This Quirky Hidden Gem in Irvine, CA is a Bucket-list Bite

By Jeremy Schwegmann
BlogDestinationsHidden Gem RestaurantsIrvineNewsUSA

Tucked away in Irvine’s corporate landscape, Benny and Mary’s is a secret worth sharing.

This women- and veteran-owned hotspot masquerades as a corporate cafe by day but transforms into a retro-chic dining destination by night.

Think speakeasy vibes meets modern flair, with dishes that zigzag between comfort food and inventive twists. 🥂

Food Highlights

Succulent roasted lamb shank served with creamy mashed potatoes and grilled vegetables, garnished with fresh herbs, on an elegant dinner plate for a gourmet dining experience.
Keith
  • Grilled Cheese Dumplings: Crispy wontons oozing with melted cheddar, dunked in a tangy tomato bisque. A nostalgic crowd-pleaser with a gourmet upgrade.
  • Lobster Egg Benedict: Brunch royalty—buttery lobster tail meets silky hollandaise on a toasted brioche base. Weekend warriors swear by it.
  • Short Rib Osso Bucco: Fall-off-the-bone braised rib in a red wine glaze, paired with creamy polenta. Perfect for meat lovers seeking indulgence.
  • Mary’s Frenchie Feast: A shareable platter of duck confit, steak frites, and garlicky escargot. Ideal for groups craving a taste of Paris.
  • Vegan Meatloaf: Smoky, savory, and smothered in mushroom gravy. Even carnivores sneak bites. 🌱
  • Classic Cheesecake: Silky-smooth with a graham cracker crust. Topped with seasonal berries—because dessert needs drama. 🍰

Related: Have You Tried These 2 Finger Lickin’ Burger Spots in Irvine, CA?

Atmosphere

Step into a moody, Instagram-ready wonderland where velvet booths meet Edison bulbs and bookshelves lined with vintage curios.

Luxurious restaurant interior with elegant chandeliers, dark floral curtains, and sophisticated dining setup, perfect for upscale dining experiences and travel-inspired ambiance.
Maria

The pièce de résistance? A hidden library door that leads to a speakeasy-style lounge.

Bookshelf with decorative books and artwork in a cozy, stylish library or cafe setting at Go To Destinations.
Tiffany

Whether it’s date night or a client dinner, the vibe balances coziness with a dash of Hollywood glam. Live piano tunes on weekends add to the magic. 🎹

Bottom Line

Benny and Mary’s isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Come for the bold flavors, stay for the secret doors and killer cocktails.

Pro tip: Ask about their “Konga” cocktail—a cognac-based stunner that’s almost too pretty to drink. Almost. 🎩

Address: 18420 Von Karman Ave Ste 100, Irvine, CA 92612
📞 (714) 439-1733
🕔 Open daily; hours vary (check website for updates)

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