Mold Remediation in Irvine, CA

With a consistent crowd of people coming from different backgrounds, the Orange County hub is a natural breeding ground for a diverse and thriving culinary scene.

From fusion restaurants to your comfort Thai fare, there are lots of mouth-watering options in Irvine.

Here are 12 of the must-visit restaurants in Irvine for you to try out.

Our top picks, Il Fornaio Irvine and Bistango in Irvine, are most likely to make you drool and indulge in a gastronomic experience of a lifetime!

1. Il Fornaio Irvine

Il Fornaio in Irvine transports you to Italy with its award-winning cuisine and inviting ambiance.

Delight in the Ravioli Di Brasato, stuffed with rich, tender braised short ribs, or savor the Linguine Mare Chiaro, brimming with fresh seafood in a luscious tomato sauce.

Ideal for any occasion, from a romantic date to a family celebration, the warm and attentive service enhances each visit. Experience the taste of Italy without ever leaving Orange County!

What to order: Ravioli Brasato Norcina, Linguine Mare Chiaro

Address: 18051 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612

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2. Bistango in Irvine

Located within Irvine’s Atrium Building, Bistango blends upscale dining with an art gallery vibe. Each table showcases unique artwork for sale – which adds a creative touch to the warm, inviting space.

Don’t miss their iconic Sweet Garlic Soup, creamy with a bold garlic flavor that delights with every spoonful.

For a memorable main, the Oven-Roasted Chilean Sea Bass pairs beautifully with exotic mushroom risotto and truffle essence, creating an ensemble that’s both visually and gastronomically stunning.

What to order: ​​Sweet Garlic Soup, Oven-Roasted Chilean Sea Bass

Address: 19100 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612

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3. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Irvine provides a classic steakhouse experience, with dim lighting, white tablecloths, and an elegant ambiance perfect for special occasions.

Their Lobster Mac & Cheese is a creamy, indulgent delight, worth every bite. For a steak option, the Petite Filet paired with Creamed Spinach creates a balanced, flavorful dish that’s hard to beat.

Service here shines, and every guest feels welcomed and well taken care of.

What to order: Lobster Mac & Cheese, Creamed Spinach, Petite Filet

Address: 2961 Michelson Dr Suite A, Building 10, Irvine, CA 92612

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4. Bosscat Kitchen & Libations

At Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, the industrial-chic decor and extensive whiskey selection create a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, perfect for casual get-togethers or celebratory nights.

Meat lovers, you will be thrilled with the 12-Hour Beef Short Rib, which is slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

For a classic American favorite, try The Bosscat Burger—each bite packed with savory flavors from crispy bacon, melted cheese, and their signature sauce. This spot effortlessly marries upscale dining with comfort.

What to order: 12 Hour Beef Short Rib, Bosscat Burger

Address: 18169 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612

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5. Habana

Habana at the Spectrum Center immerses you in Cuba’s vibrant flair with vintage accents and colorful decor. The Ropa Vieja, with tender shredded beef, peppers, and spices, melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with white rice and sweet plantains.

The Chicken Empanadas, encased in a crispy crust and filled with flavorful shredded chicken, make for a satisfying start.

Don’t forget to dip them in the unique banana-habanero ketchup for an extra kick!

What to order: Ropa Vieja, Chicken Empanadas

Address: 708 Spectrum Center Dr. Suite 708, Irvine, CA 92618

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6. Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails

For guilt-free dining with sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails is a stellar choice.

Their fan-favorite Lamb Lollipops are grilled to perfection with aromatic herbs, and served with sweet onion jam and a fresh arugula salad. For seafood aficionados, the expertly seared Scottish Salmon paired with creamy cheese grits and crisp vegetables is a must!

With attentive service and a classy atmosphere, Andrei’s is for those seeking delicious yet health-conscious meals.

