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1-Day Irvine Itinerary

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedAug 20, 2025

Irvine in 1 day

If you only have 1 day to spend in Irvine, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
With favorites like The Escape Game Irvine, Irvine Spectrum Center, and Panda Express, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees. We even included some of our favorite food spots around the area, like Wahoo's Fish Tacos and Panda Express so you can get the best taste of Irvine while you’re here. To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Irvine?
  • 2-Day Irvine Itinerary
  • 3-Day Irvine Itinerary
  • 4-Day Irvine Itinerary
  • 5-Day Irvine Itinerary
Visiting Irvine? See our Irvine Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
  • Irvine in 1 day
  • 1-day itinerary

Day 1

1-day itinerary
With only 1 day to squeeze in as much activities as you can, we strategically grouped the must-sees, Irvine Spectrum Center and Irvine Spectrum Center Giant Wheel with surrounding point of interests to make sure you don’t leave Irvine without getting the most bang for your time. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 7 hours of your day.
1

Irvine Spectrum Center

4.6
(17164)
Shopping mall
Irvine Spectrum Center is a vibrant open-air mall offering an array of shops, services, and dining options. One of its main attractions is the 108-foot-tall Giant Wheel, adorned with 52,000 LED lights that create stunning displays. The center provides entertainment for all ages, including an escape room, movie theater, carousel, and even a cake-decorating studio.
It's a big place and there's lots of friendly people ready to help... And take your money. I thought the seat prices are a bit high, but they give the overall impression of quality. Take now that when you use the delivery service of food and drinks to your seats, that a $2 to goes a long way to getting extra napkins, popcorn butter, salt, ice for your drink, and so forth. Once again, they make movie hoping difficult. Seems to me that if you pay to go in and use an entry seat in a nearly empty theatre, they would build goodwill. Que sera sera.
Jsa T — Google review
I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Irvine Spectrum Center Mall, and I am absolutely delighted to share my glowing 5-star review of this shopping haven. From the moment I stepped foot into the mall, I was captivated by its vibrant atmosphere and impressive array of shops and attractions. The mall's modern design and inviting ambiance created the perfect setting for a day of leisurely shopping and entertainment. The variety of stores at Irvine Spectrum Center Mall is truly impressive. From well-known brands to unique boutiques, there is something to cater to every style and preference. Whether I was searching for the latest fashion trends, home décor items, or specialty gifts, I found myself spoiled for choice at every turn. In addition to its extensive selection of shops, Irvine Spectrum Center Mall boasts an abundance of dining options to satisfy every craving. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there is a culinary delight awaiting every palate. I particularly enjoyed taking a break from shopping to indulge in a delicious meal or refreshing beverage at one of the many restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the mall. Beyond shopping and dining, Irvine Spectrum Center Mall offers a variety of entertainment options to keep visitors entertained. From catching a movie at the state-of-the-art movie theater to enjoying live performances at the outdoor amphitheater, there is never a dull moment at this bustling destination. The mall's convenient layout and ample parking make navigating the complex a breeze, while its picturesque surroundings provide a delightful backdrop for leisurely strolls and people-watching. Overall, my experience at Irvine Spectrum Center Mall exceeded all expectations, earning it a well-deserved 5-star rating. Whether you're a local resident or visiting from out of town, I highly recommend paying a visit to this shopper's paradise. Thank you, Irvine Spectrum Center Mall, for a truly memorable experience--I can't wait to return!
Ameen S — Google review
The Irvine Spectrum is an open-air mall that has retail shops, restaurants, and boutiques. Some highlights I think worth noting about this outdoor mall is it has a ferris wheel, large easy-to-read sign when driving round the area, it’s a well-maintained mall, and it is spacious. I stopped by here on a weekday to purchase a couple gifts for family members and happened to drop by the Hello Kitty Cafe (oh so nostalgic). It wasn’t too busy or crowded mid-week so it was great to walk around and enjoy some shopping. It was also a beautiful day. There are plenty of shops here - something for everyone!
Wendy L — Google review
Irvine Spectrum Center is a visually appealing and well-maintained destination with a vibrant atmosphere. The layout is pleasant for walking, and the architecture gives a relaxed, open-air feel. It’s a great place to spend time with friends or family, especially if you’re looking for dining options — the center offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to suit different tastes. However, when it comes to shopping, the selection is somewhat limited. While there are a few well-known brands, it doesn’t offer the variety or depth you’d expect from a major shopping destination. If you’re planning to browse or do serious shopping, you may find the options underwhelming. Overall, Irvine Spectrum is more of a social and dining spot than a true shopping hub. It’s perfect for an evening out, a movie, or a casual stroll — but don’t expect a full-scale retail experience.
Bashar M — Google review
Came by to watch wrestling at the Irvine Comedy Club. Had comp tickets. There is a two item minimum, per person. Had pepperoni pizza with a side salad and nachos. Food was very good. With drinks was 68 dollars. The show was great. Fake but fun, also very athletic. Jumping, flying out of the ring. Great night.
Michael H — Google review
A beautiful place to spend an evening in Irvine. There are many restaurants, cafés, and stores to explore, along with a movie theater and relaxing outdoor spaces. The place is clean, lively, and well-organized. Parking is easy and digital maps help you find your way around.
Ratnam R — Google review
This shopping center offers a wide variety of dining options, including restaurants, cafes, and branded stores. However, the restroom facilities require immediate attention due to their poor hygiene and unpleasant odor.
RONZKIE23 — Google review
It's a fun shopping mall in the area! You can get items from reasonable to high end!! It's just enjoyable walking around as window supper as well! :)
Mr. D — Google review
670 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA•https://www.irvinespectrumcenter.com/•(949) 790-4871•Tips and more reviews for Irvine Spectrum Center
2 min · 0.11 mi
2

