Cha Cha&#x27;s Latin Kitchen

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8 years ago

A friend told me Cha Cha's was a bit over priced so I knew this going in. I was there for a birthday dinner on a diet. I recommend never going out to eat on a diet. It puts a damper on the experience. I reluctantly went knowing the limitations but saw some items on the menu I could have. When did a salad with grilled chicken get to be $17? I was expecting something super special when the salad came but it wasn't at all special compared to some of the other grilled chicken salads I've had at other equal establishments. I did hear of complaints of other dishes being too spicy too. The experience was okay overall but the price and the taste of my meal did not add up. I believe you are paying for the live music and the chips and salsa but that's just me. I will probably not return unless it's for happy hour. For future salads, I'll stick to Urban Plates or the like. read more

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - Chopped chicken salad w grilled chicken hold the dressing - Mexican Near Me - Irvine, California

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Morry M.

3 years ago

I've been to a few Taco Tuesdays restaurants, but Cha Cha's is definitely the best by far! All tacos & premium tequila are half off! Also, If you're going to order a margarita, try their Pineapple Margarita! It's one of the best Margarita I've had in a while! But the best part of the experience is the service. My server Krystal made sure I was well taken care of. She is super kind, very attentive and she answered every single one of my questions when it came to the specials. I'll definitely be back along with the rest if my Taco Tuesday buddies! read more

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Irene C.

4 years ago

I love this place! Great ambiance and best margaritas in town! I met up with my co workers and got the two for 1 lunch special. Their carne asada plate is also my favorite! Our waiter was very nice and attentive as well. This place is definitely one of my favorite spots! read more

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Marlo Y.

Elite 26 All-Star

840

589

1222

8 years ago

Went here a couple weeks ago with some friends for a birthday celebration. Came here for the happy hour, tapas, and live music special on Thursday nights. Was definitely a good decision. Atmosphere 5/5 - LOVED the live music. Great ambience, which makes the food taste even better. Service 4/5 - Great service, no real complaints. The waiter was very nice and accommodating to our party of 8. Food 4/5 - I got the chicken salad with avocado, which was very delicious. The ingredients tasted fresh and the dressing wasn't too overpowering (tbh I don't remember what the dressing was, but I think that's a good thing because I enjoyed the meal). Overall, definitely recommend coming here on Thursdays to experience the live music. Will definitely come back for another occasion :) read more

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Darci S.

5 years ago

We recently stopped by ChaChas in Irvine for Happy Hour. What made our experience so phenomenal was Ariela M! She was so engaged with us and attentive as well. I just feel like this type of service and personal attention should be recognized Not only was Ariela attentive, she was outgoing and was making sure that our needs were taken care of! Thank you so much for this customer satisfaction read more

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Terri K.

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8 years ago

Enjoyed the food & atmosphere for a weekday lunch. Relatively empty for a relaxed meal. Lunch combos for around $10 & half off enchiladas on Wed. I had a delicious shrimp ceviche salad that didn't even need the dressing because the tasty blend of lime juice on the bottom served the purpose. The shrimp & crab enchiladas in a pesto sauce had a generous portion of seafood. A cool indoor/outdoor bar & happy hour deals are a plus. Good service & great food. read more

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - Cool indoor/outdoor bar was empty on a weekday lunch - Mexican Near Me - Irvine, California

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - Live music - Mexican Near Me - Irvine, California

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - Shrimp& crab enchiladas with pesto sauce, yummy! - Mexican Near Me - Irvine, California

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - Trendy eclectic decor - Mexican Near Me - Irvine, California

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - Shrimp ceviche salad without radishes & light tortilla strips was excellent - Mexican Near Me - Irvine, California

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - Specials - Mexican Near Me - Irvine, California

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - Lunch menu - Mexican Near Me - Irvine, California

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Maria S.

4 years ago

The first time we came, we stood in front of, not one, not two, but three employees, one of which or maybe all three were the hostesses. We stood there for 12 minutes. They didn't give us the time of day. Not a word. We turned around and left. Took our money elsewhere. I had to come back when my nephew that was visiting was hungry and there was nothing else open at that hour in the area. The food was mediocre. The prices weren't. read more

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Jonathon S.

3 years ago

We came just before closing, and they were extremely happy to serve us. They got us seated quickly, and the server was analyzing and cheerful, which made us right at home. I love this place!! Thanks for making it a great night. read more

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - Anniversary party - Mexican Near Me - Irvine, California

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Robert A.

201

4 years ago

The food was ok, nothing to write home about to be honest. I expect more seasoning on the pork. The beans were dry and looked like they have been sitting for a while. Salsa was very mild, if you wanted spicy, it would cost more lol. No plans to return to this place. read more

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Christine T.

4 years ago

We found this place about a month ago. Came back 3 times! We love the extensive Happy Hours and the delicious Happy Hours offerings. Our favorites are the shrimps & calamari tempura, steak quesadillas and ceviche. We always order the guacamole. Their salsas are very good too. The cocktails are solid and tasty! Definitely one of our favorites! Highly recommend! read more

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Tracy G.

3 years ago

Such a wonderful experience and everything was amazing!!! Miguel was a fabulous waiter, he had to put up with my dad, and he was fun. Also enjoyed talking to Donny about his restaurant read more

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Allison V.