What to order: Lamb Lollipops, Scottish Salmon

Address: 2607 Main St, Irvine, CA 92614

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7. Fukada

Fukada, a cozy Japanese spot on Irvine Center Drive, is a hidden gem for authentic tastes, handmade udon, and everything delicious in between.

The Spicy Tuna Don is a classic favorite, boasting a line-up of fresh tuna mixed with spicy mayo over fluffy rice – an irresistible combination of textures and flavors.

For a lighter option, the Seafood Salad, with organic greens and seared albacore, salmon, and crab meat, is refreshing and satisfying.

With quick service and generous portions, Fukada is perfect for casual takeout dining.

What to order: Spicy Tuna Don, Seafood Salad

Address: 8683 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618

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8. Inkas

Get ready for a trip to Peru without leaving Irvine!

For authentic Northern Coastal Peruvian cuisine in a vibrant yet cozy setting, head to Inkas.

For an unforgettable relish of Peru, their Lomo Saltado is a superb option – juicy beef strips with onions, tomatoes, and crispy French fries all tossed in a unique, flavorsome sauce.

And don’t overlook their golden-baked Empanadas, filled with seasoned beef and onions. The warm atmosphere perfects the checklist, and along with the lovely dishes, you will surely come back craving more.

What to order: Empanadas, Lomo Saltado

Address: 16277 Laguna Canyon Rd Ste. A, Irvine, CA 92618

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9. Siam Station Thai Street Food

SSiam Station Thai Street Food captures what it’s like to lively live in Thai with a showcase of street cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.

Try the Pad Thai, where stir-fried rice noodles mingle with bean sprouts, scrambled eggs, and your choice of meat, all enhanced by a delicious homemade sauce.

Another can’t-miss is the Pad See Ew, with flat rice noodles, tender meat, and crisp broccoli, perfectly coated in a savory soy-based sauce that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for that one-of-a-kind Thai palate.

What to order: Pad Thai, Pad See Ew

Address: 92 Corporate Park H, Irvine, CA 92606

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10. Hironori Ramen

For ramen that lives up to its name and taste, Hironori Ramen has you covered.

The Tonkotsu Ramen shines with its rich, creamy pork broth, tender cha shu pork, and perfectly soft-boiled egg. The noodles are delightfully chewy, soaking up every bit of the flavorful broth.

Plant-based diners can savor the Vegan Ramen, served in a sesame miso broth and topped with broccolini, tofu, and kale. This bowl offers a hearty, wholesome twist on the traditional Japanese classic.

What to order: Tonkotsu Ramen, Vegan Ramen

Addresses: -6626 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92619-2222 Michelson Dr #234, Irvine, CA 92612, United States

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11. Herb & Ranch

Herb & Ranch in Irvine reinvents American comfort classics with locally sourced ingredients.

Try the Roasted Chicken Curry, where tender chicken meets a well-balanced, creamy curry sauce with apples, currants, and peanuts.

The Salmon Poke is another fantastic choice, with fresh salmon and a hint of spice from gochujang mayo and scallions. With its inviting ambiance and thoughtfully prepared dishes, this restaurant has something delicious for everyone.

What to order: Roasted Chicken Curry, Salmon Poke

Address: 5301 California Ave #140, Irvine, CA 92617

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12. All That Shabu

Here, you’re in control of your meal, cooking your own hot pot creation with a vast selection of top-notch meats, veggies, and broths.

The expertly prepared Beef Bone Broth takes pride in tender beef, mushrooms, and hearty vegetables, and is the epitome of a rich, warming dish.

If you’re up for some heat, the Spicy Beef Broth brings intensity to the table, enhanced with tender slices of beef and pork belly.

All That Shabu the ideal place for gathering with friends over a satisfying, customizable feast.

What to order: Beef Bone Broth, Spicy Beef Broth

Address: 15315 Culver Dr #145, Irvine, CA 92604

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Hungry for more options? If you want to go on a gastronomic trip, there’s lots of excellent options near Irvine! Head on over to our list of the best restaurants in Anaheim for more recommendations.

