NEW Restaurant Review: Brunch at Habana in Irvine

There's a new HABANA in the OC folks!

Habana Irvine opened up at the Spectrum Shopping Center in early December without too much fuss. If you've been to the original location in Costa Mesa you already know they cook up some amazing authentic Cuban food and this location is no different! The CM location has long been a staple of OC with great food, drinks and a fun romantic ambiance. Dare I say, the new location is even better! Built especially for Habana, the new restaurant in Irvine has the feel of visiting a good friend's Cuban estate with a large outdoor wraparound patio surrounded by lovely palm trees with huge fronds that block you off from passerbys and really, the shopping center itself. You really do feel a bit transported!

Roasted Lechon 

If you haven't tried out the new Irvine location (or even if you have!) they are just starting brunch service this coming Sunday, January 14th so there's no better time! I was able to get a preview and have to say, I was very impressed!

Not surprisingly, there is a fabulous selection of Cuban dishes including tender roasted lechon from the whole pig, fall-apart ropa vieja, juicy roasted chicken, fried plantains and several others. 

Omelettes! 

For those seeking more traditional brunch items there are also made to order omelets, waffles with all the toppings, a huge seafood station featuring crab legs and shrimp, and tons of other traditional brunch offerings.

All Those DESSERTS! 

AND if you think you'll be exiting this brunch without dessert, you better think again! The dessert offerings are almost over the top - so much so they could almost offer a 'dessert brunch' and charge for it on it's own! Items range from cookies, fruit tarts, and chocolate mousse to the more creative passionfruit and guava cheesecake petit-fours. Trust me, there is something for everyone at this dessert bar and nobody will be leaving disappointed!

Opening Coconuts! 

Habana Irvine's Brunch Service starts Sunday, January 14th and will be served from 10-3pm, every Sunday.
Price is $38 for adults/$19 for kids 10 and under.  

All you can eat brunch buffet. Drinks are optional but you'll find it hard to resist their yummy spiked whole coconuts, popped open right on the premises. Make your reservations today as I'm sure this will be a popular brunch!

Habana Irvine

708 Spectrum Center Dr.

Irvine CA

949/419-0100

The new Habana is pretty fabulous!