Northern Cafe

4.0 (514 reviews)

ModerateChinese, Noodles, Hot Pot

Open • 11:00 am - 9:30 pm

Updated 1 month ago

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Northern Cafe - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - front cashier area - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - Szechuan Mala Pot | IG @moniquedao - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Northern Cafe - Zha Jiang Noodle - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Northern Cafe Popular Dishes

House Special Beef Noodle Soup

71 Photos58 Reviews

Juicy Pork Dumplings

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Spicy Beef Pot

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NORTHERN CAFE ATMOSPHERE

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Casual

Moderate noise

Good for groups

Outdoor seating

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Gwyneth N.

NORTHERN CAFE @ UNIVERSITY CENTER The food was so yummy and it was so convenient to get, love that there was plenty of spots to sit too! The food came out in about 5 minutes and everything was pretty good. Overall 5/5 would get again

Kat S.

Went here for lunch, and it could get packed during lunch time but the service is fast. We ordered Dandan Noodles, egg plant with garlic sauce, yangzhou fried rice, sweet and sour ribs and pork and shrimp dumplings. Dandan noodles is okay, nothing special. Egg plant with garlic sauce is too greasy probably because of they fry the eggplants first. Yangzhou fried rice is okay, lots of shrimp. Sweet and sour ribs is too sweet for me and too saucy that it feels overwhelming already and lastly the pork and shrimp dumplings is just okay, you need to put their dumpling sauce to make it taste better. They do have outdoor seating and we have our dog with us and the tables are clean despite being in a busy street. Overall, the food is just okay, service is fast and place is clean.

Mare K.

I was craving Chinese and since I'm super indecisive, I "Eenie Meenie Miney Mo'd" it and landed on Northern Cafe. The reviews were good, but these days I don't solely bank on them. IYKYK. ;) Ordered the orange chicken, Lao Gan Ma fried noodles, and the beef roll. The orange chicken was really good, but I fell in love with the beef roll. The bread was flaky, the beef was incredibly tender, and it was packed with flavor. I'd order that every single time. The noodles were good, just not my favorite of the three dishes. That's not a knock on them. The other two were just that much better. Folks, this was takeout! I figured it wouldn't be nearly as good at home as it would be fresh at the restaurant. Wrong!. By the time we got home, everything still tasted fresh and tasted *chef's kiss*. AND the leftovers were just as good the next day. The orange chicken crisped right back up in the air fryer, the noodles reheated well on the stovetop, and nothing tasted like it had spent the night in the fridge. I'll definitely be dining in next time. Northern Cafe: 10/10!

Richard L.

We visited Northern Cafe near UC Irvine with a party of four and had a solid lunch experience overall. Ordering was straightforward, food came out quickly, and it was easy to share dishes family-style. What we ordered: * Cumin Lamb - Great Very tasty with bold cumin flavor and absolutely no lamb smell. One of the standout dishes. * Eggplant with Garlic Sauce - Great Well-cooked, rich, and flavorful. The sauce paired perfectly with the tender eggplant. * Sautéed Green Beans - Great Nicely blistered, savory, and addictive. Simple but done right. * Sweet & Sour Pork Ribs - OK Flavor was fine, but the meat leaned a bit chewy compared to the other dishes. * Popcorn Chicken - Great Juicy and tender on the inside with a crispy exterior. Easy crowd favorite. * Hot & Sour Soup - OK Comforting and warming, though nothing particularly memorable. * Pork Wontons in Spicy Sauce - OK Decent with good heat, but not a standout compared to similar versions elsewhere. * Cold Dish (3 Veg Items) - OK Refreshing and light, a good balance to the heavier dishes. * Rice Standard and served hot--does its job. Overall: This was a solid 4-star experience. Portions are generous, prices and value are great for the area, and the food quality is solid with a few standout dishes. Conveniently located near UC Irvine on Campus Drive, Northern Cafe is a reliable spot for casual Chinese comfort food, especially when dining with a group.

Arshad H.

Northern Cafe is located at the University Town Center and serves up casual Chinese fare. Ordering is done at the front and then food is delievered to your table. I came with a group of co-workers and we decided to share some items. Chicken wontons - $12 - These were probably my favorite item here. The dumplings had good flavor and quite a bit of chicken. Scallion pancake ($8) - I've had much better elsewhere, and it wasn't as crispy and flaky as most other places. Beef roll ($13) - The beef rolls are wrapped in the same scallion pancakes so that part was disappointing and there was nothing special about the beef in the roll. Fried beef skewers ($6.50) - These skewers were so flavorful with a strong cumin flavor and I would recommend getting these if I revisited. Steamed custard buns ($6) - The buns were a little hard and didn't have as much custard as I had hoped for. Sesame balls ($6) - The sesame balls were a little doughy and had red bean paste. There weren't bad. Chinese herbal tea ($3.50) - Unfortunately this herbal team was served in a can and was extremely sweet. I didn't expect that and would pass on this altogether. Overall the food was just ok. Nothing really stood out and there were some disappointing dishes. There is plenty of seating as well as patio seating.

Rue K.

So this place is kind of confusing. Self serve order at the cashier but you still pay for a tip there's another machine where to go people order. But I was pointed to the to go machine and ordered from wrong spot. If you dine in, you're supposed to order at the cashier. Get own water and leftover box etc So we came at 6 pm on of Sunday night and the wait time was about 10 minutes. Staff will yell your name. They won't text u. I realize this place is really busy compared to all the casual dining restaurants in the same plaza. So most people wait five minutes and they leave so even though we're in the fourth spot, we actually got in. Unless you're a big party of five or six, then you'll have to wait longer. So the confusion is in the beginning part. I wouldn't recommend to elderly Asian crowd because I know my mom would definitely be confused. After you get settled in, they will bring you what you ordered. There isn't any server to your table so if you're getting water, you have to get it by yourself if you need an extra bowl, you have to wait till the staff comes to deliver your food and use that time to tell them what you need. This place is really self-serving. The staff only comes to deliver your food and clean up your table. But we still tipped. Food was good. Soup dumplings hit the spot. Black vinegar was essential and available Come here when you need really good food and quick bite This is not recommended for a date night or business network setting I think we would come by if we're in the area. But considering that we're paying tip, I think we would go to the other location when they are full service.

Miranda L.

A fully satisfied food coma after Northern Cafe Food: The golden soup beef is undoubtedly coziness in a bowl after a long work day. The spiciness from the chopped raw chilies and bok choy adds the extra heartiness to each bite of noodle and sliced beef. It's in limbo with Dan Dan noodles especially pork over beef kinda spicy noodle soup day. Next, their orange chicken is delicious (!!!) and the epitome of American Chinese palate but hey it's only a right of passage haha we get it every time as a group and for takeout! Let's talk fiber with veggies now: Sautéed garlic Bok choy and green beans. Need another carb with protein then add in some chicken fried rice. Finally the noodles, I prefer the fried noodle with chicken over the Lao Gan Ma fried noodle with chicken which was more greasy, too much sauce and had less whole fresh veggies. The egg rolls were subpar. Service: They are so FAST for in service and take out ordering. It's a continuous flow of customers and cleaning. Over the past years, always had positive experiences and consistent take out orders replicating sit down quality food. Ambiance: Spacious for many different parties so social groups or even individual self time! I appreciate the dimmer lighting for evening and outside patio for more privacy. Overall: will be back many MORE times with my family, friends and colleagues!

