Last week, the hand model and I visited the newest Mendocino Farms Sandwich Market location at UCI's University Town Center in Irvine.
I remember back in the day hanging out at this "mini mall" as a teenager. The only fun things to do consisted of a movie theater, some expensive restaurants you'd hope mom & dad could take you to, and, of course, the 18 and over dance club (now gone).
My how times have changed. Nowadays the place is booming with all sorts of options, like Nekter Juice Bar, Slapfish, Tender Greens, Trader Joe's, Yogurtland, and so much more.
This Mendocino Farms location is spacious with a great outdoor patio complete with string lights and my personal favorite pastime, a foosball table.
The cafe is walk-up and order style, but they bring you your food and beverage (Craft Beer and Wine!), and you get free tastings of the delectable Deli Salads at the counter. The service is attentive and super friendly, too (I think we got asked how we were doing about 5 times in 1 hour).
The Grubdown:
- a fancy Mediterranean 'everything-but-the-kitchen-sink' style salad, The Sophisticated Chicken & Proscuitto Salad with Roasted Shaved Free Range Chicken Breast, Creminelli Proscuitto, Seasonal Market Roasted Veggies, local Gioala Fresh Mozzarella, Crushed Honey Roasted Almonds, Marinated Red Peppers, Red Onions, Grape Tomatoes, Scarborough Farm's Greens, Butter Lettuce, Romaine & Basil-Pesto Balsamic Vinaigrette $10.95
- spicy, super tenderized meat that melts in your mouth with buttery flaky roll, Peruvian Steak Sandwich with Spicy Aji Amarillo Marinade, Oaxacan Cheese, Herb Aioli, Red Onions, Tomatoes, Shredded Romaine & Avocado (add $1) on Panini-Pressed Torta Bun $10.95
- the best of the deli salads, sweet, spicy n hearty, Curry Israeli Cous Cous
- light, fluffy 'n fruity, Red Quinoa with Beets & Almonds
You can rest assured the seasonal & local food here is good tasting and good for you. The flavors are clean and yet the portions are big, so bring your appetite! (The hand model and I could barely finish it all, especially with our Craft Beers to wash it down with.)
Bon Appetit!
4187 Campus Drive, Irvine, CA 92612. 949-783-2900.
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