23 Best Cocktail Bars in Irvine

Red Lantern Bar Cocktail Bar • $$
6000 Scholarship, Irvine

“I was invited to their soft opening and went last night with a few friends. It's a new late night spot with small bites and drinks. Customer service was on point! Ron does an amazing job catering to clientele and providing great hospitality. He is truly interested in making sure customers are happy and open to ideas for any improvements! Drinks were good and strong. We had the Japanese old fashioned and lychee martini. Best part was it was buy one get one free! My favorite food was the wagyu and blue crab hand roll. It was a cool concept, they did a "reverse" hand roll and I especially loved that part because the nori was nice and crispy. Very innovative! Can't wait to return and try more of the menu items. They are going to incorporate bar food in the future and can't wait to see how it comes along. Also, they had good music selection!!!!“

5 Superb2 Reviews
Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar Cocktail Bar • $$$
7905 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Alitas De Pollo Chicken Wings
Hive and Honey Wings
Bees Knees Cocktail
Sweet Potato Fries
H&H Beef Sliders
H&Hold Fashioned
Hummus and Pita
Moroccan Cigars
Cinnamon Roll
French Fries

“Feels like you’re in a NY loft bar and privileged to have the only rooftop view of south Orange County. Bartenders are top notch and make you feel welcome. Food is well planned with a cultured menu emphasizing the Asian diversity of the area. I cannot get enough of the calamari and the Spectrum Sunset cocktail. Also, a lovely hostess named Sasha greets you upon arrival which just sets the mood.“

3.5 Good151 Reviews
Andrei's Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails American • $$$
2607 Main St, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Flourless Chocolate Cheesecake
Scottish Salmon Salad
Black Angus Egg Rolls
Salmon Fish Tacos
Market Fish Tacos
Ahi Tuna Tartare
Roasted Chicken
Lamb Burger
Beef Salad
Salads

“I love this place…!!! Been coming here for many years…!!! Never disappoints… tasting menu is a must try at least once… you may try it again and again and never get the same thing… but ALWAYS good…!!!“

4.6 Superb279 Reviews
Aria Kitchen Mexican • $$
2636 Dupont Dr, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Churros & Cinnamon Ice Cream
Chicken Shish Kabob Plate
Empanada De Carne Asada
Chicken Kebab Platter
Ghorme Sabzi Burrito
Chicken Kabob Plate
Fish Tacos De Bobby
Chips and Salsa
Chicken Fajitas
Beef Birria Taco

“Very few places are as "on task" as these guys. If you're looking for executable innovation this might be your place.“

4.4 Superb144 Reviews
NEP Cafe Cafe • $$
14346 Culver Dr, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Szechuan Spicy Noodles with Dumplings
Spicy Noodles and Dumplings
Banh MI Chao - Filet Mignon
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Beef Tongue Fried Rice
Banh MI Chao - Bo Kho
Vietnamese Pate Mousse
Banana Bread Pudding
Fish Garlic Noodle
Bone Marrow Toast

“The food was so good. Our waiter was very helpful and accommodating. The restaurant had a really good vibe. We celebrated my husband's birthday the other day and they gave a free dessert because one of our dishes for my son came late. Really didn't expect it but the waiter was kind enough to give it to us. So thank you! Reason why I gave a 4 when the food itself deserved a 5 was because the hostess at the front wasn't very welcoming. It felt frosty and put on and every time she came to our table it was like this. Anyways, despite that, we will be back.“

4.4 Superb318 Reviews
Oliver's Trattoria Italian • $$
6511 Quail Hill Pkwy, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Beef Carpaccio with Black Truffles
Chitarra Pomodoro & Burrata
Pappardelle Al Cinghiale
Tonnarelli Ai Crostacei
Panna Cotta with Figs
Alaskan Wild Halibut
Spaghetti Carbonara
Lasagna Bolognese
Lasagna Classica
Roasted Potatoes

“The restaurant also has complimentary bread 🥖 with olive oil.“

4.4 Superb235 Reviews
Bacchus Bar and Bistro Wine Bar • $$
6735 Quail Hill Pkwy, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Fried Goat Cheese Balls
Sautéed Broccolini
Braised Short Ribs
Quinoa Beet Salad
Prosciutto & Fig
Ahi Tuna Tartare
Chicken Marsala
Lamb Lollipops
Pork Lollipops
Truffle Fries

“Went to Cozy Pine for date night and we enjoyed it. Really feels like you are in a different place, inside a restaurant. Decor, cocktails and food were all great. Definitively worth stopping in.
Food is mostly “snacky” compared to Bacchus outside. We did not have a reservation and we’re still able to get seated, likely because we arrived early in the evening.“

