Northern Cafe

504

324

5 years ago

I cannot stress how happy i am that this spot opened. It's authentic, delicious and a good value. Incredibly friendly service. The must haves include the garlic eggplant, kung pao chicken and the Shanghai stir fry rice cake with chicken. Soft pass on the chicken wontons in spicy chili sauce. If you want a bowl of rice you can add for $1. read more

Northern Cafe - D5. Shanghai Stir Fry Rice Cake with Chicken - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - B2. Kung Pao Chicken - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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

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Linda L.

5 years ago

Went for lunch on a Monday and the place was packed. Order two hot pots (spicy beef and mala) and the chongqing crispy chicken. The hot pots come with a free black or green sweetened tea and rice. The crispy chicken came out first - it was crispy and the flavor was good but subtle. On par with other dry pepper crispy chicken dishes but I wish the flavor was a bit bolder. I had to dip it in their chili oil and dumpling sauce. The hot pots took 40 mins to come out. They were busy but the kitchen felt like they were moving too slowly. Even the waitress mentioned it took a while - luckily, she was kind and we didn't have anywhere to be. Main reason for the one star deduction. The pots were on par with boiling point although my sister said the spicy beef is a little too tomato-y. Would go elsewhere for faster service. Lunch took two hours which is way too long for a place like this. read more

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Maj K.

170

4 years ago

I love this place, easy on-line order. The orange chicken is fantastic and a huge portion. I love to also get some garlic vegetables and rice on the side. Great place to pick up for a laid-back Friday night dinner. read more

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Karah P.

783

4 years ago

the aesthetic of the restaurant is really cute and it's definitely one of the best options at University Town Center if you're looking for an actual sit down place! you order up at the cash register, find a table, and then they'll bring your food to you. i got the popcorn chicken and it was a bit bland - i can get popcorn chicken at Cha right next door for only $4. but the other items on the menu looked great, especially the beef soup and the hotpot! i would come back and try something new next time. read more

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Patcharamon K.

135

315

5 years ago

I've been coming here so often my page should just be dedicated to Northern Cafe. I am so happy I discovered this place last quarter because it's my comfort place and reminds me of home. Pretty authentic Chinese food and also affordable and large portion sizes. This is probably my favorite place in UTC. - Mala Premium Beef Noodle Soup : Very premium indeed. Came with bokchoy and slices of beef. The noodles were cooked so well and had the perfect amount of chewiness. Noodles were really long which symbolizes a long healthy life, so thank you Northern Cafe for blessing me. Soup was really good, it was spicy and seasoned with the perfect amount of Mala. It would be better if they gave me more Bok Choi though 8/10 - House Special Beef Noodle Soup: This was my friend's order. Not as spicy as the Mala one, soup was seasoned well. Similar to what I ordered but different soup and cuts of beef. - Juicy Pork Dumplings: Budget friendly and wait time friendly version of Din Tai Fung's dumplings. The filling was so flavorful and succulent, and the broth was seasoned well. The dough on the outside was a tad bit too thick and over cooked but did not take away from the whole dish. 7/10 read more

Northern Cafe - F3. Mala Premium Beef Noodle Soup, F1. House Special Beef Noodle Soup - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - E1. Juicy Pork Dumplings - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Handy T.

222

874

5 years ago

There is a good variety of dishes, that are portioned for about two people. I ordered the chicken fried rice and I thought that the rice was fine, but the chicken was somewhat cold. The lunchtime rush filled up all the indoor seats, leaving only seats outdoors. read more

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

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

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

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Grace H.

3 years ago

Best orange chicken I have ever had!!! Wonton soup is delicious! Their service is fast, polite, and always accurate!

Business owner information

Madison V.

Thanks for your love, we would love to serve you again

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Kyle L.

4 years ago

My friend took me here about 2 weeks ago (6/16/2022) and it was very tasty. Most of the staff dont really speak english. I ordered Kingpao Chicken which was very spicy I came here again 6/18/2022 and everything was the exact opposite of the food I received last time. Both the dishes I ordered were cold and one staff said they would get me a new one. They heated the dish in the microwave and didnt give me a new one. Not sure why they would lie to a customer instead of doing what is requested when they said they would get a new one. I was very polite to the staff and never raised my voice or caused a scene. I just wanted hot food since i was very hungry Food: Tasty Customer Service: Non-Existent Cleanliness: Very Clean Would I recommend? Only if someone paid me I think I will go to another chinese place read more

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Bin Q.

Hi Kyle…

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Justin N.

