Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Irvine

Salad spots

Made for those who demand crisp, fresh ingredients in every bite and refuse to eat a salad that has been sitting out too long.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Dupont Centre Cafe image 1
Dupont Centre Cafe image 2
Dupont Centre Cafe image 3
View all

Spacious spot near the airport offers Far East-inspired decor and a relaxed vibe. Salads shine with salmon berry salad and a spicy Thai option. Friendly staff and diverse crowd make it a welcoming place for quality dining.

Salads feature mixed greens, fruit, feta cheese, and salmon. The salmon berry salad stands out for its delicious flavor. A Thai salad with spicy mayo also pairs well as an appetizer.

People are saying

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

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

"I tried the berry salmon salad; it was delicious."

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.

02
The Terrace at Rancho San Joaquin image 1

Outdoor seating offers golf course views and cozy sofas inside. Southwest Salad features fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Atmosphere stays chill and peaceful, perfect for relaxing or casual dates.

Southwest Salad stands out with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Salads come alongside a variety of dishes like fish and chips and sandwiches.

People are saying

"The food here is really good."

"The outdoor seating offers a relaxing view of the golf course."

"I found the Southwest Salad to be great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has ample parking available for guests.

2

Outdoor seating is available, perfect for brunch on nice days.

3

Taco Tuesday offers great bargains with delicious food.

03
BORJA'S Italian Restaurant image 1

Cozy Italian spot offers excellent pizza and flavorful pasta with well-seasoned chicken and shrimp in salads. Warm, laid-back vibe with 90's music suits late-night diners. Prices stay affordable despite attracting a wealthy crowd.

Salads include a garden salad and a Caesar salad with chicken and shrimp featuring well-seasoned meats. A few salads stand out as amazing alongside soups.

People are saying

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

"You have to try these hidden gems; the wings are amazing."

"I enjoyed the salads, and the meats were well-seasoned."

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.

04
Warehouse 72 - Irvine image 1

Modern decor and a large LED wall create a relaxing vibe while the outdoor patio with a fire pit offers an open atmosphere. Salads shine with peppery arugula and a generous Caesar featuring crisp lettuce and Parmesan crisps. Buzzing energy peaks on weekends.

Salads feature peppery arugula without cheese or croutons in the side option. The Caesar salad offers super crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and Parmesan crisps with a generous portion size. Beet salad comes in a large, flavorful serving often paired with sprouts.

People are saying

"The pork belly fried rice is seasoned to perfection."

"The service here is so attentive, it feels like a 5-star experience."

"The Caesar salad has super crisp lettuce and creamy dressing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu ranges from $5 to $8.

2

Self parking is available in the back with free 3-hour validation.

3

Parking is validated, making the experience more convenient.

05
Pasta Viva image 1
Restaurant

Intimate tables create a busy atmosphere perfect for casual dining. Fresh pasta made with imported Italian flour shines here. Salads feature fresh, crisp greens with a creamy dressing that balances flavors well.

Salads come with fresh, crisp greens and a creamy dressing that complements the flavors well.

People are saying

"I found the pasta here to be delicious and perfectly made."

"I thought the salad was really fresh and crisp."

"The cheese wheel pasta with savory meatballs was impressive."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating, making it a casual dining experience.

2

Food is served in takeout containers, even for dine-in.

3

Expect to pay at the higher end for menu items.

06
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse image 1

Spacious Brazilian steakhouse shines with tableside meat service and a showy cocktail experience featuring flaming drinks. Fresh, varied options at the salad bar complement the lively atmosphere where sports games play on screens. Staff attentively open chairs for diners returning from the salad bar.

Freshly made items at the salad bar offer a wide variety and delicious flavors. Staff show attentiveness by opening chairs for diners returning from the salad bar.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the Brazilian barbecue."

"This is the best Brazilian Steakhouse I've ever visited."

"The service here is amazing, truly the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect a variety of meats served continuously until you signal for a stop.

2

The restaurant offers a salad bar with numerous options included in the meal.

3

Prices are reasonable considering the quality and service provided.