4.6 Superb63 Reviews
Center Hub at Trade Bar • $$
2222 Michelson Dr # 220, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

A Twist on a Whiskey Sour
Fish

“Stopped here before my gfs departing flight and it was an amazing experience. The atmosphere was wonderful, the drinks were stiff and reasonably priced, and our bartender (Tucker) was the kindest and most efficient bartender I’ve ever had in my life. From now on, this place will be a mandatory go-to before flying out of SNA.“

4.8 Superb34 Reviews
Haven Point Provisions & Spirits American • $$$
17941 Von Karman Ave, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

American Beef Wagyu Sliders
Focaccia Bread Basket
mt Fuji Fries

“The hotel is clean and hygienic. Quiet on vacation. Like🥰🥰“

4.7 Superb24 Reviews
The Terrace at Rancho San Joaquin American • $$
One Ethel Coplen Way, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Philly Cheese Steak
Chicken and Waffles
Kimchi Fried Rice
Fish and Chips
Chicken Wings
Seafood Ramen
French Toast
Onion Soup
Nachos

“We had a wonderful experience dining here! Our server, Nia, was incredibly friendly and welcoming, which made the evening even more enjoyable. The portions were generous, and every sandwich we tried was absolutely amazing, full of flavor and beautifully prepared. Highly recommend!“

4.6 Superb31 Reviews
Angelina's Pizzeria Napoletana Pizza Takeaway • $$
8573 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Calamari Fritti with Grilled Lemon Tartar Sauce Spicy Pomodoro Sauce
Prosciutto with Arugula Added
Pappardelle Al Cinghiale
Grilled Shrimp Pomodorini
Fettuccine Bolognese
Margherita Doc Pizza
The Angelina Pizza
Caprese Al Pesto
Margherita Pizza
Calabrese Pizza

“Delicious food friendly staff best pizza and affogato I have ever had. Looking forward to the opening of the Ocean Ranch Restaurant!“

4.1 Good141 Reviews
ROL Hand Roll Bar - Irvine Sushi • $$
14370 Culver Dr Suite 2G, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Chili Garlic Edamame
Unagi Roll
Ponzu Sauce

“The taste of fresh fish with warm rice and crispy nori is unbelievable! If you want to try something different from hand rolls, try cryspy rice tartar, it's good. And my own lifehack for those taking care of calorie intake: I eat miso soup before my meal so I'm not that hungry anymore. Green tea is also a great drink because of its health benefits. Sometimes you have to wait for about a half of an hour to be seated, I believe you can check in on the website prior to arrival.“

4.4 Superb44 Reviews
Evolve Cafe Sushi Bar • $$
1980 Main St, Irvine

“Had a most excellent Italian cappuccino with macadamia nut milk. Espresso was so smooth - just perfect. Thanks for the ❤️ you put into your shop.“

4.2 Good5 Reviews
Kalbi Social Club Cocktail Bar • $$$
529 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Bulgogi Japchae

“Made a reservation same day for dinner and everything was really good - I live in Ktown in LA and this place has better meat quality than most of the korean KBBQ places in LA. I would come back again!

Our server Ray/Roy was so friendly and nice to us. Grilled the meats perfectly. Man this place is good“

4.1 Good31 Reviews
The Goldfinch Restaurant American • $$
2000 Main St Suite 200, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Goat Cheese Stuffed Artichoke Flowers
Vanilla Bean French Toast
Raspberry Chocolate Cake
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Furikake Crusted Seabass
The Golden Finch Burger
Prime Rib Dip Sandwich
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Brussels Sprouts App
Grilled Broccolini

“Great food, highly recommend the fried chicken. Servers are fantastic.“

4.2 Good215 Reviews
16

Y.N.K

Y.N.K Bubble Tea • $$
18000 Von Karman Ave, Irvine

“Tucked inside the Irvine Marriott, YNK Speakeasy is a cozy, stylish hideaway that feels more like an upscale living room than a bar. I came with five friends to celebrate my birthday, and we ordered just about everything: Smoked Old Fashioned ($21), Cactus Club ($18), Chakai Kyushikis ($27!), Momoe ($27!), Airbuzz ($18), Whiskey Sour ($18), and Smoke & Mirrors ($18). We also grabbed churro bites and a cookie skillet, which were tasty finger food options.

The drinks? Fantastic. Creative, well-balanced, and worth the hype. But with some cocktails priced at $27, the prices are on the steeper side, even for Orange County. That makes YNK a “special occasion” stop, not your regular Friday night spot.

The vibe is intimate, with comfy couches and high-tops, and the staff was warm and welcoming. One even shared that the menu rotates every few months, which is reason enough to return.

✅ Pro tip: Make a reservation for evening hours.
✅ Parking is paid, but the bar validates—bless them.

