Northern Cafe

2 years ago

Good sized portions, great value and delicious food! Would definitely recommend the Chongqing crispy chicken.

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Madison V.

Dear Liah Thank you for your five star rating, and we are very happy…

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Zuri R.

8 months ago

Excellent food, large portion sizes and great price. I really enjoyed the grilled eggplant!

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Sssss L.

2 years ago

sweet sour eggplant is super delicious. The skewers are also particularly delicious. will go there Again read more

Northern Cafe - skewer - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - eggplant - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - dishes - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Madison V.

Dear Sssss, Thank you for your five star rating, and we are very…

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Wellington C.

574

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112

2 years ago

Since 101 noodle house closed down, my wife and i have been on a hunt to find the best beef roll in town. We have tried various other places since like 7 grams, A&J, Noodle St, Little Pan, etc. For the moment, i think the one here at Northern Cafe is at the top of our list. Things that stood out was the size, the overall balance of flavor (beef ratio, cilantro, green onion) and the price. We also tried some other items like the dumplings and the rice cakes. We though the rice cake was good too but found to dumpling to be just alright. Overall we found the cafe to be clean and the service good, food seemed to come out of the kitchen really fast. We definitely plan on coming back to try other items as we found the food here overall to be pretty good and someplace worthy to take our parent to. Chinese parents can be really picky so, to be considered as a place that you would bring your parents to is a big plus in my book. read more

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Madison V.

Dear Wellington Thank you for your feedback to our restaurant, your…

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Garry S.

10 months ago

Authentic enough but a bit of heavy sauce. I mean too much sweet sauce in the beef roll and too much pickles for my taste. Kinda kill the original food taste. read more

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Yuehan D.

9 months ago

I sometimes go here and I just order one of the hot pots. It's comforting and relaxing, quite chill, basically no human interaction. I suppose the service is good when you need it, though that's really not the point of going here--you go here for the purpose of eating something comfy and not talking to anyone ideally read more

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Katherine Y.

206

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1593

2 years ago

Their orange chicken is sooo good. Strong orange flavor with soft chicken. No bits of chicken here but good chunks and large portion. read more

Northern Cafe - Orange chicken - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Madison V.

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Gerrie K.

1 year ago

Ordered the pork dumplings and the fried noodle with chicken. The dumplings were delicious. The fried noodle was VERY greasy...it was swimming in oil and they were cheap with the chicken! I had maybe 4 small pieces? Otherwise an ok place to eat. read more

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Madison V.

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Russ N.

134

2 years ago

So, so, good. I love their dumplings, dan dan noodles, and surprisingly, their green beans are probably some of the best I've ever had! Service is quick and efficient and the space is clean. I really like this place! read more

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Madison V.

Dear Russ N. Thank you for your five star rating, and we are very…

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Matt H.

113

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2 years ago

Came here for the first time last night and I was pleasantly surprised. This location has a similar menu to the Cerritos location but does not have biang biang noodles unfortunately. I ordered the golden beef noodle soup which was very and comparable to the same dish at Seven Grams in Tustin but at a significant lower price point. My only critique is that some of the noodles are clumped together. I sent my bowl back and they gladly replaced my bowl with a piping hot bowl that mostly resolved this. My wife ordered the sour beef noodle soup and it was good as well. Both dishes were on the spicy side. The ambiance is modern and service is prompt. Glad we have yet another dumpling alternative here. read more

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Madison V.

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Ernest K.

2 years ago

We were not crazy about the one at UCI, so it took us a while to finally visit this location when it opened up closer to us. The food at this location seems to be better and the service was really fast. Love the fact that they open late when most places seem to close at 8:30pm on weekdays! read more

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Madison V.

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Sommer L.

1 year ago

My partner got Northern Cafe for dinner and LOVED it! I wish they had some gluten free options so I could enjoy it with him and hope they expand their offerings in the future. read more

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Rosalie L.

Elite 23

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367

2 years ago

Not as good as the Campus Drive location. The fried rice was very salty and the beef roll was much smaller and the fillings were not proportionate to each other. Mapo tofu was decent. We enjoyed the beef skewers. Those were my favorite. The location is also smaller than the one next to UCI but there is plenty of outdoor seating. We asked if we could switch to the booth next to us but the waitress didn't want us to wait because there were people still on the waitlist even though we were already seated. I didn't think that was a good reason and I was unhappy that they didn't accommodate a simple request. I appreciate they have more variety but the quality and service is not the same. read more

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Madison V.

