Robata Wasa

Hello, Californians! If you're navigating the lively Irvine Spectrum Center and craving some delicious Japanese fare, look no further than Robata Wasa. This solid restaurant option is a favorite among locals for its convenient location and consistent availability, making it a perfect spot when you want to just "pop in" for a meal without extensive planning. While the Irvine Spectrum offers a plethora of dining choices, Robata Wasa provides a reliable and enjoyable experience, particularly if you appreciate good service and a relaxed atmosphere.

Robata Wasa delivers on a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. While the food is generally described as "decent," there's one standout item that earns rave reviews: the kids' bento. One delighted parent even proclaimed it "might be the best kids meal I've ever seen," highlighting its exceptional quality and appeal for families. Beyond the fantastic options for the little ones, you'll find a good selection of sushi, traditional rolls, hot tapas like crispy tiger shrimp and gyoza, and hearty donburi and udon dishes. From the popular California and Spicy Tuna Rolls to special creations like the Salmon & Lemon Pepper Roll and Crispy Lobster Roll, there's a dish for every craving.

Beyond the food, Robata Wasa is also appreciated for its "good service." While some patrons have noted that table sizes can be a bit snug, the staff is generally accommodating, showing a willingness to find alternative seating when possible. The "outdoor seating has pretty nice vibes," offering a pleasant ambiance for enjoying your meal, especially on those beautiful Irvine evenings. While prices might be a consideration for some, the overall convenience, quality of certain dishes, and reliable service make Robata Wasa a go-to choice for many in the Irvine area, ensuring a solid dining experience when you're looking for a Japanese fix at the Spectrum.

Robata Wasa is strategically located within the popular Irvine Spectrum Center, making it incredibly accessible for residents and visitors throughout Irvine and surrounding Orange County communities. You'll find this Japanese restaurant at 926 Spectrum Center Dr Suite 926, Irvine, CA 92618, USA. Its position within the sprawling entertainment and shopping complex ensures it's easy to spot and reach.

Accessibility to Robata Wasa is a major advantage. The Irvine Spectrum Center is well-connected by major freeways, including the I-5 and I-405, making it straightforward to drive to from almost anywhere in Orange County. Parking at the Spectrum is generally ample and convenient. The center offers extensive self-parking in both open lots and multi-level parking structures, often with real-time parking availability indicators. While some premium parking options may incur a fee, general parking is largely free, especially during evenings and weekends. This alleviates the common Californian concern about finding a parking spot, allowing for a stress-free visit.

Once at the Spectrum, navigating to Robata Wasa is easy due to clear signage and the pedestrian-friendly layout of the center. The restaurant also boasts "outdoor seating," which is a highly desirable feature in sunny Southern California, providing a pleasant al fresco dining experience with "pretty nice vibes." The restaurant is ADA-compliant, featuring accessible parking and entrances for ease of access for all guests. Its central location makes it a convenient option for a meal before or after catching a movie, shopping, or enjoying other entertainment options at the Spectrum.

Robata Wasa provides a diverse range of Japanese culinary services, catering to a broad clientele with a focus on convenience and a varied menu.

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy your meal in a "casual and trendy ambiance" with both indoor seating and appealing "outdoor seating" options that offer "pretty nice vibes." The restaurant generally "seems to have availability," making it good for spontaneous visits.

• Extensive Sushi & Sashimi Menu: A wide selection of fresh sushi and sashimi is available, including popular options like California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Salmon & Avo Roll, Crunchy Roll, Dragon Roll, and more unique Special Rolls such as Salmon & Lemon Pepper and Crispy Lobster Roll. Premium sashimi and sushi pieces like Bluefin Tuna, Toro, Yellowtail Belly, and Salmon Belly are also offered.

• Robata Grill Items (implied by name): While specific "Robata" (grilled skewer) items aren't detailed in the provided reviews, the restaurant's name suggests a focus on grilled dishes, often including various meats, seafood, and vegetables cooked over charcoal. Further public search confirms items like Grilled Salmon Collar and Grilled Yellowtail Cheek are available.

• Hot and Cold Appetizers: A variety of appetizers are offered, including classics like Edamame and Gyoza, as well as more unique options such as Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Yellowtail & Jalapeno, Tori Karaage (Japanese fried chicken), and Jalapeno Bomb.

• Donburi & Udon Dishes: For a heartier meal, Robata Wasa provides traditional Japanese rice bowls (Donburi) like Unagi Don and Deluxe Chirashi Don, and various Udon noodle soups, including Tempura Udon and Sukiyaki Beef Udon.

• Signature Bento Boxes and Platters: They offer a range of bento boxes, including the highly praised "Kids Makunouchi Bento" (featuring chicken & salmon teriyaki, tamago, tsukune, and edamame) and elaborate options like the Makunouchi Deluxe Bento and Sushi Gozen Bento. Sushi and Sashimi Platters are also available, perfect for sharing.

• Excellent Customer Service: Customers consistently report "good service" and "solid" staff, with the host being "accommodating" for table requests.

• Beverage Program: The menu includes a selection of beer, sake (including Daiginjo, Junmai Ginjo, Nigori, and hot/cold house sake), wine (red, white, sparkling, plum wine), and non-alcoholic options.