Crystal L.

Food is great. It hits the spot for classic Northern Chinese food (dumplings, XLB, beef rolls/green onion pancakes, and my favorite rice cake) Price is reasonable ($13-$16 for most dishes). You order via an app so no waiting for a waiter. It was hard to get their attention for water/napkins though. The biggest frustration eating here is the mini fruit flies in the restaurant. I've eaten here a number of times, and always notice 1 or so fruit flies at the table!

Monique D.

Szechuan Mala Pot is my go-to here, especially on cold days. I like that it's served in a boiling pot, nice and hot, and with lots of toppings. Generous portions of beef, way more than what Boiling Point would give you. I do wish it weren't so salty. I find myself pouring some cold water into it to lessen the saltiness. Also wish they had dipping sauces for the meats and veggies. But other than that, it's pretty delicious. I also like the pig ear. It's sliced real thin and spicy. A perfect side dish to the hot pot. This is a casual dining environment. You order at the counter and they bring it out to you. Easy peasy.

Ronald M.

Our night out in Irvine landed us here for dinner, the very first lot we pulled into after leaving the Barclay Theater. And that was originally to find better WiFi reception. But why dillydally around? Northern Cafe seemed just right for dinner. A very busy Sunday night and with a mostly Asian clientele at an Asian eatery, always a great barometer for me. Apparently also quite popular with students from the nearby UC campus. But we were immediately seated after stepping inside. This is an order at the counter establishment, then take your number back to your table, they will bring to you when ready. So we looked over our menus first, the print a bit small, then settled on the Big Big Chicken Plate With Noodles and the Lamb Hot Pot. I guess I just assumed that the order of lamb would be simply that. But my bad, several items included in this dish were things we never eat; crab, shrimp, pork. So on its arrival, the Mrs noticed what I mistakenly had overlooked. I did however, manage to salvage most of the lamb and several quail eggs (a first time trying them for me). The chicken dish we thought was just okay, even less so as a leftover. My wife was totally dissatisfied. But the steamed rice was rather well cooked and we both enjoyed the Thai iced tea. Northern Cafe has locations throughout Southern California. We would return but with totally different menu options chosen next time. Somewhat neutral service but they keep things moving along like a production line.

Christina G.

We visited Northern Cafe in Irvine last weekend during lunch, and it was a fantastic experience from start to finish! Ordering was super easy--we ordered at the cashier and picked any table we wanted. In just about 5 minutes, every dish arrived at our table, which was impressively fast. The Cumin Lamb ($17.99) was very flavorful and one of our favorites. The Eggplant with Garlic Sauce ($14.99) was delicious and perfectly cooked, and the Sautéed Green Beans ($15.99) were very satisfying. The Sweet & Sour Pork Ribs ($16.99) were decent, though the meat was a little chewy. The real standouts were the Popcorn Chicken ($9.99)--crispy on the outside, tender on the inside--and the Pork Wontons in Spicy Sauce ($11.99), which were absolutely amazing! The Hot & Sour Soup ($11.99) was comforting and full of flavor. They also have a nice selection of cold dishes you can pick right at the cashier station. Overall, the food was delicious, the prices were very reasonable, and the service was fast and efficient. We loved the smooth dining experience and will definitely be back to try more dishes--especially their noodles next time!

Jenny P.

Parking is super easy since it's in Irvine's UTC plaza. You order and pay at the counter -- food comes out fairly fast. 7/10 Spicy Beef Pot ($17). I prefer Boiling Point since they have more variety and I like what they put inside their hotpots more. Wasn't a really big fan of sausages inside. The broth wasn't bland and had some flavor, so I would say it's worth a try.

Heather D.

I hadn't been here in quite some time but was craving Spicy Beef Noodle Soup. I ended up ordering take out on their website which was super easy to use. It says expect 20 minutes but when I arrived in 10 minutes, it was already ready which was nice. The staff wasn't personable and didn't really greet me unfortunately. They just asked for my ordered number and handed me the bag. As for the food itself, this hit the spot! I loved that it came in a quality Tupperware that wouldn't leak or get soggy. The way the lid was set up allowed for the noodles and bok choy to stay untouched from the broth which was great!

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Rachel M.

3 years ago

Always a pretty standard eat-out staple for us. We love the scallion pancakes and the XLB.

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Madison V.

Dear Rachel , Thank you for your love and appreciation of our food,…

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Tanya V.

3 years ago

I ordered their wings, the Ynagzhou Fried Rice, and the Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs. Everything was seasoned well. The only thing I had a problem with was the greasy texture of the food. I had to stop eating, and drink some hot tea to settle my stomach. read more

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Madison V.

Dear Tanya , Thank you for your love and appreciation of our food, we…

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Bobby G.

Elite 24

211

2 years ago

For Lunar New Year, I was craving some authentic delicious Chinese Food. And that's exactly what Northern Café in Irvine serves. Just blocks from the UC Irvine campus, their team's hard at work prepping some of the best, freshest traditional Chinese dishes. All made hot and fresh to order. Like these beef and scallion pancakes. It's like a huge, sliced Chinese burrito of meaty beefy, scallion and hoisin flavors. And their steaming hot lo mein noodles with chicken and shrimp is just delicious. And their juicy steamed pork dumplings were filled with lava hot broth and tasty meaty filling. We couldn't resist their orange chicken, which was hot crispy meaty and tasty - nothing like the fast food version you normally get. And for dessert we just had to try some steamed custard pie. So hot, soft, and filled with creamy delicious- and not too sweet - custard. This is a must try spot for traditional delicious Chinese food. You got to check it out! read more

Northern Cafe - Steamed custard bun - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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

Northern Cafe - Steamed pork dumplings - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - Beef scallion hoisin pancakesa - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - Hand making scallion pancakes - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - Special lo mein - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Madison V.

Dear Bobby, Thank you for your feedback on our food, we accept all…

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Cassidy T.

123

157

3 years ago

Love the food here! Orange chicken is so yummy and crispy. I love the green beans here. Service is ok. You order at the counter and pay and then sit down and they'll bring the food out to you. read more

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Madison V.

Thank you for your patronage! We hope to see you again at our…

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D L.

Elite 21

4 years ago

Disappointed in everything. I had only ordered one plate beef rolls after hearing about how good they were from multiple people. It took forty (!!!) minutes for me to get them and I had to remind an employee twice. Multiple tables of people had received all their food and finished their meals completely before I even received the single plate of food I had ordered. Once I reminded one employee, she went to check and immediately grabbed a plate. So I'm pretty sure the food had been sitting out for a while. Once I received the beef rolls, everything about it was cold. The beef inside felt like it was straight from the back of the fridge and the pancake was cold as well. It was disgusting. Nothing about it felt warm, nor freshly made. It was as if they made an extra one, stored it in the fridge, and just handed it to me. I asked an employee if it was supposed to be warm or cold and she didn't say anything. She just took my plate to the back, where I saw her place it into the microwave for a minute or so. The beef rolls were decent, but definitely not worth a second try, especially if I'll have to wait another forty minutes and see an employee care so little to just microwave it. read more

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Bin Q.

