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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Irvine

Authentic food

Made for those who demand both the substance of a hearty meal and the integrity of traditional preparation methods.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse image 1
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse image 2
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse image 3
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Spacious, well-lit Brazilian steakhouse with tasteful decor and exceptional atmosphere. Meat service includes tableside presentations and a showy cocktail experience featuring flaming drinks. Offers a great salad bar and screens sports games, creating a lively yet elegant dining environment.

Delivers an authentic Brazilian steakhouse experience with top-quality food and excellent service in a great atmosphere.

Food features authentic Brazilian steakhouse flavors with top-quality dishes served in generous portions. Service is consistently excellent and attentive, complementing a great dining atmosphere.

People are saying

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

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

"I experienced authentic Brazilian BBQ, not the watered-down version."

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.

02
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.

Super authentic Sichuan hot pot shines with a very authentic hot pot base and flavor. Personalized service complements the genuine taste of the food.

Hot pot dishes stand out with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. The food consistently pairs well with excellent service for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"This place is super kid friendly with gifts and games for kids."

"I found the hot pot broth to be so authentic."

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.

03
Super Yummy 远山少年 image 1

Small, unassuming wok restaurant with a lively atmosphere and cozy, welcoming vibe. Offers authentic Chinese street food with a wide selection of rich, spicy dishes including grilled fish and mala tang. Popular spot for late-night dining, open until 3am.

Northern style dumplings and soup dumplings offer rich, authentic flavors. Fish hot pot and Chinese street food bring comforting and exciting tastes with high quality.

Authentic Chinese food offers comforting and exciting flavors with generous portions. The dishes deliver a high quality taste that feels like an experience, with aromas and steam adding to the appeal.

People are saying

"The authentic Chinese food here has comforting and exciting flavors."

"The grilled fish here is so tender and flavorful."

"The grilled fish here is amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Super Yummy 远山少年 is open until 3am, allowing for late-night snacks.

2

They charge $5.99 for 8 quail eggs.

3

Expect a variety of authentic Chinese dishes.

04
Mito's Doner Express image 1
Doner kebab restaurant

Small, cozy doner kebab spot inside a relaxed market hall offers a casual and inviting atmosphere with 24-hour service. The place fills with people seeking authentic Turkish flavors and generous portions at fair prices. It stands out for juicy kabobs and a laid-back vibe ideal for quick or easy meals.

Doner kebab features authentic spices and fresh bread that capture the true European wrap experience. Every bite delivers a savory, fresh taste that stands out.

Food features juicy beef Döner and authentic Turkish flavors with a standout cacik sauce. Service stays friendly and food arrives well-packaged for delivery.

People are saying

"This late night spot has delicious, fresh food and tasty doner."

"This food, especially the beef döner wrap, is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The doner kebab here is super authentic, just like back in Europe."

Good to know

1

Mito's Doner Express is open 24 hours.

2

The ordering process is convenient with huge self-service tablets.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

05
Qin West Noodle image 1
Noodle shop

Small noodle shop with authentic Chinese flavors and affordable prices offers both indoor and outdoor seating in a simple setting. Atmosphere ranges from calm and relaxed when not crowded to cluttered and unwelcoming at busy times. Known for traditional northern Chinese dishes and careful to-go packaging that keeps noodles fresh.

Noodles and soups deliver authentic northwestern Chinese flavors with dishes like liangpi and lamb paomo standing out. The food stays fresh and true to traditional Shanxi cuisine.

Food features authentic northwest Chinese cuisine with large portions and good ingredients. Delivery is very fast and the quality stays consistent across visits.

People are saying

"I loved their Guilin soup; it had a perfect balance of flavors."

"I found the Chinese noodles here to be very authentic."

"I thought the food here was great and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

For to-go orders, they separate the noodle and broth so the noodle doesn’t get soggy.

2

Parking is very limited with a 30-minute time limit.

3

There was a free parking structure nearby.