Overall, I’m thrilled this speakeasy opened, especially after the last one, which was in the backroom of their hotel kitchen, seems to have closed shop. While the price point keeps it from being a regular hangout, it’s perfect for a treat-yourself night. Cheers, YNK—you’re bougie, but I like you.“

4.1 Good67 Reviews
Hanshin Pocha Irvine Korean • $$
6725 Quail Hill Pkwy, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

게살계란탕 Gesal-Gyeran Tang
Hanshin Dakbal Spicy Chicken Feet
Pork Mozzarella Cheese Fondue
Whole Fried Chicken
Spicy Mussel Soup
Kimchi Jeongol
DIY Rice Ball
Oden-Tang
Jjigae

“Its been about 2 years since I went here and now they have so much more amazing dishes on their menu. I tried their new arrival dishes such as their bulgogi fries which were crispy with delicious meat. Would have wished for a different type of cheese, but not mad about it! Their stir fried udon was al dente, which I loved and their korean fried chicken had a nice crunch. The service was fantastic and had a dim interior which is great for a late night group gathering.“

4 Good42 Reviews
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations American • $$
18169 Von Karman Ave, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Bosscat Short Rib Grilled Cheese
Fruity Pebbles French Toast
Bosscat House Old Fashioned
Bosscat Burger Chef's Way
Pulled Pork Hush Puppies
Avocado Farm Chop Salad
Short Rib Chilaquiles
Hour Beef Short Rib
Skillet Sweet Potato
Bosscats Tater Tots

“Great Food and atmosphere! Mosic was our server and he was awesome. Asked what we were into for both food and cocktails and his recommendations were spot on. The Panama Prescription was divine and I loved the shrimp and grits. My husband had the 12 hour short rib and I can’t tell you which was better. We will be back with friends!“

4.1 Good546 Reviews
North Italia Italian • $$
2957 Michelson Dr, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Pesto with Pine Nuts
Italian Meatballs Appetizer
Black Mediterranean Mussels
White Truffle Garlic Bread
Bolognese House Specialty
Braised Short Rib Lumache
Arugula & Roasted Fennel
Bombolini Italian Donuts
Chicken Parmesan Dinner
Prosciutto Bruschetta

“Great experience with excellent food! Always good!“

4.1 Good1019 Reviews
Puesto Park Place Irvine Mexican • $$
3311 Michelson Dr, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Complimentary Chips and Salsa
Chips \u0026 Molcajete Salsa
Passionfruit Shrimp Ceviche
Chips & Molcajete Salsa
Puesto Perfect Guacamole
Filet Mignon Tacos
Classic Guacamole
1 2 Off All Tacos
Taco of the Month
Chicken Al Pastor

“I ordered the Baja fish tacos and the Watermelon Margarita. The tacos were amazing and the Watermelon Margarita was one of the best I have ever had! 😎“

4 Good441 Reviews
Puesto Los Olivos Irvine Mexican • $$
8577 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Passionfruit & Mango Shrimp Ceviche
Jidori Chicken Al Pastor Tacos
Chips \u0026 Molcajete Salsa
Passionfruit Shrimp Ceviche
Puesto Perfect Guacamole
Chips & Molcajete Salsa
Tamarindo Shrimp Taco
Short Rib Quesabirria
Tres Leches De Cafe
Potatoes Taquitos

“Amazing service and food was great!!“

3.9 Good485 Reviews
22

Habana

Habana Cuban • $$
708 Spectrum Center Dr Suite 708, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Pollo Frito Al Mojo Y Cha Cha Cha
Entrada de Plátano Frito
Vegan Ropa Vieja Slider
Ropa Vieja with Maduros
Half Roasted Chicken
Salmon a La Parrilla
The Taste of Habana
Vegetable Empanadas
Paella a La Habana
Habana Crab Cakes

“We went to Habana for dinner when we went to OC to visit family. The place was beautiful and ambience classy. The food and drinks were wonderful! My favorite was the pepper shrimp dish. Absolutely awesome! Also, try the flan — you wouldn’t want to share it even if you were so full from your entree already.“

3.9 Good1035 Reviews
Brio Italian Grille Italian • $$
774 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine

Customers` Favorites

Lobster \u0026 Shrimp Fettuccine
Lobster & Shrimp Fettuccine
Shrimp & Lobster Fettuccine
Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Brio
Spinach & Artichoke Dip
Calamari Fritto Misto
Gorgonzola Lamb Chops
Mezza Beef Carpaccio
Grilled Salmon Fresca
Brio Chopped Salad

“Nice place with friendly staff, large bar is you don’t want to be seated.. Order came up fast..“

3.3 Good441 Reviews