Hi Zoe. Sorry for the bad experience recently in our restaurant.…

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Julia B.

Elite 23

249

4 years ago

Best "quick" Chinese we've had in Irvine! Everything tasted fresh and flavorful. We split the Orange Chicken and BBQ Pork Steamed Buns. The portions were huge, big enough to split between 2 people. read more

Northern Cafe - B1. Orange Chicken - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - H3. Steamed BBQ Pork Buns - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Alex H.

4 years ago

Super under-rated. This restaurant is a gem! Delicious food, wonderfully prepared, served quickly with in well-sized portions in a nice atmosphere. quality chopsticks and flatware adds to the experience. All of that goodness at a great price! Highly recommend read more

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Y S.

454

1034

4 years ago

Perfection! Following the age old practice of Jews eating Chinese food on Christmas (lol!), I ordered takeout online ahead of time because in my past experience getting food on Christmas is a stressful and uncertain thing. That was not the case here. The food was ready to go when we came to pick it up at the designated time. The portions were generous and absolutely everything we got was delicious. My favorite was the eggplant dish, and my daughter loved the scallion pancakes. Everything was flavorful and plentiful. This might be our go-to on Christmas nights from now on (and the rest of the year too!) read more

Northern Cafe - D1. Fried Rice with Chicken - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - B3. Chongqing Crispy Chicken - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - B9. Eggplant with Garlic Sauce - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - B11. Sauteed Green Beans - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - C2. Scallion Pancake - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Hannah J.

Elite 24

107

181

4 years ago

Lots of seating space, portion was huge. Noodles had good texture and the broth was flavorful. The beef could've been more tender. read more

Northern Cafe - F2. Beef Noodle Soup - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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thang t.

205

188

4 years ago

Everything is amazing here. Fatty beef. Eggplant. Crispy chicken. Can legit feed 5 people. Also each order of rice can serve 2 people. Next time get green beans instead of scallion. Only 1 fried dish is enough. read more

Northern Cafe - B5. Fatty Beef with Scallion - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Laura L.

Elite 25

248

102

3 years ago

This place looks very modern inside--looked different than the other northern cafes I've been to. I got a few dishes including the orange chicken, green beans, Dan Dan noodle, and shrimp wontons. The green beans were cooked perfectly bursting with flavor!! They were my favorite. The shrimp wontons were soft and juicy--just how I like them. The servers were all very friendly. read more

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Madison V.

Thank you for your patronage! We hope to see you again at our…

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Monica S.

Elite 26

293

178

4 years ago

We ordered take out from here for the first time tonight. We got the scallion pancake, juicy pork dumplings (basically soup dumplings), pork wontons and the pork BBQ buns. The wontons and dumplings had really good flavor and were very juicy. The pork buns were tasty and that's my favorite item to try anywhere new so they definitely got a thumbs up. The scallion pancake was fine. More fun than really flavor. We have a go to Chinese restaurant already but Northern may make it as a backup option for us for weekend takeout orders! read more

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Lucio S.

115

244

4 years ago

The food here is very tasty. Price for hotpot is quite affordable. Variety is good too. We can bring dogs to the outdoor area here. The place is usually packed with students. So try to avoid school peak hours. read more

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Daniella B.

2 years ago

Loved the food and had a great experience. The portions were pretty big for the price and I definitely recommend the beef rolls and the big plate with chicken and noodles. Would come again! read more

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Madison V.

Dear Daniella B. Thanks for the 5-star review! We're delighted you…

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Maria D.

2 years ago

Finally we were able to find good Chinese food, in a nice place with outdoor seating, fair prices and big portions. The place is big and has plenty of space, service is very fast. Most of the waiters are nice, some are just cranky. You have to order at the cashier, find a seat and the food will arrive. We ordered pig ear in spicy oil, garlic eggplant, orange chicken and scallion pancakes, everything was delish! Definetly will be back read more

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Madison V.

Dear Maria, Thank you for your wonderful feedback on our food and…

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James L.

3 years ago

A solid B+ Chinese restaurant in Irvine near UCI's campus. By far their best dish the eggplant in garlic sauce dish, which pair well with either popcorn or chongqing chicken and a veggie (bok choy or green beans). The mapo tofu is also decent, and the xiao long bao, while not the best, is serviceable. It's the closest place to us, so we go quite often. read more

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Madison V.

Dear James , Thank you for your love and praise of our food, we have…

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Shane L.

4 years ago

I ordered DanDan noodles but my order came out cold and noodles were not fully cooked. Don't waste your money here, I would never go back again. I would also tell all my friends to avoid this place. read more

Northern Cafe - Dan Dan noodles - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Yang Y.

4 years ago

I had a wired experience here.. i took my family there and the front sign suggest we should find a table by ourselves, so I went okay maybe this is a self-serviced quick-eat, so we got seated outside.. But then someone came up and brought us utensils so I get a little confused, but i went okay.. if there's service, I ll just leave the tip on the table before we leave.. but then we were told to order at the cashier. so I went back again thinking okay maybe's no service.. But after I placed order and paid by credit card, the cashier asked me to check service fee, and the minimum I can choose was 15%. We haven't enjoyed any service yet (!! Haven't even seen our food ..) they did serve us until we finished, but the way they ask at front made me so confused and look bad (as if I was intentionally avoiding the tip) I didn't get to experience and made a willing decision on how much and what way I pay .. I know I could be mean by refusing to check the service tip on the invoice upfront, but I didn't have to. It just gave me a bad experience there. The food is okay. read more

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Elisabeth K.

119

4 years ago

My toddler son has a severe allergy to peanuts. Their menu lists items containing peanuts with a peanut icon, except they missed that the eggplant dish has it in the sauce! My son had hives that appeared immediately and I had to Google search what is in the eggplants sauce dish- YouTube showed peanut butter is added to that sauce!!! Not okay! Please update your menus!!! read more

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Bin Q.

Thank you for the review Elisabeth. I am very Sorry for what happened…

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K Z.

3 years ago

I ordered the pick up based on a friend's recommendation of the establishment. The food did not meet expectations in the following area, 1- the noodles were saturated with sodium (if you have high blood pressure, avoid the noodles), 2- Eggplant with Garlic was over done with oil. The prices were reasonable, nonetheless, they could get more creative overall. Fried Noodles at $13.00, Eggplant w/Garlic at $13.50, Sautéed BOK Choy at $12.50. The portions were adequate, and if you do not consume a lot, the above items were sufficient for two to eat. I visited on 09 March 2024. read more

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Madison V.

Dear K Z. Thank you for your feedback and suggestions, we accept all…

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Brandon W.

172

335

5 years ago

Was feeling like some chinese food today and thought i would give this spot a try. Ordered some kung pao chicken and a couple egg rolls and a side of rice. Dollar extra for the rice. Egg rolls were nice and crispy. Kung pao chicken was ok. Just not much flavor. read more

Northern Cafe - Kung pao chicken with a couple egg rolls and some rice - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Uc H.

3 years ago

Wontons are too salty. Other foods I ate are great, such as pot stickers and Chongqing crispy chicken.

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Madison V.

Dear Uc, Thank you for your love and affirmation of our pot stickers…

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Andrew Z.