06
949 Grill Lounge image 1

Restaurant combines rustic and industrial design with an open kitchen where chefs cook over flames, creating a stylish and vibrant atmosphere. The space feels cozy yet lively, often getting noisy during peak hours, suited for casual dinners and social gatherings. Guests enjoy authentic Chinese barbecue skewers with bold seasoning and fresh ingredients.

Fresh frog with shiso stands out with perfect cooking and authentic flavor. Skewers feature generous seasoning of cumin, chili powder, and other spices, delivering true northeastern Chinese barbecue taste.

Authentic Chinese cuisine shines with bold flavors and substantial portions. The spicy bullfrog stands out among the fresh, flavorful dishes served quickly in a casual setting.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with generous portions."

"The grilled skewers here are perfectly seasoned and smoky."

"The authentic Chinese skewers are generously seasoned and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to 30 minutes in front of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of dishes including skewers served after 5 pm.

3

Prices are reasonable considering the portion sizes and food quality.

07
Youngdabang image 1
Korean restaurant

Small, clean Korean restaurant with a classic vibe and modern interior. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy with K-pop music playing softly. Seating is tight but the space feels inviting for casual meals.

Food captures authentic Korean street food flavor with a focus on comfort food. Dishes consistently deliver authentic taste true to Korean roots.

Kimbap stands out with authentic Korean soul food flavors. Tteokbokki and perfectly cooked fried food offer unique tastes similar to those found in Korea.

People are saying

"I loved the Korean food, especially the tteokbokki and kimbap."

"I found the food here to be delicious and served hot."

"I love the authentic Korean street food flavor here."

Good to know

1

They don't take cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

Parking can be tricky, but there is ample space on weekends.

3

It operates like a fast-food place; order and pay upfront.

08
Show Hotpot秀海福麻辣烫 image 1

Small food court setting offers spacious seating and a quiet, low-key atmosphere. Hotpot features a wide variety of fresh ingredients and authentic, flavorful soup bases. Free self-pour water and utensils add convenience to the experience.

Malatang here delivers authentic Chinese spicy hot pot flavors that are both tasty and comforting. The dishes consistently hit the mark for genuine Malatang taste.

Food features amazing quality and delicious flavors. Packaging keeps dishes hot and fresh.

People are saying

"I found the soup base to be really delicious and fragrant."

"I thought the food here was absolutely delicious."

"I found the mala hotpot to be authentic and really hit the spot."

Good to know

1

The hot pot costs $13.99 per pound.

2

They open really late, until almost midnight.

3

Expect a variety of ingredients to customize your hotpot.

09
YGF Malatang image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright, informal setting inside a food court-like space offers a build-your-own-bowl concept with diverse food selection and authentic mala tang flavors. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with a clean, comfortable environment. Late-night hours and easy parking add to its accessibility.

Flavors capture the essence of Sichuan-style hot pot with a delicious and authentic soup base. The food offers a true taste of home for anyone craving authentic Malatang.

Food stays fresh and clean with no submersion in water, keeping portions balanced. The dishes offer authentic Chinese flavors and work well for late-night dining.

People are saying

"I loved building my own customizable Chinese hot pot with fresh ingredients."

"I found the food here to be fresh, delicious, and authentic."

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

Good to know

1

YGF Malatang has an underground garage for easier parking.

2

The price is $14.99 per pound based on weight.

3

Reservations are not required, but it's best to avoid peak meal times.

10
Picante Martin's Mexican Restaurant (We're a Ghost Kitchen - Inside of "Smart Kitchens") image 1

Ghost kitchen setup offers authentic Mexican food with thoughtful packaging and crispy chips. Atmosphere feels like grandma's house, creating a cozy vibe despite minimal signage. Food arrives quickly with reasonable prices and generous portions.

Food offers fresh ingredients and authentic Mexican flavors. Dishes consistently deliver delicious, genuine taste.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with fresh ingredients and great quality. Options include tacos and rice, with consistent praise for taste and value.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"I found the food to be delicious and authentic."