3 years ago

Best mapo tofu and it's only 5 mins away from my place so I usually just order for takeout. Service is fast nothing fancy u get your food and it comes out in like less than 5 mins. It gets pretty crowded at times read more

Northern Cafe - 10. Mapo Tofu with Ground Pork - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Madison V.

Thanks for appreciating

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Julie S.

5 years ago

Honestly really good Chinese food! You pay/order first then they take it to your table. Definitely recommend the eggplant and beef roll. Would've given it 5 stars but tell me why this place only plays weird covers of pop songs. read more

Northern Cafe - We ordered nine plates - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Doanh T.

2 years ago

We love this place; good food; fast service and so close to home. Prices are reasonable too.

Business owner information

Madison V.

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

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Eddie Y.

2 years ago

Good food, especially the cold dish. Nice place overall but little on the expensive side. Will go again.

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Madison V.

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

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Matthew T.

3 years ago

This place is self service essentially. When you walk in you seat yourself, you grab extra plates, napkins, and utensils if needed, and you get your own water. The best food option in my opinion is the hot pot, everything else is quite standard and is comparable to any other Chinese restaurant. The different options for hotpot are somewhat limited. I got the spicy pot, it was essentially a tomato based soup. The taste was good, nothing mind blowing, the price is cheaper than other hot pot spots which is a plus. Overall, food was good, if you're looking for amazing service don't come here, would go again! read more

Northern Cafe - 1. Spicy Beef Pot - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Christine K.

149

178

110

4 years ago

Loved this place! The portion was way larger than I thought. Loved chongqing crispy chicken and house special beef noodle. Parking will be pretty bad if you come around lunch or after 6 read more

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Linda C.

Elite 26

407

1783

5 years ago

Great authentic Chinese food. Very happy this place opened up near me!! Conveniently located next to Eureka, so great to walk over for a beer flight after or before dinner! Very reasonable prices too. read more

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Alexander R.

4 years ago

Super friendly staff, tasty food -- a little pricey, but also a ton of food! Shared the Big Pot Chicken with Noodles, and it was the perfect amount for lunch. read more

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John K.

148

3 years ago

Good was meh. Price was high. Take out meal. We ordered the orange chicken sweet and sour pork and string beans. Each dish had way too much oil. Even the string beans were wilted and soggy from the amount of grease. It was passable. The orange chicken was very good. Tender chicken in the typical sauce. The sweet/sour pork was ok. Each bite was 1/3 bone, 1/3 fat and 1/3 meat We also ordered dumpling in spicy sauce. It was not spicy and the dumplings had butter soft wrappings but the sauce was sooo salty. I guess the spice they used was salt To top it all off, the bill was pricey, not aligned with the food The fam said that for the quality and pricei it would have been better to order from Panda Express. read more

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Kevin M.

Elite 11

344

320

482

5 years ago

Just visiting the area and stumbled on this place. Glad we did. It was delicious. My GF and I split the Thai Fusion Hot Pot (minus mushrooms) and the lamb dumplings. The dumplings were good and very flavorful. But the soup was the star of the show. It was served over warming burner to keep it hot. It had lots of seafood and cabbage. It hit on multiple levels. Not overly spicy but it had a great sweet and sour flavor. If I'm in the area again, I'll be back. Wish they'd open up in Sacramento. Specifically Folsom. read more

Northern Cafe - 5. Thai Fusion Pot - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - E4. Juicy Lamb Dumplings - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Armen S.

2 years ago

Started out ok and food tasted decent until we all got food poisoning from this place, so we're never coming back. Nothing worse than an unsanitary restaurant. read more

Business owner information

Madison V.

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

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Luca M.

2 years ago

Best Chinese food in SoCal hands down. The ambiance and service is always very good. All of their noodles, dumplings, and wontons are really good and you can't really go wrong. My favorite dish is the Pork Wontons in spicy chili sauce, they are so yummy! read more

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Madison V.

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

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A D.

4 years ago

Ate there a few days ago and I do not like the fact that they overcharged me. I did not realize that until I saw my credit card a few days later and they did not even bother to give me a receipt. Beware because if you opt out to give them a tip at the register, they will override you and add a 15% on top of your bill without you knowing about it. They overcharged me by nine dollars. Fortunately, the manager was able to refund me the money and did apologize.. read more

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Meg P.

186

286

5 years ago

Order at the counter and they bring food to the table to you. I enjoyed the beef pot and beef roll I ordered. Everything is fairly priced, food came out fast. I will be back very soon :) read more

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Mike S.