Elite 23

181

334

5 years ago

Among all the above-average Asian restaurants in Irvine, Northern Cafe isn't a restaurant I plan to return to. The service was excellent and the response time from the staff was above average. The issue was the taste of the dishes. The sweet and sour pork ribs were tough and the meat was not tender. The taste was not bad, but overall, it was average. For the eggplant with garlic sauce, another classic, we asked the dish to be made with less salt and oil, which was done! The presentation was excellent. The taste however, was far too acidic. The vinegar to sugar ratio was off by quite a bit. Next, the crab meat XLBs didn't taste fresh. Perhaps I shouldn't compare to JA Jiaozi Authentic Dumplings or Din Tai Fung, but it's hard not to when there are far better restaurants that serve this dish. The only dish that tasted great was the beef rolls (sliced beef with cilantro wrapped in a flaky scallion pancake). This was delicious and on point. Overall, Northern Cafe is just average in a city with far too many above-average restaurants. read more

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Jenny N.

Elite 24

117

128

5 years ago

I was so happy upon hearing that there was a Northern Cafe in Irvine. I frequently visited the Westwood location but after moving out of LA, I've been missing it ever since. My boyfriend and I loved coming to Northern Cafe for date nights and were so excited to visit the Irvine location! Just like I was hoping, this location also had such a warm and cozy ambiance. Northern Cafe is set up such that you seat yourself, order at the counter, and wait for your food to arrive. We ordered the Lao Gan Ma Fried Noodles, Shrimp Wontons in Chili Sauce, and Chicken Noodle Soup. Lao Gan Ma Fried Noodles (4/5): Very saucy and rich in flavor. Noodles were perfectly chewy. A little bit too many onions for my liking, but my boyfriend didn't mind at all. Solid dish. Shrimp Wontons in Chili Sauce (1/5): I was the most excited to try these but unfortunately was very disappointed by the quality. The wontons were full of cabbage and had one tiny portion of a shrimp. The interior was also very watery and lacked flavor. The sauce was alright. Not good enough to save the dish. Chicken Noodle Soup (5/5): Now this dish (to our surprise) was the highlight of the meal. The noodles were also perfectly cooked and chewy, but the BROTH. The broth was outstanding. So rich and creamy. The chicken was also very tender. This is my first time trying Chinese chicken noodle soup, and I am very glad I did. Overall, I really enjoyed coming here for dinner. The staff is really nice and the food is solid (with the exception of the chili wontons). Now that I know there's a location in Irvine, I'll definitely be back! read more

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CJ C.

125

3 years ago

Good food, good portions, good service, good prices, will definitely come back again! Very underrated and one of the best Chinese restaurants in Irvine! read more

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Madison V.

Dear CJ, Thanks for the 5-star review! Thank you for your love of our…

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enrique R.

3 years ago

Ordered the Kung Pao Chicken Togo and when I got home it was swimming in oil. I called about the issue and I was told that's part of the dish. I had to drain the oil just to eat it. I have eaten Kung Pao Chicken in the past and it has never been swimming in oil. Such a disappointment read more

Northern Cafe - General Tso Chicken - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Bin Q.

Hi Enrique…

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Cherry C.

3 years ago

I love the golden beef noodle and dumplings. My kids love broccoli and popcorn chicken. I've been here many times and ordered a lot of food. All is great and authentic! read more

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Madison V.

Thanks for your love, we would love to have you back

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Joshua L.

5 years ago

This place hits. Orange chicken bomb as hell. Dan Dan noodles bomb as hell. The rice = FIRE. The service insane. The water pretty's good too and it's FREE. read more

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Liang Yi H.

2 years ago

Excellent find with great menu options. Food was authentic and staff were very friendly.

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Ken L.

102

2 years ago

Decent Chinese for college campus with reasonable prices. The cumin lamb was very nicely seasoned and well cooked. The pork pancakes were very authentic. Pork spare ribs were fried too long and the meat was tough. The beef hot pot was surprisingly good, a bit too much heat for me but everyone else at the table didn't think so at all read more

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Madison V.

Dear Ken Thank you for your feedback to our restaurant, your comments…

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Emily V.

Elite 25

184

108

3 years ago

YUM... is all I can say. Parking is relatively easy to find in the lot in front with the spots being 2 hours. My understanding is they do monitor this, but the restaurant borders the lot so you can keep an eye on your car if necessary. My family came here on a busy Saturday night and one of the workers was kind enough to help us move some tables around outside to seat the 6 of us. It was comfortable outside on a summer night. After ordering at the counter, we seated ourselves and our hot food came out incredibly fast with the first dish a mere 3-5 mins after ordering and the last only about 10-15 mins later (fresh bread dishes, so understandable!). We ordered crispy chicken, lamb, the Dan Dan noodles, scallion pancakes, the seasame pancakes/bread, the dim sum red bean seasame balls, and the fatty beef. Everyone agreed it was absolutely delicious - my family is Chinese, white, and my family friend is Viet. We all equally enjoyed it's palatable taste for people unfamiliar with some authentic choices, as well as how well they executed our authentic favorites like red bean and scallion pancakes! My top 3: - Dan Dan noodles: This mild spicy noodle dish includes ground pork and the creamy peanut influence of some Filipino dishes. I'm not a peanut sauce type of girl, but they hit this flavor combo spot on! - Crispy chicken: Popcorn chicken but BETTER. This was really elevated and had a light, crispy batter with juicy chicken inside. Popcorn chicken I've had is usually overly breaded and lacks a lot of actual chicken meat. It had a mild to medium spice but if you bite directly into one of the peppers... good luck. - Seasame pancakes/bread: This ultra thick and chonky bread has a nice coating of seasame seeds and green onions between its doughy layers. It's obviously made fresh to-order. My only critique is I wish it had like 3-4x as many green onions inside! The scallion pancakes are equally as good and have a nice, thin, crispy dough, but I liked the thick pillowy dough of these a bit more personally! All in all a great find and I only wish it were closer to me. As a UCI alum, I sure wish this existed at UTC a few years ago! read more

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Madison V.

Thanks for your appreciation

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Rachel K.

2 years ago

I love the food here, especially the lapi! I definitely recommend coming here because there is so much selection and yummy food.

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Clarissa T.

3 years ago

This place has potential, the ambiance is nice and staff is kind. We ordered orange chicken and pineapple friend rice. I trusted the reviews for the orange chicken but they let me down. The orange chicken lacked chicken. The orange chicken had more fried breading than chicken. We also had pineapple fried rice and that was good. read more

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Madison V.

Thank you for your feedback. We apologize for the bad experience and…

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Damian N.

2 years ago

Big filling portions. Went with a group of friends, and we all enjoyed our meals. None were bad, but none blew us out of the water. Very quick to bring out your food, and reasonably priced for how much they give you. Worth going to! read more

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Kevin N.

3 years ago

Food was food and the vibe is not bad. Spicy beef noodle is on bar with other northern cuisine places that I have tried

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Madison V.

Thanks for your feedback

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Evelyn D.

114

201

3 years ago

the food was so delicious we got gyoza: crispy delicious juicy on the inside dumplings in spicy sauce: soooo good my favorite item it was so savory and the peanuts added an amazing flavor the downside is that it isn't too spicy house special beef noodle soup: it was just okay the noodles itself were really good the broth was okay it also wasn't spicy enough but they do provide chili oil beef roll: so good i dislike onions and cilantro but i didn't taste it at all i definitely recommend getting this juicy beef dumplings: these were really good and super juicy and similar to xiao long bao to me but with a thicker skin which i enjoyed also i will definitely be coming back read more

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Madison V.

