Solstice Seasonal Kitchen & Bar

Was an absolute scrumptious meal on a lovely evening. This place is a gem tucked between two high rise buildings with a great outdoor courtyard and easy structure parking (they validate). The service was excellent from the moment we walked in where my daughter was given a birthday card signed by the staff to the amuse-bouche served before the meal. On anniversaries and birthdays they provide the party with a filled champagne flute for a toast. These extra touches mean a lot! Our server, Noelle, was outstanding. She knew the menu and clearly enjoyed the cuisine as much as we did by her thoughtful recommendations. The menu is inspired by the seasons and each dish was delightful. We'll be back.

I would not be surprised to see this restaurant getting a Michelin star in the future. Everything about them was above and beyond. The service is immaculate here. The waiters are very attentive to you. My water glass was never empty! The inside has a really nice ambiance--very chic. The food was all very good and well plated. You can tell a lot of care and attention is put into each dish.

Saem Lee

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.

Jan Birkelbach

The food, service and ambience were all top-notch. One of the best braised short ribs I’ve ever eaten. Creative, delicious desserts. Wine by the glass is not overpriced. I recommend this place for discriminating foodies

Gabriel Winter

Tucked between a row of office buildings, this place feels like a little hidden spot you’d only discover if you worked nearby. Most of the lunchtime crowd seemed to be people stepping out from work, which gave the restaurant a relaxed, professional atmosphere. The food was genuinely excellent. The prices are on the higher side, but the flavor and quality make it completely worth it. I left really impressed and would gladly come back again.

Ceci

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!

Gabs Jaan (Exploring)

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.

Rosie Kar

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.

Rachol West-Chachere

Entire experience 10/10. I live about 5 hours away and found the most amazing hidden gem in Orange County. The food most definitely gave me high end fine dining flavor and uniqueness but the atmosphere was just so vibey. I came alone but I saw plenty of families. Also saw people dressed up but also super casual. The service was absolutely phenomenal and everyone was so friendly. No reservation necessary but I definitely recommend making one online! I can't wait to come back when I visit again! Every single item I ordered was absolutely phenomenal. ZERO COMPLAINTS, you can tell a lot of time goes into their menu. Best Item: Short Rib Pappardelle Pasta Best Dessert: Apple Butter Cake Parking: the Broadway parking garage is right behind the restaurant, super easy to navigate and you can get your ticket validated so it's free.

Lovely S P.

I celebrated my birthday at Solstice Restaurant in Irvine, Orange County, and it was an incredible experience. From the moment we arrived, the service was exceptional. The cocktail, appetizers were delicious and set the tone for an amazing meal. Every dish we tried was expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The staff went above and beyond to ensure we had a memorable celebration. I highly recommend Solstice Restaurant for any occasion!

David Lackner

Hey you Mr/Mrs.Owner!! We ate here for Christmas and this waitress named Maria was just the best! Professional, attentive, and made us feel welcome. The solstice overall is an elegant yet welcoming venue. We first came here to celebrate Christmas and were floored with the amazing service, diverse menu, and generous portions. We loved the food and atmosphere so much we came back for New Years. Again, Maria met us with kindness, attentiveness, and an attention to detail and service. The rotating seasonal menu is very unique and enticing, with speciality cocktails and menu items offered over holidays . Keep up the work and reward your wonderful waitress Maria! We appreciate your impeccable hospitality and service.

Chao Gao

Food is great, although not a huge selection. Braised short rib pasta is amazing. Plenty of options for drinks.

Anthony David

Really really good food here - everything is well seasoned and the atmosphere is for the crowd that has louder conversations. We tried everything from the short rib (melt in your mouth) to the lie ribeye and apple butter bread. The initial seating from the host is typically a bit slower, but the service was great. Our server knew the whole menu without looking at it, explained everything to a T, and provided great service. Parking isn’t an issue because they validate in the structure, so park in the structure and walk right in. Came here a few times so would say everything is pretty consistent. The chef seems to give a damn too, because he always sends out a complimentary taster dish that is different every time we’ve went.

Allyne Dawson

My husband and I took a friend of ours to have dinner at Solstice Seasonal Kitchen and our experience was outstanding. Giancarlo provided a top notch service. Very personable, friendly, knowledgeable and with great recommendations. We got some delicious house rolls with apple butter, the cremini mushroom soup, 2 types of salads, the vegetarian risotto and our friend ordered the short ribs croquettes and the malbec braised short rib. We loved all of our vegetarian dishes and our friend was impressed by his food as well. Presentation was beautiful for each single dish and the flavors were perfect. Highly recommend it and look forward to returning!