3 years ago

Overall the restaurant was very nice. I ordered salmon and it was good, just wish it had more sauce. Our waiter was so kind. The restaurant was very busy but we made a reservation so the wait was not horrible. The food was good but it wasn't mind blowing. The desserts were fine. Overall it's a nice place to have dinner. read more

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - Fresh Grilled Salmon - Mexican Near Me - Irvine, California

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Erik P.

3 years ago

Food was fantastic and the service was unbelievable thank you....to our server Omar for the recommendations and the service!

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Page 35 of 80

13126 Jamboree Rd
Irvine, CA 92602
Directions
(714) 210-2819
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
https://chachaslatinkitchen.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen open?

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen opens at 11:30 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen opens at 10:30 AM on Sunday.

What time does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen close?

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen closes at 9:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen closes at 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu 11:30 AM - 9:30 PMFri-Sat 11:30 AM - 10:30 PMSun 10:30 AM - 9:30 PM

Payment methods

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen take Bitcoin?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen takes Bitcoin.

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen take credit cards?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen have catering options?

No, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen does not have catering options.

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen have a drive thru?

No, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen does not have a drive thru.

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen have a happy hour?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen has a happy hour.

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen serve alcohol?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen allow dogs?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen allows dogs.

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen have TVs?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen have bike parking?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen has bike parking.

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen have outdoor seating?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen has outdoor seating options.

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen have parking?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Is Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen is wheelchair accessible.

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen allow outdoor smoking?

No, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen have free WiFi?

Yes, Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

NEW Football Monday menu available every Monday of football season after 4PM for a limited time, featuring specialty menu items and alcoholic beverages. Watch your favorite teams on our recently-added TV screens! Happy Hour is Sunday - Thursday, all day and Friday - Saturday from 11:30AM to 7:00PM. Sunday Brunch is from 10:30AM to 3PM. Lunch specials are Monday - Friday until 3PM. Please visit our website for more of our weekly happenings and promotions!

History

Established in 2017.

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen was born out of a love + passion for Latin cuisine.... The Latin inspired menu adapts the culinary heritage of Mexico and Latin America to a fresh modern style. In the open kitchen guests can watch savory dishes being prepared in the wood-fired oven, while free range Jidori chickens roast to perfection and tacos are topped with homemade fire-roasted salsas. In the lounge the lively sound of handcrafted cocktails being shaken provides the backdrop. These tequila libations utilize freshly squeezed juices, home made infusions, and fresh seasonal fruit. A variety of popular and boutique wineries from the Central Coast, Spain and South America also add a great complement to any meal.

Meet the Manager: DonDon S.

Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen was born out of a love + passion for Latin cuisine…. The Latin inspired menu adapts the culinary heritage of Mexico and Latin America to a fresh modern style. In the open kitchen guests can watch savory dishes being prepared in the wood-fired oven, while free range Jidori chickens roast to perfection and tacos are topped with homemade fire-roasted salsas. In the lounge the lively sound of handcrafted cocktails being shaken provides the backdrop. These tequila libations utilize freshly squeezed juices, housemade infusions, and fresh seasonal fruit. A variety of popular and boutique wineries from the Central Coast, Spain and South America also add a great complement to any meal.

More Info

Health Score

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen

Do you have NFL Sunday Ticket?

I apologize for the late response. Unfortunately we do not carry Sunday ticket. Just the nationally televised games. We do have the ability to put the Thursday night game on even though it is an Amazon Prime broadcast. Thank you.

What time does HH end on Mondays? I see on your website that is starts at 4pm but there's no end time listed?

The only time that we don't have Happy Hour is Friday and Saturday AFTER 7pm. Otherwise we have Happy Hour in our bar and lounge area (high top tables) from open until close. It is first come first serve seating.…

Do you have cha cha's Resturant in Riverside?

I'm sorry we don't. We have two locations. Irvine and Brea. Thank you for your interest in ChaCha's.

Do you have frozen margaritas?

Good Evening Minnie, sorry for the late response. Unfortunately we do not offer a frozen margarita, we only offer them on the rocks. We do however serve a frozen mojito which is a very popular guest favorite here at Cha Chas. Even though we dont…

If we bring our kid to date night Monday for their b1g1 special. Do they have a kids menu? Not everybody wanna get a nanny, ya know?

Yes we do have a kid's menu. Cheese quesadilla with rice - can add chicken as well Salmon with rice…

View 3 more answers

Do you guys have weekend happy hour?

Hello Holly, My name is Gabriel Varner and I am one of the Managers here at Cha Chas in Irvine. We do offer happy hour Friday and Saturday until 7 in the lounge area and bar tops. Sunday we offer happy hour all day in the same areas. I hope this…

Does Wednesday 50% enchiladas also work for Pick Up orders?

Hello Hanh, The 50% enchiladas deal is a dine in only promotion.…

Do you do taco Tuesday offer for takeout orders?

Hi Dahlia, I do apologize but the 50% off Taco special for Taco Tuesday is for dine in only.…

Is there live music on Fridays at the irvine location?

Hi Daisy. We do not do live music on Friday night's. We do have live music on Tuesday nights 6pm to 9pm and Sunday Brunch 12pm to 3pm.…

Happy hour time?

Our Happy Hour is 7 days a week from opening until closing. Only exception is Friday and Saturday nights when there is no happy hour after 7pm.…

Happy hour time?

