Orange County will soon be home to a second Pepper Lunch, a Japanese-born, fast-casual DIY teppan restaurant that is set open at Irvine Spectrum Center on Friday, February 7, 2025. Since debuting its “sizzle-it-your-way” serving style 30 years ago, the experiential concept has grown to more than 520 locations in 16 countries. With a thriving restaurant at Diamond Jamboree since 2018, Pepper Lunch is set to increase its visibility as it opens at Irvine Spectrum Center, one of Southern California’s largest lifestyle centers, which is located within an expansive master-planned business and residential community.
Pepper Lunch differentiates itself by blending traditional Japanese cooking with a modern do-it-yourself dining experience that diners crave. Their menu focuses on bold, flavorful dishes, featuring high-quality ingredients, presented with convenience and affordability at the forefront. The brand prides itself on offering more than 40 distinct dishes, each for under $20.
“Pepper Lunch is a concept that has its finger on the pulse of what diners want – this has been proven with its tremendous popularity worldwide,” commented Paul Tran, Director of Franchise Development at Pepper Lunch, who is also spearheading multi-unit expansion as a franchisee in a statement. “Our new location at Irvine Spectrum Center ensures that the brand is able to connect with a high number of locals, many of whom will be first-time diners, who we are confident will become brand enthusiasts and loyal guests.
Pepper Lunch’s menu complements the diverse culinary offerings available at Irvine Spectrum Center. By melding tradition with modernity, the concept achieves an unexpected sophistication through its commitment to a straightforward, yet premium palette of ingredients. Guests become chefs, as they are presented with their choice of uncooked proteins and ingredients, along with a 570-degree iron plate to serve as a personal griddle.
Pepper Lunch’s something-for-everyone menu presents a variety of offerings, including its signature “pepper rice” dishes. Its famous Beef Pepper Rice combines tender beef with fragrant rice, flavorful pepper paste, and cracked pepper on a sizzling plate to create the ultimate comfort food. In addition to Pepper Rice offerings, the menu features savory Sizzling Curry Rice, as well as Teriyaki options. The restaurant also offers a variety of pasta dishes, including Aglio Olio Teppan Pasta, featuring light oil and chili flakes; and Cream Teppan Pasta, with mushrooms and cream sauce over pasta.
For those looking for lighter fresh, yet flavorful fare, Pepper Lunch’s menu offers a selection of Pepper Salads featuring choice of protein with vibrant vegetables over mixed greens. The restaurant also offers a variety of sides, including Sweet Potato Wedges, Seaweed Shake Salad and Miso Soup. Beverages include ITO EN organic green tea and Tractor Beverage certified organic, non-GMO offerings.
Pepper Lunch is set to open to the public on Friday, February 7 at 11 a.m., when the restaurant will kick off a three-day Grand Opening Weekend Celebration. On Friday, February 7 through Sunday, February 9, the first 100 guests each day will receive a complimentary Pepper Rice Plate of their choice. The new eatery will also offer a Buy One, Get One Free offer on its popular Beef Pepper Rice dish all weekend, and everyone who visits during Grand Opening Weekend will be entered to win Free Pepper Lunch for a Year, partake in gift card and merchandise giveaways, while supplies last.
Pepper Lunch at Irvine Spectrum Center is located at 509 Spectrum Center Drive (near Regal Irvine Spectrum). The restaurant will be open to the public on February 7, 2025; opening hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
