Diamond Jamboree, Irvine, California - Image 1
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Diamond Jamboree Irvine California

4.3
·3k reviews·Irvine, United States

A bustling plaza packed with diverse Asian restaurants, unique shops, and an esports arena. A true culinary and entertainment destination.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Diamond Jamboree, Irvine, California - Image 1

Diamond Jamboree Irvine California

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling plaza packed with diverse Asian restaurants, unique shops, and an esports arena. A true culinary and entertainment destination.

4.3
(3k reviews)

"This place was like heaven for me. The place is packed with 5 star restaurants, bakeries, desert places, and little stores on the first floor."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Use the large parking garage behind the building if front spots are full. :car:

🍜 Come Hungry!

So many diverse Asian food options, from ramen to curry eating contests! :ramen:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Culinary Delights

Culinary Delights

An overwhelming array of Asian restaurants, from ramen and pho to sushi and hot pot. Explore diverse flavors!

Reddit
Contender eSports Arena

Contender eSports Arena

Level up your visit at this gaming hub offering PCs and consoles for public play.

Instagram
H Mart

H Mart

A popular Asian supermarket for groceries, snacks, and unique imported goods.

Reddit
Unique Boutiques

Unique Boutiques

Discover K-beauty, Japanese beauty products, and other specialty shops.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Culinary Maze

Diamond Jamboree is a foodie's paradise with countless Asian restaurants. Come hungry and ready to explore! Parking can be tricky, especially on weekends, so consider arriving early or using the garage behind the building. Reddit

Beyond the Bites

While known for its food, Diamond Jamboree also offers unique shops, including K-beauty and Japanese beauty products, and even an esports arena. Plan for more than just a meal! Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, diverse options
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Relaxed pace, good for shopping
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Here comes the 3lb curry eating contest 🍛 at diamond jamboree in Irvine!!
@rainaiscrazy
126.1K likes • 1.4M views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Use the large parking garage behind the building if front spots are full. Reddit :car:

🍜 Come Hungry!

So many diverse Asian food options, from ramen to curry eating contests! TikTok+1 :ramen:

Curry eating contest at diamond jamboree in Irvine, CA
@rainaiscrazy
37.1K likes • 556K views
You can bring any of your peripherals to play whatever game you’d like on our set ups! Located on the second floor of the Diamond Jamboree shopping center! #contenderesports #esportsdaily #esports #gaming #irvine #irvinecalifornia #gamingcommunity #gamingpc #playstation5 #xbox #california
coopersirvine
24 likes • 392 views

🎮 Gaming Fun

Check out Contender eSports for gaming sessions, sometimes with free play days! Instagram :video_game:

🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop

Explore K-beauty, Japanese goods, and H Mart for unique finds. Reddit :shopping_bags:

PEPPER LUNCH at Diamond Jamboree in Irvine! One of my fave Japanese restaurant chains in California! When this first opened ever in the U.S. @dduc and I waited 2 hours 😱😱😱 Anyway the food is still 👌👌. Loving the pepper-yness and the hot skillet!!! #irvine #ocfoodie #pepperlunch #orange county #orangecountyfood #Japanese #skillet #foodie #foodtour #foodguide #ochiddengems #beef #brisket #curry
x3hoppie
124 likes • 5.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Use the large parking garage behind the building if front spots are full. Reddit :car:

🍜 Come Hungry!

So many diverse Asian food options, from ramen to curry eating contests! TikTok+1 :ramen:

🎮 Gaming Fun

Check out Contender eSports for gaming sessions, sometimes with free play days! Instagram :video_game:

🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop

Explore K-beauty, Japanese goods, and H Mart for unique finds. Reddit :shopping_bags:

⏰ Beat the Rush

Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience with easier parking. Reddit :clock1:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Diamond Jamboree is a highly-rated destination praised for its incredible variety of Asian restaurants and unique shops, making it a vibrant hub for foodies and shoppers alike. While parking can be a hassle, the diverse culinary scene, including popular spots like Pepper Lunch and H Mart, ensures a satisfying experience for most visitors. Reddit

"I was looking for a Coco curry house to eat at since I had not eaten at one in about eight years. I found one here and quickly and so many other great eating choices.

This place was like heaven for me. The place is packed with 5 star restaurants, bakeries, desert places, and little stores on the first floor. There was a nice high end liquor store upstairs and another eatery.

