found the Japanese food here to be very authentic and delicious."

"The uni pasta lets you taste the uni clearly."

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.

02
Sole Toscano Italian Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Small cafe with bright open kitchen and stylish interior creates a clean, inviting atmosphere. Energy feels relaxed yet polished, attracting those seeking authentic Italian flavors and fresh handmade pasta. Seating is limited, emphasizing an intimate dining experience rather than a bustling crowd.

Fresh pasta shows excellent texture and a creamy pesto fettuccine offers rich, smooth flavor without overpowering. Dishes like spaghetti and lasagna maintain a delightful, handmade quality throughout.

Over a dozen craft sandwiches offer a perfect lunch size. The spot suits quick breaks during the workweek or after a ride along the nearby trail.

People are saying

"The food here is truly delicious and authentic Italian."

"The pasta here is so fresh and tasty."

"This is a great lunch spot with tasty, fresh food."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $16 for a sandwich and drink without a side.

2

Piadina offers a menu of over a dozen craft sandwiches, perfect for lunch.

3

The kitchen uses imported ingredients from Italy for authentic flavors.

03
Marble Steakhouse & Grille image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious Korean barbecue restaurant with a modern, upscale design and a quiet, calming atmosphere. Guests enjoy table-side steak grilling and a wine and cocktail bar that adds to the refined vibe. The setting suits date nights and special gatherings with its comfortable yet exclusive feel.

Combining pasta with Korean BBQ creates a unique dining option with solid quality. Lobster spaghetti stands out but can be messy, while carbonara is average.

Lunch specials offer good value with items under $18. The atmosphere stays calm compared to typical all-you-can-eat spots, making it a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The Korean food here has such flavorful, tender meat."

"The lunch specials here are a great deal for the price."

"I enjoyed having pasta with Korean BBQ here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially after 5 PM due to high demand.

2

Expect a wait time of less than 5 minutes for seating on Sundays.

3

Parking is plentiful in the plaza surrounding the restaurant.

04
Solstice Seasonal Kitchen & Bar image 1
New American restaurant

New American restaurant offers a clean, modern interior with an open kitchen and a comfortable outdoor patio featuring a fire pit. Atmosphere feels elegant without pretension, balancing chic design with a relaxed vibe. Space is bright and airy, accommodating groups with thoughtfully placed tables.

Pasta comes out cooked Al Dente with a perfect chew. Sauces are rich and flavorful, and meats like short ribs stay melt-in-your-mouth tender.

A friendly and attentive staff creates a welcoming atmosphere for lunch. The spot sits near several business complexes, making it convenient for a work lunch or a quick walk from the office.

People are saying

"The tuna salad was delicious with its rich garlic sauce."

"The cocktails here are incredibly well crafted and balanced."

"The Braised Short Rib Pappardelle is perfectly cooked and tender."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated, making it easy to visit without worrying about fees.

2

The menu changes seasonally, offering new dishes every few months.

3

Happy hour runs until 5:30pm, featuring special drink and appetizer prices.

05
BORJA'S Italian Restaurant image 1

Cozy Italian restaurant in an office complex offers a warm, laid-back atmosphere with 90's music playing softly. The place stays open late and attracts a mix of patrons, including wealthy diners. Known for affordable prices and generous portions, it stands out for its excellent pizza and flavorful pasta.

Pastas come bursting with garlic flavor and have a perfect amount of sauce. The fettuccine alfredo and other dishes are served very hot and are consistently flavorful.

Fast service suits quick lunch visits. The lunch special offers a straightforward option, though details like garlic bread inclusion require asking.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the pasta and garlic bread."

"I've never tasted pasta this delicious; it was huge!"

"The staff here makes you feel super welcomed at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late for late-night cravings.

2

Prices are surprisingly great for the portion sizes offered.

3

They deliver and cater to many local businesses.

06
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.

Cajun Shrimp Pasta comes with a cheesy sauce and costs $19. Roasta Pasta offers a rich, full flavor. Cajun Lobster Pasta features fresh, sweet lobster meat with good seasoning.

Lunch offers a good meal with satisfying flavors. The spot serves a solid lunch experience.

People are saying

"The oysters here are super fresh and delicious."

"The Kumamoto oysters at this Lunch Spot are fresh and hard to find."

"I loved the Cajun Shrimp Pasta; it was so cheesy and a great value at $19."

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.

07
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.

Pan-fried steak with black pepper sauce comes with onion rings and vegetables plus a large portion of pasta. Pork cutlets over spaghetti give off cha chaan teng vibes. Pasta overall tastes good.

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."

"This Hong Kong-style Western pasta is super authentic."

"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.

08
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.

Seafood pasta features shrimp, mussels, and squid in a green sauce. Macaroni dishes offer simple flavors and a heartwarming taste. Steak comes with spaghetti in white sauce as confirmed when ordering.

People are saying

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

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

"I confirmed the pasta would have white sauce, but it didn't."

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.

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Irvine, California

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