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    Gulliver's Restaurant

    3.6 (1.3k reviews)
    Open 11:30 am - 3:00 pm, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Gulliver's Restaurant Photos

    Business Info

    GULLIVER'S RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Good for kids
    Outdoor seating
    Happy hour specials

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    Recommended Reviews - Gulliver's Restaurant

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    Exterior Decor
    Alan S.

    It was sad to hear the news that Gulliver's Restaurant is closing its doors permanently at the end of June after serving the local community for 50+ years! El Torito next door is already out of business and we can thank the landlord for not offering lease renewal to either tenant. Well known for its prime rib and English tavern-style ambiance, you are running out of time if you hope to pay your respects to this fine establishment. Don't forget to book a reservation first! On my most recent visit, I enjoyed the Gulliver's Prime Cut which is their most popular cut according to their menu. It's served with their famous creamed corn, creamed spinach, whipped horseradish, au jus and Yorkshire pudding. The entire experience is reminiscent of Lawry's...just not quite at the same level. Still, it's def one of the best prime rib options in the local area. IMO the food tastes even better reheated the next day! I'm going to try and visit one more time before they close to try something different off their menu. See YOU there?

    Bread
    Francisco M.

    There's a lot with loads of parking. They have a decent amount of indoor and outdoor waiting seating. Inside is well decorated with it's fun theme. The staff are all really nice and friendly. They offer two types of bread while waiting. Both were warm with a crispy exterior. I got the filet mignon with the herb butter. The steak was great and cooked to medium rare. The herb butter was more herb than butter. The green beans and baked potato were quite flavorful. It might be too much depending on your taste. Definitely worth a chance.

    Gulliver 's Lunch Cut and Aged Ribeye
    Caitlin V.

    When my husband told me Gulliver's Restaurant was closing for good, I was sad. I have such fond memories coming here over the years with my family. I knew I had to visit one last time before they closed at the end of the month. It was so nostalgic for me because everything seemed the same (decor and great service), except that I went with my husband and kids instead of my parents and sisters. Their prime rib is always delicious and juicy. I like it medium and it's always cooked perfectly medium.

    Large Primerib cooked medium rare with buttered spinach, Gullivers corn, sautéed mushrooms, and grilled onions.
    Sean K.

    My wife and I had dinner reservations for my birthday last weekend and we weren't disappointed. Firstly, we were met cordially and seated quickly, which left the rest of the evening to enjoy a hearty primerib dinner with grilled mushrooms, onions, and their famous Gullivers corn. Lastly, the Gullivers Restaurant is closing their doors sometime in the next week, so get your reservation and enjoy phenomenal food, excellent service and, of course, the ambiance of this fine restaurant.

    The check
    Alec N.

    Went for the first time in 36 years, since its closing down at the end of the month, and wish I'd gone a few times more in the time between. Was packed at lunch but got seated quickly at the bar. Ordered the large lunch cut prime rib. It came out really quick and was phenomenal with a side of green beans, a tasty potato salad, and delicious au jus and horseradish spread. Then because why not, got the bread pudding, so good. Place feels like a nice time capsule and is pleasant to relax in. Will be a shame losing this part of history. But apparently landlords want to develop the location after 60 years. Grumble. It's pricey, but absolutely worth checking out before it's gone.

    Emmett F.

    Tough to replace a place like this. There are many things to say, but when you have many long-term employees, a restaurant builds a momentum of customer service and an environment that new restaurants cannot replicate at any level of investment. In a city that is new and modern in many ways, which is great, it's unfortunate to lose a piece of classic restaurant history such a Gulliver's.

    Bar back
    Brett B.

    Food (Prime Rib) has been the speciality here since 1970. John Wayne used to dine here and we sat at his table one for our anniversary. The best service, bokd cocktails and great food everything. Sadly, they are closing June 30. However, they could reopen somewhere else in the local area. As Mr Spock said, " There are always, possibilitys." We wish them the best of luck for our futures.

    Gulliver's Lunch Cut (TikTok: @justandyvu)
    Andy V.

    1. The prime ribs were good! It was a good cut for lunch! 2. The spot has a nice dark ambiance! The interior is big! 3. The staff was friendly and attentive! It all came out in about 10 mins! 4. I only saw indoor seating available! There were a lot of tables! There is also bar seating! 5. Parking lot has a lot of space! There is also street parking! Note: They do offer complimentary bread and butter for dine-in! Photo: GULLIVER'S Lunch Cut

    Gulliver's Prime Cut (swapped out creamed spinach with mash potatoes)
    Mareeya T.

