Irvine Nightlife Guide: Complete Guide
Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. Discover the best nightlife experiences in Irvine.
Welcome to the ultimate nightlife guide for Irvine! Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best nightlife experiences that Irvine has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your nightlife adventure in Irvine. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.
Key Takeaways
- Irvine offers over 98 exceptional nightlife experiences
- Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
- Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
- Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
- Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference
Top Bars & Cocktail Lounges
Craft cocktail bars, rooftop lounges, and unique drinking establishments with great atmospheres.
Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Irvine with 4.1 stars from 876 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 7905 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πUpscale dining experience
Postino Park Place
Highly rated Restaurant in Irvine with 4.7 stars from 423 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 2981 Michelson Dr suite e, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πKnowledgeable staff
Bacchus Bar and Bistro
Highly rated Restaurant in Irvine with 4.4 stars from 176 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 6735 Quail Hill Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92603, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πKnowledgeable staff
Solstice Seasonal Kitchen & Bar
Highly rated Steakhouse in Irvine with 4.6 stars from 409 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 18555 Jamboree Rd, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Steakhouse cuisine
JOEY Newport Beach
Highly rated Restaurant in Irvine with 4.8 stars from 3518 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 453 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πKnowledgeable staff
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
Highly rated American in Irvine with 4.4 stars from 2328 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 18169 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic American cuisine
Ruin Bar
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4.6 stars from 194 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 2930 Bristol St a111, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
FLOE Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4.4 stars from 50 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 18000 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
STOWAWAY
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4.6 stars from 549 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 14401 Newport Ave Suite A, Tustin, CA 92780, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Center Hub at Trade
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4.6 stars from 48 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 2222 Michelson Dr # 220, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
Yard House
Highly rated American in Irvine with 4.4 stars from 2948 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 620 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic American cuisine
Habana
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4.4 stars from 3178 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 708 Spectrum Center Dr Suite 708, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Nightclubs & Dance Venues
Popular nightclubs, dance clubs, and venues featuring top DJs and live performances.
The Copper Door
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4 stars from 192 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 225 N Broadway #203, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Time Nightclub
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 3.5 stars from 620 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 1875 Newport Blvd B245, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, USA
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
FLOE Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4.4 stars from 50 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 18000 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
- πKnowledgeable staff
Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Irvine with 4.1 stars from 876 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 7905 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πUpscale dining experience
Sevilla Nightclub of Costa Mesa
Highly rated International in Irvine with 3.6 stars from 147 reviews.
π 1870 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, USA
- πEstablished local favorite
- πWelcoming atmosphere
- πKnowledgeable staff
HEAT Ultra Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 2.9 stars from 253 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π GardenWalk, 400 Disney Way Suite 214, Anaheim, CA 92802, USA
- πEstablished local favorite
- πUpscale dining experience
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Irvine Nights
Highly rated International in Irvine with 3.3 stars from 20 reviews.
π Great Park Live, Irvine, CA 92606, USA
- πQuality ingredients and preparation
- πWelcoming atmosphere
- πKnowledgeable staff
Proof
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4 stars from 278 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 215 N Broadway, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Fling Cocktail Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4.6 stars from 402 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 2370 N Tustin Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πBudget-friendly prices
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Bravo Night Club
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 3.9 stars from 469 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 1490 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805, USA
- πEstablished local favorite
- πBudget-friendly prices
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Live Music Venues
Concert halls, jazz clubs, and venues showcasing local and international musical talent.
Great Park Live
Highly rated International in Irvine with 4.2 stars from 79 reviews.
π 8000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πWelcoming atmosphere
- πKnowledgeable staff
The Observatory
Highly rated International in Irvine with 4.5 stars from 3794 reviews.
π 3503 S Harbor Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92704, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πKnowledgeable staff
Constellation Room
Highly rated International in Irvine with 4.5 stars from 437 reviews.