07
Twenty Eight Restaurant and Bar image 1

Upscale steakhouse offers a chic, cozy space with dim lighting for an intimate vibe. Caesar Salad shines with crunchy lettuce and rich cheese dressing. Bar boasts a world-class whiskey selection and expert cocktails for quality drink lovers.

Caesar Salad features crunchy lettuce, anchovies, and a rich cheese dressing. Endive Salad balances mushroom flavor with a sharp vinaigrette.

People are saying

"I thought the steak here was excellent and perfectly tender."

"Leo's creative cocktails are truly genius."

"This Caesar salad is perfect, not too tart."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the Google parking garage, and tickets can be validated.

2

Valet parking is offered for convenience at the restaurant's location.

3

The restaurant has a private room suitable for hosting events and gatherings.

08
Noodle Nest 和悦 (formerly Dun Huang) image 1

Spacious Chinese spot shines with hand-pulled noodles and a bright, modern vibe. Salads like marinated cucumber offer crisp, lightly spicy flavors that refresh the palate. Casual music and smart amenities create a welcoming, relaxed meal experience.

Salads here stand out with crisp, refreshing textures and lightly spicy flavors. Options like the eggplant salad and marinated cucumber salad offer good portions and serve as great palate cleansers.

People are saying

"The noodles here are so authentic and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's hand-pulled noodles have amazing flavor and texture."

"This cucumber salad is so crisp and refreshing."

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.

09
OC Fish Grill image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio with a fire pit offers a cozy vibe. Salads shine with ahi tuna and grilled fish options. Live jazz music creates a soothing atmosphere on weekend nights, blending well with the quiet ambiance indoors and out.

Salads feature ahi tuna and grilled fish options. Plates often come with fresh salads alongside other sides. The ahi tuna salad gets consistent mentions for its quality.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, I loved the fish tacos."

"The outdoor seating area is really pleasant."

"The ahi tuna salad tasted so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features $6 giant beers and tacos on weekdays.

2

The restaurant offers a Turkish breakfast on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings.

3

Taco Tuesday specials are only available for dine-in customers.

10
Nice to Meet You Skewer Hot Pot - Now AYCE image 1

Hot pot spot shines with all-you-can-eat skewers and a fresh tofu salad at the salad bar. Cozy mix of modern and traditional decor suits groups well. Sauce station and drink bar boost customization and fun.

Salad bar offers a wide variety of fresh options. The tofu salad stands out with its texture and flavor.

People are saying

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

"The bottomless hot pot had amazing seafood like abalone and lobster."

"The salad bar and dessert bar were remarkable."

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.

11
Yasai image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese spot in a business park serves fresh sushi and generous sashimi salads that satisfy lunch cravings. Large portions include vegetarian options and tender meats. Chill, family-friendly vibe with outdoor seating makes it a great casual choice.

Sashimi salads come with generous portions of fresh fish and make a filling lunch. Side salads are fresh and light, often served with dressed greens and cabbage.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has delicious sushi and Katsu."

"The salad here is so fresh and light."

"The Japanese food here is super fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Yasai offers a variety of healthy options including bowls, sushi, and salads.

2

Portion sizes are generous, making it a good value for money.

3

Yasai provides vegetarian and seafood options for diverse diets.

12
Zov's image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Large, bright restaurant offers a sunny patio with live music and a quiet indoor vibe. Salads feature fresh ingredients like goat cheese and tomatoes, with options like chicken paillard and Mediterranean salmon. Space suits groups and casual meetups in a relaxing, slightly dated setting.

Salads come with generous portions and fresh ingredients like goat cheese, red onions, and tomatoes. The chicken paillard salad features strips of chicken with a slightly sweet dressing, while the Mediterranean salmon salad offers a flavorful option.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was pretty delicious."

"The outdoor seating here is beautiful and sunny."

"The chicken paillard salad was delicious and a very generous portion."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, particularly on holidays.

3

Prices are on the higher side compared to similar restaurants.