Dear Rosalie， Thank you for your visit and feedback, your comments…

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Karen D.

1 year ago

The whole family Absolutely loved the food!!! Fatty beef w/green onions was flavorful, juicy and tender, orange chicken spectacular chili dumplings great. There wasn't anything we ordered we didn't like. The portions are huge, so perfect for family style. And prices were really affordable. Highly recommend read more

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Madison V.

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Kayla H.

2 years ago

The food was great! We ordered too much though. But still was good. Service was helpful, too! read more

Northern Cafe - Dumplings - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Madison V.

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Gerald G.

1 year ago

Simply put - delicious and well prepared food - first visit definitely fostered making plans for another. Service and setting well done and pleasant staff. Fried pot stickers and accompaniments were outstanding. read more

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Madison V.

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Brenda T.

1 year ago

Underwhelming because it was overhyped in our opinion. We came for the dumplings but were disappointed they all come with peanuts that we cannot modify so beware with those with peanut allergies. We had to get the boiled shrimp and chive dumplings instead but they were too simple. Customer service was okay but not great. Unfortunately wouldn't come back. read more

Northern Cafe - B11. Sautéed Green Beans / 乾煸四季豆 - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Madison V.

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Page 7 of 12

3831 B Alton Pkwy
Irvine, CA 92606
Directions
(949) 502-7111
Call Now

Full menu

Hours

What time does Northern Cafe open?

Northern Cafe opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.Northern Cafe opens at 4:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

What time does Northern Cafe close?

Northern Cafe closes at 2:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Northern Cafe closes at 11:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Thu 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM - 11:00 PMFri-Sun 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Food & Alcohol

Does Northern Cafe serve alcohol?

Yes, Northern Cafe serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does Northern Cafe allow dogs?

Yes, Northern Cafe allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Northern Cafe have outdoor seating?

Yes, Northern Cafe has outdoor seating options.

Does Northern Cafe have parking?

Yes, Northern Cafe has parking options. Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does Northern Cafe have free WiFi?

Yes, Northern Cafe has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Authentic Chinese food plus authentic Chinese skewer barbecue! We open till midnight everyday!

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Health Score

Northern Cafe Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Northern Cafe

Are there gluten free options?

If you order stuff like skewers or the appetizers from the "steam table". There is no noodle or dumplings that's gluten free. Also, soy sauce is used so if you're very gluten sensitive then I would say no.

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The restaurant is located near Dairy Queen and Sephora over by Tustin Marketplace area. There is a…read morelot of parking available, thank goodness. The inside is clean, to the left is where the seats are located and the right is where the kiosks are. You can order the food on a kiosk and sometimes they have deals for a second dish for 50% off. The prices were a little bit more expensive than I would have preferred but they do give generous servings. We ordered stir fried string beans, orange chicken, crispy beef, and salt and pepper fish filet. My least favorite was the crispy beef, mostly because it didn't even taste like I was eating much. I probably should have gotten a different beef dish, otherwise everything else was pretty good. They have a robot delivering food to the tables. They do have someone at the front desk area if you have any questions or need hot water for teas.

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Came by for lunch on the weekend and the place was packed! We managed to grab a seat but I can see…read morethis filling up or getting to a wait if it was any busier. They have a very Szechuan focused menu with most of the classics. Interior is lively and the space is on the smaller side. Service was prompt and all our food came quickly. The twice cooked pork was a little salty but came with generous ratio of pork to veggies. The hot and sour soup was piping and well flavored. Everything was spicy but not unbearable, and their food was all generously portioned.

A place for truly authentic Sichuan cuisine. Their Spicy dishes are not watered down. We had…read morethe fish in sour broth. The dish took a while to come out. There was a lot of fish in this dish. Place is very modern. You can order through your phone in English or Chinese. Place was almost full on a Saturday night. Food comes fast. Service was great. Restrooms were clean.