Happy Hour is served Sunday - Thursday, from 11:30am to closing and Friday and Saturday from 11:30am to 7:00pm. Happy Hour is a "Lounge-only" promotion, which are the…

What's your HappyHours special?

$2 off signature margs / cocktails Half off all tacos $1 off wine by glass/ draft beers

Is there a set price per person for Sunday Brunch? and what is the Menue? Thanks.

Haven't been to Sunday brunch. I know they have breakfast options on the weekend

Are you cooking the gluten free items on the menu in a separate area than the rest of the food? Or is there a chance of cross contamination?

Hello Amy, Thank you very much for reaching out. Everything is separated so there is no…

Any a la carte options available?

Not necessarily a ala carte menu but their happy hour menu is amazing and similar to ala carte.

For the Monday BOGO entree, can we order the 3 taco plate as an entree?

I did with no issues

Do they do taco tuesday/ happy hour on the patio area?

Yes, they do!

View 3 more answers

Vegan options for entree?

Cha cha fries !

Is there Vegan options?

Yes we have a vegan/vegetarian menu

Vegan options what are they?

My husband is vegan so yes

View All 41 Questions

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Erica R.

9 years ago

I don't even know where to start. My family and I had a HORRIBLE experience here last night. It is still unbelievable to us how the owner here is running his business and relying on the so called "manager", who doesn't have a grain of manner, etiquette, or knowledge of how to be a proper restaurant manager. What happened during our dinner was shocking and I am still trembling with rage. I wanted to write a review so the owner can try to fix this issue before anyone else has any negative encounters with this manager (we didn't get his name but he is tall, has a big potbelly, hairy man with brown hair and beard). My parents took me and my friend to the restaurant around 10pm. They were going to treat me and my friend to dinner. Long story short, right after my parents ordered their food & drinks, my dad noticed he lost his wallet (which had a large amount of cash and many important credit cards) and so my parents panicked and left to go to our store to look for it. Around 10:45, our server asked if we needed a to-go box, so I decided to ask if we could pay for the bill with a manual card entry with my mom's credit card info so we can go help my dad look for his wallet. If they said they couldn't do that, then I was just going to call and let my parents know to come back & pay for the bill, or find some other way to pay. But then, the manager came being INCREDIBLY rude. The first thing he said was "so you guys going to pay now?" We were surprised by his attitude and so we tried to explain the situation. However, he kept interrupting us saying, "If you don't have money why did you come eat here?" and being extremely pushy saying "you know there's a bank across the street right?" We were shocked as there were still at least 5 parties left in the restaurant, and he could've been more polite and let us wait until our parents came back. But he was acting as if they were going to close the restaurant that second and we needed to pay NOW. My friend was so pissed she just decided to pay for it with her card, even though my parents were the one that was supposed to buy her dinner. After we paid for the bill, I called my parents and let them know what happened and the manager's rude behavior towards us. My parents were shocked & came back in within 10 minutes. When my dad came back & confronted him, the first thing the manager said was "I don't want to hear this. I am going to call security to escort you out. You paid for your bill & you don't have any reason to still be here." And later even said "GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE." This pushed my entire family and I over the edge. The security came, and even the security acknowledged there's nothing he can do as we already paid for our bill and still had our drinks left. My dad was pointing his finger at the manager, asking why he's being such an asshole towards us, and the manager LITERALLY said that that was ASSAULT (wow, didn't know pointing a finger at someone was assault) and was going to call the cops. We said GO AHEAD. So the manager called the cops, the whole time sneering & mocking us while grinning with one of the servers working there (the server was a scrawny guy with slicked back black hair and dark circles under his eyes.) The cops came, and we told them the situation and the cops told us we can file a complaint with corporate and leave a review on Yelp, so that's what we are doing. (Thank you so much!! ) The cops even told us "I completely understand how you guys feel, if someone did that to my kids, I'd be just as upset." The manager outright lied and said he "never said those things" even though my friend and I CLEARLY heard him say it. At one point, my mom was using the restroom and the server with the dark eye bags told me to "get your mom out of there." I said, "she's peeing right now, she's just using the restroom. What, do you want me to break down the stall and force her out?" and he said "YES EXACTLY. GET HER OUT OF THERE." There is SO MUCH MORE to what happened last night, but I wanted to keep this review concise. I am still in complete shock as to what happened and the AUDACITY of the manager and that server to treat PAYING CUSTOMERS like that. We are going to find out the manager and that server's name and file an official complaint. We're going to do everything we can from filing a complaint to corporate to letting everyone we know not to visit this establishment. read more

Cat V.

