1. Irvine Spectrum Center
670 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine; 949-790-4871; irvinespectrumcenter.com
Developed by Irvine Company Retail Properties, the Irvine Spectrum is a vibrant gathering spot. Filled with restaurants, stores, entertainment, and even attractions, the Irvine Spectrum Center is the perfect place for families and friends to spend quality time together.
If you’re looking to spice up your wardrobe, consider hitting up any of the fashion retailers on the premises, which include Nordstrom, Urban Outfitters, and Lululemon. Fittingly for Orange County, the center also has surf-wear brands well represented, with Hollister, Hurley, Oakley, PacSun, Quiksilver, Vans and Volcom all on-site.
With more than 10 different restaurants available at the Irvine Spectrum Center, there’s no reason why anyone should have a problem finding anything to eat — whether it’s sweet or savory. Higher-end, full-service dining options include Dining options include Brio Tuscan Grille, Cucina enoteca, Del Frisco’s Grille, Javier’s Cantina & Grill, Little Sister and Paul Martin’s American Grill. Fast casual or grab-and-go outlets include Chipotle Mexican Grill, Falasophy, The Melt, Pho Saigon Pearl and Roll Em Up Taquitos.
The center’s best attribute is its abundance of things to do. Bring your kids, friends, or significant other for a spin on the giant wheel or a twirl on the carousel. For even more thrills, consider participating in the Escape Game or Duff’s Cakemix, a unique DIY desert design studio experience. If you’re interested in a chill night, feel free to catch the latest film at the Regal Theater or enjoy a comedy shop at Irvine Improv. The options are endless at the Irvine Spectrum Center.
— Kenya Barrett
2. South Coast Plaza
3333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa; 800-782-888; southcoastplaza.com
South Coast Plaza is world-renowned as a luxury shopping center. Visitors who stop by South Coast Plaza will be welcomed by classy boutiques, designer shops, and expensive eats.
For those looking to purchase name-brand fashions and jewelry, consider shopping at Audemars Piguet, Alexander McQueen, or Balenciaga, just to name a few. Fine-dining restaurants in the plaza include AnQi Bistro, The Capital Grille, Darya Fine Persian Cuisine, Seasons 52 and the recently opened Petrossian at Tiffany.
Aside from elegant dining and shopping, South Coast Plaza is home to various art galleries. Observe masterpieces in the Martin Lawrence Galleries, Bear Street Gallery, and LIULI Crystal Art to name a few. If you’re interested in enjoying a day of classical music or a live performance, consider spending some time at the nearby Segerstrom Center for the Arts.
3. Fashion Island
401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach; 949-721-2000; fashionisland.com
Fashion Island has been a prime destination for locals and tourists alike for decades. What originally started as Newport Town Center in 1967 transformed into an iconic shopping center filled with restaurants, arts and entertainment, and of course — fashion! The outdoor shopping center
As the years passed by, the center evolved into a lively location that features everything one could ever imagine. The Lot is an upscale movie venue with elevated cuisine that includes Prosciutto & Burrata flatbread, a flat iron steak with fingerling potatoes and a spicy ahi bowl.
Visitors can use the trolley to move around Fashion Island without tiring themselves from walking. The outdoor mall also offers views of the Newport coastline. Whether you choose to enjoy a day of food and fun or a few hours of retail therapy, Fashion Island is a solid choice.