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4.0(512 reviews)

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Lots of parking available at UTC area, especially since it's located on the backside over by…read moreIn-N-Out. The restaurant is pretty big and clean. There are a couple of areas where you can get free water in cups. They often have daily specials if you're interested, especially the cold foods. Service was friendly and efficient. We ordered our food at the counter and the food came out relatively fast. We ate so many good foods: XLB, eggplant with garlic, mapo tofu, and zha jiang noodles. I don't know which one was my favorite because they were all very good and the portions were AMAAAZING. We had so much food leftover to eat the next day for me and my friend.

Northern Cafe has been one of our go to favorites…read more I'm not sure what happened but the batter for their chicken wings has definitely changed. They used to be crispy and just perfect. They changed the batter so you get this thick paste and batter now. I hate it, it's actually disgusting. They also changed the type of noodle they use in their stir fry noodles. It's much thicker now. Why are you making all these changes?

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LA's only crispy pork burger; 肉夹馍 actually lives up to the claim. Pulled up after picking up…read morestuff nearby, was starving, so I grabbed one to go. First bite and I literally stopped talking. Bread has that loud crisp on the outside, but inside it's soft and warm, kind of melts into the pork. The pork itself is super flavorful, a little juicy, not greasy at all, just that comforting, savory hit that makes you want another immediately. Tiny catering-style spot, but they're on it - quick, organized, and the guy helping me was super patient explaining options. Not a hangout spot, more like: roll up, grab your crispy pork burger, walk out happy.

Stopped by here to grab a quick dinner and it did not disappoint! The lamb rougamo aka hamburger is…read morewhat caught my initial attention, but everything else was tasty as well. They also have the option for beef and pork if lamb is not your thing. Also tried their wonton soup, which was actually really savory while comforting, as well as their cold and spicy plate of beef and tripe and decided to give their eggplant, potato, and some peppers a try and even the table next to us was curious about the dish bc it looked and tasted so good. Service was very attentive too, making sure everything tasted delicious. Overall, a casual and small group-oriented restaurant that warrants a solid try.

Menu 6/2025

Crispy Rougamo - House‑made Liang Pi cold noodles. Spicy, refreshing Northern‑Chinese street food with fresh vegetables. Dine‑in, takeout, delivery & caterin

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4.4(245 reviews)

4.4 mi

I'm Chinese, but had never had Yunnan food before, so thought of giving it a try…read more I walked in and was immediately sat. It's a QR scan to see the menu and place your order through your phone. The food came out so quick. Less than 2 minutes and everything was in front of me and tasted fresh. The service is extremely fast. I got the classic Roodle and as soon as I put all the ingredients into the broth, they swung by and collected empty dishes immediately. The portion was large and ingredients fresh. I enjoyed the variety and the amount of rice noodle. The broth was salty and refreshing. They have some side sauces to adjust the flavor, but I found myself not needing it. The dish reminded me of a form of hot pot but a soup version. Loved it! I highly recommend and will be returning!

I decided to give this place a try because I heard their noodles were very authentic, and as…read moresomeone who loves noodles, I was excited to try it. I ordered their most popular dish, the A1 set, but honestly, it didn't really live up to the hype for me. The broth tasted pretty underseasoned overall. From what I understood, you're supposed to mix all the toppings into the soup with the noodles, but even after doing that, I still felt like the flavor was lacking. Yes, they provide seasoning on the side, but personally, I wish the broth already had enough flavor on its own without needing to adjust it myself. Would I come back? Probably not. Nothing really stood out to me enough to return, and it felt more like a one-time experience. Overall, everything was just okay.

We came from all over to meet at this Roodle spot in Santa Ana. Fun times.

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4.1(457 reviews)

1.3 mi

I had a great first time experience at noodle nest. I came in craving some lamb cumin skewers and…read moreended up ordering few other items as well. The service was super friendly and everything came out very quickly. The restaurant is pretty big overall and very clean and has iPad ordering which I like. Marinated cucumbers: pretty standard with a big kick from the peppers. 8.5/10 Black pepper beef udon: noodles perfectly cooked with tender beef and a nice flavored sauce. 9/10 Lamb skewers: well seasoned and crispy and pretty tender. It hit the craving I was looking for. I would order double next time. 9.5/10 Sweet and sour pork riblets: pretty good, but I suppose the pork could have been slightly more tender for my preference (still came off bone) and the meat on the ribs were a little bit tiny. I would still order these again but just nitpicking. 8.5/10 Overall, I was pretty happy with my first experience here and I would definitely come back to try more things and get more skewers. Again shoutout to the manager and staff who was super nice and welcoming, we were definitely the only white boys in there .