Thanks for your love, we would love to have you back

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Jeremy P.

3 years ago

Me and my wife always eat here. Food is so good with the soup pots and the orange chicken. I recommend for people to try. Prices are still the same since 2021, I believe. read more

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Madison V.

Thank you for your patronage! We hope to see you again at our…

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Lidiana W.

5 years ago

I'm so glad this place is open in Irvine area. The located is at UCI shopping center. I came here a lot. They just recently open two weeks ago. I love their foods. They have so many variation It's highly recommended. read more

Northern Cafe - Fatty Beef with Scallion - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - Beef Roll Pancake - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - Beef Roll Pancake and Fatty Beef with Scallion - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Matt T.

3 years ago

It was so good the beef roll was amazing! It was super yummy. It was delicious the food is fresh to order. It is well priced and for family style. read more

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Madison V.

Dear Matt , Thanks for the 5-star review! We're delighted you had a…

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Crystal K.

3 years ago

I love this place! My experience was so amazing. The staff was so friendly and helpful. All of the food was delicious and high quality. I will definitely be coming back! read more

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Madison V.

We would love to have you back

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Page 9 of 13

4175 Campus Dr
Irvine, CA 92617
Directions
(949) 418-7309
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
http://www.northerncafeirvine.com

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.

What time does Northern Cafe close?

Northern Cafe closes at 9:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM

Payment methods

Does Northern Cafe take credit cards?

Yes, Northern Cafe takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Northern Cafe have catering options?

No, Northern Cafe does not have catering options.

Does Northern Cafe have a drive thru?

No, Northern Cafe does not have a drive thru.

Does Northern Cafe serve alcohol?

Yes, Northern Cafe serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does Northern Cafe allow dogs?

No, Northern Cafe does not allow dogs.

Does Northern Cafe have TVs?

No, Northern Cafe does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Northern Cafe have bike parking?

Yes, Northern Cafe has bike parking.

Does Northern Cafe have outdoor seating?

Yes, Northern Cafe has outdoor seating options.

Does Northern Cafe have parking?

Yes, Northern Cafe has parking options.

Other Amenities

Is Northern Cafe wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Northern Cafe is wheelchair accessible.

Does Northern Cafe have free WiFi?

No, Northern Cafe does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

History

Established in 2004.

Northern Cafe is an traditional Chinese dumplings restaurant established in 2004. Since then we already have over 20 locations in LA. As the first location in Irvine,we are providing the best Chinese food including but not limited to juicy xiaolongbao, handmade dumplings,Chinese style noodles and hot pot!

More Info

Health Score

Northern Cafe Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Northern Cafe

Do they take reservations?

When I went a few months ago, they did not take reservations. It wasn't hard to find a table though on the various occasions that I have gone.

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26 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Dj M.

Elite 26

168

699

3 years ago

My boyfriend and I had the most incredible experience at Northern Cafe Chinese Kitchen located in Irvine! This was my first time visiting, although I'd seen countless mouthwatering photos and videos of their delicious dishes through social media. We arrived promptly at 11 am when they opened, and by the time we left around noon, the restaurant was bustling with customers. Upon entering, we were greeted warmly and promptly placed our order at the counter before finding a table to settle in. There is plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors. The service was impressively quick, and our food arrived piping hot, which is always a good sign! For drinks, we indulged in their Thai tea, which was perfectly creamy and just the right amount of sweetness. As for appetizers, the cucumber salad was a delightful surprise with its garlicky, crunchy goodness, and the popcorn chicken was generously portioned and incredibly addictive. Moving on to the main course, everything looked and sounded so enticing that we found it difficult to decide. In the end, we definitely ordered more than enough food for two people, but we were thrilled to have the opportunity to sample such a diverse range of dishes. The beef rolls were a standout, bursting with freshness and flavor - a solid 10/10. The Thai fusion hot pot warmed us up on a chilly day with its rich, flavorful broth. My boyfriend couldn't get enough of the tender and flavorful garlic pork rib, while the pork and crab soup dumplings provided a comforting and cozy indulgence. The pork wontons in spicy chili sauce were a delight, perfectly balanced with just the right amount of heat. And let's not forget dessert! The sesame balls were a perfect ending to our meal - warm, crispy on the outside, and delightfully soft on the inside with a decadent red bean paste filling. What truly sets Northern Cafe apart, besides its delectable food, is the generous portions and affordability. We departed with leftovers and were already discussing our plans to return as the food was so good. Special shoutout to Skyler, the manager, whose hospitality and helpfulness made our dining experience even more enjoyable. His recommendations and friendly demeanor truly elevated our visit. Overall, Northern Cafe Chinese Kitchen has earned itself a loyal customer in me. I'll definitely be returning for more delicious meals and exceptional service. Highly recommended! read more

Richad G.

138

3 years ago

Northern Cafe Chinese Kitchen is a hidden gem for students seeking delicious and reasonably priced Chinese cuisine. I had the pleasure of trying two standout dishes that left me craving for more. First up, the Spicy Beef Pot was a fiery delight. The tender beef slices were generously coated in a mouthwatering spicy sauce that packed a flavorful punch. The pot was filled with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This dish is a must-try for spice lovers! Next, the Tomato Beef Noodle stole the show with its comforting and satisfying flavors. The rich tomato-based broth was infused with savory beef, creating a hearty and delectable combination. The noodles were perfectly cooked, maintaining a delightful chewiness that complemented the robust flavors of the dish. It's a comforting bowl that won't break the bank. What impressed me the most about Northern Cafe Chinese Kitchen was their commitment to offering high-quality dishes at student-friendly prices. Both the Spicy Beef Pot and Tomato Beef Noodle were reasonably priced, making it an ideal spot for students looking to indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine without straining their wallets. One additional point worth mentioning is that Northern Cafe Chinese Kitchen operates on a self-service basis, allowing for a quick and hassle-free dining experience. Overall, Northern Cafe Chinese Kitchen exceeded my expectations with their flavorful offerings and affordable prices. Whether you're a spice enthusiast or craving a comforting bowl of noodles, this place is a must-visit for students and food enthusiasts alike. read more

Kelly W.

212

3 years ago

If you're craving authentic Chinese cuisine in Irvine, look no further than Northern Cafe. From the moment you step in, you're greeted with warm hospitality and an inviting atmosphere. The menu boasts a wide array of dishes, ranging from traditional favorites to modern twists on classic recipes. Whether you're in the mood for dumplings, noodles, or stir-fries, Northern Cafe has you covered. The hand-pulled noodles are a must-try, offering a perfect balance of chewiness and flavor. Additionally, the dumplings are simply exquisite - whether steamed or pan-fried, each bite is a burst of savory goodness. I also highly recommend indulging in their Green Onion Beef Rolls, where tender slices of beef are wrapped around fresh green onions, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more. The portions are generous, perfect for sharing with friends or family, and the prices are very reasonable for the quality and quantity of food you receive. The staff are attentive and knowledgeable, always willing to offer recommendations or accommodate dietary restrictions. The ambiance is cozy yet vibrant, making it ideal for both casual meals and special occasions. Plus, the location in Irvine is convenient with ample parking available. Overall, Northern Cafe exceeds expectations in every aspect - delicious food, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere. I highly recommend it to anyone craving authentic Chinese flavors in the heart of Irvine. You won't be disappointed! read more

Jiayao Y.