"I found the food to be delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

To find the restaurant, look for the 'Picante Martin' sign and press the ring button.

2

Picante Martin's operates as a ghost kitchen, which may confuse first-time visitors.

3

Lunch specials are reasonably priced and offer a lot of food.

11
Noodle Nest 和悦 (formerly Dun Huang) image 1

Spacious Chinese restaurant with clean, modern decor and an open kitchen showcasing hand-pulled noodles. Bright and inviting atmosphere pairs with thoughtful amenities like iPad ordering and noodle-cutting scissors. Music adds to a casual, welcoming vibe suitable for relaxed meals.

Hand-pulled noodles and Northwest Chinese cuisine deliver a very authentic taste. Signature dishes like big plate chicken and siu mai match flavors found in China.

Food features fresh ingredients and chewy noodles with a focus on authentic Chinese ramen. Dishes consistently deliver great taste and excellent quality.

People are saying

"The noodles here are so authentic and flavorful."

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

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and delicious."

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.

12
Tuk Tuk Thai Street Food image 1

Outdoor food court setting offers casual vibes with sun shade but no rain cover. Seating is clean and comfortable, suited for quick meals near busy businesses. The atmosphere stays cool and relaxed, surrounded by various food stalls.

Offers authentic Thai street food with a fresh and delicious taste. The fried rice stands out as a genuine example of Thai cuisine.

Authentic Thai flavors shine in dishes like Pad See Ew and drunken noodles. The food stays consistently fresh and delicious, with chicken fried rice standing out as a solid choice.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be super delicious and fresh."

"The Thai food here is spicy and has great flavor."

"The Thai street food here is so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge during lunch hours in this plaza.

2

Expect the restaurant to get busy during lunch, so plan accordingly.

3

The menu is in Thai, which may be difficult to pronounce.

13
Bao Chick image 1
Chicken restaurant

Food hall setting offers shared seating with a modern, casual vibe and lively atmosphere. The spot features high-quality fried chicken and unique dishes like soup dumplings and lamb soup. It attracts diners looking for flavorful comfort food in a relaxed environment.

Xiaolongbao stands out with its authentic pork filling and delicate skin. Fresh soybean milk complements the meal, creating a genuine and human experience.

Food here offers delicious comfort with a great variety. Service stands out, especially near closing time, with generous portions and attentive staff.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is so crispy and juicy."

"The food here is so good, especially the chicken."

"I found the xiaolongbao to be authentic and juicy with soup."

Good to know

1

Free 90-minute parking is available near the food hall.

2

Expect a wait time of about 24 minutes during peak hours.

3

Prices for meals range from $8 to $9 for generous portions.

14
Yoo's place image 1
Korean restaurant

Casual Korean restaurant with a homey atmosphere and bright fluorescent lighting. Offers unlimited side dishes and complimentary bone broth served in stainless steel tumblers. Busy during lunchtime, it attracts those seeking authentic Korean flavors in a simple, comfortable setting.

Food matches what you'd find in Korea with authentic Korean soups and stews. Recipes come from a mom and pop kitchen, offering home style Korean cooking that feels genuine and traditional.

Food here stands out for its excellent quality and perfect portion sizes. Korean dishes come with reasonable prices and consistently deliver great taste.

People are saying

"The home-style Korean food here is so delicious and fresh."

"The Korean food here is so authentic and delicious."

"I found the Korean food here to be truly authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Yoo's place is very busy during lunchtime, expect longer wait times.

2

The menu at Yoo's place is extensive, featuring many popular Korean dishes.

3

Expect to pay a bit more, as some find the food expensive for the portions.

15
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.

Sophisticated and authentic vibes come through in every dish. The salad features an authentic dressing and the flavors stay true to Iranian roots without dilution.

Mexican–Persian fusion cuisine blends bold flavors with warm, home-style care in every dish. Drinks and food come full of flavor, supported by excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The atmosphere here is so classy and elegant."