What is the best internet provider in Irvine?

The best internet provider in Irvine is AT&T Fiber. It offers the fastest speeds in the area, with upload speeds as fast as download speeds. Although Google Fiber provides comparable speeds, AT&T's plans are overall more affordable and have received higher ratings in customer satisfaction surveys.

If you can’t get AT&T or Google Fiber at your address, Cox has the broadest coverage in Irvine, and some neighborhoods even have access to Cox’s fiber internet service. Whether you get fiber or Cox’s standard cable internet, its plans are reasonably priced, and they all include unlimited data and free equipment for the first two years.

Wireless internet from T-Mobile and Verizon is also widely available in the area. These connections don’t reach the same top-end speeds as cable or fiber internet, but they provide plenty of bandwidth for most homes.

Best internet in Irvine, California

Source: CNET analysis of provider data.

Source: CNET analysis of provider data.

How to find internet deals and promotions in Irvine

The best internet deals and the top promotions in Irvine depend on what discounts are available during that time. Most deals are short-lived, but we look frequently for the latest offers.

Irvine internet providers such as Verizon may offer lower introductory pricing or streaming add-ons for a limited time. Many, including Cox, Google Fiber and AT&T Fiber, run the same standard pricing year-round.

For a more extensive list of promos, check out our guide on the best internet deals.

Source: CNET analysis of provider data.

What’s a good internet speed?

Most internet connection plans can now handle basic productivity and communication tasks. If you're looking for an internet plan that can accommodate videoconferencing, streaming video or gaming, you'll have a better experience with a more robust connection. Here's an overview of the recommended minimum download speeds for various applications, according to the Federal Communications Commission. Note that these are only guidelines and that internet speed, service and performance vary by connection type, provider and address.

For more information, refer to our guide on how much internet speed you really need.

How CNET chose the best internet providers in Irvine

Internet service providers are numerous and regional. Unlike the latest smartphone, laptop, router or kitchen tool, it’s impractical to personally test every ISP in a given city. What’s our approach? We start by researching the pricing, availability and speed information drawing on our own historical ISP data, the provider sites and mapping information from FCC.gov.

It doesn’t end there: We go to the FCC’s website to check our data and ensure we consider every ISP that provides service in an area. We also input local addresses on provider websites to find specific options for residents. We look at sources, including the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power, to evaluate how happy customers are with an ISP’s service. ISP plans and prices are subject to frequent changes; all information provided is accurate as of the time of publication.

Once we have this localized information, we ask three main questions:

The answer to those questions is often layered and complex, but the providers who come closest to “yes” on all three are the ones we recommend. When it comes to selecting the cheapest internet service, we look for the plans with the lowest monthly fee, although we also factor in things like price increases, equipment fees and contracts. Choosing the fastest internet service is relatively straightforward. We look at advertised upload and download speeds and also take into account real-world speed data from sources like Ookla (Ookla is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis) and FCC reports.

To explore our process in more depth, visit our how we test ISPs page.

Internet providers in Irvine FAQs

By Gabriel San Román

Staff WriterFollow

Oct. 10, 2024 3:14 PM PT

Prompted by state housing mandates, the Irvine City Council voted to override the Orange County Airport Land Use Commission’s concerns over plans to add 15,000 homes near John Wayne Airport.

If council members didn’t pass the resolution during Tuesday’s meeting, the city risked missing a February 2025 deadline to update its long-term housing plans, which would subject Irvine to hefty fines, stripped permitting powers and other penalties from the state.

While the council did not deliberate before voting, Irvine resident Doug Elliott supported the move as he said that development near the airport was already intensive.

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“We have high-rise office buildings [and] hotels,” Elliott added. “We have condos pretty much across the street from the airport and yet, supposedly, we can’t accommodate housing further out?”

Only Councilman Larry Agran voted against the override and a subsequent zoning change that would clear the way for high-density units to be built in the Irvine Business Complex that abuts the airport.