    It was my first time at this quaint spot. It's dimly lit inside which adds to the cozy, tavern-style, historic ambiance. They are known for their prime rib! Unfortunately they are closing down on June 30th, was recommended by a friend to come try it out before it closes! Sad to see them go since it would have been a great dinner date night spot. Had a pleasant meal, although service could have been better since we barely got checked on outside and the sunset was blaring in our eyes (something to consider even though there were umbrellas). It was packed inside so it's understandable. Meat could have been more medium rare but again they were really busy so might have been rushed considering they are closing shop soon and serving all at once. Staff were very friendly nonetheless!

    Rest in peace, Professor Liebeck. 2026
    Quinn N.

    + Scrumptious well-rounded 4-course meal. + Polite, attentive, helpful staff. + My first time ever having horseradish with American dinner. Exotic twist, quite novel and enjoyable. + Absolutely lavish interior decor. Quite the unassuming exterior by juxtaposition. + They have spacious, cozy, decorated rooms for private events. + Ample parking. + Many nice private restrooms. - I just didn't like that the waiters kept trying to take my plate while I clearly was still eating. This was Professor Liebeck's favorite restaurant.

    Clam chowder, almost no clams or potato
    Jay P.

    My wife's family loves this place and we normally come for Japanese family dinner with my family and my brother in law. It's an odd choice for a Japanese family but there is nostalgia and history here so we come frequently. It's located near John Wayne airport and reminds me a bit of "airport" food. It has an outdated but charming interior and is dark inside, often I find myself more tired than usual because of how dim it is inside. The good thing is giant American sized portions so you will not leave hungry. GULLIVER'S CLASSIC PRIME RIB DINNER: creamed corn, creamed spinach, whipped horseradish, au jus and Yorkshire pudding. I always get this and I feel like I would like some of the other entree options more. It's an OK piece of prime rib, always cooked medium rare. Sides are OK. CAESAR SALAD:Crisp Romaine lettuce, house made garlic crostini, shaved Parmesan. I appreciate they don't drown this in dressing, it tastes OK with a large portion size. NEW ENGLAND CLAM CHOWDER: Definitely house made, it comes very spares with potato and clams. Tasted OK but I think I can make this better at home.

    Escargot
    Jim E.

    Been wanting to try for years but we are usually in the area, before they open or after they close, finally in the area when we could make it in for dinner on a Saturday. No wait for a table when we arrived at 5pm, seated right away. Hostess was very friendly and guided us to our table, welcomed us to the restaurant. Our server Tony arrived a few minutes later and took our drink order a London Bridge and asked if we had any questions. When Tony brought our drink back we were ready to order. We started with escargot and puff pastry, they came quickly, Tony warned us the little cups were hot as they just came out of the oven and left us to begin our feast. The escargot was delicious, our next course was the clam chowder, one of the best we have ever had, rich, thick and full of flavor. Tony took our empty bowls a a few minutes passed before our mains arrived, Prime Rib a perfect medium rare and a peppercorn crusted rib eye. Both were delicious. Each was complimented with creamed spinach and creamed corn. The creamed corn was especially delicious. Prime rib came with yourkshire pudding and the ribeye with a twice baked potato. We also ordered the truffle mashed potatoes, silky smooth with a bold truffle flavor. The building is warm and cozy, dark woods and lots of decorations on the walls, reminds me of a country manor house from the 1800s. Overall an excellent evening, food was delicious, staff was very friendly and attentive. Dinner for two with tax and tip was $220. Right in line with other higher end steak houses in the area. Highly recommend for a special evening or just a night out for dinner.

    Menu face :)
    Randy L.

    2nd time visiting. Very roomy restaurant with a spacy interior, very "open" with only a couple of walls separating areas for large groups. The staple of Gulliver's is the Prime Rib. The other entree options include salmon, duck, lamb, chicken, fresh catch of the day, and BBQ beef ribs. (I love ribs, so I am going to try that on my next visit!) The basket of bread with 2 very large pats of butter are the first on the table after seating. The menu is very simple and concise, just TWO pages (even the Liquor & Wine menu has more pages). The sides were simply "killer": creamed spinach and creamed corn. No need for mashed potatoes or fries (as a side). The creamed veggies are simply the best and they come with the PR meals. TONY was our server and he was simply SPOT ON. The service from the staff was very attentive. Water glass always full; checking in with the table every now and then; really none-for-want! Overall, the people here are so friendly, happy, and accommodating. My total experience is a 5-Star. The only reason for the 4-Star is the pricing. No need to elaborate, just look at the menu. BUT, I would still recommend Gulliver's if you have never been. It's a unique experience.

    Prime rib

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    3 years ago

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    2 years ago

    Had quick lunch at the bar, excellent prime rib sandwich along with wonderful appetizers. Very friendly staff with excellent service.

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    6 years ago

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    2 years ago

    Great service and food!!!! Like dining inside a ship! Wish could go there more often.

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    6 years ago

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    2 years ago

    The quality of the Prime Rib was awful. I had to send it back, which I never do. Three out of six of us had a bad experience

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    Page 6 of 34

    Gulliver's Restaurant Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Gulliver's Restaurant

    Is there a kids menu?

