Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum

4.6 (601 reviews)

ModerateTeppanyaki, Comfort Food

Open • 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

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Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum - Teppanyaki Near Me - Irvine, California

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PEPPER LUNCH - IRVINE SPECTRUM ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?

Inside

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Outside

28 Photos

Moderate noise

Casual

Trendy

Good for groups

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Martin Q.

We wanted to try something new and this place seemed to be like hot stones places I been to before. I regret going in with expectations but when the sizzlin hot stone came out I got really excited. Overall this place was a solid 3/5 and keep going to see why! You order on a kiosk to get it delivered to your table. That is always nice but the cost for the feed feels like it should be a table service experience. I got the salmon and beef pepper rice combo. You get the hot stone with the meat uncooked. Don't make the mistake I did and forget to season your meat before cooking it. My partner did that and we noticed a flavor difference but overall the flavor was not the best. For a placed called pepper lunch, and not tasting it in the dish was pretty surprising, however I was happy to see the salt and pepper shakers at each table. It gives me the feel that is may be how the place works. The salmon was pretty bland but the beef was solid. If I were to come back I would not get any type of salmon and to their beef dishes. My partner had the chicken and beef and would agree. It gets a 3/5 due to the overall flavor, taxte and cost

Jennifer A.

Love this place in the heart of spectrum plaza. We just came from the hospital my friend passed away and we found this place in Yelp. The food was hotly delicious. Our server named Reggie was very friendly and helpful. The rest of the server and hostess are all very welcoming. The place was clean and neat. We definitely will come back here!

Lehi L.

Was visiting the area and glad to have stumbled here. We beat all the rush of customers as the Mandalorian & Grogu movie was released that day. The smell of their dishes lured us here. Welcoming and friendly server greeted us. Great food options and even the kids meal was a great portion. Each was very flavorful. Would highly recommend this place and returning when we're in the area again. And the 2 sauces available on the tables were delicious as well.

Danica V.

Great option for a casual dining in the spectrum. Order at kiosk, grab a number, grab a table and they'll deliver your food Great options for all, from pepper steak to salmon to curry burger patty, don't skimp on their chicken karage Overall recommend it to check out

Mimi J.

Review 54/365 Day Challenge Finally trying pepper lunch w my mommie besties. Came here on a Friday right b4 they open at 11 a.m. was waiting patiently for them to open. What i ordered Jumbo beef sizzling rice plate. I liked the bowl. Was hoping to love it since I've seen it around and a friend told mee about it. It's a bit on the bland side. Even adding the garlic soy like sauce. I added a lot too to give it some more flavoring. It's more on the peppery side and can taste the oil from the butter. Like a Peppery & buttery taste. They use Iteon brand green teas. It's good. One of our fav green teas. Associate Ashley Is friendly. Restaurant is a fast food eatery. Received our plates pretty fast but possibly since we were one of the 1st customers there when it opened at 11 am. They have an ordering kiosk where you order, put the # of your buzzer that's next to the kiosk. so associate know which table you're siting at if your dining there. Restaurant is clean with lots of table indoor and covered outdoor patio seatings. Located in Irvine Spectrum next to THE DIVE & SilverLake ramen. Lots of Parking in the parking structure or parking lot area. Highly suggest parking towards Javier's restaurant or Improv comedy side.

Sizzling plate of Salmon & Beef Pepper Rice Combo

Leanne D.

Our first experience at Pepper Lunch was a great experience! The staff was very friendly and Nate was great! Since it was our first time here, Nate took the time to suggest their most popular dishes or to choose a combo if you can't decide which protein you want to try. We opted to order the beef and salmon combo. When the sizzling plate was delivered to the table Nate gave us some instruction and explained the sauce options on the table. We appreciated him taking the time to do this. Initially we tasted the beef without the sauces and it was a little bland. After adding a LOT of both sauces, salt and pepper there was more flavor. I am actually surprised there was very little pepper taste given the name of the restaurant. It would be nice if the proteins were marinated in a sauce of choice to give it more flavor. I now understand why add ons like garlic chips and onions are available at an extra cost of $1.99 each as it would add more flavor to the dish. It's just a shame you have to pay for the extra flavoring. You also want to make sure you start stirring the proteins as soon as the sizzling plate comes to the table to avoid overcooking the proteins since we like our meats and fish cooked to a perfect medium. All in all we enjoyed our first experience of cooking our lunch on a sizzling plate, we really had a nice lunch and will be back!

Betty G.

I had Pepper Lunch once 2years ago when I was in Bangkok. The restaurant was located inside the big Princess Hotel where we stayed. But it's pretty popular in the Asia, mostly in the malls and at the food courts. All locations appeared to always being busy with long wait. When I saw it at the Irvine Spectrum, thought I'd give it a try and see if it's any different here at our hometown. Had the beef pepper rice, their main item and most selling on the menu, I think. It's good but too basic for me (just beef and rice). I wouldn't go out of my way to find it but it's convenient while you're shopping but don't have much time and just wanted a quick bite.

Mary A.

Located near Regal and Silverlake Ramen, this spot is great for a quick bite. There's plenty of seating both inside and outside, and ordering through the self-service kiosk makes everything fast and easy. Service was quick and smooth. We ordered the regular and jumbo beef pepper rice ($36 total). The dish itself is flavorful and the meat is tasty, but I do wish there was more protein for the price. Still, a solid option when you want something quick and satisfying.

Mylinda T.

Quality was decent, about what I usually expect here,it was my first time at the spectrum location and the service was very friendly. The main reason for my review is the portion size it was surprisingly small and barely covered the bottom of the skillet, which felt pretty underwhelming for the price. Keep in mind the dish pictured doesn't come with mushrooms and I added them on for an additional (1.99) which is the price for any additional topping such as green onion, corn, egg, cucumber, onion. So if I didn't add a topping even more of the skillet would be showing.

Connie T.

It's been such a long time since I've had Pepper Lunch--I really missed it! You order on the iPad, take a number, and find your seat. Service was great; water was brought out right away as soon as we sat down. The location at Irvine Spectrum adds to the fun ambiance with so many restaurants nearby. Everything came out piping hot! I ordered the curry beef with hamburger meat and mixed the rice right into the sizzling plate--so good. I also added cheese and it made the dish even more delicious. My mom ordered the salmon and beef, and surprisingly, everything on her plate was also perfectly hot and fully cooked. My husband ordered the same as mine, just without the cheese. Overall, such a satisfying and nostalgic meal--I can't wait to come back again!

Nancy T.

