Where to Eat: The Best Hidden Gems To Check Out In Irvine

Take a walk off the beaten path and order some takeout from one of Irvine’s hidden gems. Even though these spots are low-key, the flavors on their dishes certainly are not.

Dosirak

When you walk into Dosirak, the first thing that hits you are the walls of dozens and dozens of different Korean side dishes known as banchan. From potato salad to kimchi, pickled radishes and spicy garlic stems, this place has all of the banchan you could ever want. In addition to banchan, they also make some of the best kimbap and rice bowls in town.

6280 Scholarship, Irvine.

House of Kabob

Located in a strip mall, House of Kebab is a small, family-owned restaurant specializing in kabobs, stews and dips. One of the best parts about ordering here is that they offer an appetizer sampler, where you can actually choose which three appetizers you want. Definitely don’t miss out on their maust’moosier, a yogurt dip topped with fried shallots.

92 Corporate Park F, Irvine.

Kaya

Kaya is one of the older Korean restaurants in Irvine. It’s got a large menu, super friendly staff, and a huge selection of banchan. Even though it’s a bit tucked away in the corner of a shopping center, it’s worth the search because once you try it, you’ll be hooked. If you’re a first-timer, try their galbi (marinated ribs), seafood pancake and octopus dolsot bibimbap (a rice bowl with spicy octopus and vegetables).

14120 Culver Drive #G, Irvine.

Kokonut (Audrey Fong)

Kokonut

Kokonut is a blogger favorite and they opened their first Irvine location inside of Duke Bakery. They pretty much only serve one thing – coconut pudding with various toppings, but it’s so refreshing and delicious that you’ll immediately see why their customers keep coming back. If you go, try one of the puddings topped with fresh fruit for a light and healthy dessert.

15435 Jeffrey Road, Unit 105, Irvine.

Layer Cake Bakery (Audrey fong)

Layer Cake Bakery

Flaky croissants, decadent brownies, earl grey tarts and colorful macarons – what’s not to love about Layer Cake Bakery’s fresh-baked goods? Layer Cake Bakery first made waves in the foodie scene for their super moist red velvet cake, but continues to impress with their artisanal coffee, sandwich selection and unique French pastries.

4250 Barranca Pkwy, Irvine.

Noodology (Audrey Fong)

Noodology

Noodology is a noodle lover’s dream because the menu is literally 95% noodles. Whether you like your noodles thick or thin, flour or rice, dry or soupy, Noodology has got your noodle cravings covered. What makes their noodles so special though is the silky soft texture of their rice noodles.

15455 Jeffrey Road #300, Irvine.

Yu’s Garden

Need a quick, healthy meal? If so, Yu’s Garden is the best spot in Irvine for readily made Chinese dishes. Each dish is replenished multiple times a day, so you can be sure your dishes are fresh. While they do have a menu for ordering straight from the kitchen, most of their die-hard fans stick to the pre-made foods in the display case because their food is that good. This spot also has a ton of vegetarian and vegan dishes, making it an inclusive destination.

5408 Walnut Ave, Irvine.