552

832

2213

3 years ago

We had reserved an indoor table due to the absence of online alternatives. However, upon arrival, we were dismayed by the unbearable indoor noise caused by loud music and echoing. The restaurant was crowded, with clattering utensils and shouting children. Consequently, we requested an outdoor table. The hostess, resembling a stern teacher, responded, 'You initially reserved indoors and now seek an outdoor spot. Unfortunately, we don't currently have an available table for you. The wait time will be about 5-10 minutes.' Notably, several outdoor tables remained empty, and two-thirds of indoor tables were vacant. I'm inclined to deduct one star for the inflexible demeanor. The waiter was friendly and polite. Despite some errors, the service was acceptable. --- Ceviche Sampler $16 - Includes shrimp ceviche & ahi aguachile: The shrimp ceviche's bold flavor and freshness stood out, while the ahi was tiny. Pickled carrots accompanied the ceviche instead of traditional accompaniments like nachos or lettuce, with the flavor being too intense to consume alone. --- Cha Cha's Margarita; $15 each: It resembled expensive cough syrup. --- Crispy Calamari + Shrimp $16 - Served with calabasitas, serrano chili, and lime-cilantro aioli: Unexpectedly, fried lemon slices with seeds were served. Out of curiosity, I took a nip. Curiosity does kill the cat. It's horrible. Their taste was unpleasant due to a mixture of acidity and bitterness. Most of the dish comprised fried vegetables, 3 shrimps, and 6 squid pieces (including 4 heads). While the shrimp was well-fried, the rest seemed like kitchen scraps. The watery sauce lacked flavor and fragrance. The dish should be renamed "Kitchen Scraps Tempura with Shrimp and Squid Heads." --- Carne Asada $32 - Marinated Skirt Steak with roasted potatoes, achiote onions, poblano peppers, and fresh chimichurri: The skirt steak was cooked well but lacked flavor. Although lightly salted chimichurri was present, the dish required more seasoning. The roasted potatoes were bitter and dry, with grilled cactus and cheese sharing the same fate. Surprisingly, even the margarita glass had more salt than the steak. The manager attributed this to the marination process but couldn't explain the lack of salt on the other components. What's your secret for marinating the meat? Alkaline water ? To enhance the flavor, I requested extra chimichurri and salt. The restaurant charging $3 for extra chimichurri seemed unjust, akin to a tourist trap. They tacked on an extra 3 dollars to the cocktails, as if we were diving into jumbo-sized drinks. But when we pointed out that we hadn't ordered the supersized margaritas, they unveiled their grand revelation: It's 3 dollars for the chimichurri sauce that was supposed to grace my steak. Despite my food lacking taste and salt, I wasn't seeking a redo--just an effort to rectify their mistake. Their response to charge for the correction was disappointing. After some discussion with the manager, they agreed to waive the extra chimichurri charge. This conversation shouldn't have been necessary. --- Churros: Small and chunky, with an unidentified object on the whipped cream--possibly a lavender or rosemary leaf. Mediocre overall. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere contrasts with the disappointing food quality, service mistakes, and questionable charges. Perhaps inflation has fueled greed in some eateries. Seafood plates are more vegetable-heavy than seafood-rich, and the margarita has more flavor than the skirt steak. The latter lacks sauce, while the aioli is diluted, and the poblano peppers emit an unpleasant odor. I'm grateful for the ambiance but disappointed by the food quality and the potential tourist trap impression. read more

Helen P.

3 years ago

Chacha's is simply fantastic. From the moment you step in, their impeccable service shines through, starting with the welcoming hosts to the attentive servers. I've never left disappointed. But let's talk about the real star here: the food. With the chef's name proudly displayed on the menu, you know you're in for something special. Their menu is a treasure trove of delights. I've tried almost everything, and not once have I been let down. It's not just about the main dishes; even the smallest sides, like the pickled carrots or the layer of onions and green pepper under the fajitas, are crafted with care. And let's not forget about the guacamole - fresh and flavorful every time. As for appetizers, the Manila clams and fried calamari/shrimp are my go-to choices, bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked. One thing that always concerns me when dining out is the saltiness of the dishes. But at Chacha's, they've struck the perfect balance. I never leave feeling parched or in need of gallons of water. And let's talk cocktails. They're simply the best in Irvine. I'm not one to gush over drinks, but trust me, these are something special. Whether it's the mojito, sangria, or margarita, each sip is a delight. And if you're feeling indulgent, go for the grande size - it's worth it. The atmosphere at Chacha's is another highlight. Whether you choose to sit outside on the balcony or in the cozy dining room, you're guaranteed a great time. The ambiance somehow manages to be lively yet intimate, allowing for easy conversation without feeling like you're intruding on others' conversations. I'm a regular at their Thursday Fajitas night, and the experience is always top-notch. I have to give a special shoutout to my server, Carlos, who went above and beyond during my visit on 2/22/2024. He truly made the evening unforgettable. In summary, if you're looking for a restaurant that delivers on every front - service, food, drinks, and ambiance - look no further than Chacha's. You won't be disappointed. read more

Brandon J.

Elite 23

209

1709

3 years ago

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen in Irvine, California, provided us with a memorable dining experience during our work meeting. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with a delightful start, enjoying a fantastic serving of salsa and chips that set the tone for our meal. One standout feature of our visit was the exceptional off-menu fajitas we had the pleasure of savoring. These fajitas were a testament to the restaurant's commitment to offering unique and delicious dishes beyond their regular offerings. The attention to flavor and presentation truly elevated our dining experience, leaving us impressed and satisfied. In addition to the fantastic food, we explored the restaurant's diverse cocktail menu. Two notable choices were the mezcal sour and the house Margarita. The mezcal sour offered a sophisticated and smoky twist on the classic sour, adding a layer of complexity to our palate. Meanwhile, the house Margarita, enhanced with grapefruit juice, delivered a refreshing and well-balanced cocktail that perfectly complemented our meal. The atmosphere at Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen was another highlight of our visit. The restaurant's vibrant and inviting ambiance created a welcoming setting for our work meeting, making it easy to engage in productive discussions while enjoying our meal. Furthermore, the attentive and friendly staff contributed to the overall positive experience. Their knowledge of the menu and willingness to accommodate our off-menu request for fajitas demonstrated a commitment to customer satisfaction. In summary, our visit to Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen in Irvine, California, was a memorable one. From the delicious surprise of off-menu fajitas to the creative cocktails and welcoming atmosphere, it was an all-around exceptional dining experience that we would highly recommend to both locals and visitors alike. Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen goes above and beyond to provide a delightful fusion of Latin flavors and a warm dining environment, making it a standout choice for any occasion. read more

Sea O.