Quick service meal - fast paced, order and sit down. This location's flavor was lacking. I'm used to having more umami in the meat/sizzling plate, but even after adding the table sauces it was still unfulfilling. I missed having a pepper lunch around us but this one didn't hit the spot at all.

Vincent V.

This might satisfy some people, but to us it was a pretty mediocre meal with lack of flavor in the meat and the overall meal is that of a weekday quick meal you whip up in a pinch. You order at the counter and it took awhile for our food to come, and the ambiance is just a quick fast food place at the spectrum mall. One of the handful they they have. Glad to try it, but will not be returning

Christina Z.

AMAZING SERVICE !!! Annette and Amy were super accommodating as we had a big party yet they were able to make it work and have our party of 10 sit together!! The food is great like always and the portions are epic too. Definitely will return SHAKAAA

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Enrique S.

162

122

8 months ago

Service was slow. We had no help ordering for first timers. Food cane out incomplete and staff to be told what was missing. Disappointing especially for a $50 rice bowl Poorly staffed, cute dining area, but to packed read more

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Natasha P.

Hi, Enrique. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback…

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Stanley F.

3 months ago

10/10 food spot with amazing eats and service, fair prices too! Tiffany and Kara were especially nice and accommodating despite nearing closing hours, they checked up on our table frequently and were super nice. read more

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Natasha P.

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Samuel S.

1 year ago

I ate at Pepper Lunch at the Irvine Spectrum today and was pleasantly surprised. They have a good menu of noodle, rice and a variety of chicken, beef, and seafood. Its served sizzling hot in a cast iron skillet and everything tasted great. It is definitely on my list of places to eat. read more

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Natasha P.

Thank you for your wonderful review, Samuel S.! We're thrilled to…

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Jonathan C.

Elite 26

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559

899

1 year ago

Located by the movie theater, it's a nice addition to the ever evolving Spectrum. Opening weekend was pretty busy since they offered a BOGO on the pepper rice steak plate AND they gave out two BOGO cards for later, which was nice to use on the jumbo plate. Service was fast and friendly. They have both indoor and outdoor seating with self ordering kiosks. Overall we thought it was delicious but only critique would be that the portion isn't as big as we'd like. It's a good portion though if you're ordering other side items. read more

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Natasha P.

Hi, Jonathan! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your…

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Daisy A.

1 year ago

Lena and Kaya were kind enough to save my life at Pepper Lunch in Irvine Spectrum. The Kimchi Steak Pepper Rice was good too. read more

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Natasha P.

Thank you for your wonderful review, Daisy A.! We're thrilled to hear…

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Yanal Z.

1 year ago

I've been a fan of this restaurant for a while now. They opened their new restaurant here in Irvine Spectrum and my wife and I tried it out. They had 2 kiosks that were taking orders. Both were full so we waited in line. Both customers ahead on the kiosk took about 25 min to order. This made it irritating for us waiting line watching them scratch their heads trying to wonder what to order. That really sucked. Either make the ordering process easier or add a 3rd kiosk. I went ahead and placed my order in 3-4 minutes for my wife and I. The process was easy but maybe it wasn't for them or they're just weird. Either way ordering is a part of the customer experience at your restaurant. We got our food however my drink was extremely watered down. They replaced it but now extremely sweet. Whatever. No biggie. Believe it or not they had no clean utensils so we had to wait until they can clean them and bring is us some. Seems like the machine stopped working. They messed up a lot of orders for other people as the employees were asking the customers including us what our order was and proving incorrect orders to other people. Once we got through the thick part of the experience here, the food was delicious as expected. I got the jumbo plate with beef and some extra add ons. Portions are as expected. We'll be giving this place another go and hopefully the ordering parts goes smoother. read more

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Natasha P.

Thank you for your honest feedback and for giving us a try at our new…

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Daniel S.

7 months ago

Ferhat was spectacular, we needed help after a issue on our end , made sure we were helped , and keep a watchful eye made sure he were always helped out! thank you! read more

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Natasha P.

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Jonaline A.

Elite 26

179

204

1 year ago

Went for the grand opening special of a bogo regular beef pepper lunch plate. It was a super solid deal and everyone at the grand opening was so nice and attentive! There was a slight line when I went with my boyfriend at 2pm, but nothing too terribly horrible to go through. The food came out quick and the sauces they offered on the table were a delicious add on to the plate. Highly recommend the garlic sauce as it gives a really nice flavor to the sizzling beef. read more

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Natasha P.

Hi, Jonaline! Thank you for joining us for our grand opening! We're…

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John M.

7 months ago

I was having a pretty bad day and ordered the beef kimchi pepper lunch. I burned my hand on the hot plate and Masami quickly came and iced my hand. Even though i had a few fingers burnt, it really made my day how good the customer service was read more

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Natasha P.

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Louiemar N.

7 months ago

The worker there named nate was amazing very productive guy, was able to hand us over what we needed! Very polite! It was my first time at pepper lunch our food was great. We'll definitely come back and eat there again! read more

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Natasha P.

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Hugo H.

7 months ago

Amazing food and service, ACE was an amazing person and her service skills were top notch. read more

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum - Food - Teppanyaki Near Me - Irvine, California

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Natasha P.

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Vianna T.

9 months ago

Had a great time here. Came here with a large group after watching a movie. Ordered their rice and steak with their garlic soy sauce. Ferhat did an amazing job accommodating to our group and was very pleasant. I highly recommend others to come here and enjoy their delicious food. read more

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Natasha P.

Hi Vianna T. Thank you for the wonderful review! We're thrilled…

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Miki Y.

9 months ago

The service was Great. Especially Ferhat welcomed us very kindly. We love to visit again!!

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Natasha P.

Hi Miki Y., thank you for the wonderful review! We're thrilled Ferhat…

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Morgan N.

Elite 25

250

1 year ago

I've always loved the location in Diamond Jamboree, but I think this location is even better. The employees are nicer and consistently check in on you. I love the open layout and kiosk self service that makes everything quicker. Our beef pepper rices were just as delicious and tasty as the other location. read more

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Natasha P.

Hi, Morgan! Thank you for your 5-star review! We're so glad to hear…

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Rebecca L.

9 months ago

Shout out to Amy who made our great lunch experience even better. Great food and service. read more

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Natasha P.

Hi Rebecca L. Thank you for the wonderful review! We're thrilled Amy…

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Lois C.