5 years ago

It took me a few days but I bought a large order from this place. the food was great all I can say is delicious delicious delicious I have tried many many Asian food but this one in particular as taking the cake I'll be coming back for this place more and more thank you to the chef and the staff read more

Northern Cafe - Receipt from my order - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Sara C.

124

2248

3 years ago

pretty decent chinese food and enjoyed every dish i got! i only got two dishes: bok choy and mapo tofu. i frequently get those two dishes at Chinese restaurants because they're my favorites and these hit the spot. the mapo was flavored nicely and would get again. the bok choy was nice and garlicky which i love. everything was great, place was clean, and service was quick. next time i go, i'd love to try other dishes! read more

Northern Cafe - Mapo Tofu - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - Bok Choy - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - Bok Choy and Mapo Tofu - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Angela D.

4 years ago

Food was decent, service not bad, when I was getting my to go bowl and bag near the register I found a full grown love cockroach, when I tried to show the cashier, it ran towards the kitchen area, I told the staff and informed the health department, hopefully someone did something about the pest, when you see one there are hundreds you don't see. I was pretty disappointed in seeing this pest in what seemed to be a clean establishment. read more

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Steena F.

5 years ago

They cook as you order. Quick and friendly service. The sweet and sour pork ribs were very tasty. I just wish they have an option for boneless sweet and sour pork. The portions are big, enough for 2 people. They do need more veggie offerings. I'll come back and try something else. So many Asian students at UCI. I think this place will thrive. read more

Northern Cafe - Sweet B7. Sweet & Sour Pork Ribs - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Shaun A.

3 years ago

Good Chinese food in Irvine. Fair price and portions. We did the take out but we look forward to eat at the restaurant next time. You can sit outside and enjoy your food while having a good time read more

Business owner information

Madison V.

Thanks for your love, we would warmly welcome you

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Kate W.

4 years ago

Was looking for Chinese dishes I missed and found them here. Eggplant was perfect. Dumplings are fresh. read more

Northern Cafe - E5. Steamed Vegetable Dumplings - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Jane N.

Elite 25

305

102

2 years ago

i eat at northern pretty frequently whenever i visit my bf and always leave pretty satisfied with our meal :) my favorites are the mala beef noodle soup and chongqing chicken! i'm literally ADDICTED to the mala soup and have even doordashed it a couple times bc i was craving it LOL the portions are good and everything ive tried here was always solid! read more

Business owner information

Madison V.

Dear Jane, Thank you for your satisfaction with our food, thank you…

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Andrew B.

4 years ago

Literally the best Chinese food in Irvine. I was in west LA for years and this is the only place that I could imagine competing up there or SGV. read more

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Alice C.

Elite 25

2020

1714

666

4 years ago

the quality has dwindled since the grand opening days. the kung pao chicken was served lukewarm (like it was previously refrigerated and haphazardly microwaved) and the meat quality was not good. barely any chili seen, and the portion was not what it used to be. the chicken wontons could be easily mistaken as pork wontons for sure... and the stir fry broccoli was undercooked and tough- like raw broccoli. maybe there was a chef changeover somehow, and it shows. hopefully they can get their quality back up, or we're writing them off :( read more

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Caroline B.

2 years ago

Love the food and the staff is super friendly and helpful. Located in a hectic shopping center near UCI but if you park in the back it's easier to find parking. Totally worth it. The egg rolls aren't great but loved everything else I've tried. Portions are massive. Leftovers for days. read more

Business owner information

Madison V.

Dear Caroline B. Thank you for your feedback on our food , and we…

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Tania S.

Elite 16

539

306

455

4 years ago

Found this hidden gem by chance after Sunday's service at Mariners church. Large variety and large portions. Food was very tasty as well. Love the fact that they have self serve to go containers. read more

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Sarah E.

4 years ago

Low-key but delicious. Order at the counter, then take your number to a table. The food comes out pretty quickly, but otherwise service is pretty minimal. The dan dan noodles had the right flavor, but could have been much spicier. Scallion pancakes were terrific. read more

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Derek P.

4 years ago

"quick" food Sichuan style franchise place but it's just all done right. I love every dish here. Bold flavors, lots of chili and garlic (true to Sichuan style). read more

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Miguel G.

5 years ago

Boggles me how it took so long for a Chinese restaurant to open in the town center, because this is probably my new go-to spot for nice Chinese food. Ordered the Orange Chicken, Fatty Beef with Scallion, and Pork Pancake. A little bit on the pricey side compared to your average takeout spot, but the quality of the food makes up for it, with mostly generous serving size. Already looking forward to coming back and trying the rest of their menu. The only thing I didn't quite enjoy when dining in is the odd music choice, since they were playing Dubstep-Hardstyle of all things. Just a nitpick really, as the food was fantastic. read more

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Alvin W.