    Gulliver's Restaurant in Irvine is known for its classic American steakhouse fare, but for kids, they offer standard, satisfying options like burgers, chicken fingers, mac & cheese, and sometimes sandwiches, served with sides like fries and a drink,… Read more

    Hi can't find Thanksgiving Menu on your Website?

    Hi The Thanksgiving menu is available on our website under the “Menus” tab and then scrawl down to… Read more

    Casual? Are shorts ok as we are coming straight from the golf course

    I wore shorts and a tshirt with a ball cap. Had a buddy just get in from flying and he was in flip flops and no one said anything to us or maybe this is why we got not up to standard quality of food

    When does the Christmas decorations come down?

    Is the Christmas decor up during Thanksgiving? We have reservations that day and would love to see it decked out for the Holidays.

    Hi Yes, our Christmas decorations will be up on thanksgiving

    Do you offer pick-up orders?

    Hi Hillary Yes, we do takeout orders every day. Lunch Monday to Friday from 11:30 to 3pm and dinner seven days a week from 4:30 to 8:30pm. Simply call us to place your pick… Read more

    Do they have gift certificates?

    Dear Heather, We do offer gift cards for purchase at the restaurant.

    Can we bring our own wine? How much corkage?

    Dear Annabelle, Yes, you can bring your own bottle of wine. The corkage fee is $20 per 750ml bottle.

    What is on the menu that is vegetarian friendly?

    Hi, We have a steamed/grilled vegetarian plate as well as pasta primavera.

    Is this place kid friendly (6, 10) for a tuesday dinner?

    Sue O seems like she needs a hug.

    Do they still have those delicious weekly lunch specials?

    Yes

    Do they have happy hour?

    Yes. The prices on their drinks are the same; however, they have unlimited hors d'oeuvres for you to snack on. Friday is the best time to go for their Happy Hour.

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    Benny and Mary's

    4.2
    (674 reviews)
    0.4 mi
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    1. The burger was delicious and well-built! I love the flavors of the pie!…read more2. The spot has fun vibes! The interior is nicely decorated! 3. The staff was friendly and hospitable! The food came out after 10 mins! 4. There are indoor and outdoor seatings! Lots of table! 5. There are parking structures and lots! Restaurant should be able to validate! Note: Restrooms have multiple stalls! Photo: Banana Cookie Butter Pie and Classic Smash

    This spot has a very eclectic and charming decor that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The…read morestaff is professional, knowledgeable, and well versed in both the food and drink menus, making the overall experience even better. The cocktail selection is excellent, and the wine list offers plenty of great choices. The salads were exceptionally fresh, and the sea bass was perfectly prepared and absolutely delicious. There is plenty of parking available in the lot, which is always a plus. Since the restaurant is located in an office complex, it tends to get busy on weeknights after work. A weekend visit may provide a more relaxed experience. Overall, it is definitely worth checking out for the food, drinks, service, and unique ambiance.

    Photos
    Secret entrance to private room
    Secret entrance to private room
    Bananas Foster. Boozy flambéed bananas, vanilla gelato, and chocolate banana bread. Great dessert to try out.
    Bananas Foster. Boozy flambéed bananas, vanilla gelato, and chocolate banana bread. Great dessert to try out.
    Cheese Dumplings. Crispy wonton shells give way to its melted cheese center as it sits partially submerged in a thick, spicy tomato bisque.

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    Cheese Dumplings. Crispy wonton shells give way to its melted cheese center as it sits partially submerged in a thick, spicy tomato bisque.
    Pepper Lunch

    Pepper Lunch

    3.9
    (1.6k reviews)
    1.6 mi
    $$
    Established in 1994
    Grab-and-go

    Dropped by for a quick lunch because I've always wanted to try this place. I ordered the bibimbap,…read moreand my husband got the Spaghetti Pork Cutlet. I have to say, comfort food is always the best. I was pleasantly surprised by the spaghetti--it was way better than I expected and really hit the spot. The bibimbap didn't disappoint either. It's always my go-to rice dish, and this one was fresh and flavorful. The lady who served us was also very nice and attentive. She checked on us a few times and made sure we had everything we needed.

    I had no idea what "hot plate teppanyaki" was, but now that I have been introduced to this…read moreexceptional Japanese cooking style, I will never be the same! There aren't enough words to describe how utterly fantastic this place is. While the dishes are a bit pricey ($17.89 for my Two Meat Sizzling Curry), it's worth the cost. Each plate comes with a warning label around it, to remind you of how hot it is. On the plate is a fluffy rice patty with a divot you can fill with corn, but I ordered an egg instead. Next is your protein. I chose beef and shrimp. Then you add your veggies, and for me that was onions and carrots. While the rice is cooked, everything else is raw. Once at your table, you do the cooking to your liking! Then you top it all off with their rich and creamy curry. There's a bit of spice to the sauce, but if you're a fan of curry, it's nothing you can't handle. There is seating both inside and out, and seats fill up fast. If you live in the area, you can benefit from the stamp card they offer, which gives great benefits once complete. Service was quick, and our server very helpful. This was my first time here, but I would go back in a heart beat. A great dining experience that felt like an adventure.