π 3503 S Harbor Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92704, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πKnowledgeable staff
Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Irvine with 4.1 stars from 876 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 7905 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πUpscale dining experience
The Wayfarer
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4.4 stars from 621 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 843 W 19th St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Hangar 24 Orange County
Highly rated Restaurant in Irvine with 4.3 stars from 507 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 17877 Von Karman Ave Unit 110, Irvine, CA 92614, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πKnowledgeable staff
The Blue Beet
Highly rated Bar in Irvine with 4.3 stars from 404 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 107 21st Pl, Newport Beach, CA 92663, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Bar cuisine
Campus JAX
Highly rated Restaurant in Irvine with 4.5 stars from 735 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 3950 Campus Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πKnowledgeable staff
Late-Night Dining
Restaurants and eateries open late for post-party meals and midnight cravings.
Yard House
Highly rated American in Irvine with 4.4 stars from 2948 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 620 Spectrum Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic American cuisine
Eureka!
Highly rated American in Irvine with 4.3 stars from 951 reviews.
π 4143 Campus Dr, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic American cuisine
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
Highly rated American in Irvine with 4.4 stars from 2707 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
π 13290 Jamboree Rd, Irvine, CA 92602, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic American cuisine
Youngdabang
Highly rated Korean in Irvine with 4.8 stars from 365 reviews.
π 2750 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92606, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πAuthentic Korean cuisine
Dave's Hot Chicken
Highly rated Restaurant in Irvine with 4.6 stars from 937 reviews.
π 15463 Culver Dr, Irvine, CA 92604, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πEstablished local favorite
- πKnowledgeable staff
Moobongri Soondae Irvine Barranca (무λ΄λ¦¬ μλκ΅ μΌλ°μΈ λ°λμΉ΄)
Highly rated Korean in Irvine with 4.4 stars from 282 reviews.
π 4250 Barranca Pkwy Ste G, Irvine, CA 92604, USA
- πWell-reviewed establishment
- πEstablished local favorite
- πBudget-friendly prices
- πAuthentic Korean cuisine
Haidilao Hot Pot Irvine
Highly rated Japanese in Irvine with 4.8 stars from 3318 reviews.
π 2710 Alton Pkwy #215, Irvine, CA 92606, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πPopular with locals and visitors
- πAuthentic Japanese cuisine
Soup Shop
Highly rated Restaurant in Irvine with 4.8 stars from 83 reviews.
π 8557 Irvine Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
- πHighly rated by customers
- πWelcoming atmosphere
- πKnowledgeable staff
Entertainment & Shows
Comedy clubs, theaters, and entertainment venues offering nighttime performances.
Irvine Improv
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Irvine venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- β’Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- β’Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- β’Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- β’Turn off mobile phones during performance
- β’Check for student or group discounts
ImprovCity
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Irvine venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- β’Book tickets online in advance
- β’Check show duration and intermissions
- β’Arrive early to find parking
- β’Review venue policies before attending
- β’Check for package deals
Irvine Barclay Theatre
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Irvine venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- β’Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- β’Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- β’Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- β’Turn off mobile phones during performance
- β’Check for student or group discounts
Nightlife Districts
Popular neighborhoods and areas known for vibrant nightlife and bar-hopping.
Irvine Nights
Explore Irvine's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar
Explore Irvine's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
FLOE Lounge
Explore Irvine's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
Explore Irvine's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
Dave & Buster's Irvine
Explore Irvine's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
The IRV Bar
Explore Irvine's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- β’Start early to explore multiple venues
- β’Use ride-sharing or public transit
- β’Keep valuables secure
- β’Check dress codes for upscale venues
- β’Stay in groups for safety
Essential Tips
- πCheck dress codes before heading out
- πArrive early to avoid long lines at popular venues
- πUse ride-sharing apps for safe transportation
- πKeep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings
- πPace yourself and stay hydrated
- πResearch cover charges and drink prices
- πMake reservations for popular venues
- πBring valid ID - many places are strict about checking
- πStart early - some venues close earlier than expected
- πAsk locals for current hotspots and hidden gems
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time for nightlife experiences in Irvine varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.
Average Price
Prices for nightlife experiences in Irvine range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Irvine offers many excellent nightlife experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.
For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.
Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.
Many nightlife experiences in Irvine cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.
Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.
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