It's fine, nothing was amazing but it was decent and the menu is huge…read more Large space + portions, good for families Felt a bit warm in there, like 78f or so.. Mapo tofu 3.5/5 Soft tofu with the hint of bean paste being detectable. It wasn't spicy for me. Def eat this with rice. The pork could be more tender, it was kind of tough. Big plate chicken 3/5 The noodles weren't as chewy and seemed too uniform compared to other spots. They're thinner than other places. The potato soaked up the sauce well and the chicken was plentiful. Chicken gizzard 2/5 Why is it sweet? Not exactly worth it for me $37?? Before tax and tip

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42 reviews that are not currently recommended

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obama

2 years ago

. Ambiance and Service: The restaurant offers a comfortable and clean environment with both indoor booth seating and an outdoor patio. The ordering process is straightforward, with a walk-up counter where patrons place their orders before seating themselves. Service is generally efficient, though some patrons have noted that it can feel a bit rushed during peak hours. Menu Highlights: Northern Cafe's menu features a variety of traditional Chinese dishes, with several standout items: * Dumplings: The house soup dumplings are praised for their juicy pork filling and flavorful broth, though some find the skin slightly thick. Pan-fried shrimp, pork, and chive dumplings are also highly recommended. * Noodle Dishes: The tomato beef noodle soup and golden soup beef noodles are popular choices, offering rich and hearty flavors. * Skewers: Cumin lamb skewers and other grilled items are favorites among patrons, providing a tasty complement to the main dishes. * Vegetable Dishes: Sauteed green beans and eggplant with garlic sauce are notable vegetarian options that have received positive feedback. Customer Feedback: Reviews are generally positive, with many customers appreciating the authentic flavors and variety of the menu. Some patrons have mentioned that certain dishes, like the garlic pork ribs, can be a bit salty, and the spicy shrimp wonton may not appeal to everyone's taste due to its unique preparation. Overall Experience: Northern Cafe provides a satisfying dining experience for those seeking authentic Chinese cuisine in Irvine. Its proximity to the University of California, Irvine, makes it a convenient spot for students and locals alike. While service can be brisk during busy times, the quality and taste of the food make it a worthwhile visit. read more

Anna W.

105

3 months ago

I recently visited this Northern Chinese restaurant and had an excellent dining experience from start to finish. The restaurant has a warm, inviting ambience that strikes a perfect balance between modern elegance and traditional Chinese charm, making it a great place for both casual meals and special gatherings. The staff were exceptionally friendly, attentive, and welcoming. They were happy to explain menu items and provided thoughtful recommendations, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The food was the highlight of the visit. The dumplings were outstanding--freshly made, authentic, and packed with flavorful fillings. Every bite showcased the quality and craftsmanship that Northern Chinese cuisine is known for. The skewers were perfectly seasoned and grilled, offering a delicious smoky aroma and tender texture. The hotpot was equally impressive, featuring a rich, flavorful broth and a wide selection of fresh ingredients. It was comforting, satisfying, and ideal for sharing with family and friends. The noodle dishes were expertly prepared, with a wonderful chewy texture and deep, authentic flavors that transported me straight to Northern China. I also appreciated the variety of cold dishes, which were refreshing, well-balanced, and full of vibrant flavors. They provided the perfect contrast to the heartier hotpot and grilled items. Overall, this restaurant delivers an authentic Northern Chinese dining experience with delicious food, beautiful ambience, and outstanding service. Whether you're craving handmade dumplings, flavorful skewers, comforting noodles, or a satisfying hotpot meal, this place is definitely worth a visit. I look forward to returning soon. read more

Alice L.