13
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - Irvine, CA image 1

Greek restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with lively Greek music. Salads feature fresh chunks of tomato, cucumber, and red onion. Spacious heated patio suits casual dining or private events, making it a welcoming spot for Mediterranean flavors.

Salads feature big chunks of tomato, cucumber, and red onion with a very fresh taste. Options include a Greek salad with chicken and a chopped salad served with meals.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is so flavorful and cooked to perfection."

"The grilled shrimp and steak at this Outdoor Seating are the best I've ever had."

"The Greek salad here is so fresh and overflowing with big chunks."

Good to know

1

Catering services are available, but large platters are not offered.

2

Online ordering is easy to navigate, and orders can be placed a day in advance.

3

The location has free and ample parking for visitors.

14
Fukada image 1
Japanese restaurant

Offers fresh spicy tuna don and chewy udon with crunchy tempura flakes in a warm, inviting space. Seafood salads shine with thick slices of tuna and salmon tataki dressed in popular wafu or tomato dressings. Prices stay reasonable, making it a great spot for authentic Japanese flavors.

Seafood salads feature thick slices of tuna and salmon tataki with classic wafu or tomato dressings. Large salads often come with generous portions of seared salmon or tuna, and their salad dressings are popular enough to buy for home use.

People are saying

"The udon here is comforting with a flavorful, clean broth."

"The salmon teriyaki takeout plate had a large, thick piece of salmon."

"I loved the avocado crab salad with tomato dressing."

Good to know

1

Fukada operates as takeout only, with limited seating available.

2

Parking at Fukada is very easy and accessible.

3

Prices at Fukada are reasonable, with lunch options under $20.

15
Sagami image 1
Japanese restaurant

Authentic Nagoya dishes shine in a sushi bar setting with Japanese-speaking staff enhancing the vibe. Salads like tofu salad complement hot appetizers and sashimi combos. Limited seating fills with families and businesspeople, adding to the genuine atmosphere.

Salads include a tofu salad served alongside hot appetizers like agedashi and chicken karaage. The Hana combo features a salad paired with sashimi, soup, and nigiri.

People are saying

"The unagi don here is the best Japanese food I've had."

"I found the Japanese food here to be the most authentic I've had outside of Japan."

"The seafood donburi had fragrant vinegared rice."

Good to know

1

Sagami requires ordering an additional dish per person due to a new rule.

2

There is an outside area at Sagami where dogs are permitted.

3

The unagi bowl costs $30, while the premium chirashi special is $50.

16
Irvine Breakfast Club image 1

Small, cozy spot offers huge salads with crisp, fresh ingredients and generous portions. Outdoor seating under red umbrellas adds to the laid-back, old-fashioned cafe vibe. Sandwiches shine with fresh ingredients and big servings, making it a fun, inviting place.

Salads come in huge portions and feature very fresh ingredients. They stand out for their generous size and crispness.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were the best I'd ever eaten."

"I loved the breakfast burrito; it was one of the best I've ever had."

"I had the best, freshest, and biggest salad ever."

Good to know

1

Parking is very fast and easy.

2

Calling ahead or ordering online is recommended if in a hurry.

3

They offer gluten and dairy-free options.

17
Aria Kitchen image 1
Persian restaurant

Persian and Mexican flavors mix in a lively spot with fusion cuisine and live DJs. Salads offer a crisp, refreshing balance to rich dishes like lamb koobideh. Cozy booths and a heated patio create a warm, inviting vibe for all guests.

Salads come as refreshing, crisp sides that balance the main dishes well. They often accompany meals like grilled branzino, beef Soltani, lamb koobideh, and chicken, adding a light, healthy contrast.

People are saying

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

"The atmosphere here is so classy and elegant."

"The salads here are fresh, flavorful, and taste great."

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.

18
Solstice Seasonal Kitchen & Bar image 1
New American restaurant

New American spot shines with a clean, modern interior and a comfortable outdoor patio with a fire pit. Salads stand out for their rich garlic sauce and fresh ingredients like heirloom tomatoes and crisp apples. Atmosphere blends elegant yet relaxed vibes perfectly.