Robata Wasa at Irvine Spectrum stands out for several key features and highlights that contribute to its appeal for local diners:

• Exceptional Kids' Bento Meal: A significant highlight that receives glowing praise is the "kids bento." One reviewer claims it "might be the best kids meal I've ever seen," indicating it's a remarkably well-put-together and satisfying option for younger diners.

• Convenient Location at Irvine Spectrum with Availability: Being situated in the popular Irvine Spectrum Center is a major draw. The fact that it "generally seems to have availability" makes it a convenient choice for spontaneous dining, a valuable feature in a busy area.

• Good and Solid Service: Customers consistently report "good" and "solid" service. The staff is noted for being "accommodating," especially when requests for different seating arrangements are made, which enhances the overall dining experience.

• Nice Outdoor Seating Vibes: The "outdoor seating has pretty nice vibes," offering a pleasant al fresco dining option, which is highly desirable in California's climate and adds to the restaurant's inviting atmosphere.

• "Good" Sushi: While one review notes sushi as "pretty good," implying solid quality. Other popular items like the California Roll and Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice are highlighted, indicating a reliable standard of Japanese cuisine.

• Diverse Menu Beyond Sushi: Beyond standard rolls, the menu offers a wide array of appetizers (e.g., Crispy Tiger, Jalapeno Bomb), Donburi bowls, and Udon soups, providing extensive options for various preferences and dietary needs.

• Bento Box Options: In addition to the acclaimed kids' bento, Robata Wasa offers other comprehensive bento boxes, such as the Makunouchi Deluxe Bento and Sushi Gozen Bento, providing well-rounded meal choices.

While the provided customer reviews do not explicitly detail widespread promotional offers for Robata Wasa, general practices for restaurants at the Irvine Spectrum, combined with menu observations, suggest certain value propositions.

• Exceptional Kids' Bento Value: The highly praised "Kids Makunouchi Bento" (priced around $17) could be considered a consistent special offer due to its perceived quality and comprehensiveness for a children's meal. It includes chicken and salmon teriyaki served with tamago, tsukune, and edamame.

• Extensive Lunch Options: While not specifically called "specials" in all contexts, their various Bento Box options (Sushi Gozen, Makunouchi Deluxe) and Donburi/Udon selections during lunch hours serve as attractive, complete meal deals that offer value. For instance, the "Deluxe Chirashi Don" is a substantial offering.

• Consistent Availability: The fact that the restaurant "generally seems to have availability" can be a "promotion" in itself in a busy area like Irvine Spectrum, offering convenience without the need for reservations or long waits, which is a significant draw for spontaneous diners.

It is common for restaurants in large shopping centers to participate in center-wide events or offer happy hour deals. For the most current information on any happy hour specials, seasonal promotions, or other discounts at Robata Wasa, it is always recommended to contact the restaurant directly by phone or inquire with their staff during your visit. Checking their official website or social media channels might also provide up-to-date information on any ongoing offers.

Ready to enjoy the delicious offerings at Robata Wasa at Irvine Spectrum? Here’s how you can get in touch:

• Address: 926 Spectrum Center Dr Suite 926, Irvine, CA 92618, USA

• Phone: (949) 536-5064

• Mobile Phone: +1 949-536-5064

• Operating Hours:

  • Everyday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM

These contact details should provide you with everything you need to plan your visit, confirm operating hours, or inquire about their menu items and current availability.

For Californians, especially those residing in or frequently visiting Irvine, Robata Wasa at the Irvine Spectrum Center stands out as a highly suitable and practical dining option. Its unique attributes cater directly to the local lifestyle and preferences, making it a reliable and often preferred choice.

Firstly, its prime location within the bustling Irvine Spectrum Center offers unparalleled convenience. For many Californians, particularly families and professionals in Orange County, the Spectrum is a hub for shopping, entertainment, and dining. Robata Wasa's ability to "generally seem to have availability" is a huge plus in such a popular destination, allowing for spontaneous visits without the hassle of long waits or needing reservations, which perfectly fits a casual, on-the-go lifestyle. Ample parking at the Spectrum further enhances this convenience.

Secondly, the "good" and "solid" service, coupled with a willingness to accommodate, ensures a pleasant dining experience. While table size might be a minor consideration for some, the staff's attentiveness and efforts to resolve any issues contribute significantly to customer satisfaction. This focus on service quality resonates well with Californian diners who appreciate a smooth and enjoyable meal out.

Furthermore, Robata Wasa's diverse menu, especially its standout "kids bento," makes it an excellent choice for families. Finding a high-quality, appealing meal for children can be a challenge, and Robata Wasa seems to have mastered it, making family outings much easier and more enjoyable. Beyond the kids' menu, the "decent" quality of sushi and other Japanese dishes means that adults also have satisfying options, whether they're craving classic rolls or a hearty udon.

Finally, the "pretty nice vibes" of the outdoor seating provide an inviting atmosphere that taps into California's love for al fresco dining. This makes Robata Wasa not just a place to eat, but a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Spectrum. Overall, Robata Wasa offers a dependable, convenient, and family-friendly Japanese dining experience that perfectly suits the needs and desires of the local Californian community.

Robata Wasa

926 Spectrum Center Dr Suite 926, Irvine, CA 92618, USA