1 year ago

This review is for the line they create outside, not the food. It's been 2 weeks since they open. The staffs are very nice. The food seem to have small portion of meat on the regular size (lots of meat on jumbo size), lots of pepper on the rice, oily as usual but that's normal with sizzling plate style. What really is annoying is the way they create this mass long line outside the restaurant to attract attention to the restaurant when they always only sit half of the restaurant. If you take a look when you walk by, you will see half of the restaurant tables are empty and the line outside is very long. Not sure if this is a marketing strategy or just poor management, but I have heard other customers complain to the workers about it during their opening weekend, and still no change to this practice. In a location where there's plenty of restaurants in Irvine Spectrum, it's not a smart practice. You don't see silverlake ramen next door make people stand outside in the cold to wait 40min, they text people when it's their turn for table. read more

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Natasha P.

Hi Lois! Thank you for your review and feedback. As a newly opened…

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Alina L.

391

10 months ago

Nothing spectacular. A little over priced came in here staff are very unfriendly I decided to order anyways food is truly 4/10

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Natasha P.

Hi Alina, thank you for your honest review. Our goal is to make sure…

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Kevin D.

1 year ago

Really awkward ordering experience, won't be back until this is fixed. When we arrived the workers said the line was closed for a bit and stopped us from using the kiosk and had us wait around the machines. No formal line, so some people came and ordered anyway, so the machines worked, I guess we were supposed to police the line ourselves? Why not just have us order then wait for our food vs have to mingle around the kiosks? We had to stand there awkwardly for a while to order, made no sense. I'm happy to wait but not awkwardly having to be the kiosk cop. Just let me order and then wait like every other restaurant i've ever been to. Wouldn't return to this location until they have a sane line and ordering system. Theres another one in Diamond Jamboree that has a normal ordering process. Food was pretty good though! read more

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Natasha P.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us, Kevin. As a newly…

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Peyton B.

9 months ago

Went to Pepper Lunch for the Beef Pepper Rice and it was delicious!! All the employees were so helpful. I was asked if I wanted some water. I appreciated how Reggie checked in to see how the food was. The environment was chill, perfect for if you want to grab a quick bite by yourself. It was my first time trying Pepper Lunch and I will definitely be back read more

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum - Beef Pepper Rice - Teppanyaki Near Me - Irvine, California

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Natasha P.

Hi Peyton B. Thank you for the fantastic review! We're so glad you…

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Jordan C.

4 months ago

The food was so good and nice and sizzly! Tiffany is also the best! Service is so good and quick!

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Natasha P.

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Jolene C.

7 months ago

super friendly staff and amazing food! would recommend to anyone, helped our large group quickly get seated as well read more

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Cindy C.

5 months ago

The restaurant may be understaffed, in addition we encountered bad costumer service as the servers took a long time to clear the tables and to call the customers in. Also people were cutting the line but the staff didn't do anything and said it was ok to cut?? Suggest better training and management of the restaurant. read more

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Natasha P.

Hi Cindy. We would like to extend our sincerest apology for the…

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George C.

11 months ago

Love this restaurant in Irvine spectrum ! Food is so good and same as service. Our waitress Ferhat is nice and friendly. Will recommend to all my friends and colleagues read more

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Natasha P.

Hi George C., thank you for the fantastic review! We're thrilled to…

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Hossein K.

4 months ago

Great experience at Pepper Lunch! Chase was friendly, attentive, and provided excellent service. He made sure everything was perfect. Really appreciate the great service! read more

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Natasha P.

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Clarissa V.

1 year ago

Rob and T were very welcoming and our food came our fast. It was quiet and has a great outdoor seating area. Thanks for the amazing service! Also the parking at this location is a major bonus, the diamond jamboree one while worth it has an insanely small parking area. read more

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Natasha P.

Thank you for your kind words, Clarissa V.! We're thrilled to hear…

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Alexis T.

1 year ago

I wanted to try to see if the Irvine spectrum pepper lunch was better than dj's but really disappointing the sauces were really bland and the portions are a lot smaller than dj's. The service was good very good and communicative. The patio is nice to sit read more

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum - Beef pepper - Teppanyaki Near Me - Irvine, California

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Natasha P.

Thank you for your feedback, Alexis. As a newly opened location, we…

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Sahil D.

4 months ago

Super yummy food :) I loved the pepper chicken rice. The customer service was great too! Shout out to Chase and Kyle!

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Natasha P.

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Momo Y.

9 months ago

Love this place! Big shout out to Kara and Amy They were really attentive and nice! Will be back again for some good food and vibes!

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Natasha P.

Hi Momo Y., thank you for the wonderful review! We’re thrilled Kara…

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Samuel L.

1 year ago

Banger! Very good food, I love curry and this was a great spot for that. Service accommodated my group of 10+ very well. A very fun and cute place to eat right next to the theater. Would come again. read more

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum - Hamburg & Beef Sizzling Curry Rice - Teppanyaki Near Me - Irvine, California

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Natasha P.

Thank you for your wonderful review, Samuel L.! We're thrilled to…

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N. L.

10 months ago

First time here, food and service are great. Ferhat is sweet and being very helpful. Highly recommended.

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Natasha P.

Hi N. L., thank you for your kind words! We’re thrilled you enjoyed…

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FreakinSPleNdiD _.

1 year ago

When I found out PepperLunch was opening a location in the Irvine Spectrum I was stoked because now it's right down the street from my house! Nothing more satisfying than hearing that sizzling plate as it approaches your table! My go-to order is the Beef Pepper Rice Jumbo and I like to add on the garlic chips and an egg. The quality of food stays consistent with their Alton Pkwy location, if not better. I've even gotten my order to go and picked it up during my lunch break and it was just as delicious. Last time I went, I was approached by Alben shortly after my food had arrived, and he checked to make sure I was enjoying my meal. I really appreciated that. Alben and his team have always provided a high quality experience ever since their grand opening in February! read more

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Natasha P.

Thank you for your fantastic review, FreakinSPleNdiD _. We're…

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Ruslana Z.

8 months ago

Kara is the sweetest hottest most nicest and works super hard. She was smiling the entire time! Food was great read more

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Natasha P.

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Raj S.

8 months ago

Ferhat is a fantastic employee. The place was packed when we walked in and no places to sit, but people were still ordering. Ferhat quickly organized everybody and set up a line outside to avoid confusion. She was kind and courteous and served us quickly. We were shocked to learn that she was not a manager! The food was excellent and we will be back soon. read more

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Natasha P.

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Melanie T.

1 year ago

Finally! A Pepper Lunch closer to me! This location is also so close to the movie theater, a great quick dinner before a movie. The process to order is seamless, there are two kiosks to order and Kara answered any questions we had and was knowledgeable about the menu. We got the salmon and beef pepper rice combo, the chicken and salmon combo, and the angus ribeye steak and added on all sorts of toppings such as garlic chips (highly recommend), green onions, egg, etc. It didn't take long for our food to come out. The portions are huge and the food server showed us how to mix the rice bowl and it was really fun and interactive. Will definitely be coming back. read more

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum - Chicken and salmon - Teppanyaki Near Me - Irvine, California

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum - Fries and chicken kaarage - Teppanyaki Near Me - Irvine, California

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum - Angus ribeye steak - Teppanyaki Near Me - Irvine, California

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Natasha P.