Salads feature rich garlic sauce and fresh ingredients like heirloom tomatoes and crisp apples. Options include a memorable Apple Waldorf and a tuna salad that pairs well with the sauce.

People are saying

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

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

"This lunch spot's menu changes seasonally with fresh ingredients."

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.

19
Croutons image 1
Salad shop

Courtyard offers a relaxed dining space with shared outdoor seating. Menu highlights healthy options like BBQ chicken salad and chicken wild rice soup. Lunch hours are busy but seating is ample inside and out.

BBQ chicken salad features fresh ingredients and good BBQ sauce. Salads generally come with soups and sandwiches, offering a decent variety.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and amazingly delicious."

"I loved the BBQ chicken salad; it's delicious and fresh."

"Vinny remembered my order from the day before; it made my experience special."

Good to know

1

Croutons offers a variety of healthy options on the menu.

2

Expect busy lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant features shared outdoor seating for guests.

20
Nick The Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant serves fresh gyros with quick service and a clean, pleasant atmosphere. Salads are crisp with olives and cherry tomatoes, and bowls blend rice and salad well. Outdoor seating and ample parking add to the convenience.

Greek salad features olives, parmesan, lettuce, and cherry tomatoes. Bowls mix rice and salad well. Salads and hummus come fresh and hit the spot.

People are saying

"Their gyros are so tasty and fresh."

"This chocolate frozen yogurt is rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced."

"The Greek salad here is fresh and a hit."

Good to know

1

There are lots of free parking spaces available.

2

Expect a lengthy line during peak hours.

3

The bowls are large enough to share between two people.

21
Bluberry Social image 1
Restaurant

Chic restaurant features a cozy social club vibe with peachy pink tones and velvet seats. Salads shine with fresh vegetables and tangy pickled onions. Busy, lively atmosphere buzzes with hip energy and natural light fills the space.

Salads come with fresh vegetables, grilled chicken breast, and crunchy toppings. Pickled red onions add a tangy touch, and side options include zesty salad and creamy mac salad.

People are saying

"The vibe here is super unique and aesthetically pleasing."

"The Big Breakfast Burrito is amazing, brimming with rich, breakfasty goodness."

"The Tater Tots are perfectly crunchy and not soggy."

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.

22
Dpot image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Shabu-shabu spot shines with fresh vegetables and quality meats at the salad bar. All-you-can-eat menu lets you enjoy DIY sauce bar for custom flavors. Family-friendly vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating makes it welcoming and relaxed.

Freshness stands out with impressively fresh vegetables at the salad bar. Quality meats complement the selection, making the salad bar a notable feature.

People are saying

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

"The bottomless drinks were served so attentively and quick."

"The salad bar's vegetables were impressively fresh."

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.

23
Luna Grill Irvine Spectrum Center image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot shines with a spacious patio and heated outdoor seating for comfort. Salads burst with fresh ingredients like apple and walnut, paired with yogurt dressing. Friendly staff create a cozy, festive vibe that welcomes all guests.

Salads come with fresh ingredients like apple, walnut, peach, and chicken. Options include the apple-walnut salad with shrimp and the house salad with pita, often served alongside rice and yogurt dressing.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and tasty."

"Oliver was so friendly and attentive, making the experience awesome."

"Anthony was so helpful navigating the menu for our first time."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free from Sunday to Thursday all summer long.

2

The restaurant is pet-friendly.

3

The space is clean and family-friendly.

24
Gelson's Irvine image 1
Grocery store

High-end European market style creates a relaxed atmosphere with impeccable cleanliness. Multiple bars, including a cocktail bar, offer great spots to eat and socialize. The potato salad shines at the fresh, tidy salad bar with excellent dressings.

Potato salad stands out as a highlight. The salad bar offers fresh options and stays tidy. Dressings are excellent and complement the made-to-order salads well.

People are saying

"This grocery store has high-quality produce and an amazing deli."

"I found amazing deals at their wine bar."

"The salad bar is kept fresh and tidy."

