22 Best Cocktail Bars in Irvine

“Dj was playing some great early 00's R&B. Had ceviche, and the game changer was the hot honey sweet potato fries with blue cheese! I wish they were open later for a Saturday night (close at 12) but definitely a unique spot in Orange County.“

“It's worth your while to come and experience it.“

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

“The is was our second trip to NEP and was as good as the first! Both the shrimp salad app and the squid and mango salad were so well balanced and tasty. The garlic noodles and shaking beef were sooo good. Nothing was too spicy but really flavorful. The shaking beef was so good we ordered another one! The cocktail that night was a raspberry sour and too was perfectly prepared. For a casual restaurant, these guys really put out the effort. Oh, and the sticky rice/mango desert was the topper. Not too sweet and the mango was perfect! Will be back sooner than later. Well done NEP.“

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

“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.“

“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.“

“We got the out of sight out or mind or someone had a late night, service. Our server was nice but not really present. Sat outside and there were 3 other tables that were already eating. Not busy, but took 15+ min to get a menu and another 20 min to order. The food was great & will give it another try.“

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

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

“Omg! One of the best hand roll spots. My boyfriend and I were craving hand rolls after our San Diego trip and stumbled upon this place.

It's a cute small restaurant bar seating only in a U shape so be prepared for a wait but it's worth it!

Amazing customer service, shout out to (maybe the manager?) I asked if we can take our drink to go and she filled the to go cup partially to make sure we had a full cup to go.

The rolls were amazing, amazing flavors, everything was fresh. The uni toro roll was definitely my favorite. The uni was so delicious, and melts in your mouth.

The only downside if I had to give one is they don't substitute or make modifications based on allergies. I had said I was allergic to shiitake mushrooms because one of the rolls in the high roller set had it, but they can't modify. I still did the high roller and just took out the shiitakes. Other than that everything was great.“

“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!“

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

“Spicy chicken feet is at the right level of spiciness. They don’t have boneless option, so you have to do your work. And if you decided to order spicy chicken feet, order with diy rice ball. Not because it’s fiery hot, but the portion of one order is def not enough for two people. So if you are hungry, combo menu will be the best. Me and my friend got combo A, and we got enough of various dishes ( chicken feet+diy rice ball+steamed egg+fried chicken). Also this place didn’t seemed to be overly busy even in the Friday night. No need for reservation.“

“We ordered the Kalbi Starter Set and it was honestly the perfect portion. It’s $59 per person and comes with two signature cuts — the 48-hour aged center-cut kalbi was super tender and flavorful, and the American Wagyu brisket was rich but balanced. Everything is cooked tableside, which makes the experience feel elevated and stress-free.

The quality of the meat really stands out, and the shaken kimchi and sides made the meal even better. The space is modern, not overly smoky, and great for a date night or dinner with friends at the Spectrum.

Solid food, great vibes, and definitely worth coming back for.“

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

“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.“

“Great experience with excellent food! Always good!“

“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! 😎“

“Amazing service and food was great!!“

“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.“

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