About
Welcome to 949 Grill Lounge, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Irvine, California. Located at 6000 Scholarship, this dining destination is not just another restaurant; it's an immersive culinary experience that brings the flavors of authentic Chinese cuisine to your table. With rave reviews from locals and food enthusiasts, 949 Grill Lounge stands out for its vibrant atmosphere and expertly prepared dishes.
As you step inside, the modern decor envelops you in a warm ambiance. The softly lit dining area, adorned with rustic and industrial elements, sets the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal. The open kitchen allows you to witness the skilled chefs in action, grilling and stirring dishes to perfection. Here, you're in for a treat with menu offerings that boast a tantalizing range of flavors, including house specialties like stone-cooked crispy grass fish and fresh frog, both celebrated for their bold seasoning and unapologetic spiciness.
Culinary enthusiasts have shared glowing feedback, like that from John Chung, who calls 949 Grill Lounge one of the premier spots for authentic Chinese fare in Irvine. Meanwhile, Diana XIA praises the freshness of the food, highlighting the standout crawfish dish that’s hard to find elsewhere. Such testimonials reflect the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor, making each visit a delightful adventure.
Barbecue lovers will find themselves enchanted by the expertly prepared meats. Many guests rave about the ox tails, known for their well-seasoned, smoky flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. The unique grill-your-own options, paired with a thoughtful variety of sauces, introduce an interactive dining aspect that adds an element of fun to your meal.
The attentive service only elevates the experience. Patrons have noted the friendliness and efficiency of the staff, creating a welcoming environment that invites you to linger a little longer. Whether you're enjoying a casual night out with friends or a family gathering, 949 Grill Lounge caters to all with generous portion sizes and prices that are fair for the quality delivered.
Perhaps what makes this place truly memorable is the vibrant and lively atmosphere that encourages laughter and conversation over shared plates. Each dish evokes feelings of nostalgia while introducing you to flavors that are rich and layered, as described by Luke Qian, who couldn’t get enough of the exceptional dishes served here.
In conclusion, 949 Grill Lounge is not merely a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, community, and passion for food. Whether you're a barbecue aficionado or a curious diner seeking authentic Chinese delicacies, this restaurant promises an array of unforgettable experiences. So, gather your friends and family, and embark on a culinary journey at 949 Grill Lounge—you won't leave disappointed!
“ I had such a great time here! The food is super fresh, and the crawfish was amazing—it’s been so hard to find a place that gets it just right. The staff was really friendly too, which made the whole experience even better. I’ll definitely be back to try more dishes! ”
“ 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! ”
“ Came here with my friends last weekend! We ordered a bunch of stuff but the grilled oysters really good. juicy and flavorful. Service was friendly too. Would def come back again to try more things on the menu. ”
“ Definitely one of the best authentic Chinese restaurants in Irvine. Foods are absolutely delicious. Must try! ”
“ This stir-fried river snail dish was absolutely amazing! The snails were fresh and tender, and the savory sauce was packed with flavor—every bite was addictively good. The peppers added just the right amount of heat to make it super appetizing. The portion was generous, perfect for sharing with friends. A true summer classic—delicious, fun to eat, and impossible to stop once you start. Will definitely come back for more! ”
“ 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! ”
“ 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 ”
“ 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. ”