I had such a wonderful day enjoying delicious food with great company in a modern and clean atmosphere. Since it’s an open kitchen, you can see the cooking area clearly, and the spotless and well-organized space made the whole experience feel even more trustworthy. They mentioned that the menu changes with the seasons, offering new dishes depending on the time of year. Being able to try different flavors every season is quite impressive. We ordered the Iceberg Wedge, Steak Frites, and Roasted Half Chicken, and everything was truly enjoyable. The Parker House Rolls, served warm and freshly baked, and the Churro Spiced Ricotta Doughnuts with chocolate and salted caramel sauce were especially delicious. The food was so good that I ended up enjoying everything without taking as many photos as I planned—such a shame! The staff were very friendly, and the building offers two hours of free parking, which made the whole experience even more comfortable. Just bring your parking ticket, and the restaurant will validate it after your meal.
Overview
If you're looking for a spot to unwind and enjoy great food, Solstice Seasonal Kitchen & Bar in Irvine, California, is the perfect place. Situated at 18555 Jamboree Rd, this modern yet inviting restaurant offers a dining experience that highlights seasonal ingredients in a creative and flavorful way.
One of the things that stands out about Solstice Seasonal Kitchen & Bar is its commitment to fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The chefs at Solstice don’t just cook food-they craft an experience. Every dish on the menu reflects their dedication to the changing seasons and the bounty that each one brings. Whether you're stopping by for a casual lunch or a special dinner, you'll find yourself impressed by how the flavors come together.
Take, for instance, the restaurant’s signature dish, the roasted bone marrow. It's a fantastic example of how Solstice takes traditional flavors and elevates them to something special. Served with a side of toasted bread, the marrow is rich and creamy, with a perfect balance of savoriness that pairs beautifully with a light salad. If you're in the mood for something a bit heartier, the braised short ribs never disappoint. Tender, juicy, and slow-cooked to perfection, they practically fall off the bone, accompanied by a flavorful sauce that brings everything together.
For those who appreciate a lighter meal, the menu at Solstice Seasonal Kitchen & Bar also offers refreshing options like their heirloom tomato salad. It’s a simple dish, but the combination of fresh, juicy tomatoes with the bright, tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing way to start your meal. Pair it with one of their craft cocktails, and you’re in for a treat. The bar program is a highlight of its own, offering a variety of cocktails that make good use of seasonal fruits and herbs. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, happy to recommend something tailored to your taste.
The ambiance at Solstice is another reason why this place is a local favorite. The space is modern and sleek, with a touch of rustic charm. The open kitchen allows you to watch the chefs work their magic, creating a lively and interactive atmosphere. It's also spacious, with plenty of seating options, making it an ideal location for both intimate meals and larger gatherings.
What sets Solstice Seasonal Kitchen & Bar apart from other eateries in Irvine is its consistent quality. It’s not just about the food; it's the entire experience. The service is top-notch, with staff that is attentive without being intrusive. Whether it's your first time or you're a regular, you can expect to be treated like family.
What’s also great about Solstice is their rotating menu that adapts with the seasons. So, every time you return, you can expect to find new and exciting dishes to try. The team behind Solstice keeps things fresh, both in terms of flavor and presentation. If you're someone who enjoys trying new things, you'll appreciate the chance to taste seasonal creations that showcase what’s currently available at local farms and markets.
Another factor that speaks volumes about Solstice Seasonal Kitchen & Bar is its reputation among locals and food enthusiasts alike. The restaurant receives glowing reviews from patrons who praise everything from the quality of food to the warm, welcoming service. Visitors consistently mention how much they enjoy the innovative use of ingredients, along with the impressive wine list that complements the meals perfectly. Whether you're a food critic or just someone looking for a new favorite restaurant, you won’t leave disappointed.
Overall, Solstice Seasonal Kitchen & Bar stands out as one of Irvine’s top dining destinations. With its focus on seasonal ingredients, a diverse menu that caters to various tastes, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s clear why so many choose to make this place their go-to for a delicious, memorable meal. Whether you're in the mood for something light, indulgent, or perfectly paired with a drink, this restaurant has something for everyone. Make sure to check it out next time you're in the area-you won’t regret it.
Good to know
From the business
âś“ Identifies as women-ownedService options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ On-site services âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-in âś“ DeliveryHighlights
âś“ Fireplace âś“ Great beer selection âś“ Great cocktails âś“ Great coffee âś“ Great dessert âś“ Great wine list âś“ Serves local specialty âś“ SportPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Coffee âś“ Comfort food âś“ Happy-hour drinks âś“ Happy-hour food âś“ Healthy options âś“ Private dining room âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ Vegan options âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Catering âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ Toilet âś“ Wi-Fi âś“ Wi-FiAtmosphere
âś“ Cosy âś“ Romantic âś“ Trendy âś“ UpmarketCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ GroupsPlanning
âś“ Dinner reservations recommended âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ Has changing table(s) âś“ High chairs âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Free multi-storey car park âś“ Free parking lot âś“ Paid multi-storey car park âś“ Paid street parking âś“ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
We were here yesterday for a wonderful birthday dinner with friends. We were seated outside in the patio, which was really nice with the lights and the breeze. I noticed there's a fireplace that can be turned on if the temperature drops. We had a big group 13, but Sherry took care of us so well, very thoughtful when to take the orders for drinks, apps, entrée and fill up our water. It's next to a parking garage which is convenient to walk, however I'm not sure what the noise level from the traffic is during lunch weekdays. The food is very good, especially the Malbec braised short rib. The Solstice salad is fresh, the watermelon & feta salad is excellent although I'm partial to halumi cheese when it comes to watermelon salad. The short rib croquettes is also a delicious appetizer, which is good to get a taste of the short rib before you commit to the entrée. The Yuzu Breeze is refreshing if you like yuzu liqueur and midori.