"The food here is delicious and feels made with tradition."

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.

16
Yigah Restaurant image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant offers huge portions and authentic flavors with a rotating banchan selection that ranges from average to excellent. The space feels clean and open, attracting crowds during lunch and dinner hours. Prices remain affordable, providing great value compared to similar places.

Packed with Korean diners, the spot serves authentic Korean dishes and soul food that reflect traditional flavors.

Food features authentic Korean dishes with fresh, tasty side dishes offered in generous portions. Prices stay reasonable, with meals like Donkatsu providing great value for the amount served.

People are saying

"The food portions here are pretty big; I ate leftovers for two days."

"Their kimchi is some of the best I've tasted in a restaurant."

"I loved the authentic Korean food here."

Good to know

1

Expect large portion sizes; one dish can easily serve two people.

2

The price of $22.99 for the Donkatsu offers great value for the amount of food.

3

Parking can be difficult on weekends, so arrive early.

17
I Spa image 1

Korean-style jjimjilbang features temperature-controlled rooms with natural elements like wood, salt, and clay, plus a cold room. Spacious common areas offer heated floors and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere with separate men’s, women’s, and family sections. Amenities include saunas, hot tubs, and massage services in a well-maintained, authentic setting.

Well-designed Korean-style jjimjilbang offers a comfortable and authentic spa experience. The food matches the genuine Korean vibe, making it a solid spot to relax and unwind.

A kitchen inside serves delicious Korean cuisine with every dish coming out perfect. The food consistently impresses with great service alongside it.

People are saying

"I found the saunas and salt room perfect for relieving stress."

"I was surprised by how good the food here is."

"It's an authentic Korean spa experience with traditional features."

Good to know

1

Entry cost is $35 at I Spa.

2

The spa is especially busy between 12 and 1:30 PM.

3

Beverages inside are on the pricey side, with a regular bottled drink costing around $5.

18
Lynda's African Delicacies image 1
African restaurant

Outdoor communal seating creates a pleasant eating area despite an outdated, hot, and stuffy interior. The atmosphere feels inviting but the space lacks indoor options. The vibe suits those seeking authentic West African cuisine with a variety of vegetarian dishes.

Flavors come through as authentic, bold, and freshly made with care. Every bite tastes like home-cooked Nigerian food that transports you back to the hometown.

Authentic Nigerian and West African dishes come with care and heart. The food offers a cultural experience and is very affordable for the quality served.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful, it tastes like home."

"The food here is so authentic, it tastes like home."

"I thought the Oxtail was delicious and highly recommend it."

Good to know

1

Free food and drinks were offered during the grand opening event.

2

The restaurant offers many vegetarian and vegan options.

3

Prices are affordable for the quality of food provided.

19
Tim Ho Wan image 1
Dim sum restaurant

Dim sum restaurant features a modern, lush interior blending Hong Kong, Chinese, and Singapore influences with an Orange County vibe. Atmosphere feels authentic and comfortable, though it can be loud and rushed during busy times. Dim sum offerings are highly authentic and well-regarded for quality and taste.

Juicy dumplings and seasoned siu mai deliver a very authentic Hong Kong dim sum experience. The Cantonese cuisine tastes true to its roots, matched by an atmosphere that feels genuinely authentic.

Food features freshness and authenticity with dishes that are fragrant and flavorful. The baked BBQ pork buns stand out as a signature item with a rich taste.

People are saying

"I loved the dim sum; it's the best I've had in the US."

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The dim sum here is so authentic and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers reduced prices on most items.

2

The restaurant doesn't get busy until around 6 PM on Saturdays.

3

Ordering via QR code speeds up the process.

20
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 delivers a rich, flavorful taste that feels truly authentic. The pork bowl offers a juicy-meaty experience that matches traditional Japanese flavors.

Shoyu ramen stands out with rich flavor and large portions. Crispy chicken karaage and Tonkotsu ramen complement the menu. Food arrives quickly and looks appealing.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here to be excellent."