Thank you so much for the great review, Melanie! We're so happy to…

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Ernest S.

4 months ago

I love pepper lunch, Tiffany's service was great, food was delicious. The vibe was great to eat late night before closing .

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Natasha P.

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Sheryl C.

4 months ago

first time here! so yummy i love how we can cook our food here :) chase was great for assisting us! love the vibes and atmosphere here would come again !! read more

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Natasha P.

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Kelly D.

4 months ago

chase was really kind and helpful :3!! first time here and was able to find seating easily on a sunday afternoon :) meow read more

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Natasha P.

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Atiaanw L.

8 months ago

Service was amazing and I felt very welcomed. Our server Paul was very helpful and kind. Thank you read more

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum - Beef Beef Sizzling Curry Rice - Teppanyaki Near Me - Irvine, California

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Natasha P.

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Beth O.

10 months ago

Food is excellent and service is great! Shout out to our server Nate who did a great job Thank you

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Natasha P.

Hi Beth O. Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so glad you…

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Brian M.

1 year ago

This location and ambiance is amazing. Our waitress, Ace, went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience went well. The food was really good and came out very promptly. The staff, especially, our waitress Ace, were friendly and amazing. I would definitely come back here. A+++ read more

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Page 7 of 16

509 Spectrum Center Dr
Irvine, CA 92618
Directions
(949) 792-6402
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
https://www.pepperlunchrestaurants.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum open?

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum close?

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum closes at 10:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum take credit cards?

Yes, Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum have catering options?

Yes, Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum does have catering options.

Does Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum have a drive thru?

No, Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum does not have a drive thru.

Does Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum serve alcohol?

No, Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum allow dogs?

Yes, Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum have outdoor seating?

Yes, Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum has outdoor seating options.

Does Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum have parking?

Yes, Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum has parking options.

Other Amenities

Is Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum is wheelchair accessible.

Does Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum have free WiFi?

Yes, Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Pepper Lunch proudly stands as the vanguard of experiential fast-casual dining, embodying the essence of Teppanyaki and the spirit of a DIY culinary adventure. Our mission is simple yet resonates deeply - transforming everyday meals into a canvas of cherished memories. As the legacy of 'Sizzle It Your Way' continues to flourish, each plate served is an invitation to our patrons to be the masters of their own meals, within the lively and inviting ambiance of our comfortable dining rooms.

History

Established in 1994.

Founded in Tokyo in 1994, Pepper Lunch began as a unique DIY teppanyaki dining experience, letting guests cook their own meals on patented sizzling iron plates. The concept quickly gained popularity for its fresh ingredients, interactive format, and signature "Sizzle It Your Way" style. By 2005, Pepper Lunch expanded beyond Japan, bringing its flavorful experience to over 15 countries with more than 500 locations. In 2018, it made its way to the US, opening its first location in Texas. Today, Pepper Lunch continues to redefine fast-casual dining with its one-of-a-kind approach to fresh, hot meals and hands-on enjoyment.

Meet the Business Owner: Troy H.

Pepper Lunch is a fast-casual dining concept founded in Tokyo in 1994, offering a unique DIY teppanyaki experience. Guests cook their own meals on sizzling hot iron plates, creating a fun and interactive dining experience. The brand’s signature "Sizzle It Your Way" allows customers to enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients prepared right at the table. Located at the Irvine Spectrum, Pepper Lunch brings its delicious, hands-on meals to Southern California, offering a personalized culinary adventure in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying steak, seafood, or other options, every meal is made just the way you like it.

More Info

Health Score

Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum

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Koki's Teppanyaki Grille

I have been going to Koki's for over 27 years. I have never…read morebeen disappointed. I went last night and had the Chef's special. i was worth writing about today and in all these years, this is the first review i have written. The Fried rice is the best and I always get two orders. Probably my favorite restaurant.

Found this place on Yelp while searching for a teppanyaki spot nearby to celebrate my birthday with…read morefriends, and I'm glad it popped up. Making reservations for a party of 16 was a breeze. I just followed the instructions on their Yelp page and texted the number--they were super responsive and made the whole process seamless. Also, 16 ended up being the perfect number since it fit exactly across two grills. My guests had a great time, and both chefs were entertaining, which really added to the experience. As for the food, it was good, but I've definitely had better teppanyaki compared to a spot I tried in Vegas. That said, everything was still enjoyable, and no major complaints. Overall, I'd still come back. The experience was fun, the service was smooth, and the pricing felt reasonable for what you get.

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NEW HOURS *Reopen for lunch (only Friday)* 11:30 am- 2:00 pm **Extended dinner hours** SATURDAY & SUNDAY 12:00 pm- 9:00 pm (Dinner menu)

We are open!

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Our patio dining

Tabi-Ji Japanese Cuisine

Family-owned & operated

48 years in business

HIDDEN GEM. Always impressed with the service, food and…read moreexperience. Tonight we sat at the teppanyaki grill & celebrated our anniversary. Once the whole party was seated & our order was taken, we received our delicious ginger salad and miso soup quickly. When our chef arrived he was ready to put on a show! He was so fun, engaging and very genuine. All of the food was amazing. I got the filet mignon steak w/ fried rice and my husband gets the sumo steak. The filet mignon is definitely worth it but if you prefer more meat, the sumo steak is the way to go. The drinks are affordable and compared to other teppanyaki places, the food is affordable and absolutely worth it. They also offer a happy hour in the dining room only - does not include the teppanyaki grill area. Truly one of our favorite places!!

