If you’ve been anywhere near Irvine Spectrum Center lately, you’ve probably heard the buzz—Din Tai Fung Irvine Spectrum is officially open. And naturally, we had to try it.
From the moment you walk in, it’s exactly what you’d expect: clean, modern, and packed with energy. It’s the kind of place that instantly becomes part of the lifestyle here—one of those “this is why people love living in Irvine” spots.
Now let’s talk about the food.
The classics absolutely deliver. The soup dumplings (xiao long bao) are just as good as the hype—perfectly delicate with rich, flavorful broth. The noodles and fried rice? Consistent, comforting, and easy crowd-pleasers.
But the wildcard here is the black sesame xiao long bao.
Flavor-wise? Honestly, a 10/10. It’s unique, slightly sweet, and something you don’t typically find. But aesthetically… let’s just say it’s memorable. One bite in and you might find yourself mid-conversation with a black-tinted smile—so maybe not the best first-date order.
That said, it’s all part of the experience. Spots like this aren’t just about the food—they’re about trying something new, sharing it, and being part of what’s trending locally.
And that’s really the bigger picture. Openings like this continue to elevate Irvine’s dining scene, adding to the everyday lifestyle that draws so many people to the area.
So… would you risk the black sesame XLB? 👀