Irvine Spectrum Center Giant Wheel

4.7
(2331)
•
4.0
(64)
Water & Amusement Parks
Theme Parks
The Irvine Spectrum Center Giant Wheel is a popular tourist attraction that offers panoramic city views from the top. It boasts 52,000 LED lights and has been around for over 20 years, providing visitors with a pedestrian feel reminiscent of old towns in Europe. The area offers plenty of shopping and dining options, as well as family entertainment such as movie theaters. What sets this attraction apart is its car-free environment, making it the perfect place to stroll around and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
This Ferris wheel takes you around 3 times, and for $8 it’s a decent price. Nice spot to take a date and enjoy some time hovering in the air. The views are not the greatest, but you do get to see around the area. It looks nice at night as well with the lights. Overall a nice one time experience.
Shawn S — Google review
Great place to enjoy spending the day outdoors! Lots of great eats, desserts, and beautiful weather. Lounging in the patio chairs and people watching is my fav while rest of family hits the shops.
Jason H — Google review
The ferris wheel is great, it’s $8 a person and around 6 people a cart. You get three rotations, and the carts are very stable. When we went around the carts never swayed that much. Going at sunrise and sunset is a grey time, as you get a view of the skyline and the mall. Overall great experience and nothing beats the view.
Jake W — Google review
The Giant Wheel at Irvine Spectrum Center is an unforgettable experience! I made so many long-lasting memories with my family during our ride. The view from the top is breathtaking, especially at night with all the lights. The ride itself is smooth and peaceful, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery. It's a fun activity for all ages, and we loved how it added something extra special to our day at the Spectrum. Highly recommend for anyone looking to make amazing memories with their loved ones. Five stars!
Ameen S — Google review
Pretty fun ferris wheel, eight bucks. You get three rotations but most of the time is waiting in line, then loading and unloading folks, the actual rotations were pretty quick compared to all the lining up and waiting. Kids liked it! Plan for about 40 minutes total from lining up. We went towards the end of the evening on a weekday.
Rupinder M — Google review
Nice place. The wait is quite long for the games. But by paying a little more, you shouldn't have to wait.
Yessica M — Google review
Clean and safe environment. The shopping experience is amazing. We went during a Tamagotchi Road Trip event.
Austin R — Google review
It was good, pricey but has a nice view and you can get some nice photos.
Francis C — Google review
670 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA•http://shopirvinespectrumcenter.com/•(949) 783-5180•Tips and more reviews for Irvine Spectrum Center Giant Wheel
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3 min · 0.15 mi
3