Needing some nail work or plastic surgery? That was on the second floor too. Go ahead honey, I’ll be trying to eat a little bit at all the places downstairs while you go get even more beautiful.

Parking can be a pain, but there is a huge parking garage behind the building for the facility.

There also some other places on the out skirts of the parking lot but I didn’t have time to make it by all of them. You can easily spend a long afternoon here.

I’ll be back again and again."

its a beer life

"Free covered parking in the back of there aren't any sports in the front! This place has such cute restaurants and shops! Great place to get food and shop for some k beauty and Japanese beauty products."

Brynn Carter

"Great center! During the Covid crisis they handled the situation pretty well. I like several restaurants in this center so I visit often. The BCD is the best choice there, second is the bbq chicken. The 85 degree and somisomi complete your journey. Make sure to check out this shopping center."

Hesam Abedini

What People Like

Vast selection of Asian food
Unique shops and H Mart
Lively atmosphere

What People Dislike

Challenging parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Diamond Jamboree is located at 2700 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA 92606. It's easily accessible by car. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the most common way to reach the plaza. TikTok

Parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours. There's a large parking garage located behind the main building, which is often recommended. Street parking is also available but can fill up quickly. TikTokReddit

While specific accessibility details are not widely publicized, most modern shopping centers like Diamond Jamboree aim to be accessible. It's advisable to contact individual businesses within the plaza for specific needs.

Public transportation in Irvine can be sparse. While some bus routes may pass nearby, it's not the most convenient option. Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are a good alternative if you don't have a car. TikTok

To avoid the busiest traffic and parking situations, aim to visit on weekday mornings or early afternoons. Weekend evenings are typically the most crowded. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Diamond Jamboree is an open-air shopping plaza and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely walk around and explore the shops and restaurants. Reddit

There are no admission fees to enter Diamond Jamboree. You only pay for any food, drinks, or merchandise you purchase from the individual establishments. Reddit

The operating hours for Diamond Jamboree itself are generally from morning until late evening. However, individual shops and restaurants within the plaza will have their own specific hours. It's best to check the hours for specific businesses you plan to visit.

Many restaurants in Diamond Jamboree accept reservations, especially for dinner. It's highly recommended to call ahead or check their websites, particularly for popular spots like Din Tai Fung dupes or hot pot restaurants, to avoid long waits. TikTok

Contender eSports is located on the second floor of the Diamond Jamboree shopping center. Look for signage directing you to the second-floor entrance. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Diamond Jamboree is renowned for its extensive selection of Asian cuisine. You'll find everything from Japanese ramen and sushi to Korean BBQ, Chinese dumplings, Vietnamese pho, and even unique offerings like curry eating contests. TikTokInstagramReddit+2

Yes, Ajisen Ramen is a popular choice located in Diamond Jamboree, known for its fresh, daily-made noodles. Other Asian eateries also offer noodle dishes. Instagram

Popular spots include Pepper Lunch for its sizzling skillet meals, BCD Tofu House for Korean soft tofu stew, and various dumpling and sushi restaurants. There's also a highly-rated Din Tai Fung dupe. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

While many Asian cuisines are meat-heavy, you can often find vegetarian or vegan options, especially at pho restaurants or places offering vegetable stir-fries. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant about their specific offerings.

TikTok videos have showcased a 3lb curry eating contest held at Diamond Jamboree, highlighting the adventurous and competitive food scene present. TikTok+2

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Activities

Beyond dining, Diamond Jamboree features a variety of shops, including H Mart for groceries, K-beauty and Japanese beauty product stores, and specialty boutiques. Reddit

Yes, Contender eSports is located on the second floor, offering gaming PCs and consoles where you can play various games or log into your own accounts. Instagram+2

H Mart is a popular Asian supermarket chain offering a wide range of groceries, produce, snacks, and household items, making it a key destination within Diamond Jamboree. Reddit

Absolutely! Diamond Jamboree is packed with dessert spots, from bakeries like 85°C Bakery Cafe to ice cream shops like SomiSomi, offering taiyaki ice cream. Reddit

The vibe is energetic and bustling, especially on weekends, with a strong focus on Asian culture and cuisine. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant signage of the restaurants, the bustling atmosphere, and the diverse food offerings make for great photo opportunities. The H Mart interior also offers unique visual elements. TikTok

Generally, yes, you can take photos inside restaurants, especially of your food. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other diners and staff. Some establishments might have specific policies.