1 year ago

After a particularly rough day at work, I decided to treat myself to a nice dinner. Initially, I tried visiting Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen in Brea, but the lack of parking led me to their Irvine location instead. What a fortunate turn of events! The Irvine location offered ample parking, making my arrival stress-free. From the moment I stepped inside, I was warmly greeted by the host, who seated me immediately. I was thrilled to learn about Chef Joe's Weekend Special--a three-course meal for an incredible $29, a steal in California! I opted for the seafood campechana cocktail, grilled steak enchilada, and arroz con leche, and added Manila clams as an extra dish. The service was exceptional. My server, Carlos, was professional, patient, and incredibly attentive, elevating my solo dining experience. Manager Isabel also checked in, ensuring everything was to my satisfaction. Their genuine care stood out, especially compared to some Michelin-starred restaurants I've visited worldwide, where service often fell short. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I was impressed by the generous portion sizes. The seafood campechana cocktail and grilled steak enchilada were highlights, bursting with flavor. The Manila clams, while slightly smaller than ideal, were still quite tasty. The arroz con leche was a perfect, comforting end to the meal. Throughout the evening, Carlos remained attentive, checking in and clearing plates promptly. Even the general manager (whose name I didn't catch) stopped by to ensure I was enjoying my meal. Their attentiveness was so remarkable that I jokingly asked if I seemed disgruntled, clarifying that their care had truly brightened my day. Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen in Irvine exceeded my expectations with its warm hospitality, fantastic value, and delicious food. I wholeheartedly recommend this gem to anyone seeking a memorable dining experience. I'll definitely be returning soon! read more

Taylor H.

2 years ago

We went our first time Friday 02/28/2025, arriving during happy hour (although we didn't know it was happy hour at the time). We were seated by an employee. It was not crowded. I ordered 2 margaritas for me and husband. I noted that they were kind of pricey. They arrived promptly, were small, nothing special. We had appetizers and asked for our check, which was around $50., without tip. We tipped $10.00. As we were leaving, my husband asked if they had a happy hour, and we learned we had arrived during the happy hour and were leaving still during happy hour. We had been in it when we ordered! They never told us, nor did they provide us a "happy hour" menu before we ordered from the bar area (which would certainly be in that happy hour area). Upon glancing at the happy hour menu my husband asked for at the end of our visit, my wife saw had we ordered off the happy hour menu our margaritas would have been cheaper! When this was pointed out to the server, she merely told us that it was unfortunate we did not get provided a happy hour menu, but did not offer to fix the problem. Appalling? Yes! Would we return? Not a chance. A poor way to do business. We feel ripped off, and we will not be returning. The appetizers were okay as was the service, but not enough to offset being overcharged. When we told the seating person on the way out, she merely said something to the effect that maybe the server did not know to give us a "happy hour" menu, but did not offer to fix the problem. Amazingly poor and indifferent customer service. We are locals. They lost potential regulars by their poor and indifferent attitude in the face of their mistake. read more

Sonia A.

2 years ago

I used to be a regular at Cha Cha and was good, but my last visit was a complete disaster. From the moment we walked in, the place seemed off. The first red flag was the horrible smell coming from the kitchen--it was like a mix of garbage and spoiled food. We tried to ignore it, thinking maybe it was just a one-time issue, but unfortunately, the food confirmed our worst fears. The dishes were not only poorly prepared but also had an unpleasant, off-putting taste that was impossible to ignore. It was clear the quality had drastically dropped. What made matters even worse was the attitude of the manager. She was beyond rude, acting like we were the inconvenience just for asking about the food or for a simple drink request. We asked for Diet Coke, and they couldn't even provide that! How can a restaurant not have basic options like that? The whole experience felt like they couldn't care less about their customers or the food they serve. The staff seemed untrained and disengaged, and the atmosphere was tense--definitely not the welcoming vibe it used to have. To top it all off, when we mentioned the issues to the manager, he brushed us off and didn't even offer an apology. I don't know what happened to this place, but it's clear that the standards have plummeted. I can't recommend Cha Cha anymore. Save your time and money and go somewhere that actually cares about their food and customers. It's not worth the risk of having another awful experience. read more

Chris A.