Always a nice restaurant to go to whenever you have people visiting from out of town! Solstice is a charming spot that consistently puts out quality dishes based off of the season. It gives a modern twist to some classic dishes, and the presentation is solid as well. I’ve been here a couple of times, and it’s always been a hit! Their malbec braised short rib never fails to impress, and this time around their seafood risotto was delicious as well. The kiwi sour cocktail was also tasty! Solstice is also conveniently located close to John Wayne airport, so if you have any visitors, it’s easy to go to! If you’re looking for a new place to try, with a modern, charming atmosphere, then check them out!
I was expecting a lot since it’s seasonal dishes and changes every season. I ordered all the seasonal items from starters and salads and desserts. The bisque was too salty. And dessert was too sweet. But the service was great! The ambiance is very bright and open. Love the spacious and modern look. Good for date lunch
I’m incredibly grateful that my friend recommended Solstice for dinner—it turned out to be an exceptional dining experience! I was thoroughly impressed with the food, service, and overall atmosphere, but the highlight was definitely the food. I indulged in the tuna salad, which was absolutely delicious, perfectly complemented by the rich garlic sauce. The short ribs were equally mouthwatering, showcasing the kitchen’s talent for flavor and presentation. And let’s not forget the bread—it was simply mouthwatering, making every bite even more enjoyable! The entire menu is a culinary delight that will leave your taste buds dancing! I highly recommend Solstice for any occasion; it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a memorable meal with friends or loved ones.
A gastronomic star. A culinary delight. My husband and I came here for a Sunday evening late Valentine’s date, and wow. Everything was so delicious. We split a couple of starters: the white bean hummus, and Parker House rolls with apple butter are perfect to share. The hummus had really lovely juicy confit tomatoes, and sumac was sprinkled throughout. The Parker house rolls were fluffy and warm and slightly sweet. For my entrée, I ordered the roasted beet salad and added avocado and chicken. He got the braised short rib pappardelle. I’m not a drinker, so I just opted for hot water with lemon. The food was delightful. I felt very full after finishing my salad, despite the lightness and brightness of ingredients— the depth of flavor and quantity of protein was enhanced by adding the avocado and chicken. The zaa’tar lebneh made the whole dish, in my opinion. Husband devoured his pasta, he said it was perfectly cooked al dente. we thought we would take some of the food home. We were wrong. We devoured every bite. We wanted to lick the plate. Specifically, I wanted to lick my plate clean. He had a special seasonal cocktail, something with beets and whiskey, it was pretty. For dessert, we split the flourless chocolate fudge cake. Oh my God, that was amazing. We were not expecting tiny bits of raspberry coulis. The sprinkling of cocoa nibs were crunchy and delightful. The gelato was so, so good—creamy and cold. I love seeing little vanilla bits studded throughout. It was decadent, it was delightful, it was the perfect size for two. I’m extremely full, and I’m going on a very long run. But everything was worth it. We were so pleasantly surprised— the restaurant is huge, bright and airy, and the tables are comfortable. They certainly thought long and hard about placement. The tables are different sizes, so as to accommodate dates, or large groups. The clientele were of a variety of backgrounds, and seated next to us was a super cute family with their high school aged kids. On the other side, we saw couples on first dates. I don’t think this is a good place to bring newborns or toddlers. I would definitely go back. Our server, Cameron, was a sweetheart. He was very polite, attentive, and answered all our questions. I love that they validate parking. This is such a delightful find, and I bet their brunch is amazing.
A Hidden Gem in Irvine Solstice Kitchen & Bar is an incredible farm-to-table spot that feels like a hidden gem, but once you find it, you’ll keep coming back. I always go for their Solstice Salad with double salmon—fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Their cocktails are next level, especially the Paper Plane and Last Word (a must-try if you’re into Green Chartreuse). Desserts here are fantastic. The Tres Leches is warm and comforting, while the seasonal butter cake (apple when I visited) with gelato is rich but lighter than similar versions, making it easy to enjoy regularly. The hummus is fresh and delicious, and my kids love the burger and fries (adult-sized portions) and the fresh butter pasta, which is made in-house daily. Beyond the food, the ambiance is inviting, service is consistently great (shout out to Sebastian for being super attentive!), and I love that you can see the open kitchen in action. Surprisingly, they’re quite busy even on weekdays. Parking is validated, and while access may not feel obvious at first, it’s actually quite easy. They also have a decent rewards program, which is a nice perk for frequent visits. If you’re looking for a spot with fresh ingredients, great cocktails, and a well-executed menu, Solstice Kitchen & Bar is absolutely worth a visit!