140

3 years ago

I recently experienced the culinary delights of "Yifeng Garden," and it was nothing short of a gastronomic journey! The ambiance of this restaurant is a perfect blend of warmth and sophistication. As you enter, you're greeted by soft lighting and charming decor, creating an atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. The spacious and well-lit interior, coupled with thoughtfully arranged tables and chairs, provides a welcoming setting, making you feel right at home. Every table is adorned with exquisite tableware, and the touch of greenery adds a refreshing touch to the dining experience. The attention to detail extends to the artistic decor on the walls, adding an extra layer to the visual feast. It's not just a meal; it's an artful experience. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, contributing to the overall pleasure of the dining process. In summary, Yifeng Garden not only tantalizes your taste buds with a diverse and mouthwatering menu but also captivates you with its inviting atmosphere and excellent service. It's not just a place to savor exquisite dishes; it's a destination for comfort and relaxation. I wholeheartedly recommend it to fellow food enthusiasts! read more

Michelle E.

857

101

263

2 years ago

My husband and I had an amazing dining experience at Northern Cafe! We started with drinks, and my husband loved their Thai tea so much he ended up getting two! It's definitely a must-try if you visit. As for the food, we tried a variety of dishes, and each one was exceptional: Shrimp Fried Rice: Deliciously seasoned with perfectly cooked shrimp. Comfort food at its finest, Orange Chicken: My husband's favorite! Crispy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweetness. Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs: Tender and flavorful, a delightful balance of sweet and savory. Bok Choy: Fresh and perfectly sautéed, a great complement to the richer dishes. Juicy Pork Dumplings: My absolute favorite! Bursting with flavor and incredibly juicy. Scallion Pancakes: Crispy and full of savory goodness. Definitely a must if you get any type of soup or noodles Pumpkin Pancakes: A unique and tasty treat, slightly sweet and very satisfying. Overall, every dish we tried was a hit, and the service was top-notch. We can't wait to come back and try more from their menu. Highly recommend Northern Cafe for anyone looking for delicious Chinese cuisine! read more

David M.

Elite 26

219

712

3088

2 years ago

Northern Cafe Chinese Kitchen blends the casual, cozy atmosphere of a café with the diverse and flavorful dishes. **Menu Variety**: The menu offers a broad range of Chinese dishes, from well-known classics to regional specialties. Northern variations might include: **Dim Sum**: A selection of small, bite-sized portions like dumplings, buns, and rolls, perfect for sharing. **Stir-Fries**: Dishes featuring a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables, often cooked with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other aromatic seasonings. **Noodle and Rice Dishes**: From fried rice to lo mein and chow mein, these staples are often customized with locally available ingredients. *Hot Pot**: A communal dish where diners cook their own meat, seafood, and vegetables in a simmering pot of broth at the table. The service is personable and attentive. Staff really cares about your dinning experience. Overall, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines the comfort and familiarity of a casual dinning with the rich, diverse flavors of Chinese cuisine. read more

Tiffany L.

2 years ago

This location has been open for two years, but it felt like they were still in a soft opening phase. The service was severely lacking. The restaurant only had one high chair and one booster seat, which is frustrating for families. The female server working the lunch shift on September 2, 2024, was particularly disappointing. She served our table and also helped at the cashier, and in both encounters, her customer service was terrible. She had a bad attitude and was quite rude. Before leaving, I asked for sauce to go with my popcorn chicken, and she barked back, "What sauce?! We don't have sauce for our popcorn chicken." In contrast, the male cashier with glasses was friendly and helpful. He offered different sauce options and provided good service. Overall, the food is pretty good, but the poor service overshadowed the entire experience. It's disappointing that after two years, they're still struggling with basic customer service and amenities. read more

Alan M.

2 years ago

This gem is right across the street from U.C. Irvine in that plaza with In-N-Out and Chick-fil-A. **How to order:** Find a table, check the menu and when ready go straight at cash register with your dish no. Then they will hand you a number to bring back with your table. **Service:** The food comes on a cart and you get it promptly. Everything doesnt come out at once, but all of it is served real quick as you like. **Food Quality:** 10 delicious, satisfying points! Those dumplings are just unbelievable-perfect eaten as is or with a bowl of rice on the side. Dan Dan Noodles: Hello, peanut butter base.deepEqualwest/TCT Mine are a bit fuller with punch and fragrance, but these will do the trick. **Chicken:** Crunchy and tasty. For someone who enjoys the CRISP crunch, this one is most definitely a great order. Overall: Really great addition to available dining options. Just delicious flavours & so much you need to test it out for yourself! read more

Aria M.

394

1 year ago

Northern Cafe at UCI is an absolute gem for authentic, flavor-packed Chinese comfort food. It's my go-to spot whenever I'm craving something bold, savory, and satisfying. The chili wontons are an absolute must--delicate, tender wrappers filled with juicy meat, swimming in a spicy-savory sauce that hits all the right notes without overwhelming your palate. The cumin lamb is bursting with flavor--aromatic, tender, and perfectly spiced. It's one of those dishes that keeps you coming back, bite after bite. And let's not forget the beef scallion roll--crispy on the outside, packed with juicy beef and just the right amount of green onion for a satisfying crunch and balance. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and service is always quick, even during busy hours. It's casual, fast, and consistently delicious--everything you want in a campus eatery. read more

Lucia Y.

677

2 years ago

The Northern Cafe I came to today is right next to UCI. We can have stir-fried dishes, pasta and hot pot, so six of us ordered a large table of dishes. The four big snacks are in the first 100s, and they are also packed. The portions are really sufficient and cost-effective. Although it is a fast food restaurant, the quality is authentic, the food is served super fast, and you can eat it for $20 per person. The service was also very good. At first, we couldn't find a table for six people. The clerk quickly helped us coordinate the table, packing self-service and lemonade self-service, which was very convenient. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seats. When we come out, the indoor seats already need to wait for seats. The parking lot is very large. read more

Chloe C.

130

135

3 years ago

Discover a culinary treasure near UCI, where the extensive menu of hot pot, noodles, stir-fry, and more meets unbeatable value. This cozy spot shines with its generous portions at wallet-friendly prices, perfect for students and anyone craving authentic Chinese flavors without breaking the bank. The hot pot is a communal delight, the noodles boast perfect texture, and the stir-fries are packed with wok-fired goodness. Despite its popularity, service remains quick and friendly, making every visit a pleasure. For a satisfying meal that promises leftovers, this restaurant is a top choice. read more

Mimi D.

190

3 years ago

Today, my family came to this Chinese restaurant to spend the weekend, and man, it was delicious, just like the real deal Chinese food we used to have back in China. The Cold Skin Noodles, the Golden Soup Beef Hot Pot, and the Spicy Chicken were spot on! Every dish was so generous, like, one plate of chow mein and you're stuffed. And the prices? Super reasonable! We couldn't even finish everything and had to take some to go! Also, the dining environment in the restaurant is pretty nice. If I come back for dinner next time, I plan to try the outdoor seating. Seems awesome! read more

Annie D.