635

926

5 years ago

The fawning four star and five star reviews and the four and a half star average rating enticed me to give this place a try. I found the food and the service it to be just "OK" and nothing special, hence the three stars. Read on. Cha Cha's is located in The Marketplace on Jamboree boulevard that straddles Tustin Ranch and Irvine. Cha Cha's occupies a space that used to be an IHOP. Both indoor, outdoor patio, and outdoor "COVID tent" seating are offered. I'll let my photos speak to whether the place is "stylish" or not. It being Taco Tuesday, I got three tacos: one spare rib, one shrimp, and one carnitas. They look pretty good in my pic, right? I found them to be just OK. The carnitas was dried out and my least favorite of the three. The big glob of goat cheese kinda spoiled the spare rib taco. The shrimp taco was the best of the three but it was nothing to write home about. Thankfully, the tacos are half off on Tuesdays as of this writing. The tacos are served with rice and black beans. Like the tacos, the rice and the beans were were just OK. The highlight of the meal just might have been the Pacifico on draft or maybe the chips and salsa. The service was just OK, too. The staff I encountered sat me and delivered the meal fine, but the service felt perfunctory. I don't need my ass kissed, but it couldn't hurt to be at least a little bit friendly. Would I return? The Magic Eight Ball says unlikely. Cheers! read more

Ariana A.

2 years ago

We recently visited Cha Cha's Kitchen for a birthday brunch, and while the food was fantastic, the service was a bit of a letdown. Our reservation was for 10, but unfortunately, two people couldn't make it. When the server found out, she started roughly moving the extra seats around us while we were already seated, telling us to grab our things. She didn't offer any help or explanation--just shoved over the cups and utensils onto the empty seats, making the whole situation feel rushed and awkward. From the start, her tone and attitude were off-putting, which immediately created a negative vibe for our group. When the drinks arrived, there was a mix-up with my order. I had asked for lemonade, but was brought tea instead. When I pointed out the mistake, she snapped back, "No, that's what you ordered, and that's why I asked you." Her dismissive attitude made it feel like we were a bother rather than customers, which really didn't sit well with the group. At that point, we decided to ask for a different server, and what a difference that made. Our new server was a breath of fresh air--polite, friendly, and patient. He took the time to walk us through the menu and made great recommendations. His positive attitude and professionalism completely turned the experience around. In the end, the food was amazing, and we're glad we stayed. We'll definitely be returning, but we'll make sure to avoid being seated with that initial server again. read more

Kyle T.

622

918

5357

3 years ago

I recently visited Cha Cha's with my girl for a date night and I was impressed by the owner's personal touch as he came to each table to check on his guests. He was very friendly and genuine. However, I was a bit disappointed with the food quality and staff service. The red habanero salsa had a great flavor but lacked the extra kick I was hoping for. The seating is first come first served and the place can get pretty busy, but luckily we were able to find a spot. The patio and interior both had a great atmosphere with fun music and a nice crowd. I would definitely recommend sitting outside if the weather is good, which is usually the case in SoCal. I ordered the three taco dish. The wild mushroom tacos were my favorite, they were big and flavorful, but not too spicy for me. The guacamole was also delicious and I would eat the wild mushroom tacos all by themselves. However, I found the prices a bit high and some of the dishes, like the rice, were just okay. Cha Cha's has a high-end restaurant vibe that you would expect to find at The Spectrum. It's a great addition to the restaurant selection in the Market Place, but I hope they can improve the food quality and staff service to match the owner's personal touch. read more

Rose T.

156

217

401

3 years ago

Once again, I found myself back at Cha Cha's, this time with my son and his girlfriend. Let me tell you, they were blown away! We kicked things off with some crispy calamari and garlic fries, and beef nachos. Oh so good!! For our main course, we went for the beef fajitas. The meat was cooked to perfection - tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. I washed it all down with a refreshing Cha Cha grapefruit margarita, while the kids sipped on a watermelon margarita that were equally delicious. But no night at Cha Cha's is complete without dessert! We had to have the flan. It was smooth, creamy, and the perfect way to end the meal. Our server, Jack, deserves a huge shoutout. He was friendly, attentive, and made us feel like we were old friends. He even gave us a little sample of their famous cilantro sauce, which is seriously next-level good. By the end of the night, we felt like we'd been transported to a tropical paradise, thanks to the amazing food, drinks, and atmosphere. Cha Cha's is the perfect place to gather with friends and family, soak up the good vibes, and have a blast. I can't wait to go back! read more

Huey B.

See more unrecommended reviews

740

695

13304

2 years ago

Today marked my second visit to Cha Cha Kitchen, and I must say, it was a delightful experience, especially considering the significantly reduced crowd and improved seating options compared to my previous visit. Initially, my friends and I had planned to head to BJ's next door, but we decided to give Cha Cha Kitchen a try, and I'm so glad we did. While Taco Rosa nearby has always been a favorite, Cha Cha Kitchen has now firmly claimed the title of my new go-to Mexican restaurant. The ambiance of Cha Cha Kitchen is simply captivating. The inviting seating, both indoors and outdoors, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The service is impeccable, the food is mouthwatering, and the overall experience is simply unparalleled. Their reviews speak for themselves, and I highly recommend giving Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen a try. 5 stars for reasonably priced food, great ambiance and friendly service. I'll be back! Enjoy and Bon Appetit! read more

Armik N.

2 years ago

My daughter suggested Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen at the Tustin Market Place, and it turned out to be an excellent choice. The resturant has a warm and open ambiance, with vibrant yellow bar stools adding a pop of color to the place. The bar's design is sleek and stylish, and the patio a fantasitc addition for outdoor dining. Our server, Paige, was wonderful - warm, welcoming, and very friendly. She helped us select our dishes and ensured our drinks and food arrived promptly, with timely refills. The food was outstanding. I tried the taco trio with chicken, steak, and shrimp, each perfectly prepared with unique spices and garnished with salsa and shaved raddish. Black beans and Spanish rice were on the side and have to say the Spanish rice some of the best I've ever had. Overall, the experience was amazing. The atmosphere, food, and service were all top-notch, and I loved sharing a delightful lunch with my daughter. I'm already planning my next visit to Cha Cha's. read more

Jeanette S.

