22 Best Cocktail Bars in Irvine

“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.“

“Loved everything about this place- wait staff was great, and food was delicious. Loved all the colors, flavors and textures of the dishes. We had two kids with us (under the age of 8), so smart to get their food first, and they loved the crayons and coloring book. I got the Beef Belly Bowl and Calamansi White Peach NA drink. So good!“

“This is my go to place afterwork with my colleagues! We love the food, ambience and to top it off , the owner is a Dodger fan so he always has the game on. They have a great happy hour. I need a place like this closer to home but till then, love coming here.“

“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.“

“My wife and I love this place! It's tucked into a corner of the strip mall and attached to a number of food options. It's windows are usually open so it's a great stop on a nice afternoon. Omar is an upbeat, fun bartender with creative drink ideas and a joy to hang with. Good music, nice vibes and a cherished secret in a sea of corporate offices.“

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

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

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

“Kalbi Social at Irvine Spectrum is a great spot if you’re craving bold Korean BBQ flavors in a modern, casual setting.

The food really delivers—especially the short rib (kalbi), which is tender, well-marinated, and grilled perfectly. The meats come out sizzling and flavorful, and the banchan (side dishes) are fresh and a nice complement to the meal. The rice bowls and shareable plates are also solid if you’re not going full BBQ.

The drinks are surprisingly good for a BBQ spot. They’ve got a fun mix of cocktails and soju-based drinks that pair well with the smoky, savory food. Nothing feels too heavy or overly sweet, which makes it easy to keep ordering another round.

The vibe is lively and stylish—definitely more of a social, hangout-type restaurant than a traditional BBQ house. Great for groups, date nights, or grabbing food before or after walking the Spectrum.

Overall, Kalbi Social is a strong addition to the Irvine dining scene—great flavors, fun atmosphere, and an easy go-to when you want Korean BBQ with a modern twist.“

“Came here for an impromptu double date mid-day during lunchtime. We got in queue via Yelp, and the wait was roughly 45 min. I got the chirashi and a blue crab handroll, and both were excellent. The chirashi is a satisfying flavorbomb that makes it hard to take a pause. When you get towards the end of your bowl, they pour a little crab broth into our remaining rice as a finisher. It is simply divine and something that makes me want to keep coming back for more. The blue crab handroll is great. It's a really nice creamy starter if you're looking for a quasi appetizer to the chirashi.“

“Pretty cool restaurant to chill at and catch the sunset. Food prices are inflated, obvious you are paying more for the venue and the view, not the quality of the food. Had the cinnamon roll skillet and it was okay, nothing special but the good service and atmosphere made up for this. Wouldn’t mind coming back in the future.“

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

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

“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!“

“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.“

“Many thanks to Brandy who made YKN an inviting place to be. I enjoyed the cocktails. Please try the guava chiffon pancake cocktail ❤. Delicious! I had the poke nachos, but please request that the wontons are warmed first. It really brings the cold poke, warm wontons, and the remainder of flavors beautifully together. I most certainly will visiting YNK upon my return to The Irvine Marriott.“

“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! 😎“

“Great experience with excellent food! Always good!“

“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..“