3.5/5 Stars - Nice Experience, But Some Service and Timing Issues…read more We visited Tabi-Ji Teppanyaki for my husband's birthday and had an overall decent experience, though there were a few things that would make us think twice before returning. We chose the dining room seating rather than the teppanyaki tables. The staff did offer us the teppanyaki experience, but since we don't eat red meat or chicken from certain places and weren't sure how the food preparation process worked with mixed ingredients, we opted for a regular table instead. One downside was the seating arrangement. We were seated away from most of the other guests, and it often felt like the staff forgot we were there. Our original host/server was attentive and friendly, but once they were busy with other tasks, it became difficult to get assistance. It was also not busy for a Tuesday evening. We found ourselves waiting for long periods or having to wave someone down, which wasn't ideal, especially for a birthday dinner. As for the food: * Crunchy Spicy Tuna Roll (4/5): Fresh, good quality fish, and a generous portion. A solid sushi roll. * Garlic Edamame (4/5): Flavorful and exactly what you'd expect from a good appetizer. * Lobster Duo with Miso Soup, Salad, and Fried Rice (3/5): Unfortunately, the lobster was quite chewy and seemed overcooked. The miso soup and fried rice were both enjoyable and helped make up for it. * Unagi Donburi (4/5): My husband's meal came with white rice, miso soup, salad, and fried rice. It was his first time trying eel, and he really enjoyed the soft texture and flavor. He said he'd definitely order it again. Our biggest disappointment was the timing of the food. The Unagi Donburi arrived significantly later than everything else. By the time it came out, we had already eaten most of the appetizers and other dishes and were pretty full. It's unfortunate because it seemed like a dish that would have been much better enjoyed fresh, but we ended up taking most of it home. Overall, the food ranged from good to very good, and being able to reserve through Resy and use our Amex dining benefit definitely helped offset the cost. However, considering the price point, we expected more attentive service and better pacing of the meal.

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Tabi-Ji trio family meal (4 people ) $99.95 + tax

Assorted sashimi

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Toro sashimi's

Mac Noodlez' Hibachi Grill

5.0

(35 reviews)

10.1 mi

We had a great time with Mac Noodle and DLove last night. The food was absolutely delicious and…read morethey were true entertainers. I highly recommend them and look forward to having them for a party in the future.

We had the best experience with Mac Noodles! He came to our home to cook for a group of 16…read more(including 8 kids), and everyone had an amazing time. Mac and his sous chef brought such great energy -- complete with fun raps, songs, and lots of laughter. The food was incredible, perfectly portioned, and they went above and beyond to accommodate the vegetarians in our group. It was such a memorable and unique experience that had both kids and adults smiling the whole night. Kids loved the Shrimp toss and adults (sake water gun)! Highly recommend Mac Noodles for any gathering -- he brings the flavor and the fun!

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Table set up

Benihana - Newport Beach

Management is amazing! They recognize repeat customers and always make them feel special! We love…read moreJojo our server, and if youre able to have her you are in for a treat, she will make you feel like family from the minute she takes your order until it's time to leave. Vincent is an amazing chef, full of excitement, talent, and fun! We never get tired of coming here!!! Great atmosphere and full of fun!

Everything went well today. The service was quick and efficient and the food was cooked perfectly…read more Josh Turner, the manager is very friendly. I will go back to this place again especially in Newport Beach

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Habachihana Japanese Grill - Japanese Express

Had a fantastic experience at this hibachi restaurant! The food was absolutely amazing. It was…read morefresh, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. The portions were huge, so come hungry because you definitely get your money's worth. Miguel provided great service from start to finish. He was friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome the moment we arrived. His positive attitude and inviting personality really added to the overall experience. Between the delicious food, generous portions, and exceptional service, this is a place I would highly recommend. We'll definitely be back

I've passed by this restaurant numerous times while on my drives and I've wanted to try them for a…read morewhile, so I finally did. Eh. I was underwhelmed. yakisobaba chicken noodle bowl - the noodles had a sweet taste I didn't like and I like thick, chewy noodles plain fried rice - just plan with no meat. It was OK.

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More inside

Chocolate, Cheesecake, Double Chocolate

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Chicken and Shrimp Fried Rice

Miyabi Shabu And Grill

When I saw the $27 lunch special for both hot pot and barbecue, there is no question that I had to…read morestop by. Can you join the lunch hour on a weekday and thankfully the crowd wasn't too busy. Service is a bit slow but we were able to get everything we need in terms of cooking the delicious meats within 10 minutes of sitting down period during lunch hour, you get the choice of a few selection of beef and chicken. The meat for the Shabu is thinner than for the barbecue here. Meat quality is pretty up there, and you can't go wrong with any of the options. The Shabu also comes with vegetable and noodles, either Ramen or udon. But wait, there's more, once you're done, the lunch special comes with different types of ice cream as a dessert, including mochi ice cream. Our server was extremely helpful and prompt. Interior is pretty sizable and each of the table comes with a grill and a hot plate for the hot pot. Can't wait to return!

Great Shabu joint in the heart of Irvine !…read more We were seated and served relatively quickly at this establishment. There are many tables to seat generally parties of 4. I thought that their menu was pretty clear and easy to understand. They offer a wide variety of shabu a la carte but also have AYCE options available too! My party decided to go for the AYCE option and it definitely did not disappoint. We got the bronze option and loaded up on the wagyu toro / beef belly, prime angus top blade, and M9 wagyu chuck eye roll. The meats were all good in quality and came out in small portion sizes (perfect for sharing). For the broth, I got the sukiyaki broth and it was definitely flavorful. The only thing of note about this place is that the veggie bar / sauce bar is really small (compared to All That Shabu nearby). Overall, I would recommend this place to those in the area looking for solid shabu!

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Part of the AYCE - Wagyu fried rice, yum!

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Cheers to delicious shabu and more of it! :)

The Unruly Grill

5.0

(76 reviews)

3.5 mi

The Unruly Grill did it again! Service was top notch! My brother hired them for his birthday, it…read morefelt like just yesterday they were taking care of us. The service and atmosphere were excellent, and the staff was professional, respectful, and they were on top of everything. I would definitely recommend them for a family or group gathering, as well as holiday parties. Thank you, Unruly Grill!

Absolutely wonderful, the food was very delicious, the set up was amazing! They brought everything,…read moreall we had to do is just sit down and enjoy the show and the food! I highly recommend them! This company was very professional from the first call I made to inquire about their service till the end of the event! Wow, I have never had such a pleasant experience and I have had a lot of parties and have dealt with so many companies and by far, this was the BEST experience I have had! My guests and I were very impressed!!!

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Setup

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The aftermath

Teppanyaki Grill Supreme Buffet

Came here with a party of 9 and we were assisted right away on a busy weekend. The place is clean…read moreand servers were very quick too they get the plates very so often and the owner was so nice to give my son a balloon. There's a wide selection of food - it was so good I was not able to try other dishes because I keep coming back for the ones I like!! Honey walnut shrimp, kung pao chicken, the teppanyaki noodles, and crab legs! I also tried the hot sour soup and it was surprisingly loaded and very flavorful - not the usual bland ones they serve in buffets. Yum! Make sure you come hungry so you can try most of their food!! Great service and great ambience, will definitely be back!