594

8 years ago

I've traveled the world and consider myself quite a "foodie." How refreshing to move back to Orange County and find this gem!! Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen Irvine is my new favorite go-to. I came here with my 14 year old daughter and the manager, Steve immediately made us feel welcomed. Steve made the most delicious recommendations....everything from the guacamole, carne asada, pan-seared halibut, desserts to beautiful cocktails were a treat for the senses. Not only was Cha Cha's presentation and service impeccable, Steve and his staff are attentive, friendly, while maintaining on point as professionals. I've been back several times now, always greeted with a smile, Taco Tuesday is a must, but better yet live music nights!! It's a challenge to find restaurants that have an amazing atmosphere, great food and awesome management....so happy to have stumbled upon Cha Cha's, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to anyone!! read more

Casey E.

1 year ago

We really need to be able to put zero stars. Went here last night because I was given a gift card and now I think they gave it to me because they knew this place was horrid. The food was absolutely horrific, it looked and tasted like airport/hospital food. Nothing had seasoning, the beans were tasted like they were canned and the salsa was flavorless, don't even get me started on the chewy/dry/weird texture rice. My margarita was disgusting, pure sugary juice. Our waiter was terrible, he was rude, he threw our bill on the table, we still can't figure out why, lol. We didn't have any type of bad exchange so we didn't get where the attitude was coming from. We left an almost full margarita, one tequila shot and all of that disgusting food on the table, paid the bill and left. I promise you, DO NOT eat here, its the worst "mexican food" I've ever tried. read more

chun-chung c.

153

2 years ago

I recently dined at Cha Cha Latin Restaurant with a party of three and had a pleasant experience overall. The service was excellent--fast, attentive, and the staff took the time to explain the menu, which was especially helpful since I wasn't familiar with some of the dishes. The ambiance was fairly quiet and comfortable, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal. We ordered the catch of the day (swordfish), three enchiladas, and three tacos. The enchiladas and tacos were fantastic, receiving high praise from my dining companions. As for the fish dish I ordered, it was just okay--not bad, but nothing particularly memorable. Overall, Cha Cha Latin Restaurant delivers solid service and a welcoming atmosphere with mostly great food. I'd recommend it, but next time, I might opt for one of their standout dishes like the tacos or enchiladas. read more

Andrea S.

5 years ago

Last night I came in and the place was so busy, I was quoted 30min wait but still wasn't texted by then. I came to check at 45 minutes, which my Dad was pretty POed by then and wanted to leave. Something must have happened because when I checked on the status a manager by the name of Dannelle or Michelle was there now and she apologized about the long wait but explained guests were hanging out longer than they predicted. A lot of other customers were crowding around the front also angry. My Dad came in and made a scene I was so embarrassed but she got us a table right away and bought us an appetizer to make up for it. Our Server I can't remember his name I think Zach, was great, our drinks were never empty and was Super friendly. For a rough start, the staff and management turned it around. The food was okay, a little over priced. read more

Edith S.

120

1 year ago

We had such a wonderful experience at Cha Cha's yesterday that I couldn't wait to share! From the moment we walked in, the hostess greeted us warmly and set the tone for what turned out to be a truly memorable visit. The ambiance was vibrant, the food was absolutely delicious, and every dish felt thoughtfully prepared and full of flavor. But what truly made the experience stand out was the exceptional service we received from Omar. Omar was attentive, friendly, and genuinely passionate about making our visit special. His energy, recommendations, and attention to detail took everything to the next level. He will forever be one of the most memorable servers we've had--and we will absolutely be asking for him again on our next visit! Thank you, Cha Cha's, for such a lovely experience. We're already looking forward to coming back! read more

Asal N.

3 months ago

Five stars all around for Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen! We came here for my dad's surprise birthday dinner, and the experience truly blew us away. The atmosphere is amazing, and the restaurant's design and decor are so unique and unlike anything I've seen before. Beyond the gorgeous space, the staff went above and beyond to manage my severe pineapple allergy. They took it incredibly seriously, ensuring there was zero pineapple in any of the dishes and absolutely no cross-contamination with my food or my watermelon margarita, making for a completely stress-free celebration. To top it all off, the food was incredible--the watermelon margarita was perfect, and the shrimp, wild mushroom, steak, and chicken tacos were all absolutely delicious. Huge thank you to the team for a wonderful night, we will definitely be back! read more

MaryJane W.

8 years ago

I really love this spot. I get my grapefruit/tequila fix (ChaCha's Marg) and the scratch menu is delightful. I used to go in for the Carne Asada y Chimichurri, but now I opt for appetizers or tapas (only on Thursday) so I can enjoy more margaritas! The calamari is my favorite. Or Shrimp al Ajo if it's Thursday! If I feel extra indulgent I'll get the Queso Fundido y Chorizo (reaaaaal cheese!) and fresh corn tortillas. And the staff is just the coolest. The servers are genuine and I don't feel like I'm taking to a bunch of robots. I like to sit on the patio. The managers seem friendly and the people are enough to keep you there, probably longer than you should. My girlfriends like to go for bottomless mimosas on Sunday's brunch. But I'll stick to my Grande (double) ChaCha's Margarita! read more

Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen - mexican - Updated September 2026

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Excellent food and service. Ample inside and outside seating…read more The restaurant is located behind/by the patio area/big tree, you cannot see it from the parking lot.