The food was excellent! I had the prime rib. It came with whipped mashed potatoes and broccoli. Delicious! My husband had the braised short ribs with mashed potatoes. We got the spring rolls as an appetizer, they were more like deep fried ravioli. They weren't rolled but we enjoyed them. Would definitely recommend.

We enjoyed our meal. There were four of us. We ordered the shrimp "spring roll" (looks like ravioli), short rib croquettes, mushroom soup, and salmon. We also had some drinks: Granada margarita, un-Granada zero proof drink and two glasses of wine. When I asked about the sauce that came with the short rib croquettes, the server brought the manager to help me. I was grateful he did that because the croquettes have cream in the mashed potatoes that form the center of the croquettes. That was not included in the description on the menu. Unfortunately, since I'm lactose intolerant, I decided to eat just one croquette. My husband graciously traded his salmon for my croquettes.

Susan S. McClellan

We enjoyed our meal. There were four of us. We ordered the shrimp "spring roll" (looks like ravioli), short rib croquettes, mushroom soup, and salmon. We also had some drinks: Granada margarita, un-Granada zero proof drink and two glasses of wine. When I asked about the sauce that came with the short rib croquettes, the server brought the manager to help me. I was grateful he did that because the croquettes have cream in the mashed potatoes that form the center of the croquettes. That was not included in the description on the menu. Unfortunately, since I'm lactose intolerant, I decided to eat just one croquette. My husband graciously traded his salmon for my croquettes.

Chef Boy RV

Went here for lunch with my cousin from Chicago. It was completely packed, but we got lucky and got the last table. It sure was worth it. This is the best lunch I've had in california so far. Got the pork belly sandwich as well as the Nashville hot chicken sandwich. We split them and they were both great. Will definitely go back and highly recommend!

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.

Great Ambiance and there were at least a couple tables there celebrating birthdays as well. Beautiful decor and an open kitchen where you can see the staff hard at work preparing the dishes. Everything looked clean, busy and on point. Service from Brandon was amazing and memorable and he even remembered the preferences of my friend who has dined there several times before and is also the one who took our group there to dine. Food: Modern American and they make several items fresh in house like their pasta. The dishes were beautifully described with pride and they went above and beyond by giving us complimentary champagne and complimentary dessert for the special occasion we were celebrating. Truly 10/10 and I would come back because of the care and effort. The food was good and was prepared with care, though I have to be honest, none made a lasting impression where I can see myself craving it and wanting to go back just for it. I was lucky enough to taste my friends dishes (5 in total) and they weren’t bad at all and a couple were actually delicious like the scallops and short ribs. I just wouldn’t be thinking about it and craving it. 10/10 for service and ambiance. Food 8/10 *parking is in a garage and they validate the ticket

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 ❤️

Very modern restaurant inside office complex. Definitely a place for work lunch and after work happy hour, even if happy hours ends at 5:30pm. Server was extremely knowledgeable friendly and fast. Food was good well presented. Fresh seasonal ingredients. We were there to celebrate two birthdays and they got recognized with 2 free desserts and glass of white bubbly wine for everyone at the table. Nice gesture.

Carl Wong

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.

Dee Jay

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 ❤️

Ruiza Anne

Great Ambiance and there were at least a couple tables there celebrating birthdays as well. Beautiful decor and an open kitchen where you can see the staff hard at work preparing the dishes. Everything looked clean, busy and on point. Service from Brandon was amazing and memorable and he even remembered the preferences of my friend who has dined there several times before and is also the one who took our group there to dine. Food: Modern American and they make several items fresh in house like their pasta. The dishes were beautifully described with pride and they went above and beyond by giving us complimentary champagne and complimentary dessert for the special occasion we were celebrating. Truly 10/10 and I would come back because of the care and effort. The food was good and was prepared with care, though I have to be honest, none made a lasting impression where I can see myself craving it and wanting to go back just for it. I was lucky enough to taste my friends dishes (5 in total) and they weren’t bad at all and a couple were actually delicious like the scallops and short ribs. I just wouldn’t be thinking about it and craving it. 10/10 for service and ambiance. Food 8/10 *parking is in a garage and they validate the ticket

