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Guide to Irvine

Vegetarian lunch spots

A vegetarian lunch should be substantial enough to power you through the rest of your day.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kaju Soft Tofu Restaurant (Culver) image 1
Kaju Soft Tofu Restaurant (Culver) image 2
Kaju Soft Tofu Restaurant (Culver) image 3
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Small space combines cozy vibe with robot servers delivering dishes and playing music. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting but tables sit close, making conversations audible. Menu focuses on soft tofu soups with adjustable spice levels and generous portions.

Lunch combos come with seafood tofu soup and refillable side dishes. Portions feel very filling and prices stay reasonable, fitting for groups or business lunches.

Vegetarian options include veggie broth, vegetarian dumplings, and japchae. These dishes provide clear choices for those avoiding meat.

People are saying

"I thought the soft tofu soup here was the best in Orange County."

"I loved the delicious vegetarian dumplings and broth."

"The tofu in the Lunch Spot soup had heat but very little flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during peak hours.

2

Parking can be challenging on weekends; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of spice levels for the soups.

02
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 includes dine-in and takeout options. Service covers both lunch and dinner times.

Tofu bibimbap and vegetarian water-based soup stand out with fresh flavors and good variety. Staff accommodate vegetarian diets and suggest asking about banchan before ordering to ensure suitability.

People are saying

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

"I loved the vegetarian tofu soup; it was so good."

"The service at this Lunch Spot 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.

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.

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.

Offers a great selection of vegetarian options with vegan-friendly choices that are rare for hotpot spots. The vegetarian dishes are consistently delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

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

"I found the vegetarian options here to be great."

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
Rooster & Rice image 1
Chicken restaurant

Outdoor seating with metal benches sets a chill, fun vibe that feels like dining with friends. Decor includes a mural of local landmarks and playful details that create an inviting atmosphere. The place draws people looking for quick, healthy meals centered on Thai-style chicken rice.

Offers a healthy lunch with quick service even during busy times. Meals are filling yet light, making it a reliable spot for a regular midday meal.

Vegetarian meals include tofu, broccoli, and cauliflower with sides like carrots and cucumbers. Options cover riceless and breaded dishes, and portions are large enough to split into two meals.

People are saying

"I found the healthy foods here to be fresh, flavorful, and filling."

"This lunch spot's popcorn chicken is surprisingly flavorful and delicious."

"I found the vegetarian food really delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only has outdoor seating with no indoor dining available.

2

I would recommend ordering online and picking up the food when it's ready.

3

When I visited around 11:30am, there was already a wait line.

05
Biryani Pot Express image 1
Biryani restaurant

Hyderabadi biryani and curries define the menu with authentic flavors and generous portions. The space offers a cozy atmosphere with warm aromas and pleasant music that create a welcoming vibe. Seating is casual, using paper plates and plastic bowls, emphasizing food over formality.

Lunch offers affordable weekday specials with options like boneless chicken biryani and Hyderabad biryani. The spot suits team lunches and provides a variety of combo choices.

Offers vegetarian and vegan friendly options alongside non-vegetarian dishes. Focuses on Halal Hyderabadi cuisine with choices for plant-based diets.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The vegetarian food here tastes like authentic Hyderabad cuisine."

"This Lunch Spot's biryani is the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Biryani Pot Express offers a variety of authentic Indian dishes beyond just biryani.

2

The restaurant provides takeout options with some seating available.

3

They have holiday offers on starters around New Year.

06
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.

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

Options include vegan noodles, soy chicken with rice, and tofu sides. The bok choy with vegan oyster sauce starts salty but grows on you.

People are saying

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

"The staff here is so friendly and attentive to families."

"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 entrรฉe.

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.

Seating happens quickly before and after the lunch rush, with only a short wait during peak times. The spot offers a filling lunch that works well for quick meals or late lunches.

Vegan broth ramen offers deep flavor and well-balanced vegetables. Plenty of toppings and good noodles make the vegetarian options stand out.

People are saying

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

"The vegetarian ramen here has a deliciously creamy broth."

"This Lunch Spot's ramen broth is flavorful and delicious."

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
Maast Indian image 1
Indian restaurant

Bright, open space with beautiful murals and traditional instrumental music creates a relaxing, friendly vibe. Family-run atmosphere offers customizable Indian and fusion dishes with a quick, clear ordering process. The setting feels cozy yet casual, blending fast food pace with personal care.

Offers a quick tasty lunch with hectic business day crowds. Serves flavorful Indian dishes suited for a fast lunch break.

Only vegetarian options appear on the menu with many clearly labeled vegan dishes. Build-a-bowl choices include tofu or potato as vegan protein options.

People are saying

"I found the curry here to be absolutely delicious and flavorful."

"The vegetarian Indian food, like the chole and dal makhani, is flavorful."

"The Tikka Masala curry at this Lunch Spot is so flavorful and satisfying."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7 pm, not 7:30 pm as stated online.

2

Burritos cost over $17 each, making them on the expensive side.

3

You can customize any order to suit your preferences.

09
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.