So let's break it down. Tons of parking, service is great, and the place is huge so tons of seating…read more The food. The ceviche wasn't fresh and tasted off. The fried rice had the frozen veggies mixed in. The lomo saltado was ok, but I got the cilantro rice...just no. The food isn't fresh but the portions are huge. Plus the prices....wasnt worth it.

Luna Rossa

(1.4k reviews)

Luna Rosa at The District in Tustin consistently delivers tasty, well-made Italian food. Their…read morepizza is made just right. I recommend getting one to share instead of ordering other appetizers. I really appreciate having a dependable Italian restaurant nearby that adds some much needed variety to the local dining scene where cuisine variety / options have decreased. It's refreshing to have a dependable and delicious Italian option that brings some much-needed variety!

Fantastic location, beautiful night, soft music playing…read moreoutside. A constant flow of people walk by this establishment. Any restaurant owner would love to have this location, possibly one of the best places to have a restaurant in Irvine. We arrive with reservations on a Saturday night with the place empty. Only three parties inside, most other out on the balcony. The service was so poor, we had to sit ourselves. Our waiter was grumpy, snarky, and asked if I wanted to take home our clam shells? We asked if we could have our clams with linguini pasta instead of spaghetti? NO, came his reply. The portions were small, they use store bought mushrooms for their resotto, instead of the more expensive ones. We had to get up a few times to ask for help, with our kind bus boy doing most of the work. It was so subpar for the price. I could give you a list of great Italian restaurants within a few miles of this place with great service and huge portions.

The Stand - American Classics Redefined

4.6

(571 reviews)

We love it here! The food and customer service is always Great! It's always nice and clean! Ask…read morefor Tu, she's always super nice and helpful! Definitely recommend this place!!!

Food 10/10 Service 20/10!…read more We had such a great experience at The Stand in Tustin! The food was delicious, but the service was truly exceptional. Weston was so intentional and attentive. My husband and I wanted to share our plates, and without us even asking, he made sure everything was taken care of for us. It's the little details that make a dining experience special. The Stand will definitely be one of our favorite places to eat. Absolutely a must-try!

Taco Rosa

3.5

(1.7k reviews)

Aria Kitchen

(488 reviews)

•$$$

Came here to celebrate my mom's birthday and had a great experience!…read more The restaurant is beautiful, colorful, and full of energy. One of the best parts is that it's halal, which made it an easy choice for our family. The staff was very friendly, welcoming, and attentive throughout our visit. We ordered a lot of food, including the beef tacos, enchiladas, beef kabob plate, and chicken kabob plate. Everything was delicious! The meat was tender, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. Everyone at the table enjoyed their meal, and there wasn't a single dish we didn't like. This is a great spot for both large family gatherings and smaller groups. I would recommend making a reservation, especially on weekends, since it can get busy. We had a wonderful time celebrating and will definitely be back!

Came here with a group of 10, and we were able to make a reservation ahead of time to accommodate…read moreour group. Our table was ready for us when we arrived. The interior of the space looks nice! They also have a covered patio area that reminds me of a sunroom. My friend recommended the Taco Flight that comes with 8 tacos. The menu doesn't list exactly which tacos can be chosen as part of the flight, so it's a little confusing. I don't remember all of the tacos our server listed, but we ordered a variety, so the following are some of the ones that do count for the flight--Boneless Chicken, Beef Birria, Lamb Birria, Ribeye, Shrimp, and Beef Koobideh. We also ordered a Lamb Koobideh taco, but our server gave us two of the Beef Koobideh instead. Also just FYI, the chicken and ribeye tacos are "street taco" style, so they're smaller than the others. The taco flight comes on a fun tray on a lazy Susan! In the center are three different salsas, lime wedges, and sliced radish. My favorite tacos were the Beef Birria, Chicken, Shrimp, and Beef Koobideh tacos. The beef birria was tender, juicy, and flavorful! The chicken was tasty as well. The beef koobideh tacos were topped with onion and sumac for some acidity and a nice crunch. Along with the taco flight, I also shared a Cilantro Lime Salad. It had greens, avocado, feta, grilled corn, cherry tomato, cucumber, pepitas, and cilantro dressing. The salad wasn't very visually appealing, but it tasted good. It could have used a little more dressing. Also, in the later evening hours, there's a DJ--the light go down, colored lights come on, the music turns up, and the vibes turn a bit club-like. There is plenty of parking in the plaza lot, or there is also an underground parking structure with additional parking.

Dupont Centre Cafe

4.8

(135 reviews)

I like this place!!!! Every time that I'm in the area I go…read morethere. The service is always good, the food comes fast and delicious.

Wasn't all too hungry but did want a side salad, and decided to order a piece of salmon.. this did…read morenot disappoint. Friendly staff, Edgar and Sam were quick and helpful. Overall 10/10 service. Restaurant was clean and good shows on their tvs.

Perla

4.3

(914 reviews)