Now more than ever, our date nights are sacred. In a month (or less), our lives will change forever - and date nights will undoubtedly become a little more difficult to arrange. (But don’t worry, we’ll still make them a priority!)
The further I get into this pregnancy, the more we appreciate staying close to home. Being “OC” residents, we’re realizing just how much there is to do, see, and explore in our own backyard. And now that our doctor prefers that we quit traveling for a while, we’re having a blast re-discovering the many thriving cities around us.
Recently we’ve been hooked on Irvine. It’s a city that can get easily overlooked by its flashy and touristy neighbors- but we’re here to let you in on a little secret. Irvine is on the rise. It’s bursting with culture, adventure, culinary delights, and a chic nighttime scene. But don’t just take our word for it, here’s a few of the many fun (and eclectic) date nights we’ve had in Irvine - be sure to take notes! ;)
DIAMOND JAMBOREE
If you’re an OC local, chances are you’ve driven past Diamond Jamboree numerous times… but have you ever stopped and explored? This bustling shopping center has a little bit of everything - from an extensive Korean grocery store, to sushi, ramen, ice cream, coffee shops, karaoke - and even an escape room!
While you really can’t go wrong with any of the Diamond Jamboree restaurants, we recommend trying Tim Ho Wan, an acclaimed Hong-Kong based Dim Sum institution that’s truly an experience. Ask the friendly servers for recommendations, or follow the picture-heavy menu for guidance, and get ready for a culinary adventure. Their Baked BBQ Pork Buns are a must (they’re even Michelin Star rated!), and their Deep Fried Spring Roll with Egg White and Shrimp had us fighting over the last bite. It’s a fun, casual, and interactive kind of place - and the perfect spot to try something new!
After dinner, take a short walk to SomiSomi, a Korean soft-serve shop that’s famous for its “Taiyaki” (a fish shaped waffle cone), and it's fun and unique soft serve flavors. Don’t be deterred if there’s a line, it’s well worth the wait. (And it’s the perfect excuse to let your dinner settle!)
Choosing can be touch with so many delicious options.
Yum!
Always room for dessert! Somisomi is so good!
HIVE AND HONEY & THE IRVINE SPECTRUM
Did you know there’s a chic and stylish rooftop bar in Irvine? We didn’t either - until now! Hive and Honey might be one of the best kept secrets in Orange County… and while we love that it’s still relatively under-the-radar, we’d be remiss if we didn’t share it with you! Located in the Marriott Irvine Spectrum, we recommend arriving just in time to have a drink (and maybe an appetizer or two) and watch the sunset. Their skilled mixologists make some flavorful (and totally Instagrammable) cocktails, and the views simply can’t be beat!
Afterwards, hop on over to the Irvine Spectrum for dinner. We love TLT Food for tasty and creative Latin-fusion dining, and a welcoming and casual ambiance. Many of their dishes are shareable, and their street tacos are mouth-wateringly good!
If you’re not ready for the night to end, take a $5 ride on the Spectrum’s iconic Ferris Wheel! It’s surprisingly high, and the view at night is really something special. Plus, what’s more romantic than that?
Bobby enjoying the views and Alli the popcorn…
Sunset silhouettes at Hive & Honey
Love the flavor at TLT Foods!
THE BUTCHER SHOP & YNK
Keeping with the “under the radar” theme, did you know that the Irvine Marriott has not one, but TWO hidden speakeasies? YNK (which stands for “You Never Know”), has an ever-changing travel theme, with rotating menus, videos, and decor every few months. It’s intimate, dimly-lit, and cozy… and it’s just our kind of place. Sit back, name a drink, and watch the talented bartender do their thing!
After you’ve enjoyed a round of specialty cocktails, have the bartender usher you through the kitchen, to The Butcher Shop, a speakeasy within a speakeasy! It’s open only on Friday and Saturday nights, and entry is reservation only, so be sure to plan accordingly. Cocktails are listed on the wall, but the friendly bartender will happily make you whatever kind of mixed drink you’re in the mood for. And we can guarantee it will most definitely be delicious. But shh… let’s keep this secret spot between us, ok?
Tasty cocktails at YNK
The Butcher Shop is basically a speakeasy IN a speakeasy! You’re welcome.
Friends, don’t sleep on Irvine. There are so many restaurants, bars, and experiences that are absolutely worth your next date night out. And leave a comment and let us know if you have a favorite spot we’re missing - we’ll be sure to check it out!