Diamond Jamboree is primarily a commercial plaza, so scenic natural views are limited. The visual appeal comes from the vibrant architecture and the lively streetscape of the plaza itself. TikTok

Food photography is extremely popular due to the vast array of culinary options. Lifestyle and street photography capturing the plaza's energy are also common. TikTok

It's best to be respectful and avoid taking intrusive photos of individuals without their consent. Focus on the general atmosphere, food, and shops. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Diamond Jamboree offers a fantastic outing for families, especially those who enjoy exploring diverse cuisines. The sheer variety of restaurants means picky eaters can likely find something they'll enjoy, from kid-friendly noodle dishes to sweet treats. Reddit Consider visiting H Mart for fun snacks and unique drinks. Reddit For a change of pace, Contender eSports offers a fun activity for older kids and teens, though it's best to check age recommendations and pricing. Instagram Parking can be a challenge, so arriving earlier in the day or on a weekday is advisable to make the experience smoother.

💰 Budget Travelers

While some restaurants can be upscale, Diamond Jamboree offers plenty of budget-friendly options. Look for casual eateries serving pho, banh mi, or boba tea. Instagram Exploring H Mart for snacks and pre-made meals can also be economical. Reddit The Din Tai Fung dupe is a great way to enjoy dumplings without the premium price tag. TikTok Many shops offer affordable beauty products, and simply walking around and enjoying the atmosphere is free. Reddit

💑 Couples on a Date

Diamond Jamboree is an excellent choice for a dinner date, offering a wide array of cuisines to suit any preference. Choose a cozy ramen shop,Instagram a lively hot pot restaurant, or a more intimate sushi spot. Reddit After dinner, you can explore the unique shops or even enjoy a sweet treat from one of the many dessert places like SomiSomi. Reddit The lively atmosphere makes for a fun and engaging evening. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Culinary Adventure

Diamond Jamboree is a true haven for food lovers, boasting an incredible concentration of Asian restaurants. From the sizzling plates at Pepper Lunch Instagram+1 to the comforting bowls of ramen at Ajisen Ramen,Instagram the options are vast. You can find authentic Chinese dumplings, Vietnamese pho, Korean BBQ, and even participate in unique events like a 3lb curry eating contest. TikTok+2 Many visitors rave about the quality and variety, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Irvine's food scene. Reddit

Beyond the mainstays, Diamond Jamboree also features a highly-regarded Din Tai Fung dupe, offering a more affordable take on the famous soup dumplings. TikTok The plaza is also home to H Mart, a popular Asian supermarket, which adds another layer to the culinary experience, allowing visitors to stock up on unique ingredients and snacks. Reddit The sheer density of dining options means you could spend an entire day or weekend here and still not try everything. Reddit

Gaming and Entertainment Hub

While food is a primary draw, Diamond Jamboree also caters to gamers and entertainment seekers. Contender eSports, located on the second floor, is a significant attraction. Instagram This venue offers access to high-performance gaming PCs and consoles, allowing visitors to play their favorite titles or even log into their own accounts. Instagram They occasionally host special events, including free play days, making it an accessible spot for the gaming community. Instagram

The presence of an esports arena adds a modern, dynamic element to the plaza, appealing to a younger demographic and offering an alternative activity beyond dining. It transforms Diamond Jamboree from just a shopping center into a multifaceted entertainment destination. Instagram

Shopping Beyond Groceries

Diamond Jamboree isn't just about eating; it's also a destination for unique retail experiences. H Mart is a major draw, providing a comprehensive selection of Asian groceries, produce, and specialty items that are hard to find elsewhere. Reddit This makes it a go-to spot for those looking to recreate authentic Asian dishes at home or simply explore new flavors. Reddit

In addition to the supermarket, the plaza hosts various boutiques specializing in K-beauty and Japanese beauty products. These stores offer a curated selection of skincare, makeup, and personal care items, appealing to shoppers interested in global beauty trends. Reddit The combination of diverse dining, gaming, and specialized retail creates a vibrant and engaging atmosphere that keeps visitors returning. Reddit