Came here recently for a funeral reception. The family reserved about 100 seats. We sat in one of…read moretheir private reserved rooms. We arrived probably near when they just opened because it seems all the food was freshly made. The selection was ok. There is a teppanyaki station you where you choose your items you want on your plate and they make it for you. They have a decent amount/selection of menu items from sushi, veggies, chicken/beef/seafood items, soups and desserts. The flavor was ok, not amazing. The price point seemed fair. I think less than $20/person for lunch. The service was ok too. I don't have great things to say about it and I don't have bad things to say about it's it was mediocre.

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HONDA-YA Tustin

This place is a fantastic hole in the wall…read more We got lucky and walked up with no line. By the time we left there were at least 15 people waiting so plan accordingly. The food here is excellent and very reasonably priced. The yakitori skewers were as good as anywhere I've been and the sushi rolls were great as well. I especially liked their current special tuna roll and the bacon wrapped shrimp skewer. Service was attentive and friendly. Really felt like the value for portion sizes and quality was on point, especially compared to what you get in LA proper.

I purchased my 2020 Honda HR-V brand new and currently have only 64,000 miles on it. The vehicle…read moredeveloped a transmission problem that appears to be related to the CVT issues that many HR-V owners have reported. Honda extended the warranty for certain CVT transmission defects, yet my claim was denied. I am extremely disappointed that a major transmission issue occurred at such low mileage and that Honda has not provided coverage. I chose Honda because of its reputation for reliability, but this experience has been frustrating and costly. Based on my experience, I would not recommend Honda and would consider other manufacturers, such as Toyota, for future vehicle purchases. I hope Honda reevaluates how it handles customers facing known transmission issues.

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Samurai

Skewers (yakitori)

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【Spring special】 Vegetables Tempura w/curry salt $7.95 Cooked Bamboo shoots w/seaweed and dried bonito $4.50

Hanami Teppanyaki Grill

The food was fresh, flavorful, Service was friendly and fast. Definitely a place I would recommend…read moreto friends."

Food was great, Tasted like Benihanas! Service was friendly. The food does take a bit to come out…read moreand if it's busy, could take even longer so I do recommend to call ahead and place your order. It is a small restaurant with only a few tables, we were able to get a table while we waited for our food. Would highly recommend!

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Chubby Cattle BBQ

I had chubby cattle the first time in Atlanta, Georgia. It's great they have it in CA too…read more Our waiter Ryan is great and funny. He's super passionate about his job. The food was delicious too. Legit milk tea and desserts and everything. Will come back again.

Omg this is the best chubby cattle out of the SoCal locations!! The service that Andy provided us…read morewas the best the food came out before I could even think of what to eat next! Also the birthday songs the waiters sang were actually catchy haha 10 out of 10!

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Wagyu Otoro Uni Caviar Handroll / 和牛金枪鱼大膜手卷

Sukiyaki soup

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Wagyu Uni Caviar Nigirl

Baekjeong - Irvine

Always love coming to Baekjeong for the brisket and ribeye! Definitely recommend the sides as well…read more(steamed egg, kimchi pancake etc.). The location in San Jose is also nice, but the Irvine location is definitely noticeably better in terms of meat quality and service. Thank you to Ryan for making the experience a great meal with family!!

We got the small beef combo it was enough food for 2 people. Khue was our server and he cooked…read moreeverything for us to perfection. We definitely got lucky to have him help us out. We also got the seafood pancake. It was probably one of the best pancakes ive had in a while. We paired everything with their new mocktails. The lychee flavored one was to die for. Overall was a great way to end our Irvine day trip 10/10 :)

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Hako

We ordered their signature dish, eventhough I am not a fan of Japanese curry. The cooking and…read morepresentation are very executed and most importantly, tasted great!

guys... my fiancé loves katsu and he says he would truly d word for this place bc he loves it SOOO…read moremuch!! like WOW. and ofc i mean that as the highest compliment!!!! ‍ hako is tucked away in an irvine center that has tons of parking, but it can still be pretty packed so keep that in mind! the restaurant itself isn't too large either, so the wait times can be high if you don't get there outside of peak hours. they do have a yelp waitlist though, so utilize it!! the restaurant is always clean and in order, and service is always so quick, kind, and on top of it. here's what we tend to order: - hamburg beef katsu: my meat of choice will always be beef, and the beef katsu here is SO juicy and flavorful. it's my favorite and i dream about it LOL - hire katsu: my fiancé's choice! a nice pork katsu, it's always cooked to perfection, nice and tender, and just wow.. NO NOTES. on top of the katsu itself, the salad is always delicious (love the dressing!), miso soup is heartwarming, i love the pickled onions/jalapeños and radish, and the DIPPING SAUCE??? i need the recipe!! ok i'm done but pls just know: LOVE THIS PLACE DOWNNNN. will be back soon!!!! :-)

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Habana

First time at this place and it was amazing! The service was great and the food was delicious. Our…read moreserver Tony recommends the churrasco stl.

Emmanuel Ramirez amazing service very nice guy. Always right on time. Made us feel like at home.read more

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All That Shabu

Didn't I mention we love Shabu Shabu and come here about once a month?…read more Yes, our recent visit was as great as usual.

TLDR: You're paying about $40 for 11 meat options, a fully loaded buffet table, decent cooked…read morefoods, all you can drink soda, and ice cream. I'd say it's a hard deal to beat, given the current shabu landscape. I just felt that the meats weren't good enough to merit a 5-star rating. Soup: I'd stay away from the Original House broth because that's the blandest. Yes, the meats would flavor it up, but I prefer to have an already good broth that the meat will improve. I'll list the meats that I liked, so I ordered these multiple times. - 8. Filet Mignon - 9. All that Shabu: Ribeye - 10: Angus Choice: Beef Chuck Flap - 11: Lamb shoulder These are the ones that are okay. Stuff I won't eat too much of - 1. Angus Beef Brisket - 3. Angus Flat Iron Steak - 4. Angus Chuck Eye Steak One and dones - 2. Wagyu style beef belly - 7. Free range chicken breast Fried Rice: I thought it was fine. Adding some meat to it, soup, or other viands would help spice things up. Bulgogi: Good enough to get as a chaser. Better than the one and done meats, but not better than the rest of the pack. Chicken wings: Cold, used to be crispy, it's how they get people to stop eating the meats. Good enough to try, but I'd refrain from eating too much of this. Buffet section: Good amount of vegetables, classic shabu balls (squid ball, lobster ball, fish ball, etc), some seafood options (white fish, clams, frozen baby scallops), and some noodle options. I would say that I kinda wished they had Goma (sauce), because they didn't. Service: Solid. They make sure you're topped up all the time, and the food arrives relatively quickly. Although, I came here during a slow night. Ambiance: Classic shabu vibe. A bunch of tables for 8s that have an option to be split between parties if needed. The buffet area is in the center of everything, and there's a good amount of space between tables and within the buffet section.

