New Restaurants Landing at Irvine Spectrum This Year

Irvine Spectrum Center is adding a fresh round of restaurants this year, led by J&G Fried Chicken's first Orange County location and Kalbi Social Club, a Korean barbecue spot blending tradition with a modern twist.

Irvine's dining scene keeps expanding, and the Spectrum remains ground zero for a lot of the action.

What's opening at the Spectrum?

J&G Fried Chicken, a Taiwanese fried chicken concept, is opening its first Orange County location at suite 918, next to 85°C Bakery Cafe, according to Lariat News. Taiwanese-style fried chicken is known for its extra-crispy, well-seasoned crust, often served with basil and a shake of five-spice salt, and this will be the brand's introduction to OC diners.

A few doors down, Kalbi Social Club is moving into suite 529, next to the Irvine Improv Comedy Club and Tender Greens. The Korean barbecue concept is positioned as a modern take on tradition, aiming for a social, shareable dining experience rather than a strictly classic format.

Both additions are part of a broader wave of new stores and restaurants coming to the Spectrum this year, alongside the debut of the new Spectrum SunWheel.

Why it matters for the neighborhood

New, well-reviewed restaurant concepts are one of the clearest signals of a retail center's health, landlords don't backfill vacant suites with first-to-market concepts unless they're confident in foot traffic and demand. For residents in Woodbury, Portola Springs, and the surrounding villages, it means more reasons to stay local instead of driving to Costa Mesa or Los Angeles for a night out.

It's also a good read on Irvine's dining diversity more broadly, Taiwanese fried chicken and modern Korean barbecue joining an already deep bench of Asian cuisine options is exactly the kind of variety that makes the city's food scene stand out in Orange County.

When do they open?

Specific opening dates haven't been announced for either concept as of this writing, worth checking Irvine Spectrum Center's own "New Stores" page or following both restaurants directly for opening-day updates.

Frequently asked questions

Where is J&G Fried Chicken opening in Irvine?

At Irvine Spectrum Center, suite 918, next to 85°C Bakery Cafe, its first Orange County location.

What is Kalbi Social Club?

A Korean barbecue restaurant opening at Irvine Spectrum Center, suite 529, near the Irvine Improv and Tender Greens, blending traditional Korean BBQ with a modern, social dining format.

Is there other new development at the Spectrum this year?

Yes, the Spectrum SunWheel, a taller replacement for the center's landmark observation wheel, is also opening this summer.

Thinking about a move closer to the Spectrum's growing food and entertainment scene? I'd love to help you find the right spot.

Final Thoughts

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