In June, the airport commission aired its objections, citing noise impacts and safety issues in noting the rezoning as “inconsistent” with the Airport Environs Land Use Plan, which sets guidelines for development and land use in surrounding areas.

The Irvine City Council first voted on Aug. 13 to move forward with overriding the airport commission’s determination while approving its broader general plan update, which included housing.

In addition to the Irvine Business Complex area, the update also eyed neighborhoods around the Spectrum and Great Park that could accommodate more than 57,000 future housing units.

“Unless we are absolutely committed to installing transit first and unless we are absolutely committed to addressing and providing affordable housing first, development of this magnitude is just unconscionable,” Agran said. “The spillover effects will be dramatic. We’re asked here to override all kinds of environmental concerns that have been identified [and] cannot be properly mitigated.”

Councilwoman Tammy Kim tangled with Agran’s stance and noted staff had put in three years of work on the general plan.

“We get into this Catch-22 … and then nothing gets done,” she argued.

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July 17, 2024

Since the August votes, government agencies traded letters over the airport commission’s objection to residential development planned near the airport.

“The city’s decision to introduce low to very-low income housing within the new residential zoning overlay fails to adequately address the principles of environmental justice,” wrote Matthew Friedman, a Caltrans senior aviation planner, in a Sept. 9 letter to an Irvine city official. “These communities are often more susceptible to adverse environmental conditions, including those associated with proximity to airports, such as noise and safety risks.”

Orange County cities have overridden the airport commission several times before in order to plan for or approve new housing.

In July, the Newport Beach City Council bypassed its concerns in giving the green light to a 282-unit apartment building near John Wayne Airport.

Santa Ana and Costa Mesa have also overridden the airport commission, according to Irvine’s staff report.

Councilman Mike Carroll sits on the airport commission but was absent during its vote to find the housing plan inconsistent.

On the dais, Carroll voted to override that objection alongside a supermajority of his Irvine council colleagues.

A second council vote at a future meeting is required before the zoning change becomes official.

We’re tracking 183 races across Orange County in the 2024 general election. Voters were asked to vote on sales taxes, rent control, transient occupancy taxes and if their school district can issue bonds to fund repairs and new classrooms. There are six mayoral races, including in Costa Mesa, Garden Grove and Irvine.

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13 minutes ago

County races

Janet Nguyen and Frances Marquez face off in a bid to represent District 1 on the Board of Supervisors, the only county election this year. Andrew Do, who is unable to run for reelection due to term limits, resigned last month ahead of federal conspiracy charges.

City races

Elections in Orange County’s 34 cities will determine mayors, city council seats and local measures. Dana Point and Mission Viejo have city propositions to address short-term rentals while a “yes” on Santa Ana’s Measure CC would enact renter protections. Also on the ballot in Santa Ana is a city charter amendment that would allow, by the November 2028 general municipal election, non-citizen city residents to vote in all city municipal elections. The city of Orange, in addition to elections for a mayor, treasurer, city clerk, three City Council seats and a vote on a proposed sales tax, has a measure that would allow fireworks in areas that aren’t at high risk for fires.

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School districts

Results for school district board races across Orange County, including those for community colleges, are in. Also on ballots are 10 school district bond measures. On most of the measures, a “yes” vote authorizes millions in bonds to fund repairs, upgrades to school facilities and career-readiness programs.

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Water districts

Twelve races for irrigation and water district board members will be decided by voters in Orange County.

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Other races

Sanitary districts in Costa Mesa, Midway City and Sunset Beach are on the ballot.

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Irvine, Calif., Oct. 4, 2024 — A research team from the University of California, Irvine is the first to reveal that a molecule in the brain – ophthalmic acid – unexpectedly acts like a neurotransmitter similar to dopamine in regulating motor function, offering a new therapeutic target for Parkinson’s and other movement diseases.