The Escape Game Irvine

5.0
(7355)
Escape room center
The Escape Game Irvine offers an immersive experience where kids can develop essential life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and cooperation. The museum setting reinforces concepts like good nutrition, earth awareness, healthy relationships, and the value of money. In the Health Center activity, children role-play as patients to learn about medical check-ups and health care. Visitors praise the engaging games like "The Heist" with its lasers and maps, as well as the clever "Playground" game.
We did the playground with our kids and family, and the special ops mysterious market escape rooms, and they were so fun! Jordan was our guide for the market and she was excellent! I liked the design of the market and the smell of the spices and the leather bags.
Kimberly Y — Google review
Shout out to Chelsea who was a fantastic guide at Escape Games! Also should out to Jazz, the cutest guide dog. Our group thankfully escaped the Playground! It was a really fun room, bright, colorful and took me back to elementary school. The theme was great! The only thing that wasn’t my total favorite is that if you don’t fully book the room, they will put strangers with you. Thankfully the family with us was very kind, but it was a lot of people and a little chaotic at times. I’d be curious to come back and try another room soon. Also, they are doing a promo right now…after you complete a room, they’ll offer 20% off a future game.
Madeline S — Google review
Annie is such a fun and helpful game guide which enabled our team to escape the playground. She has such a a great, great and outgoing personality and made it so much fun! And Lizzie who checked us in at the front desk is so outgoing and friendly. She and Annie made us feel very welcomed! I can't wait to come back and play again!
Stacy C — Google review
Super fun experience!!!! Got with another group and we instantly had a good bond and great teamwork!!! Chelsea was super nice at helping us and she had her helper Jazz along as well. They were super excited to see us and help out. When I booked, I had a small issue with a promo code not working but the team replied and fixed the issue so quickly! I was so happy with all of my experience start to finish. I do recommend the deeps for the fun team building. The room is definitely not as beginner friendly as I thought, but we all worked together and had an amazing time!
Danielle C — Google review
We had a fantastic time escaping the Heist! Our guide, Natalie, was amazing. The hints were perfectly timed and really helped when we needed them without giving too much away. We loved the level of difficulty. it was challenging but solvable. Highly recommend!
Jessica J — Google review
We had a great time doing the Escape Room at the Irvine Spectrum! Colin was a great clue-giver and it was a super fun way to celebrate my birthday!
Jennifer D — Google review
Very fun and engaging! Longer than expected with surprises every turn. More complex and action packed than most escape rooms I've been too, like having to throw objects and using magnets instead of just basic locks and puzzles. Aiden was super funny and introduced all the rules smoothly so we felt completely safe and had so much fun! We didn't finish cause SOMEONE (cough who me?) Thought they could do a room on their own and held everyone up XD Definitely have to come back for round 2!
Quinn L — Google review
Literally SO FUN!! Did Prison Break and it was SO FUN. Escaped with 15 seconds to spare... Sally (or Sallie) was so nice. Will definitely be doing it again!!! It was challenging but SO SO SOOOOO fun!!! The rooms were a mess after... but we were too busy focusing to worry about cleaning up. 😋
Lazuli R — Google review
655 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA•https://theescapegame.com/irvine/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=o…•(949) 541-9165•Tips and more reviews for The Escape Game Irvine
5 min · 1.6 mi
4