An overall nice date night experience in Irvine, although a few of the menu items fell flat. Service and Vibes: Our service was great, however being at a table for two we felt crammed being so close to a table for four next to us. Vibes are great and it feels like a rooftop bar experience. Food Quality: Meh for some dishes, although the Roasted Chicken with mole sauces was amazing. The Parker House Rolls were mid, as was the Fru-Tiki (a Dry January mocktail). I wanted to try the burger but they were out. Price: Cocktails are around $18 and entrees are around $39-50, so with appetizers it can easily come out to $100-150+ for a party of 2 Hidden Fees/Surcharges: They charge a card fee, AKA it’s more expensive to pay card than cash. It came out to about 3% card fee, which was annoying as it was not disclosed on the menu that there is a card fee/surcharge, it only states that there are different cash and card prices, which is not apparent enough for a surcharge. Parking: Parking structure attached, can park and walk in and they fully validate your ticket (otherwise the structure is $2/15 min or $24/max)

Tim Balen

An overall nice date night experience in Irvine, although a few of the menu items fell flat. Service and Vibes: Our service was great, however being at a table for two we felt crammed being so close to a table for four next to us. Vibes are great and it feels like a rooftop bar experience. Food Quality: Meh for some dishes, although the Roasted Chicken with mole sauces was amazing. The Parker House Rolls were mid, as was the Fru-Tiki (a Dry January mocktail). I wanted to try the burger but they were out. Price: Cocktails are around $18 and entrees are around $39-50, so with appetizers it can easily come out to $100-150+ for a party of 2 Hidden Fees/Surcharges: They charge a card fee, AKA it’s more expensive to pay card than cash. It came out to about 3% card fee, which was annoying as it was not disclosed on the menu that there is a card fee/surcharge, it only states that there are different cash and card prices, which is not apparent enough for a surcharge. Parking: Parking structure attached, can park and walk in and they fully validate your ticket (otherwise the structure is $2/15 min or $24/max)

Zara Khakpour

The parking situation here is a hassle… there is no free or street parking nearby, and you have to pay for parking. On top of that, the hrs listed here are not updated. We went during the posted open hours, but when we arrived they told us they were closed until 4 pm! It was really frustrating and a waste of time.

Had dinner at Solstice Irvine recently, and while there were some good moments food-wise, the overall experience didn’t live up to the price point or the expectations that come with it. We started with the Parker House Rolls. My girlfriend really liked the saltiness on top, but I found the bread way too dry — airy, yes, but overbaked to the point that it took away from the enjoyment. Not the kind of start you want at a place with entrées pushing $100. We also ordered the Braised Short Rib Pappardelle, which was much better. The pasta was well-cooked, the sauce was rich and flavorful, and the beef was very tender — in a good way. Definitely the highlight of the meal. Where things really fell apart was the service. It took several minutes for anyone to greet or seat us, even though it wasn’t particularly busy (8:30pm on a Saturday). Once seated, we waited over 10 minutes just to get our only appetizer. At a place charging premium prices, that kind of delay is hard to overlook. To be honest, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I didn’t “fit the look” of the place — walked in with a t-shirt and got the vibe that it mattered more than it should have. Maybe that’s reading into things, but first impressions matter.

Alberto Pulido

Had dinner at Solstice Irvine recently, and while there were some good moments food-wise, the overall experience didn’t live up to the price point or the expectations that come with it. We started with the Parker House Rolls. My girlfriend really liked the saltiness on top, but I found the bread way too dry — airy, yes, but overbaked to the point that it took away from the enjoyment. Not the kind of start you want at a place with entrées pushing $100. We also ordered the Braised Short Rib Pappardelle, which was much better. The pasta was well-cooked, the sauce was rich and flavorful, and the beef was very tender — in a good way. Definitely the highlight of the meal. Where things really fell apart was the service. It took several minutes for anyone to greet or seat us, even though it wasn’t particularly busy (8:30pm on a Saturday). Once seated, we waited over 10 minutes just to get our only appetizer. At a place charging premium prices, that kind of delay is hard to overlook. To be honest, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I didn’t “fit the look” of the place — walked in with a t-shirt and got the vibe that it mattered more than it should have. Maybe that’s reading into things, but first impressions matter.