THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Kona Grill

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Kona Grill Restaurant Review:

Like most of the better restaurants in Irvine Spectrum, this Orange County iteration of the rapidly growing national semi-chain does a good job of masking the presence of the outdoor shopping center. Deep blues, dark woods and colorful aquariums that match the tropical vibe of the cocktail program provide the interior with a type of sleekness befitting a standalone metropolitan restaurant. The menu’s mix of sushi and contemporary Pan-Asian fare with some decided American touches is somewhat unique, but it’s executed rather well. We recommend oscillating between the culinary genres, starting off with the just-right spicy citrus shrimp tempura and then gravitating to a specialty roll, like the spider roll with deep-fried soft shell crab, avocado and eel sauce. Some of the mains, from flatbreads to sandwiches like the braised kalua pork Cuban, are light enough to accompany a couple orders of sushi. Others like the miso-saké sea bass with shrimp and pork fried rice and Pan-Asian ratatouille are hearty enough to stand on their own. Be sure to save room for the butter cake at the end of your meal.