As Orange County residents eagerly await county approval to reopen more businesses, several restaurants throughout Irvine had already reopened dining rooms on Thursday, June 11.

In accordance with local regulations, Fogo de Chão inside the Irvine Spectrum announced it was open for dine-in, with adjusted hours. Other safely and sanitation protocols have also been implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Tables will be limited to six people, and tables will be spaced at least six feet apart.

The leading Brazilian steakhouse will be welcoming guests back to the dining room with special features such as half-priced bottles of South American wines and happy hour cocktails all day alongside coursed servings of its trademark Brazilian fire-roasted meats.

(Fogo de Chão)

Beginning today (Thursday, June 11), Fogo de Chão in Irvine will open with adjusted hours as follows:

  • Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (lunch service), 4:30 – 10 p.m. (dinner service)
  • Friday: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (lunch service), 4:30 – 10:30 p.m. (dinner service)
  • Saturday: 11  a.m. – 10:30 p.m. (brunch, lunch, dinner service)
  • Sunday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. (brunch, lunch, dinner service)

North Italia announced its Irvine location would reopen for dining service on Monday, June 8. Carlos Calderon, brand chef at North Italia posted on his Instagram account with the caption, “We are open!!”

Currently, North Italia is offering dine-in hour as follows:

  • BRUNCH Sat & Sun 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • LUNCH Mon – Fri 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • DINNER Sun – Thurs 4 p.m. – 10 p.m., Fri & Sat 4 p.m. – 11 p.m.

In Costa Mesa, South Coast Plaza announced it would reopen via Twitter.

via Casa Barilla

Casa Barilla, a fast-casual pasta kitchen with Italian fare located inside South Coast Plaza, reopened its doors at both its Costa Mesa and Miami locations on Thursday.

The chain was also proud to announce it retained 100 percent of its employees during the pandemic.

And, as a welcome back to guests, Casa Barilla is partnering with World Central Kitchen’s Restaurants for the People to donate meals to members of the community in need. The restaurant is also offering a 25% off discount to all emergency responders.

While some restaurants in south Orange County, like The Brig inside Dana Point Harbor have offered dine-in since late May, it seems likely Orange County will get final approval for restaurants, bars and wineries to official open by Friday, June 12.

Stay tuned for more updates as Orange County bars, restaurants and establishments continue to reopen with new safety protocols in place.

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