504

10 months ago

The Go-To Comfort Spot in Irvine Northern Cafe has been my comfort food favorite since my college days. Their menu is huge, and no surprise--they've expanded with more locations and are always busy. I visited the Irvine branch on a weekday, and the dining room was packed, with a steady stream of people picking up takeout. Here's what we tried: Golden Soup Beef Pot Mildly spicy and so comforting--perfect for cooler weather. The broth was flavorful, loaded with ingredients, and even included these adorable "cat paw" fish balls. So cute and satisfying! House Special Charcoal Grilled (available after 5 PM) They use an open flame to grill these skewers, and the Pork Belly Skewers were fantastic. The grilled oysters, scallops with vermicelli, and chicken cartilage were also delicious. Eggplant with Garlic Sauce The eggplant was melt-in-your-mouth tender and soaked up all the savory sauce. An absolute must-order! Juicy Pork Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) The wrappers were thin, and the filling was juicy and flavorful. So good, I didn't even need dipping sauce. So satisfying to pop one in your mouth! Shrimp, Pork&Chive Egg Dumplings Fresh-tasting filling with a nice chew to the dough. The combination of pork, chives, and shrimp was perfectly balanced. Beef Roll Generous portion with a crispy, golden wrapper. The braised beef inside was tender, the scallions were fresh, and the slightly sweet sauce had soaked through--so tasty! Northern Cafe delivers big portions, fast service, and a solid dining experience--no wonder it's considered a cafeteria-style staple for so many Irvine locals. Always reliable, always satisfying! read more

Leo C.

134

123

1 year ago

Northern Cafe in Irvine stands out as a commendable destination for authentic Chinese cuisine, often surpassing its sister locations in quality and service. Patrons frequently praise the restaurant's flavorful dishes and efficient service, contributing to its solid four-star reputation. The menu features popular items such as juicy pork dumplings (Xiao Long Bao), Dan Dan noodles, and spicy beef pots, all prepared with attention to authenticity and taste. The beef roll, in particular, has garnered positive feedback for its generous filling and well-balanced flavors. The restaurant's casual and inviting atmosphere, combined with reasonable pricing, makes it a favored choice among locals and visitors alike. While some diners have noted occasional inconsistencies in service, the overall dining experience at this Irvine location is often deemed superior to other branches. For those seeking a satisfying meal that embodies the essence of traditional Chinese cooking, Northern Cafe in Irvine is a noteworthy option. read more

Ethan Z.

2 years ago

Northern Cafe Review Northern Cafe is a hidden gem for anyone who loves authentic Chinese food. From the moment you step in, you're greeted with the tantalizing aroma of freshly prepared dishes and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The food is absolutely top-notch. The dumplings are perfectly crafted with thin, delicate wrappers and flavorful fillings--seriously some of the best I've ever had. The beef noodle soup is another standout, with tender beef, hand-pulled noodles, and a broth that's rich and deeply satisfying. Don't miss their spicy wontons and scallion pancakes--they're heavenly. The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable for the quality. The staff is friendly and efficient, even during busy times. While the seating can be a bit limited, especially during peak hours, the food is well worth the wait. If you're a fan of authentic Chinese cuisine or just looking for a place to enjoy comfort food that hits the spot, Northern Cafe is a must-visit. Highly recommended! Rating: read more

Hayley T.

Elite 25

2 years ago

We stumbled upon this spot while craving dumplings, and it did not disappoint! Ordering was super convenient--we just scanned a QR code, which made the process quick and seamless. We got the mala noodles, beef noodle soup, and pork dumplings, and everything was absolutely delicious. The beef noodle soup had a wonderfully clear, flavorful broth, and the noodles had the perfect chewy texture--so satisfying! My husband loved the mala noodles, and after taking a sip, I can confirm they pack a serious kick. If you enjoy spice, this dish is a must-try. The pork dumplings were a standout. The broth inside was rich and flavorful, so much so that I didn't even need any sauce--they were perfect on their own! On top of the great food, service was impressively fast. Everything came out quickly and fresh, which made the experience even better. Overall, an amazing meal, and we'll definitely be back. Highly recommend if you're looking for authentic and delicious flavors with quick and easy ordering! read more

Linda B.

2 years ago

If you're craving authentic, mouthwatering dumplings, Northern Cafe is the place to be! Nestled in a cozy spot downtown, this restaurant has quickly become a favorite for dumpling lovers in the area. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with soft lighting and a minimalist decor that keeps the focus on the food. The menu is a dumpling lover's dream, offering a variety of fillings and styles that range from classic to more inventive options. Each dumpling has a thin, slightly chewy wrapper that has just the right bite and bursts with balanced, delicious flavors. The service was attentive without being intrusive; the staff were knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations based on your preferences. Prices were fair for the quality, and I felt that every bite was worth it. Whether you're a longtime dumpling fan or a newcomer, Northern Cafe delivers a delightful dining experience. It's a must-try spot for anyone in town looking to indulge in delicious, handmade dumplings. read more

Richad G.

