949 Grill Lounge - Irvine (CA)

5 /5 Jasmine Zhao: We came here 5times last year and already our second visit since got back to Irvine this month. Always the best skewers in town and so many authentic delicious dishes:) love it!

5 /5 Luke Qian: Tucked among apartment complexes, this neighborhood restaurant feels like a small discovery. Its modern interior is clean and softly lit, anchored by an open kitchen where you can watch chefs grill and stir over open flames. Service is efficient and attentive, and the menu offers an impressive range of authentic dishes—some, like sea cucumber, rarely seen elsewhere. We tried two of the house specialties: the stone-cooked crispy grass fish and the fresh frog, both boldly seasoned and unapologetically spicy. The flavors were rich and layered, the kind of heat that builds rather than overwhelms. The restaurant also stocks a thoughtful selection of high-end sake, making it an unexpected but fitting stop for a late-night meal that lingers just past comfort into indulgence.

4 /5 Antoni Sánchez-Ortiz: Grill Lounge 949 is a Santa Ana and Irvine-area barbecue restaurant known for its flavorful meats and lively, stylish atmosphere. Here’s what you can expect: Food Quality The meats at Grill Lounge 949 are consistently praised for their seasoning and smoky flavor. They’re roasted to perfection, juicy, and tender, making the barbecue experience memorable for both new customers and regulars. Popular dishes include ox tails, which are described as amazingly delicious and well-seasoned by guests. Many say the food exceeds expectations, with substantial portions and bold flavors that might be a bit salty for some, but hit just the right note for most barbecue enthusiasts. Guests enjoy the marinade and variety of sauces offered, especially for grill-your-own options. This touch adds a fun layer of interactivity to the meal. Service & Atmosphere Service is generally fast and friendly, contributing to a positive dining experience. The interior brings together rustic and industrial elements for a sleek, stylish vibe that appeals to groups and casual diners alike. Prices are considered fair for the size of portions and the quality of food received. Ratings & Feedback Grill Lounge 949 enjoys a solid reputation, earning scores like 4.2/5 on Restaurant Guru (with 128 reviews) and 4.4/5 on Uber Eats (with 100+ ratings). Customers appreciate the combination of generous portions, delicious food, and reasonable pricing, making it a good spot for family outings or casual meals with friends

5 /5 Michele Leocadio: Nestled among Irvine’s Plaza Resident Community, 949 Grill Lounge is a neighborhood restaurant that’s sure to be a go-to for lunch or dinner! They have a modern design with an open kitchen, where you can see the chefs wok-fry with flames!! Pretty impressive to watch!! Their dishes are bursting with bold, authentic Chinese flavors, each dish tells a story. I absolutely love their Bento style Lunch Boxes, which comes with a main + 2 sides + soup and steamed rice that range from $17.99 - $21.99. I tried the Hunan stir-fried pork belly lunch teishoku set 湖南小炒肉-午市定食 with sweet and sour soup, Sweet and Sour Black Fungus, Sweet and Sour Cucumbers and bowl of steamed rice. I asked for medium spice and it was just right for me! So beautifully displayed on a wooden tray!! Their stir-fried baby squid with chili sauce 辣炒海兔（小鱿鱼) is a customer favorite!! I am in love with this dish!! So aromatic and satisfying, with the right chewy texture for baby squid!! Stir-fried Pork Belly and Chili Pepper with Rice 肉汤泡饭 features thinly sliced pork belly stir-fried with fresh chili peppers, aromatic garlic and ginger, and seasonings. Again, I asked for medium spice! Perfectly balanced!! They also have skewers (served after 5pm), Hunan stir-fried spicy dishes, foiled dishes, bullfrog dishes, stone cooked dishes, noodle soups, rice dishes, noodles, dongbei and Lao Dao specialties and a variety of desserts. They also have a full bar with an array of Sake. Dive into a culinary journey that both locals and foodies rave about. They have a full bar with an array of Sake. Alysa had terrific and friendly customer service!!

5 /5 Connor H.: 949 Grill Lounge Irvine recently relocated to this new spot, bringing its well-loved traditional barbecue skewers to a refreshed and modern setting. The new location features a sleek black-themed interior with contemporary decor, including hanging greenery and an impressive wave mural on the wall, creating a vibrant and stylish atmosphere. The restaurant’s artistic touches, like unique sculptures, add a trendy vibe that’s perfect for a casual yet memorable dining experience. The skewers remain as excellent as ever. Whether it’s the lamb, beef, or seafood, each skewer is grilled to perfection, boasting a crispy exterior with juicy, flavorful meat inside. Their seasoning strikes just the right balance, highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients. For noodle lovers, the tomato beef noodle soup is a standout dish with its rich and tangy broth, tender beef, and perfectly cooked noodles. While the food and ambiance are impressive, there are a couple of minor challenges. The restaurant can get noisy during peak hours, which might not appeal to those seeking a quiet meal. Additionally, the new plaza location makes parking a bit tricky to find, especially during busy times. Even so, the move has only enhanced 949 Grill Lounge’s appeal. The fresh setting complements the consistent quality of their food, making it an excellent choice for fans of traditional barbecue skewers. Just be prepared for a lively atmosphere and plan ahead for parking, and you’re sure to enjoy a satisfying meal!