1001

3 years ago

My friend and I recently had the pleasure of dining at this establishment, and we were thoroughly impressed with every dish we tried! Among our favorites were the spicy dumplings, flavorful shrimp fried rice, mouthwatering popcorn chicken, delectable scallion beef rolls, and the satisfying hot pot. The service we received was exceptional, and we were impressed by the cleanliness of the restaurant. Needless to say, we are already looking forward to our next visit! read more

Eugene H.

3 years ago

I returned to this place once more, driving 50 minutes from West Covina for dinner. The food here is truly exceptional, especially considering the price. We genuinely appreciate the culinary experience and wish there was a branch closer to our area. Everything, from the delicious dishes to the impeccable service, exceeded our expectations. We're eagerly anticipating our next visit. read more

R. H.

321

3 years ago

This was our first time visiting at dinner time, my wife and two children. We seated ourselves indoors but I think it will be great to have lunch outdoors. The dished offered pretty quick, and the Golden Soup BeefPot, Dumplings, Crispy Durian Cake, Beef Roll are excellent. The delicious food is incredible for its price, highly recommended! read more

Alma B.

2 years ago

Northern Cafe offers decent Chinese food, but nothing too special. The dishes are generous in portion, which is a plus, but the flavors felt a bit flat. Service was friendly, but the wait times were longer than expected. Overall, it's a nice spot if you're craving Chinese takeout, just don't set your hopes too high. read more

Kevin H.

107

4 years ago

Just eat here. You will not regret it. I'm from the SF busy area where they have best Chinese food in CA. I moved here 3 years ago and stumbled on this gem by accident. If you want real good quality Chinese food, eat here. Otherwise, don't even bother eating Chinese. read more

Isaac S.

2 years ago

A++ will be returning in the future with more KYT Dental Services staff members to enjoy the fantastic food, outstanding service, and inviting ambiance. Our entire team thoroughly enjoyed the experience and looks forward to coming back to Northern Cafe! read more

J T.

4 years ago

Did not let me know when my food was ready, so I was waiting over an hour for pick up! Also, my chicken noodle dish only came with a few pieces of chicken, so while the rest of the dish was great, it was severely lacking in this respect. read more

Shelly L.

530

3 years ago

Flavors and everything was spot on! I will be back soon! Get their cumin lamb since I still think about it! Also their noodles are really good too! Close to UCI Instagram: Missmichelleluu read more

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Northern Cafe - chinese - Updated October 2026

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Ten Seconds Yunnan Rice Noodles

3.8

(43 reviews)

If you've never had Yunnan style crossing the bridge rice noodles before, it's such a fun…read moreexperience because the ingredients are served separately before being added to the piping hot broth. Everything came out fresh, the portions were generous, and it was the perfect meal. I think you can share it with others but I ordered one for myself. The Original Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles was easily one of my favorites. The broth was rich but light enough to not feel too heavy. I loved adding all of the ingredients into the steaming bowl myself. The Tomato Sliced Beef Brisket Rice Noodles had a completely different flavor profile with a slightly sweet and tangy tomato broth that paired really well with the tender sliced beef. Both soups had chewy rice noodles that soaked up all of the flavor beautifully. We also tried the Signature Mildly Spicy Chicken Fried Rice Noodles and the Signature Mildly Spicy Beef Fried Rice Noodles. Both had great wok hei and plenty of flavor without being overwhelmingly spicy. The beef version and chicken version were both good! To start the meal, we ordered the Rice Cake with Brown Sugar, and it was delicious. Crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside with just the right amount of brown sugar sweetness. Highly recommend!

I've come here multiple times and I'm always greeted by the nicest uncle at the front. This spot…read morehelps satsify my cravings for yunnan noodles and when I want something quick and easy. You can customize your own bowl DIY-style, choosing your broth, meats, and toppings separately. My favorite is the Sichuan broth, but you can also order the ready-to-go noodle pots or try their spicy stir-fried noodles, which yelp doesn't have the menu for. Quite a small shop with little employees so be patient, especially if you don't speak chinese as they're chinese owned. This spot opens till 1:00AM so I can see why a lot of the international students at UCI come here.

Super Yummy

4.4

(52 reviews)

The fried chicken here was seriously so good--crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full…read moreof flavor. The owner and staff were also incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed throughout the meal. They were very generous with the portions too, which was a nice bonus. Overall, we had a great experience and will definitely be coming back to try more items on the menu. Highly recommend!

I came specifically to try the luosifen (snail rice noodle soup), and I'm really glad I did…read more The cook actually came out before making it because he was worried I might not know what I was getting into. someone else had ordered it, disliked the sour/funky flavor, and left a bad review. I'd checked with ChatGPT beforehand so I knew it was gonna have some funk. And yeah, the first smell is intense. Not like durian but maybe sort of like a stinky cheese. The pickled bamboo shoots are pretty intense. But I like stinky cheese pickles etc so I know how to give something a try. That broth man. It's so umami perfection. I loved the cabbage, it really carried the broth. I could eat a whole bowl of just cabbage and broth haha. If you order the luosifen, don't expect a conventional noodle soup. Expect something authentic in a way it reminds someone other than you of the taste of home. Really a good stop, and I appreciated how much the chef cared about making sure I understood what I was ordering. I'll absolutely come back.

Spicy Master

4.3

(16 reviews)

There are plenty of parking spaces, but it can get really packed depending on when you go. They…read morehave lower-level parking spaces, too if the top-level is full. You scan the QR code from the table to order, and the portions are huge, so that's why some of the prices are on the expensive side. Everything is family style, and you have to pay extra for rice. They are known for their spicy dishes, but some dishes are mild or not spicy upon request. We ordered their Black Pepper Beef Short Ribs and Jianghu Dry Pot Organic Cauliflower. Both were delicious and flavorful. My favorite was the Black Pepper Beef Short Ribs because the sauce was packed with so much flavor, it made the short ribs really delicious. Recommendation(s): - Black Pepper Beef Short Ribs - Jianghu Dry Pot Organic Cauliflower Service: 5/5 Tip(s): - Plenty of parking spaces, depending on when you go - Restrooms available - They do have lower-level parking spaces underground - Accept Apple Pay - Scan QR code to order - Portions are big

We enjoy Spicy Master's flavorful dishes which all have great Szechuan dishes. There are some…read morepretty exotic dishes, but we stick to mapo tofu, beef noodle soup, eggplant and their ginger-flavored fish, which are all delicious. The only thing is that their beef noodle soup seems manufactured and has a spaghetti-like texture and shape. The parking lot is bad because it's crowded most of the time and it's hard to find a spot. Also, sometimes the service at the restaurant is slow and the food can take awhile. Still, the food is good which is why we go back.

A & J Restaurant

4.1

(2.8k reviews)

•$$

It isn't in the style of Taiwanese bento chicken cutlet. Let's get that out of the way…read more But it's a $13 chicken and rice bowl in 2026. A solid meal, well fried and fat rendered, not much batter in this style. Seasoning is there, and they have an excellent chili oil-sauce thing on each table to add for deep flavor and spice. If I had to change something... I'd add bok choy as a side rather than chopped into the rice? Still solid choice. Service is as usual at an Asian restaurant--order, and they'll respect your meal time and leave you alone unless you ask for attention.