In the study, published in the October issue of the journal Brain, researchers observed that ophthalmic acid binds to and activates calcium-sensing receptors in the brain, reversing the movement impairments of Parkinson’s mouse models for more than 20 hours.

The disabling neurogenerative disease affects millions of people worldwide over the age of 50. Symptoms, which include tremors, shaking and lack of movement, are caused by decreasing levels of dopamine in the brain as those neurons die. L-dopa, the front-line drug for treatment, acts by replacing the lost dopamine and has a duration of two to three hours. While initially successful, the effect of L-dopa fades over time, and its long-term use leads to dyskinesia – involuntary, erratic muscle movements in the patient’s face, arms, legs and torso.

“Our findings present a groundbreaking discovery that possibly opens a new door in neuroscience by challenging the more-than-60-year-old view that dopamine is the exclusive neurotransmitter in motor function control,” said co-corresponding author Amal Alachkar, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences professor. “Remarkably, ophthalmic acid not only enabled movement, but also far surpassed L-dopa in sustaining positive effects. The identification of the ophthalmic acid-calcium-sensing receptor pathway, a previously unrecognized system, opens up promising new avenues for movement disorder research and therapeutic interventions, especially for Parkinson’s disease patients.”

Alachkar began her investigation into the complexities of motor function beyond the confines of dopamine more than two decades ago, when she observed robust motor activity in Parkinson’s mouse models without dopamine. In this study, the team conducted comprehensive metabolic examinations of hundreds of brain molecules to identify which are associated with motor activity in the absence of dopamine. After thorough behavioral, biochemical and pharmacological analyses, ophthalmic acid was confirmed as an alternative neurotransmitter.

“One of the critical hurdles in Parkinson’s treatment is the inability of neurotransmitters to cross the blood-brain barrier, which is why L-DOPA is administered to patients to be converted to dopamine in the brain,” Alachkar said. “We are now developing products that either release ophthalmic acid in the brain or enhance the brain’s ability to synthesize it as we continue to explore the full neurological function of this molecule.”

Team members also included doctoral student and lab assistant Sammy Alhassen, who is now a postdoctoral scholar at UCLA; lab specialist Derk Hogenkamp; project scientist Hung Anh Nguyen; doctoral student Saeed Al Masri; and co-corresponding author Olivier Civelli, the Eric L. and Lila D. Nelson Chair in Neuropharmacology – all from the School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences – as well as Geoffrey Abbott, professor of physiology & biophysics and vice dean of basic science research in the School of Medicine.

The study was supported by a grant from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke under award number NS107671 and the Eric L. and Lila D. Nelson Chair in Neuropharmacology.

Alachkar and Civelli are inventors on a provisional patent that covers products related to ophthalmate and calcium-sensing receptors in motor function.

UC Irvine’s Brilliant Future campaign: Publicly launched on Oct. 4, 2019, the Brilliant Future campaign aims to raise awareness and support for the university. By engaging 75,000 alumni and garnering $2 billion in philanthropic investment, UC Irvine seeks to reach new heights of excellence in student success, health and wellness, research and more. The School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences plays a vital role in the success of the campaign. Learn more by visiting https://brilliantfuture.uci.edu/school-of-pharmacy-and-pharmaceutical-sciences.

About the University of California, Irvine: Founded in 1965, UC Irvine is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is ranked among the nation’s top 10 public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The campus has produced five Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UC Irvine has more than 36,000 students and offers 224 degree programs. It’s located in one of the world’s safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County’s second-largest employer, contributing $7 billion annually to the local economy and $8 billion statewide. For more on UC Irvine, visit www.uci.edu.

Media access: Radio programs/stations may, for a fee, use an on-campus studio with a Comrex IP audio codec to interview UC Irvine faculty and experts, subject to availability and university approval. For more UC Irvine news, visit news.uci.edu. Additional resources for journalists may be found at https://news.uci.edu/media-resources.