FivePoint Amphitheatre

4.5
(4947)
•
3.5
(34)
Permanently Closed
Amphitheater
Concerts & Shows
Theaters
FivePoint Amphitheatre, established in 2018, is a spacious open-air venue located in Irvine. With a seating capacity of 12,280 and picturesque mountain views, it hosts a variety of concerts featuring both touring acts and local headliners. The venue offers an array of food options including tacos, Korean BBQ, hamburgers, and drinks such as cocktails, wine, and beer. Visitors can also enjoy clean grounds and top-notch sound quality during performances.
Last minute invite by friends. 3 bands and VIP how could we say no. Was a little apprehensive with it being an amphitheater but it was great. From the parking lot to the seats went so smooth. Very well run. VIP just made it over the top. If your blessed with the ability to go VIP it’s a must. Sound was amazing and the performers were like they were 20 still. Thanks to J&K for the over the top great time.
David M — Google review
Great place to see a show. Saw two concerts last week, and the experience was consistent between both of them. In both instances, the route there is going to be overridden by the police blocking roads to keep the traffic out of various neighborhoods. So follow the signs, and not necessarily your GPS Parking is pretty straightforward. If you pay for premium parking you get a bit closer to the door, otherwise it's just a big giant parking lot. Traffic flows pretty well when you are leaving, and the police will have streets blocked off to keep you out of neighborhoods. You can only have a small clear bag, so definitely leave your purses and such at home. After you get through security, there is a big area of food trucks, merchandise booths, and various bars. There is a pretty big variety of food so can plan on having a meal there if you don't want to go out beforehand. Prices are typical for something like this - that is, overpriced. The sound and lighting was good, and for both of the shows that I saw the screens on either side of the stage would show the performers if you are worried about sitting further back
Matt H — Google review
We love this venue! Not really a bad seat, we have been all the way in the back and lower on ground level, still good seats. Can bring your own water and snacks in a clear gallon bag. Make sure to use a clear purse, many people always have an issue because of this rule. General parking is free and not too bad of a walk, make sure to remember what section you parked in, #'s are posted on poles at ends of the aisles. We have seen, TLC, Train, Matchbox Twenty, The Beach Boys, Halsey and a few others in the last year. This is our go to for concerts, gotta love the open air stadium.
C. A — Google review
First time here. Went to see Darius Rucker. The amphitheatre was really big. I loved the fact that they had many food trucks available. They also had a little dance floor where they were teaching how to do line dancing. The experience was amazing. Parking was easy and entering the venue was east as well. Would definitely come see another artist here in the future.
Buppi G — Google review
Thank goodness they had a few port-a-potties in the parking lot after a long traffic ride into the amphitheatre! The Staff were great, grounds were clean, sound was top notch, and the talent delivered the rock tunes on this visit! This show included Chicago's Smashing Pumpkins, and Stone Temple Pilots. Live Nation does an excellent job with their concerts and we were grateful that the ride back was easier than the way in. Didn't realize until almost there that Disneyland is nearby!
Rockelle D — Google review
The venue is actually very nice. Its seating makes the stage visible at virtually every angle. The sound was perfect, acoustically better than Hollywood Bowl, IMO. VIP is reserved for armband wearers until the end, and then everyone is able to partake in the space and buy drinks. There were some overzealous security guards mishandling a situation, but safety definitely appeared to be a priority. I'm definitely going back... next week, in fact. 😂
Richard M — Google review
Five Point Amphitheater in Irvine is a great venue for concerts. The sound is awesome, all the seats are good, it is smaller and more intimate. We have been to a few concerts now and have enjoyed both experiences. There are plenty of food trucks, and concessions. Picnic tables. Bathrooms are clean and easily accessible. We had purchased the VIP package from a friend and this view is from the box seats, for both concerts. Live Nation has a separate bar/lounge area exclusive with the VIP purchase and dinner is also included. The catering was delicious, offering Tri-Tip, chicken, salad, vegetables and dessert. If you ever consider purchasing the VIP Package, it is worth it. VIP entrance Premier parking was also included. Handicap Parking and ramps available.
Annie ( — Google review
My first time to this venue so I didn't know what to expect. I loved the setup of the venue. The general admission (floor) wasn't over crowded. It was just a sweet outdoor setup.
Aaran E — Google review
14800 Chinon, Irvine, CA 92618, USA•https://www.greatparklive.com/•(949) 988-6800•Tips and more reviews for FivePoint Amphitheatre
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Where to eat

Under a 1-minute walk from Irvine Spectrum Center Giant Wheel, here are a few close by recommendations for when you get hungry exploring around.

Wahoo's Fish Tacos

4.2
(630)
•
4.0
(35)
$$$$cheap
Mexican restaurant
Wahoo's Fish Tacos is a casual counter-serve chain that combines Mexican cuisine with Asian and Brazilian flavors. With its attractive decor and excellent service, it offers a delightful dining experience. Customers can enjoy a variety of options such as al pastor tacos and shrimp tacos, which are both highly enjoyable. The staff at Wahoo's Fish Tacos provides great customer service, with friendly team members like Hector, Luis, the girl who takes orders, and the young man who clears tables.
Wahoo’s is a good food option at Spectrum. The menu is far more than just tacos and we tried the salads which were very delicious. I ordered the vegan option, tofu, and I was very impressed how flavorful it was. Normally tofu can be bland on a salad, but these were flavored quite nicely. The salads aren’t your typical Taco Bell type salad that usually only has lettuce and beans. These salads included avocado and a variety of good quality greens. Quite filling as well. The atmosphere is very unique, felt like I was at a beach cafe. Service was good, and most staff seemed to enjoy being there, which is a nice change from other shops in which staff can seem miserable. We’ll be back when we’re visiting Spectrum in the future.
Mr G — Google review
I looove the Irvine Spectrum. There’s so many food spots here. My bf and I came here to wait out the traffic. We decided to try this spot for dinner. Parking: There’s free parking lots and parking garages. Easy to find a spot on weekdays and difficult on the weekends. Ambiance/Environment: Love the interior decor. They have a beach, skater, surfer theme. There’s plenty of indoor seating with a good amount of outdoor seating too. Perfect for all group sizes. Service: It wasn’t as busy on a Tuesday night. There was only one cashier at the time. We did wait a while to order, but a second cashier finally came and took us to the bar to order. We didn’t catch her name, but she was quick and efficient. What we ordered: 1) Mr. Lee’s Scream’n Chicken Burrito - Mr. Lee’s chili sauce was absolutely flavorful! Apparently it’s suppose to be “spicy,” but I didn’t think it was spicy at all. I think it’d be better without the mushrooms. Other than that, it was still good though! 2) Hawaiian Onion Ring Burrito - My bf made this a combo with white rice and black beans. This burrito was also flavorful and filled! All the ingredients went well together. The rice & beans tasted as expected. 3) Cajun Fries - I like their version of Cajun. It’s not the usual Cajun seasoning we’re familiar with. We really enjoyed it! Pricing: It was definitely worth its price. We left fulfilled and satisfied!
Millena P — Google review
Wasn’t necessarily blown away. Had a bit of a sour stomach afterwards. Either way, wish they seasoned the tacos more or gave more lime. The burrito was mostly rice and scant amount of beans and carne asada. Sauces were good.
Marc P — Google review
Always great food and wonderful atmosphere 👌 love coming here whenever visiting CA. Mr Lee burro has amazing flavor, but add spicy avocado 🥑 sauce for that extra kick 😋
Jason H — Google review
I was at the Irvine Spectrum for lunch and fish tacos were very tasty and crispy! Service was great as well! Wahoo! 🌟 🤩 ⭐️ 🌠 💫
Eddie O — Google review
Visited first time after around 18 months. Honestly, it was not the earlier Wahoo's. Had good fish tacos and average tasting protein bowl. Had to wipe and sanitize our own table as no one showed up to clean after the customer on the table left. Three stars for the sake of old times.
Priyadarshini — Google review
Nice quick spot for some fish tacos!
Tina C — Google review
Atmosphere is pretty neat, featuring of SoCal beach culture themed decor. Service was good. Ordered two chicken tacos with rice and beans; the tacos were hardly seasoned, the rice was hard, and the beans tasted canned. In conclusion there's far better options at Irvine Spectrum.
Allen L — Google review
715 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA•http://www.wahoos.com/•(949) 753-0251•Tips and more reviews for Wahoo's Fish Tacos