Here is what I ordered and how I score the dish with my comments. Sorry I didn't take pictures…read more Each dish has a number. I am not Chinese so take that into consideration. 122 beef soup clear broth - This was a 5/5 - so good we got one too go. The price is good but it is a small portion with just a little meat. It's the broth that tastes so good. 111 noodles with ground pork, sprouts and cucumber 5/5 - I really liked this dish. It's like a Chinese chili on wide noodles. Addictive. Good value too. 139 beef wrap - 3/5 - This is the chinese pancake surrounding overcooked beef that you can get anywhere. Thankfully they didn't use too much cilantro like other places. It was dry. I would not order it again. Needs a sauce too. The vinegar from the table wasn't helping. 137 1000layer pancake - 3/5 This was made fresh and it's puffy! ---probably exactly what it's supposed to be. It, too, needs a special sauce. There just is no flavor by itself. Plus, I only counted 900 layers. Just kidding. I would skip next time. The service here is great. Food comes out fast.

Chic Now Hainan Chicken Rice

4.3

(121 reviews)

•$$

This is ghost kitchen location and I'm usually skeptical with ghost kitchen restaurant, but I tried…read morethe one in Stanton and it's been my favorite one of my favorites actually for hainan chicken rice and I feel like the rice is solid. It It could have been better tho because it's a little bit dry but most importantly is a very flavorful rice which what chicken rice is supposed to be. The food came up pretty quick and like Argo's kitchens they have their own pick up ways or methods and it's pretty easy to do as well plenty of parking in the plaza. Staff is very nice to give me extra sauces. The pickup place is designed to pick up other ghost kitchens restaurants in the same building so they have some instructions on that.

Unfortunately, I've had much much better hainan chicken. The rice is bland and the scallion ginger…read moresauce is extremely salty with no other flavor. I'm talking "I'm basically dipping my chicken in salt" salty. Their red sauce is like a sweet hot sauce and the brown one I believe is soy sauce. On the bright side, the chicken was very tender and yummy! And they are generous with the soup which was also delicious. For the place itself, it is a ghost kitchen shared with several other food businesses so you can also order things like sushi or Thai food! There's some seats and tables outside. Parking is limited, but it wasn't busy when I went on a Thursday evening.

Capital Noodle Bar

3.9

(899 reviews)

•$$

Food is Chinese and we ordered the garlic chicken wings, spicy sausage fried rice, bao buns,…read moredumpling noodle soup. All were yummy and the value wasn't that bad for what you get. Flavors were good and tasty. The service was good being that there are only 2 waitstaff. On top of things! The place was nice and clean and we do go back here once in a while when cravings kick in. Verdict- yes!

Always awesome …read more.. Massive lot that usually has lots of room, big place with lots of seating. I tend to go at lunch time early so always lots of options. At times the local hotels will have conference and then things can fill up fast. Service is great, they watch the tables and think ahead for what you need. Im addicted to a specific soup here but keep looking at all the amazing options, I still walk in and order what I ordered last time. Clean place, great staff, awesome food. This is a weekly lunch go to for sure many times Ill hit them 2 or more because they are that good.

Little Pan

4.4

(1.5k reviews)

•$$

we ordered pan fried buns, wonton soup and kasu bento. The…read morepan fried buns piping hot so be careful. It was good dipped in the wonton soup. I love wonton! Katsu had that crunch as katsu should. It is the little things that add to this small shop. As we were ordering, a contracted fridge maintenance person was there working on the shops equipment. As he was finishing up, a table was set for him with the same pan fried buns that we ordered, soup, and a drink - for him. You could hear his response "for me?". His job usually goes invisible in the background. They took the time to say thank you in the best way possible. A small shop mindful of those they serve, and those that serve them. I commend you on your generosity and thoughtfulness. This is the kind of shop i like going to. THANK YOU!

House special pan fried buns: Everything was great except the meat. I loved the texture of the bao…read moreand the crispy bottom. However, the texture of the meat was incredibly disappointing. The inside of the bao was juicy and flavor was great, but the meat, which is central to the dish, was tough and dry and flavorless. Mini fried bun with cup drink: The fried buns were okay. It's the same issue where the meat is just tough and grainy. The drink, though, I did not enjoy at all. I ordered the jasmine soy milk and there were just free flowing jasmine tea leaves inside the drink. It was like getting a mouthful of tea leaves each time I wanted a sip. This would have been much more enjoyable if they had filtered out the leaves before serving the drink.

Yuchun

4.0

(94 reviews)

•$$

First time trying Yuchun and I really enjoyed it! Everything came out fresh and flavorful…read more I ordered the beef bulgogi, and it came out sizzling hot with a really good savory flavor. The beef was tender and had a nice amount of onions and vegetables. I also loved all the little banchan that came with the meal. Overall, the food was delicious and the portions were good. Definitely a nice spot when you're craving Korean food in Irvine. I'd come back to try more of their menu!

Yuchun is my favorite Korean cold noodle spot. Originally would go to Korea town in LA to get this…read more So happy it's nearby home in OC! $20 for cold noodles sounds steep but I'll pay it any day. I would never make this at home because I'm the only one who enjoys this in my family of boys. Must add some vinegar and mustard to give a tang. Portion size is huge. Don't forget to ask for complimentary hot broth. It's the best thing ever. In the H mart Alton food court. Love the ease & other options for other people. There is always parking & a seat in here. Service is as good as can be!

Sen Thai Noodle Bar

4.4

(96 reviews)

•$$

Yen Ta Fo Noodle Soup here was Perfectly cooked with the right amount also staff is super nice and…read morehelpful with all questions i asked. Will be back for other dish for sure

What a great find! Ordered the special beef boat noodle and the som tum both with egg noodles…read more My husband loved the som tom noodles. Lots of protein, fish balls/cake and a decent amount of bean sprouts. The noodles were flavorful and cooked perfectly! The beef boat noodle soup had a huge punch of flavor and thick with spices. Good amount of beef, tendon and tripe. The order took less than 10 min and service was friendly. Definitely coming back!

Fast Hot Pot

4.0

(41 reviews)

Really cool concept, as you pick your own ingredients (meats, veggies, noodles) and pay by weight…read moreat $14.99/lb. I recommend the beef bone broth, which was so creamy and delicious and paired perfectly with the tender beef and lamb. They have a massive selection of add-ins like fish balls, wood ear and seafood mushrooms, and lots of noodles from vermicelli, udon, hand pulled noodles, and meats like chicken, beef, lamb pork, fish balls, fish tofu and seafood tempura. The atmosphere is fast-casual/self-service. Only downside was the sauce bar being out of sesame sauce during dinner, but otherwise, it's a great spot for quick and easy hot pot dinner.

This was the only place open past 12 last Saturday in that part Irvine. Place was generally clean…read moreand inviting. They did run off of bowls later in the service so they were using styrofoam bowls. The choices were ok but limited than other Malatang places I've been to. The soup base was good, was just surprised that we had to pay extra for the soup. Not a bad option for a as late night meal

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Northern Cafe - chinese - Updated October 2026

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