138

2 years ago

I recently dined at Northern Cafe in Irvine and had a delightful experience. The Pork Belly Skewers were a standout with their tender, flavorful meat that wasn't too spicy, making it a great start to the meal. The Charcoal Grilled Squid was another highlight, cooked to perfection with a mild spice that added just the right amount of kick without overwhelming the natural flavor of the squid. The Spicy Beef Pot was rich and satisfying, with a generous portion of beef that was both tender and well-seasoned. If you enjoy a bit of heat, this dish is a must-try. The Beef Roll was a pleasant surprise, offering a nice balance of savory beef wrapped in a crispy exterior. It was both filling and delicious. To wash it all down, I had a Diet Coke, which was served chilled and refreshing. Overall, the variety and quality of the dishes made for a very enjoyable dining experience. I'll definitely be coming back to try more from their menu! read more

Xiaolin G.

Elite 23

148

1263

2 years ago

I just visited the newly opened Northern Cafe in Westpark Plaza, Irvine, and it truly is a game-changer for authentic Chinese cuisine! Excited to witness their grand opening and all the culinary delights they brought to the table. This casual, self-serve spot is renowned for its juicy dumplings and hearty noodle soups, but what really stood out this visit were their new skewer options. I believe Northern Cafe might be the only spot in this franchise offering Chinese-style skewers. The lamb and pork belly skewers were absolutely delicious--perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection! I couldn't pass up my all-time favorites either: the Dan Dan Noodles and Jingdong Meat Pancake. Each dish delivered that authentic, robust flavor that keeps me coming back for more. Even though the place was bustling when I visited, the staff provided exceptional service, making sure every guest felt taken care of. read more

Janette N.

295

526

2150

2 years ago

Northern Cafe has been a go-to spot for me and friends since college, thanks to its generous portions, great taste, and affordable prices. I recently visited the Alton location after shopping at H Mart, and wow, it was packed! Thankfully, we managed to snag a table for two. Our server, who was wearing a black shirt around 6:00 p.m. (I didn't catch his name), was incredibly friendly and attentive. I ordered almost all of the recommended dishes and was impressed by everything, but my top picks were the spicy dumplings, orange chicken, and beef rolls. Just look at the photo of the beef roll--it was massive! It's easily my favorite beef roll in OC. Packed with beef and cilantro just like I like it. I left feeling both satisfied and full. If I had to compare Northern Cafe, I'd say it's like a mix of Boiling Point and Din Tai Fung, but with much more reasonable prices. read more

Jack G.

122

221

2 years ago

If you're craving authentic Chinese cuisine in Irvine, look no further than Northern Cafe. From the moment you step inside, the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff are great. The food, however, is where Northern Cafe truly shines. The menu features a wide array of northern Chinese dishes, and each one is packed with flavor and authenticity. The noodles, particularly the hand-pulled varieties, and hot pot are a must-try. What truly sets Northern Cafe apart is its commitment to authenticity. The flavors are bold yet balanced, with dishes like lamb skewers and spicy stir-fries that are reminiscent of northern China's diverse culinary traditions. If you're a fan of Chinese food, Northern Cafe is an absolute gem. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned fan, this spot will not disappoint! read more

Brian W.

Elite 25

295

837

2 years ago

Northern Cafe is a new and popular Chinese food chain that has popped up all over Southern California. This was actually my first time visiting this chain, and this particular chain left a great impression on me! The service was efficient and friendly, and the food was spectacular, as nearly all of the dishes hit the spot for me. I will say the green onion pancakes need to be a little crispier, and the Chongqing Chicken needed a little more flavor, but everything else came out amazingly. The highlight was probably the Hot and Sour Soup, as it was a massive bowl of soup and had great flavor. The Sweet and Sour Pork also hit the spot as I have not had that dish in a long time! Overall, I would recommend Northern Cafe as a casual, traditional Chinese spot to get a quick and good meal. read more

Alan M.