Panda Express

3.7
(327)
•
3.8
(16)
$$$$cheap
Chinese restaurant
Fast-food chain for Chinese standards, including some health-conscious options.
Jury was amazing! I was having a bad day and his joyful personality was so contagious. The store was clean. And the register girl was also very nice. But Jury asked how I was and if I wanted to wait for more chow mein. I was glad to wait since he seems to really love his job. Thank you Jury for your smile and joyful personality.
Family D — Google review
This was hit and big miss. Pepper chicken was good but the broccoli beef barely had any beef. I think 5 or 6 tiny pieces.
Dan W — Google review
I’m genuinely disappointed to have to write this, but I had a terrible experience at the Panda Express at Irvine Spectrum. I visited on Sunday night and ordered the grilled chicken, super greens, and fried rice. Unfortunately, it resulted in the worst food poisoning I’ve ever had. I’ve been down for three days, ended up needing to go to urgent care and even the ER. I really want to warn others to steer clear of this location if possible. This was an awful experience, and I hope the management takes serious action to ensure food safety in the future.
Ozzy T — Google review
Not bad, for a Panda Express. There food has most certainly taken a cheaper factory made feel to it over the last couple of years. It’s sad to see when a company lowers its standards and increases its pricing. Not the way to go. The chicken for the teriyaki choice is a bit fatty and doesn’t have much flavor on its own. The fried rice seems to have taken a back seat on the ride to flavorville as well. The Orange chicken should be called Orange breading as it is 65% breading and 35% what I hope to be, chicken. Kung Pao wasn’t bad, had a bit of kick to it from the peppers, so it was decent. The Honey Sesame Chicken was very similar to the Orange chicken as I believe it to be the exact nugget form with different sauce. The Chow Mein was not bad, a tad oily, but not to bad. Service was good and the place was clean. Over all, 4 stars seems very fair for overpriced OK “Chinese” food.
The R — Google review
It was super yummy, me and buddy shared a great a meal. The Server, Jury, was very pleasant and gave us extra orange chicken. 10/10
Naomi G — Google review
This was the best panda express i have visited in my entire life. Jury was awesome and gave us excellent customer service. Food was immaculate!
Mia — Google review
Zero starts if I could.On 11/29/2021 I went for lunch with my wife around 12:15 pm and I have the worst experience ever. First, the 2 girls upfront were so rude and on a rush to finish with me. I ended up getting a wrong item in my wife plate which she is allergic to. The spring rolls and the rice were so old . Pls throw away your old food and don’t tell your customers it’s old and I have to wait to make fresh one. Bottom line I threw away $25 in a garbage.
Hany T — Google review
It's a panda express! I feel like the quality of the food varies depending on the day you go (sometimes tasty, sometimes bland) but it's a solid dinner choice and there's not really a wait.
Aliciaアリシャ — Google review
667 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA•https://www.pandaexpress.com/locations/ca/irvine/1292•(949) 450-0857•Tips and more reviews for Panda Express
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Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar

4.1
(865)
•
3.8
(26)
$$$$expensive
Restaurant
Perched atop the Marriott Irvine Spectrum, Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar is a hidden gem offering panoramic views of Orange County. This stylish rooftop bar serves up an array of craft cocktails, including their signature bee-themed drinks like the Bees Knees. The contemporary yet casually elegant decor provides a perfect setting to enjoy sunset views and evening vibes.
All because of Mike. It was my post marriage surprise. She liked the place. They hooked up us with the pit fire seat and a champagne. I had the best night of my life. Staff were soooo great from valet all to the top, they were awesome, treat and serve us very well. They’re gonna make your 1000th date feel fresh like the very first one. For all dudes out there, bring your girl here and you won’t regret. Again, Mike was great and please give him a raise because he deserves it. Thanks to y’all for great service! Great job!!!
Ilia A — Google review
This rooftop is at the top of the Marriott hotel. The music, ambiance and the view are amazing. I wasn’t impressed with the appetizers, the presentation was nice but the Burrata salad was bland and the chicken and waffle appetizer was small and not as good as I expected. Overall is a nice place to get drinks and have a good time.
Nathalia C — Google review
Nice views from the rooftop. Quite a few seats were blocked off, unfortunately. But they do have overhead infrared heaters. Tuna poke was very tasty and fresh. Ordered an old-fashioned with Buffalo Trace and watched bartender pour Bullet, which is basically alcohol infused dirty dish water. Oddly, they don’t accept cash. And even more oddly, if you are staying in the hotel, you have to go down to the lobby and catch a different elevator to the rooftop bar.
Jon L — Google review
Dope rooftop near Irvine Spectrum Logistics: on top of the Marriott. Valet parking only $15. Walked in and was told only bar service as tables were reserved. However I opened my phone and made a reservation (plenty listed) and immediately got a table. So make a resy! Vibe: DJ on Saturday night great. Hip hop/throwback R&B. Few people started dancing once the evening went on. Mainly at the second bar. Still lots of room at the other bar. Drinks were good. Did not try any food. Limited menu. $20+ dollars for French fries. Eat before!
Rebekah D — Google review
Overall great location, with good view over Irvine and nearby mountains. Gets hot easily due to the direction of the sun, and few places with shade. Food was tasty, 8/10, with small portions.
Leon — Google review
Feels like you’re in a NY loft bar and privileged to have the only rooftop view of south Orange County. Bartenders are top notch and make you feel welcome. Food is well planned with a cultured menu emphasizing the Asian diversity of the area. I cannot get enough of the calamari and the Spectrum Sunset cocktail. Also, a lovely hostess named Sasha greets you upon arrival which just sets the mood.
Tracy K — Google review
My wife made reservations for a Saturday night and was advised that we would have a 90 minute time limit. Once we arrived to the Marriot hotel, they only offered valet parking service. Be prepared to wait 15-20 minutes due to the influx of cars and the cost is $18.00 for 3 hours with validation. Once inside we made our way across the lobby to the elevator. The rooftop bar offers a nice view and I would recommend taking a pair of sunglasses and a jacket. The food portions are quite small, but the mixed drinks are great! Our server Antonio was on point and the entire staff is hospitable. They had a good music selection being played as we sipped on our alcoholic beverages and enjoyed the California sunset.
Michael G — Google review
A great Saturday date night. Easy to find valet only, but it's $18 with validation. Use elevator C to get to the roof. It's a really big space with high tables and lots of couches and lounging area. We cane at 4 and it was empty. We had the calamari with was really good. Hot and very fresh. The aoli they serve with it really makes the dish. We also had the skirt steak skewers, and they were amazing. The right amount of seasoning a d char made this dish a hit. The meat was tender and the plate was garnished with artichoke with some kind of really good sauce. Don't pass it up. The tuna poke was really good as well. The portions weren't huge, definitely small plates and they run about $25 each so plan accordingly. Drinks were very good. I had the old fashioned which they did a great job making. The flavor was very balanced. Wife had a spicy margarita which had a jalapeño agave and fresh jalapeño in the glass. Very good but it's spicy as well. A different flavor. The Irvine Spectrum is basically across the street so afterwards we went there and got some steps in. I would definitely recommend this place for a group or a date night.
Damon F — Google review
7905 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA•https://www.hhrooftopbar.com/?scid=feed67b0-9a2f-4de1-8df6-11454…•(949) 880-2428•Tips and more reviews for Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar

Little Sister

4.0
(543)
•
3.8
(12)
Vietnamese restaurant
Little Sister in Irvine Spectrum offers a unique take on Vietnamese cuisine, blending traditional flavors with Dutch and British colonial influences and French cooking techniques. The menu features dishes like goi du du green papaya salad, imperial rolls, and lemongrass chicken banh mi. The restaurant's ambiance evokes the romanticized colonial-era Vietnam, creating a tropical indoor/outdoor dining experience. Located in the bustling Irvine Spectrum, Little Sister provides a spacious and open setting for diners to enjoy their meal.
I love their restaurant vibe and decorations. It’s like a high ends Vietnamese food with a little fusion in it. It’s located at Irvine Spectrum, Ca. After lunch or dinner can walk around and loose some calories lol. Love their drinks as well. Plenty of parking but since it’s summer time so it can get pack.
Amenita T — Google review
Having been to the one in Redondo Beach previously, I was curious how the Irvine location would be. It was an okay experience with good food. Parking at the Spectrum sometimes feel like a matter of luck. I opted to just park in one of the structures after circling the lot a few times. This was a Friday around lunch hours. The place is beautiful, lots of glass, indoor outdoor seating, high and low seating. Service was nice, our waiter was very knowledgeable and helpful. Other staff members assisted us quickly, constantly topping off our waters. Food-wise, I opted for the black rice. It was good, wild/purple rice mixed with curry flavors. There could’ve been more seafood. Nice large shrimps and octopus. I was expecting bigger pieces of scallops but they were tiny. Portion is in that mix range of too small to share, too large for yourself A place like this, I’d like to share since there’s a good mix of different items, but their portions seem catered to individual portions Don’t get me wrong, the quality is there and the dishes pack a lot of flavor. But for the price and portions, I think I’d go elsewhere. It’s very difficult to choose this place over some other options.
Felix G — Google review
My friend treated us to dinner tonight to welcome another girl who just arrived in town 💗 She said Little Sister is so good that she’s been here twice in a row—and it’s definitely worth the hype! (We also tried a few dishes randomly from the menu—everything turned out delicious!) ⸻ 🌿 Ambience & Vibes The interior has a warm, elegant vibe with wooden tones and golden lighting—perfect for dates or girls’ night out. The outdoor patio features white walls, lush plants, and striped umbrellas—totally Instagram-worthy 📸 Whether you come during the day or in the evening, it feels like a cozy Southeast Asian getaway~ 🍴 Recommended Dishes 🥗 Goi Du Du (Papaya Salad + Prawns) Refreshing and tangy! The papaya shreds are super crisp, and the prawns are juicy and flavorful. A perfect mix of sweet, sour, and a little spicy! 🍆 Sauteed Eggplant Mapo Pork Soft, flavorful eggplant with a touch of Sichuan-style spice. Fragrant and rich—amazing with rice! 🥩 Short Rib Tender and juicy short rib with a perfectly seared crust. The sauce has that unique fusion of Southeast Asian street flavor and fine dining presentation. 🥘 Black Rice Topped with plenty of seafood! The black rice has a chewy texture and a nutty aroma—healthier and more unique than regular white rice. 🍞 Milk Rolls Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet—can’t believe bread can taste this good! My son absolutely loved it. 💰 Around $50 per person, totally worth it! The service was friendly and attentive too. 💬 Overall: ✨ Diverse flavors with beautiful plating (though slightly on the sweet side) ✨ Gorgeous setting and perfect lighting—every corner is photo-worthy!
Lucky33_89 — Google review
A huge shoutout to Jason our server! He checked in with us and made sure we were well taken care of. Even when we were busy getting through the food, he accommodated us so well. Thank you so much Jason. As soon as we entered into Little Sister, my sister and I could not help but take pictures of the interior. Incredibly well designed. We were seated within 10 minutes of waiting since we came in a less busy hours of around 2 pm. We got the following dishes *Goi Cuon - these spring rolls were accompanied by a peanut sauce that was so tangy. There were also candied nuts they had on the side that has been the “sprinkles on the icecream” of food for us. *Goi Du Du (Papaya Salad) - incredibly fresh. The best papaya salad I’ve ever had! *Shaky Shaky Beef - if you like steak, this is the dish to go. Incredibly supple meat accompanied by a fusion of rice and a nice salad *Sea Bass - the skin of the sea bass is crunchy while the inside is soft, the contrast is telling in the first bite! *Pho Ga - my mom commented on how the broth is unlike the pho you would get at the prior pho places we’ve been in! You can’t taste the msg! *Triple Garlic Noodle - grateful that there’s a lot of noodles because it had to be shared among five of us hungry family members. The garlic noodle sauce is not heavy at all *Brisket Banh Mi - generous portions. may as well be the most worth the price! We got this one to go since we noticed so many people grabbing it. We got a free Vietnamese coffee because of a coupon we found for purchases over $50. All the vegetables are incredible fresh! Flavorful, colorful, enhanced by the high ceiling. The portions for each dish is meant for one person, but my family went for attempting a family-style by sharing all our plates with each other still. It’s do-able for a fancy, celebratory family meal, and well worth it!