5 years ago

Northern Cafe finally came to Irvine! Everything as good as they get! I was not expecting this spicy level from northern cuisine, but I love it!!! Portion is generous as always, very authentic taste, I will be back in no time! read more

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

Northern Cafe - Mala Premium Beef Noodle Soup - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

Northern Cafe - House Special Beef Noodle Soup - Chinese Near Me - Irvine, California

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Rosanna B.

3 years ago

I had wonton soup, the chicken wonton was good but the soup is too salty. We've had other entree before and it was also salty.

Business owner information

Madison V.

Dear Rosanna, Thank you for your feedback and suggestions, we accept…

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Damon L.

2 years ago

Great food great service! Spacious area. You have to get the Cumin Lamb it's reallllllly good!

Business owner information

Madison V.

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

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April H.

5 years ago

Visited Northern Cafe a few days after opening and it was delightful! I came with a group of 8 and although you're technically supposed to order at the counter first, the owner (I think) made an exception and took our order at the table. We ordered so many dishes (maybe 10+) and stuck to mostly the dumplings, pancakes and appetizers. Portion sizes were bigger than I expected; we had some leftovers at the end. Overall everything we ordered was really good but my faves were the spicy pork wontons, cucumber salad, chinese pork pancake, and the beef roll. The food came out really fast too! Without a doubt, I'm definitely coming back again! read more

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Page 10 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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Well, this sucks...and only partially because this place ended up closing just when I finally…read morefinished writing my review. While I never thought Capital Noodle Bar was the best noodle joint that you could find in/around Irvine, this place was always so tasty and convenient! Even though they weren't our favorite place, the times we stopped by Capital Noodle Bar was usually on our way to/from the airport for a quick bite. Not only was the restaurant large (snagging a table was never an issue), but our food (typically) came out relatively quick. In addition, their menu was stocked with so many delicious options. It felt a little more Malaysian than Chinese to me, but, regardless, their collection of appetizers, dim sum items, congee, noodle soups, stir fried noodles, entrees, fried rice, and rice plates was so enticing, we couldn't help but come back to try more and more! -- HOT SAUCE TRAY I know it's kind of weird to mention this, but I love their dish of hot sauces. In particular, their jalapenos and chili oil go well with everything we've had here. -- CRISPY TOFU This may not have looked quite like what I had expected, but this was pretty good! The tofu was pillowy soft and piping hot while the outside of it was surprisingly crispy, given how it's not really battered. -- WONTON NOODLE SOUP - Pork & Shrimp Wonton, Egg Noodles We got this as part of their weekday special ($12 all-day, dine-in only), so I'm not sure if the portion size is any different. Either way, this was great. The wonton skins were a little thin, but each piece was plump and juicy, the noodles had a nice bite, and the broth was solid. -- CHAR KWAY TEOW - Shrimp, Chinese Sausage, Bean Sprouts, Egg, and Large Rice Noodles I've been on a bit of a kick ordering this whenever I see it and this was one of the better ones. The noodles were cooked really well (very bouncy), the dish had a slight kick yet it wasn't overly salty/seasoned, and the dish wasn't overloaded with beansprouts. -- SPICY GARLIC CALAMARI Ehh...this wasn't "bad", but it was definitely underwhelming. Although these were seasoned well and had a nice crispiness, the calamari itself was chewy and reminded me of the generic type you get at most other Chinese restaurants. -- TRIO OF BEEF NOODLE SOUP - Sliced Tenderloin, Beef Ball, Beef Stew (Beef Shank, Tripe, Tendon, Carrot), and Egg Noodles I was super hopeful for this one, but it turned out to be just okay. For me, the ingredients tasted fine, but the portion seemed a little light on the beef shank and the broth needed a bit more body to it (felt a little thin). -- CRISPY HAINAN CHICKEN - Deep Fried Dark Meat, Pickled Vegetables, Ginger Rice, Soy Sauce, Ginger, and Chili Sauce Not very traditional, but no less delicious. Boneless Hainan Chicken is appealing enough, but fried, too? While I wish there had been more of it, each piece was crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. The ginger rice was quite tasty as well! -- WAGYU BEEF POSTICKERS Pretty standard, though, not necessarily in a bad way. Although there wasn't much of a browned bottom/crust on these, I love how big and plump these were and how the filling had a nice, beefy flavor to it. -- HONG KONG STYLE CHOW FUN WITH CHICKEN, Seasonal Greens, Carrot, Mushroom, Egg, Gravy Sauce, and Large Rice Noodles This was just okay for me. The dish had a good ratio of vegetables and meats to noodles, but the gravy didn't do much for me - there was so much of it, it felt more distracting than additive. -- MANGO GREEN TEA Surprisingly, this wasn't nearly as sweet as I feared it would be. The mango flavor in this wasn't super intense and went well with the green tea. Along with how satisfying most of Capital's dishes have been, the other thing that I liked about this place was the staff. Every time we came here, the workers were always friendly and really attentive, even despite how they usually only had one server working. That being said, it has never been all that busy either, which might help explain why their closure. As genuinely bummed as I am to learn that this place has closed, it should be said that it's not like Capital Noodle Bar is gone forever. If you missed your chance to try them, or just want to eat here again, they have another location in Costa Mesa that's still open and just a short drive away. And, as it turns out, it's even closer to the airport, so our pseudo-ritual of stopping off can continue to live on. Thanks for the memories, Irvine Capital Noodle Bar!