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.

Plenty of vegetarian options include a peanut sauce noodle dish and a Vegetarian Delight with complex flavors. The veggie side dish features tofu, stewed vegetables, wood ear mushrooms, and faux meats.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the vegetarian options; the veggie delight was 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.

10
Ever After Tea Room & Eatery image 1

Bright, spacious interior with whimsical decor and cozy seating creates an enchanting, Parisian cafรฉ vibe. Atmosphere is lively and sometimes loud, with guests often chatting energetically. Offers pet-friendly outdoor seating and semi-self-service ordering through kiosks.

Cozy and whimsical setting suits a relaxed lunch. The Miso Salmon offers rich flavor and perfect cooking, while the popcorn chicken with umami sauce stands out. Lunch specials include 4 seasons tea for a complete meal.

Extensive menu offers vegan and vegetarian options with careful attention to ingredients like egg. Staff provide special modifications such as sugar-free vegan desserts, which are delicious.

People are saying

"The Taiwanese beef noodle soup is rich but not greasy."

"The salmon at this lunch spot is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"Their extensive vegetarian menu caters to vegans and Asian cuisine lovers."

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.

11
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.

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.

Vegetarian dishes include house rolls with apple butter, cremini mushroom soup, and vegetarian risotto. Vegan options are very limited, with no bread without eggs.

People are saying

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

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

"The vegetarian options here are amazing, with friendly and knowledgeable service."

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.

12
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.

Open courtyard seating lets you enjoy lunch with your dog. Weekday lunch hours get extremely busy. Staff like Kris help with meal choices.

Vegan ramen features a creamy miso broth with flavors like ground pork, paired with charred broccolini and corn. Vegan gyoza comes with a tasty sauce that complements the dish well.

People are saying

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

"The vegetarian ramen here is surprisingly good and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's ramen is amazing, especially the rich, flavorful broth."

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.

13
Broken Yolk Cafe image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Bright, clean space with indoor and outdoor seating creates a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Friendly staff and family-oriented vibe make it feel like home, with thoughtful touches for kids and pets. Occasional lively moments include birthday celebrations and sports on TVs, adding to the casual energy.

Offers a full lunch menu alongside breakfast and brunch options. Staff like Andrea provide attentive service that supports a smooth working lunch experience.

Menu includes many vegan and vegetarian options with reliable quality. Dishes like the Vegan Spicy Bowl, Beyond sausage bowl, and vegan scramble come with vegan substitutions for eggs.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the service is excellent."

"I loved the delicious vegetarian options like the Beyond sausage."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and plentiful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open for breakfast and lunch.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially around 10:30 am on weekends.

3

The restaurant is pet friendly on the patio.

14
Aria Kitchen image 1
Persian restaurant

Persian and Mexican flavors blend in a fusion cuisine setting with modern elegant decor and cozy booths. The atmosphere is lively with live DJs playing Persian music and a full bar offering creative cocktails. Outdoor patio seating includes heaters, creating a warm and inviting space.

Street tacos stand out for lunch. The atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, good for a calm meal.

Plenty of vegan options come at fair prices. The vegan burrito and fesenjan stand out as tasty and affordable choices.

People are saying

"The Persian and Mexican fusion food here is amazing."

"I loved the street tacos at this lunch spot."

"I found plenty of great vegan options here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Nowruz celebration.

2

The program for events runs from 6 to 10 PM.

3

Live music occurs on Fridays and Saturdays, starting at 8 PM.

15
Nara Thai Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Sleek decor with warm wood accents and soft lighting creates a welcoming, upscale atmosphere. Music ranges from fun background tunes to live performances on certain nights. The vibe suits fine dining occasions, blending cozy and elegant elements.

Lunch here costs about $36.67 per person, excluding tip. The menu during lunch is unique and not a special, with dinner prices actually lower than lunch.

At least three vegan options appear on the menu, including a green curry that is both vegan and excellent. Almost the entire menu allows for vegetarian customization.

People are saying

"The food here tastes authentic and is really delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's Thai food is some of the best I've ever had."

"The Vegetarian options here are beautifully presented and feel fancy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant was closed at 3 PM on a Saturday due to plumbing issues.

2

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to typical Thai restaurants.

3

The posted hours indicate the restaurant should be open from 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM.

16
Silverlake Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Casual, clean space with a modern ambiance and chill SoCal music sets a trendy, cozy vibe. Seating includes an outdoor wraparound shelf by a fire pit, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Wait times can be long during peak hours, but the environment suits simple dates and family outings.

A popular spot for lunch with ample seating that accommodates solo diners comfortably. The place welcomes dogs, making it easy to bring a pet along during midday meals.

Vegetarian ramen stands out with great vegan friendly options and a notable vegetarian ramen choice. Vegan dishes come at a higher price point compared to other items.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be flavorful and delicious."

"The staff here are amazing and so kind to my dog."

"I found their vegetarian options to be fantastic."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times exceeding two hours on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for peak hours to avoid long waits.

3

Online pickup orders are often unavailable; order directly through the website.

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