Michelle C — Google review
Food & Drink: We stopped in for dessert & drinks at the bar & everything was incredible. We ordered two desserts from the middle of the menu—the coffee pot de crème & another seasonal option—and both were absolutely delicious. The pot de crème was silky, rich, & full of coffee flavor without being overpowering, topped with a light whipped cream & crunchy garnish that made every bite balanced & indulgent. The second dessert was just as memorable—light, fresh, & beautifully plated. For drinks, I had the espresso martini which was one of the best I’ve ever had—smooth, frothy, with the perfect touch of sweetness. My husband ordered a tequila cocktail that was refreshing, bright, & layered with flavor. Everything paired together perfectly. Service: Service at Little Sister is always wonderful. The bartenders are knowledgeable & welcoming, taking time to make sure drinks are perfectly crafted & that desserts come out fresh. Even just popping in for a nightcap, we felt well taken care of. Ambiance & Vibe: The bar has such a great atmosphere—relaxed but lively, with a modern, stylish vibe. It’s the perfect spot for ending the night with something sweet & a great drink. Sitting at the bar has become our favorite way to enjoy this restaurant because of how comfortable & inviting it feels. Value & Price Point: For the quality of the cocktails & desserts, the prices feel completely fair. The freshness & creativity of each dish, combined with the attentive service, make it feel like an excellent value. Overall Impression & Tips: Little Sister has quickly become a favorite for us at the Spectrum. Whether you’re here for dinner or just dessert & cocktails, everything is consistently top-notch. Highly recommend saving room for dessert & treating yourself to one of their cocktails at the bar—it’s the perfect way to end the night.
Sarah B — Google review
The restaurant is located in the Spectrum mall. It is an upscale Vietnamese restaurant. I have been there a few times and tried different dishes and all of them were very good. The black rice dish is very unique and tasty. There is one entree on the menu called Salt & Pepper. You can’t tell from the name but it is actually a huge wok of curries flavored rice with loads of seafood. Every table would say a wow when they get the food.
Ben W — Google review
Nothing particularly special for the price point. The atmosphere is all over the place, they had a tv show displaying guts the entire time we were there. Staff does their job but they’re not particularly polite or attentive. Food was decent with only the chicken wings being something I’d for sure get again. Saigon lemongrass beef was not spicy.
Maria G — Google review
Little Sister – Flavor Adventure in Every Bite! Little Sister offers a delightful fusion of Southeast Asian flavors that is both vibrant and sophisticated. My recent visit was marked by two standout dishes: the Sweet & Spicy Chicken Wings and the Bo Luc Lac (Shaking Beef). First off, the Sweet & Spicy Chicken Wings were a flavor explosion. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these wings were bathed in a sauce that perfectly balanced sweetness, tang, and a spicy kick. The addition of fresh herbs like cilantro and slices of jalapeño elevated the dish with aromatic freshness and subtle heat. I loved the crunch from fried shallots and the brightness from a squeeze of lime. This dish was both finger-licking good and beautifully presented! The Bo Luc Lac was equally impressive. The tender cubes of beef were seared to perfection with a glossy, caramelized sauce that clung to each piece. The bold, umami-rich flavor of the beef paired perfectly with the fragrant red rice and crisp, refreshing watercress salad. The combination of textures—tender beef, crisp greens, and slightly chewy rice—made every bite an experience. The restaurant ambiance was cozy yet stylish, with earthy tones and natural light enhancing the relaxed atmosphere. Service was attentive, and the dishes arrived hot and fresh. Final Verdict: Little Sister is a must-visit if you’re craving vibrant, expertly crafted dishes that bring a creative twist to traditional Southeast Asian flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for crispy wings or succulent beef, you’re in for a treat. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Hubert B — Google review
896 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA•https://www.dinelittlesister.com/•(949) 800-8798•Tips and more reviews for Little Sister
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