Location
2000 Main St. Suite 100
Irvine CA 92614
Hours
Monday — Sunday
11:30pm — 3pm
5pm - 10pm
Our Signature Menus
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Uni Scallop Carpaccio
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Sushi Hachi Mori
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Toro Roll
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Uni Amaebi Bowl
Meet The Team
Don Yoon
Head Chef - Izakaya Osen Irvine
Don Yoon, a seasoned Corporate Sushi Chef with over 20 years of experience, is renowned for his mastery of traditional sushi and innovative approach to Japanese cuisine. Currently with the Izakaya Osen Group, Ji Hoon’s expertise and dedication to excellence have earned him widespread recognition.
His culinary philosophy blends respect for traditional techniques with creativity, focusing on precision, integrity, and the highest standards of food safety. Ji Hoon prioritizes exceptional guest experiences and staff training, ensuring each dish reflects a commitment to quality.
In partnership with owner Damon Cho, Ji Hoon played a key role in the successful launch of the group’s second location in Irvine. Their shared commitment to culinary excellence and innovation has strengthened the restaurant's reputation. As Head Chef of the original Izakaya Osen in Silverlake, Ji Hoon's meticulous attention to detail and innovative techniques have earned the restaurant numerous accolades, further establishing its success in a competitive dining landscape.
Hugo Mendez
Head Kitchen Chef - Izakaya Osen Irvine
Hugo Mendez is the passionate and highly skilled Head Kitchen Chef at Izakaya Osen in Irvine. With years of hands-on culinary experience, Hugo masterfully blends the artistry of traditional Japanese cuisine with his own innovative and creative techniques to craft dishes that are both authentic and uniquely memorable.
Driven by a deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions, Hugo carefully refines each recipe with precision, heart, and an unwavering commitment to quality. His ability to harmonize time-honored methods with modern creativity allows him to deliver flavors that surprise and delight our guests with every bite.
A genuine and humble professional, Hugo leads the kitchen with dedication and discipline. His tireless work ethic and attention to detail inspire those around him, and his ultimate goal is always to provide the best possible dining experience for every customer who walks through our doors.
Thanks to Hugo’s leadership and culinary vision, the kitchen at Izakaya Osen Irvine continues to be a source of culinary excellence—where passion, tradition, and innovation come together to create unforgettable meals.
Philip Kim
General Manager - Izakaya Osen Irvine
Philip Kim is the newest General Manager at Izakaya Osen in Irvine, bringing a wealth of experience and a sharp eye for detail to one of our busiest and most high-traffic locations. From the moment he stepped into his role, Philip has demonstrated exceptional attentiveness and a strong commitment to upholding the high standards of service our guests expect.
With a careful and thoughtful approach, Philip continuously monitors the flow of the restaurant—ensuring every detail, from front-of-house to kitchen operations, runs smoothly. His dedication to spotting and resolving potential issues before they arise plays a key role in maintaining an efficient and welcoming environment.
What truly sets Philip apart is his genuine hospitality and wholehearted dedication to the Osen philosophy. He leads with a warm, guest-first mindset, going above and beyond to ensure every customer feels valued and every team member feels supported.
Jaite Lim
General Manager - Izakaya Osen Irvine
As the General Manager of the busiest and most dynamic location in the Osen Group, Jaite Lim plays a pivotal role in ensuring the continued excellence of Izakaya Osen Irvine. With years of experience in hospitality and a naturally generous, grounded personality, Jaite has built a strong culture of teamwork, respect, and care. His leadership bridges the front-of-house and kitchen staff, fostering seamless communication and mutual trust that translates into an elevated guest experience every night.
Jaite is known not only for his calm and attentive presence, but also for his proactive and thoughtful approach to service. He is constantly engaged—watching, listening, and interacting with customers to understand what delights them and what may need improvement. Whether it's anticipating a guest's needs before they ask or following up on feedback with quiet determination, Jaite makes it his mission to ensure every diner leaves feeling valued and well taken care of.
His leadership extends beyond daily operations. Jaite is deeply invested in developing his team, mentoring new staff, and creating an environment where everyone feels motivated to do their best. He believes that great service comes from within—from a team that feels supported, confident, and aligned with the restaurant’s vision.
@izakayaosenirvine