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Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

222 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Ethan T.

10 months ago

At Pepper Lunch, the sizzling plates and savory meals are what draw customers in, but it's the service that keeps them coming back. Among the servers, one name stands out: Reggie. Known for his warm personality, professionalism, and commitment to excellence, Reggie has earned the reputation of being a true 5/5 server. His presence elevates the dining experience, making every guest feel valued from the moment they walk in. Reggie's work ethic is second to none. He approaches each shift with energy and focus, ensuring that every customer receives not just their meal, but also a memorable experience. Whether it's greeting guests with a genuine smile, recommending the best dishes, or checking in at the perfect moment, Reggie shows an instinct for service that can't be taught. His ability to anticipate customers' needs reflects not just skill but care, and that's what makes him stand out in a fast-paced restaurant environment. What truly sets Reggie apart is the way he balances efficiency with personality. Pepper Lunch thrives on speed--hot plates served quickly, sizzling to perfection--but Reggie never lets the rush compromise his attention to detail. He remembers regulars, personalizes his interactions, and makes every table feel special. It's this consistency that has earned him glowing reviews from customers and respect from his peers. Being a 5/5 server means more than carrying trays or taking orders; it means creating an atmosphere of comfort, trust, and hospitality. Reggie embodies all of this and more. His role at Pepper Lunch isn't just a job--it's a reflection of his dedication to service and his belief in treating every customer like a guest of honor. In the end, Reggie isn't just a server; he's an essential part of the Pepper Lunch experience. His professionalism, charm, and care transform a simple meal into something greater. That's why he is, and will continue to be, a true 5/5 server. read more

Gunner M.

16 days ago

I had an amazing time enjoying my luncheon with my confidants at Pepper Lunch this afternoon. The chicken pepper lunch was very delicious. I enjoyed the deep flavor and experience of mixing and enjoying the meal to my tastes as it sizzled on the hot plate. Indeed, it lives up to its name: it truly was a pepper lunch. The pepper provided an amazing and distinct flavor to the profile of the meal. I also particularly enjoyed using the garlic soy sauce--it undoubtedly enriched my experience. However, as good as the food was, the real part that made my excellent experience at Pepper Lunch was the service. Thanks to Ashley, my and the meals of my companions arrived quickly. Ashley was very friendly, and gave us waters the moment we sat down. This was perfect in the sweltering heat of the day. She was very attentive, too--and made sure that we got more water when needed. Her kind attitude and shining performance in service inspired me. I am a young man, planning to attend college after this summer, but I hope that in whatever career I find myself in I will be like Ashley. So to her, I say thank you. read more

Minh T.

408

1 year ago

Pepper Lunch is a sizzling sensation that delivers an unforgettable dining experience! I tried the signature Beef Pepper Rice, and it was pure comfort food magic--tender beef slices, fragrant rice, and a punchy pepper paste all cooked to perfection on a 570-degree iron plate. The DIY teppanyaki concept is so fun; you get to stir and season with their garlic or sweet sauces to craft your ideal bite. I also loved the Tofu & Veggie Kimchi Pepper Rice--spicy, tangy, and packed with crunchy veggies, it's a fantastic vegetarian option. The vibe is lively and trendy, with indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for a casual meal. Service was quick and friendly, despite a busy grand opening weekend, and the staff made sure every plate came out sizzling hot. At around $15-$20 per dish, the quality and interactive fun are well worth it. The only hiccup was a slightly long line, but it moved fast. Pepper Lunch is a must-visit for bold flavors and a unique twist on Japanese cuisine--5 stars for a meal that's as entertaining as it is delicious! read more

kevin t.

1 year ago

I forget about the review but yesterday I had the pleasure of dining at Pepper Lunch recently, and I must say, Nate truly made the experience unforgettable. From the moment I walked in, his welcoming smile and friendly demeanor set the tone for a great meal. He was attentive without being intrusive, checked on us regularly, and offered excellent recommendations that turned out to be spot-on. Nate's knowledge of the menu and his enthusiasm for the dishes made our lunch even more enjoyable. He went above and beyond to ensure our needs were met, making us feel valued and cared for. The food itself was delicious--fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection right at our table. Thanks to Nate's outstanding service, I'll definitely be returning to Pepper Lunch and recommending it to friends. If you're lucky enough to have him as your server, you're in for a treat! read more

Natali E.

1 year ago

I had an amazing experience at Pepper Lunch a few days ago, and I just had to share how exceptional the service was. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, but what truly made the visit memorable was our server, T. T went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. She was incredibly attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. she also made great recommendations, checked in at just the right times, and made sure we had everything we needed without ever feeling rushed. It's rare to find someone who genuinely enjoys what they do and brings that energy to their work, but T absolutely did. Thank you for your outstanding service! Pepper Lunch is lucky to have someone like you on the team. I'll definitely be coming back, and I'll be recommending this place to friends and family. read more

Esmerita B.

1 year ago

It was my first time here, and I was extremely impressed. The food is delicious, and the ambiance is perfect. It felt very welcoming and cozy yet stylish. It is the perfect place to eat such a delicious meal. The service was great! The staff is friendly and attentive which made this experience enjoyable. I was so indecisive about trying a meal, but the manager Melissa helped me out. She is so kind, she put me at such an ease as she talked about each of the options, then provided me with recommendations with a contagious smile. I was confident that I was going to love the dish and once I tried it, it was incredibly delicious. She went above and beyond to make sure everyone was taken care including myself. I will definitely be back with my friends so they can try it, it is now a new favorite! read more

Miles K.

1 year ago

I was honestly hesitant to try Pepper Lunch at first because the menu shows raw meat, and I wasn't sure how it all worked. Thankfully, Roberto was super helpful and explained the whole concept to me. He let us know that the food is served on a sizzling hot plate that cooks everything right in front of you, kind of like when you get fajitas at Chili's. Once I understood that, I was excited to give it a try. Addy was also incredibly kind and patient while helping my girlfriend and I place our order. She made sure we got exactly what we wanted and made us feel really welcomed. The food turned out to be delicious and the experience was fun and interactive. It's not your typical fast-casual spot, and I really enjoyed trying something new. We'll definitely be coming back again! read more

Alex P.