"I found the ramen here to be truly authentic and rich."

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.

21
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.

Curry here features authentic Japanese flavors with a taste close to Southeast Asian style. Dishes include potatoes, onions, and carrots that keep the curry true to its roots.

Food features consistently great quality and spot-on flavors. Every dish shows top-notch preparation and is worth the wait.

People are saying

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

"The food here is high quality, fresh, and delicious."

"I loved the rich, savory Japanese curry here."

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.

22
Punjabi Tandoor -Irvine image 1
Punjabi restaurant

Small restaurant inside a strip mall food court offers authentic Punjabi cuisine with rich, flavorful curries and freshly baked naan. Atmosphere is welcoming and casual, making it a solid spot for lunch. Known for best Saag Paneer in the area, it stands out despite modest portions and higher prices.

Curries deliver authentic Indian flavors with clear attention to traditional recipes. The taste stands out as genuinely Punjabi and true to its roots.

Food comes out hot and spicy with perfectly cooked dishes. Portions are generous, offering great flavor and value especially in Daal and Tikka.

People are saying

"The naan here is freshly baked and wonderfully soft."

"The food here is fresh, authentic, and full of flavor."

"I found the authentic Indian curries to be full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Lunch combo is priced at $12.99 plus tax.

2

The meal for two provides enough food for three people.

3

They have recently decreased items in their combo packs.

23
Chef Chuan image 1
Chinese restaurant

Large, clean space with few people creates a quiet atmosphere. Strong, authentic Sichuan flavors cater to fans of spicy and offal dishes, often paired with rice. Language barriers and simple service reflect a straightforward, authentic Chinese dining experience.

Sichuan dishes here deliver authentic flavors with a clear Szechuan style influence. Speaking Chinese enhances both the food and service experience.

Authentic Szechuan style dishes feature fresh peppers and substantial shredded pork with a spicy kick. Portions come large, and the food offers a taste true to the old country, with options to adjust spice levels.

People are saying

"I found the Sichuan food here to be really authentic."

"The spicy boiled fish is a must-try dish."

"I found the Szechuan food here to be really authentic."

Good to know

1

The average meal cost is around $34 per person.

2

Rice bowls are available for a quick lunch option.

3

Expect a language barrier; speaking Chinese may enhance your experience.

24
House of Kabob image 1
Persian restaurant

Small, intimate space with close tables and homely feel creates a casual, cozy atmosphere. Stunning fruit station adds a unique decorative touch. Known for high-quality Persian kabobs with distinctive flavors and generous portions ideal for sharing.

Dishes taste homemade and carry authentic flavor throughout. Every item, from appetizers to mains, is thoughtfully prepared and true to tradition.

Food features fresh ingredients and a large array of tasteful dishes. Kabobs stand out as delicious and well-prepared with good quality at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, rich, and delicious."

"I found the saffron kebab to be one of the best I've ever had."

"The authentic Persian food here is rich, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Dinner menu is served all day on weekends, in addition to the lunch menu.

2

Expect high prices, with two kabob dishes costing around $65.

3

A $3 upcharge applies for adding salad to your plate.

25
El Torito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Taco bar setup and fresh guacamole stand out in a space with outdated decor and dim lighting. Atmosphere feels family-friendly but can be uneven, with some areas too dark for dining. Music plays softly, and a small patio offers an alternative seating option.

Mexican food here shows a mix of authentic and less authentic flavors. Some dishes deliver the historic taste expected, while others lack the authentic flavor typical of traditional recipes.

Food stands out for its amazing quality and exceptional taste. Service complements the dining with great energy and attentiveness.

People are saying

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

"The Brunch service was so attentive, it felt like I was the only one there."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily until 9 pm with great drink deals.

2

Taco Tuesday offers special menu items from 4-9 pm.

3

Reservations are recommended for holiday buffets.

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Irvine Business Complex, Irvine

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