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.

25
Yakamoz Craft Ramen image 1
Asian restaurant

Cozy spot feels like home with unique decor and a kitchen view. Salads shine with refreshing dressings and bold flavors like duck. Intimate vibe suits quiet meals with friends or solo visits.

Salads feature refreshing dressings and flavorful ingredients like duck. Steak salad includes a small amount of beef, which may not be enough to balance the greens.

People are saying

"The duck ramen broth was delicious and not greasy."

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and artful."

"The steak salad doesn't have enough beef."

Good to know

1

Customers who wait over an hour receive vouchers for less busy times.

2

The restaurant is small, so plan ahead for seating arrangements.

3

Parking can be full on weekends, especially during lunch hours.

26
The Cut Handcrafted Burgers image 1
American restaurant

Modern, rustic space offers open patio and cozy indoor booths for a lively vibe. Salads shine with fresh strawberries and a delicate roasted beets option. Perfect for singles or groups seeking casual comfort and upscale burger energy.

Salads feature whole ingredients like fresh strawberries and blueberries. Options include a delicate roasted beets salad and a smaller portion Caesar salad that works well as a side.

People are saying

"The food here is great and yummy."

"I found the burgers here to be exceptional and bold."

"The salads here are worth giving a shot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has an amazing happy hour from Monday to Friday between 2 and 6 pm.

2

Happy hour deals include discounted appetizers and drinks.

3

Brunch is served on weekends with a limited menu.

27
Wagyu Meat & Grill image 1

Affordable bowls serve massive portions of smoky grilled wagyu and flavorful salmon. Kale salad shines with a distinctive dressing often paired with salmon. Food arrives fast, within five minutes, making it a great spot for quick, hearty meals.

Kale salad features a distinctive dressing that is sold separately. It often comes paired with salmon or as part of combo plates, though some swaps like cabbage or mac salad are common.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing and very tasty."

"I loved the mac salad with the sweet savory proteins."

"The Wagyu beef bowl with coleslaw and avocado was so good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 5 PM on weekdays with specific entrees.

2

Expect large portions, especially of rice, for a decent price.

3

Food is prepared within 5 minutes of placing the order.

28
Ever After Tea Room & Eatery image 1

Bright, spacious interior with whimsical decor sets a lively, Parisian café vibe. Salads highlight kale and black rice, often paired with fruit or meats. Pet-friendly outdoor seating adds charm, while semi-self-service kiosks keep ordering quick and easy.

Salads feature kale prominently, often paired with black rice and fruit. Options include a kale and fruit salad served with black rice and a kale salad alongside beef steak or chicken plates.

People are saying

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

"The desserts here are visually stunning and heavenly."

"The kale salad here is really good with chicken."

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.

29
HiroNori Craft Ramen image 1

Narrow space with tight seating creates a loud, fast vibe. Younger crowd fills the room with minimalist wood accents and a vertical garden. Freshness shines in the Cucumber Crab Salad, paired with warm seaweed for texture contrast.

Freshness stands out with the poke and salad offering crisp, clean flavors. The Cucumber Crab Salad serves as a refreshing starter, paired with a side salad dressed lightly and topped with shaved white garnish. Warm seaweed adds a chewy texture that contrasts well with the cold elements.

People are saying

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

"The vegan ramen here is delicious, with a creamy broth and fresh toppings."

"The tonkotsu ramen broth was savory 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.

30
Luna Grill University Center image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot offers a calm atmosphere with fresh salads like the peach salad. Outdoor seating by a fountain adds to the relaxing vibe. Staff bring an uplifting energy that makes dining here a chill experience.

Salads feature fresh ingredients that taste like they were just picked. The peach salad stands out as a delicious option.

People are saying

"The food here is great, thanks to helpful recommendations."

"The kids meals here are a hit, my son loved the chicken kabob."

"I loved the fresh salads here, especially the peach one."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free most weeknights.

2

The restaurant is very clean.

3

Ordering through the app is easy.

Discover more

Irvine, California

Area guide
Loading Map...