1 year ago

Great First Visit to Pepper Lunch! Checked out Pepper Lunch in Irvine for the first time, and it definitely lived up to the hype. The whole sizzling plate experience is pretty cool--you get your food fresh and hot, and mixing everything together yourself just makes it better. I went with the Beef Pepper Rice, and it was solid. The beef was tender, the rice had a nice crisp. I really enjoyed the garlic sauce. The staff was really friendly and made sure I knew how to get the best out of my meal. Even though the place was busy, service was quick, and everything ran smoothly. The owner was also friendly and checked in with everyone waiting in line. Overall, a great spot if you're looking for something flavorful and a little different. Definitely coming back to try more! read more

Jose J.

4 months ago

Everything here is amazing and different from I'm use to going out to get. If you are looking for great food and service this is a place I would definitely recommend to go out with a group or even a date everything here is delicious from the sides and the entrees definitely have to come back and try the other stuff. The experience is also amazing the sizzle off the pan speaks for itself everything smells great. So many options for your desired taste. Located in a pretty nice spot love how the staff are very friendly and knowledgeable I would like to thank every single one of them thanks Melissa for making my first time and my friends more yet to come the best experience. Definitely will be coming back for more. The chocolate dessert is a must if you love chocolate. read more

Edward H.

169

1 year ago

I've been a loyal fan of Pepper Lunch for years, and was excited when this new location opened at the Spectrum. Let me just say, this one gets it right. The food is just what you'd expect: hot, sizzling, and full of flavor. But what really stood out was the service. Michael was phenomenal. Attentive without hovering, friendly without being over the top. We came with our family and he checked in multiple times to make sure everything was just right. In a fast-casual setting, you don't always expect great hospitality, but this team clearly takes pride in the experience they're creating. We'll definitely be back. And if you're lucky enough to have Michael taking care of you, you're in good hands. read more

chelsea

11 months ago

I had such a great experience at this spot! The food was absolutely delicious--everything tasted fresh, flavorful, and made with care. Whether you're craving something hearty or just want a quick bite, their menu has something for everyone. What really stood out, though, was the service. The staff was so welcoming and attentive from the moment we walked in. I want to shout out Julian for being so awesome. He checked in just enough without being overbearing and made sure we had everything we needed. You can tell he actually care about the customer experience. He was genuinely super attentive and on top of it! Big thanks to him for such a good dining experience!! read more

Boy S.

1 year ago

I recently visited Pepper Lunch, and I must say, the experience was delightful; the sizzling plates of fresh, high-quality ingredients cooked right at my table created an interactive dining experience that was both fun and delicious, while the variety of sauces allowed me to customize each bite to my liking, and I particularly enjoyed the tender beef, which was perfectly seasoned and complemented by the fragrant garlic rice, making every mouthful a burst of flavor, and the staff was attentive and friendly, ensuring that my meal was served promptly, which made the overall atmosphere warm and inviting, definitely a place I would recommend to friends. read more

Juan A.

7 months ago

While shopping at the Irvine Spectrum, I found myself craving a quick bite and stumbled upon Pepper Lunch. To my delight, they had a spacious table that comfortably accommodated all 10 of us. The food was an absolute delight, with each dish bursting with flavor. The menu offered a wide variety of options to cater to our diverse tastes. Alvin and Rob, our attentive servers, were incredibly helpful and patient throughout our lengthy ordering process. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal and will definitely be returning to Pepper Lunch in the future. Thank you, Rob and Alvin, for making our dining experience so enjoyable! read more

SumoBozo

1 month ago

Amazing food and excellent service from Ashley made my experience at Pepper Lunch truly unforgettable. From the moment I sat down, everything was handled with care and attention, and Ashley went above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable and had everything I needed. The food came out hot, fresh, and full of flavor, and you can really tell they take pride in what they serve. Ashley was friendly, quick, and super helpful with recommendations, which made the whole meal even better. The atmosphere was great, the service was top-tier, and I'll definitely be coming back again soon. read more

Carson C.

8 months ago

I had such a great experience at Pepper Lunch thanks to Nate! He was super friendly, attentive, and made my visit amazing from start to finish. You can tell Nate really cares about his work and the customers -- he greeted everyone with a smile, explained the menu clearly, and made sure everything came out hot and perfect. The food was delicious as always, but Nate's great attitude and service made it even better. It's rare to meet someone who works so hard and still makes every guest feel welcome. Big shoutout to Nate -- he's a real asset to the Pepper Lunch team! read more

Mahara ..

9 months ago

Our experience at Pepper Lunch was absolutely amazing thanks to Melissa! From the moment we walked in, she was so welcoming, attentive, and genuinely made sure we had everything we needed. Her energy and kindness stood out right away, and she went above and beyond to make our visit feel special. It's rare to get service that leaves such a lasting impression, but Melissa truly did that, she made our whole meal even more enjoyable. Big thanks to her for making our experience absolutely outstanding. She's a star, and Pepper Lunch is incredibly lucky to have her! read more

Koltan H.

4 months ago

I had a great experience at Pepper Lunch thanks to two employees, Ferhrt and Chase. They were both very friendly and provided excellent customer service, making sure everything with our order was perfect. What really made the visit special was that when they found out it was my friend's birthday, they took the time to wish them a happy birthday, which was a really kind and thoughtful gesture. Their positive attitude and great service made the whole experience even better, and I really appreciate the effort they put into making customers feel welcome. read more

Caeruleum

16 days ago

Ashley our server gave us such great customer service! When we came in for 5 people, she was quick to explain to us that our table would be fast. She soon sat us down and our orders were quick! Her professionalism and ability to communicate with customers, not only on just a communicative level, but the ability to make our big table feel considered for really stands out from other places. We would be pleased to come back again amd I wish other resturaunts could look up and follow Ashley in the field of customer service. Thank you Ashley! read more

allison w.

1 year ago

I want to give a big thank you to Nate for all of his help during my visit to Pepper Lunch. He was incredibly attentive, friendly, and went out of his way to ensure I had a great experience. His prompt service and willingness to assist with any questions made my meal even more enjoyable. It's clear that Nate genuinely cares about providing excellent customer service, and I truly appreciate his efforts. Thanks to him, my visit was smooth and memorable. Highly recommend asking for him if you need assistance--he's fantastic!! read more

Sham A.

10 months ago

I went to Pepper Lunch on August 20 and Omar really made the experience stand out. He was welcoming right from the start and made sure I felt comfortable. He took the time to go over the menu and gave recommendations that turned out perfect. Throughout my visit he checked in just the right amount and made sure I had everything I needed. He was patient, friendly, and professional the whole time. Service like that honestly makes the food taste even better. Omar deserves recognition for making the visit such a good one. read more

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Pepper Lunch - Irvine Spectrum - teppanyaki - Updated June 2026

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