2 years ago

The restaurant has a bright and airy vibe with its high ceilings and open layout, making the space feel really welcoming. Inside, there's plenty of seating, and if you prefer the outdoors, there's a cozy outdoor area that you share with The Cut next door--a burger joint that's definitely worth checking out. From the moment you walk in, the service is friendly and attentive. The fried rice was a bit on the bland side, but the Dan Dan noodles were a flavor explosion, and the dumplings were delicious. Parking is super convenient since the lot is shared with Hmart, so finding a spot is never an issue. There are a few small things that kept this from being a perfect 5-star visit, but since the place is still new, I'm sure it'll keep improving as time goes on. read more

Amber O.

See more unrecommended reviews

358

4 months ago

My husband and I came here for dinner and honestly ended up enjoying everything we ordered. The atmosphere was really nice and comfortable, which made the whole experience feel relaxed. We tried the eggplant dish, chicken dish, dumplings, orange chicken, and even dessert, and every single thing was surprisingly good. Sometimes at restaurants you'll have a favorite and a couple dishes that are just okay, but this was one of those places where we kept saying, "wow, this is good too." The flavors were really satisfying without feeling overly heavy, and everything tasted fresh. We left saying we definitely need to come back again. read more

Tony Z.

148

9 months ago

Great spot for family dinners or group gatherings. The menu offers homestyle Chinese dishes, hot pot, and BBQ, so there's something for everyone. The Golden Soup Beef Hot Pot was fragrant and slightly sour, very appetizing, with generous beef and a good mix of vegetables. Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs were well balanced and not greasy, perfect with rice. We also enjoyed the Beef Wrap, which had a thin, crispy flatbread and savory filling. BBQ skewers, especially the lamb, were flavorful with good cumin and chili seasoning. Overall, a solid, reliable Chinese restaurant that works well for sharing dishes with friends and family. read more

Iris Z.

2 years ago

Here's an updated review with 95 words: "The order system at Northern Cafe is very convenient and easy to use, making the experience smooth from start to finish. The food is consistently delicious, with the Gold Soup Beef Hot Pot being an all-time favorite. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the ingredients are always fresh. The service is prompt and friendly, and the staff ensures that everything is taken care of efficiently. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, perfect for enjoying a meal with family or friends. Highly recommend for anyone looking for authentic and satisfying Chinese cuisine in the area!" read more

Andrew L.

Elite 26 All-Star

1499

501

3459

1 year ago

I recently visited this restaurant and was disappointed with my visit. Let me start with the positives. The menu offers a wide variety of Chinese dishes, appetizers, desserts, and drinks. The string beans dish tasted good. The restaurant itself is very large with plenty of seating. However, I was very disappointed with the service. You must seat yourself and order on your phone. If you have any questions, you must walk up to the front counter. I was disappointed with how little service you get. At the end, you must pay tip. We expressed our frustration and one employee was nice enough to listen to us. read more

Sophysna L.

401

29 days ago

Northern Cafe in Irvine feels like a neighborhood go-to for comforting, authentic Chinese food. We ordered the beef pancake, beef roll, cumin lamb, stir-fried pork, and scallion beef, and everything was flavorful and satisfying. I also loved the three-item cold appetizer combo with wood ear mushrooms, shredded potato, and seaweed--fresh, tangy, and well seasoned. Their lunch special is a great deal too, including one main dish, soup, and rice. Generous portions, classic flavors, and a casual atmosphere make this an easy choice whenever you're craving a comforting Chinese meal in Irvine. read more

Tanya R.

2 years ago

I recently dined at Northern Café, and it was an amazing experience! The standout dishes were definitely the lamb dumplings, which were incredibly flavorful and perfectly cooked. The fried rice was also a delight, rich in taste and a perfect complement to the meal. The all-meat skewers were a highlight as well, bursting with juicy goodness that meat lovers will adore. Additionally, the service was excellent, thanks to Lili, who was attentive and made our dining experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking for delicious Northern cuisine! read more

Yanshuo T.

2 years ago

This barbecue restaurant is absolutely fantastic! The meat is perfectly grilled, tender, and bursting with flavor. The marinades and seasoning are spot-on, offering a balance of smokiness and spice that's simply irresistible. The side dishes complement the barbecue perfectly, and the dipping sauces add an extra layer of taste. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for gatherings or a casual meal. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring an excellent dining experience from start to finish. Highly recommended for barbecue lovers! read more

Northern Cafe - chinese - Updated September 2026

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