Dropped by Capital Noodle Bar in Irvine for lunch, and it was a surprisingly smooth and quick…read moreexperience. It wasn't busy at all during the lunch rush, so we were seated right away. They have a beautifully simple menu that covers a great variety of dishes, ranging from dim sum to various noodle and rice options. The Beef Chow Fun was excellent. It had that classic, smoky wok hei flavor I was looking for. Highly recommend if you love chow fun. My friend ordered, The Capital Street Noodle, a dry noodle dish. It packed a ton of good flavor and came with a very generous amount of toppings. The Salt and Pepper Fried Fish was lovely. The batter was wonderfully light, and I really enjoyed the distinct peppery punch it had. Overall, everything we tried was hit. It's a solid, clean spot with great execution on classic flavors. I would totally come back here again whenever I'm looking for a quick bite!

Capital's filet mignon

Capital Bowl w/egg noodles soup on the side

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Assorted Seafood w/thin rice noodle.

Qin West Noodle

4.0(360 reviews)

1.3 mi

I was so happy to find this little gem near UCI Health. The staff person helpfully advised that one…read morebowl would be enough for two people, and the one big bowl did come with two smaller bowls for sharing. He was very patient as we pondered the unfamiliar menu. We ordered the Nanning Noodle Soup, which had rice noodles in a slightly spicy tomato broth. It wasn't too spicy for my mom. The rice noodles seemed a little overdone, but we enjoyed the pork, broth, and herbs. We were quite full afterwards. The inside of the restaurant was warm and lacked air conditioning, so we sat outside. We grabbed some of the last shaded seats. There was a nice breeze, so it was a pleasant dining experience. Because the drink I originally ordered ran out, the staff person kindly gave me an extra Hokkaido Milk Tea for my mom. I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't too sweet. I couldn't place the sweetener, but we both liked it. I'd love to go back and try the other noodle soups.

Terrible fake Chinese food…read more Spent over 20 bucks for this meat fried with chili. Meat is not fully cooked, and they taste like boiled meat. Extremely salty. The beef that's in the noodles is boarderlne spoiling. The fried dumpling is not even what the description is. In Chinese fried dumpling, they only pan fried the bottom. In this place, they put the dumpling deep fry, and it doesn't come out crispy, it comes out soft. If you go here, only order their cold noodles. Do not order anything else because everything is terrible. Some of the worst money I've ever spent.

Indoor seating

Crispy Chinese Mo (spicy beef)

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Steamed Dumpling

Haidilao Hotpot

Had such a good experience here today thanks to our server, Justine!…read moreShe was super friendly and welcoming from the start. We were having a hard time deciding on broth flavors, and her recommendations turned out so good. She was super sweet and attentive the whole time. She even offered to peel the shrimp for our table, which was really nice of her. Our soup was always refilled right when we needed it and the service was just really smooth overall.

We had a wonderful experience at Haidilao! The food was fresh and delicious, and there were so many…read moreoptions to choose from. What really stood out was the service -- the staff were incredibly friendly, attentive, and made sure we had everything we needed throughout the meal. The restaurant was also very clean and had a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Our whole family really enjoyed it. We will definitely be back. Highly recommend!

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2019

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Merry Christmas to HAIDILAO

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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

Northern Cafe - chinese - Updated October 2026

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Ten Seconds Yunnan Rice Noodles

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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(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)