    Photos
    Cuteness over load
    Cuteness over load
    Your favorite pasta, creamy sauce, mushroom and some smoked beef combined into one perfect creamy dish for the winter~
    Your favorite pasta, creamy sauce, mushroom and some smoked beef combined into one perfect creamy dish for the winter~
    Come and find our store, because here's where all the excitement happen!

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    Come and find our store, because here's where all the excitement happen!
    Texas de Brazil - Irvine

    Texas de Brazil - Irvine

    4.1
    (2.6k reviews)
    5.0 mi
    $$$$
    Full bar
    Large group friendly

    My husband was the one who found this incredible restaurant and brought us here for our…read moreanniversary. At first, I wasn't sure whether I would like it because I can be a little nervous about trying new places, especially if I've never heard of them before. But my husband reassured me that the food looked good, so I decided to give it a try. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt fancy without being over the top. The staff seated us right away and explained how everything worked. I chose the salad bar option, while my husband went with the full meat option. As soon as I tasted the food, I was immediately sold. The rice, beans, and mushrooms were all cooked perfectly. Everything had great flavor and the right amount of salt. Their salads were so good, and they had an endless supply of delicious cheeses and olive oil. They also served one of my favorite coffee brands, Lavazza, which made me very happy. On top of that, they brought out some amazing appetizers, including fries, cheesy bread, and plantains. The only downside is that the restaurant does not allow you to take food to go. I was honestly bummed because this is one of those places where the food is so good that you want to take some home and enjoy it later. Still, I absolutely fell in love with this place and always try to visit whenever possible.

    I was gifted two gift cards to Texas de Brazil as an early birthday present, so I decided to take…read moremy partner. Unfortunately, we weren't very hungry that day, which was probably the only downside! We tried three different cuts of meat, and everything was excellent--fresh, tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The staff was incredibly attentive and made the experience even more enjoyable. The restaurant had a great atmosphere, and we never felt rushed. My birthday is on June 14, so in hindsight I kind of regret going a month early! But it was such a wonderful experience that I hope to go back soon and enjoy even more of what they have to offer.

    Photos
    Texas de Brazil - Irvine
    Texas de Brazil - Irvine
    Texas de Brazil - Irvine

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    Butcher’s House Brasserie

    Butcher’s House Brasserie

    4.4
    (340 reviews)
    4.0 mi
    $$$

    Service and food were, as usual excellent . My wife really enjoyed the fresh salad and I enjoyed…read morethe French onion soup and the always excellent Ribeye. Low alcohol martini was excellent also . A little pricey but it seems all fine dining restaurants are expensive these days . Might split a meal next time . We definitely will return !

    If you are looking for an authentic French dining experience in Costa Mesa, Butcher's House…read moreBrasserie is a must-visit. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt incredibly genuine--even the waiters were speaking French, which added such a charming, transportive touch to our evening! We came here to celebrate a friend's birthday and were glad we made a reservation in advance, as the place has a great energy and fills up quickly. To experience as much of the menu as possible, we ordered several dishes to share. We started with the Burrata and the Butcher's House Pate. Both were excellent, but a special shout-out has to go to the bread and butter. The bread quality is top-notch, and the butter is divine--it immediately reminded me of the high-quality butter I've had in France. Before the mains, we shared the Butcher's Salad. It was incredibly refreshing and the perfect palate cleanser. We opted not to add protein to the salad since we knew we had a feast coming, and it was the right call. Since they are known for their butchery, most of our group went with steaks. Two friends ordered the steak and eggs, and I went with the classic Steak Frites. The steak was cooked to perfection and the accompanying sauce was amazing. Both the potatoes and the fries were standout sides--perfectly crispy and seasoned. Toulouse Sausage was a total hidden gem! It was incredibly juicy and flavorful. I tried a bite of my friend's cod, and it proved that they handle seafood just as expertly as their meats. It was delicate and fresh. While I didn't get a chance to try the cocktails this time, I noticed they have a full bar with a great selection. I already have my eye on the Espresso Martini for my next visit! Overall, a fantastic spot for a celebration or a nice date night. I can't wait to come back.

    Photos
    Tables and chairs imported from France
    Tables and chairs imported from France
    Toulouse sausage
    Toulouse sausage
    Green Tomato appetiser

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    Green Tomato appetiser

    Gulliver's Restaurant - tradamerican - Updated June 2026

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