Sweetgreen Opens at Irvine’s University Center

Sweetgreen is opening its second Irvine location on Tuesday, May 12, at University Center near UC Irvine. The mission-driven restaurant brand, known for its fresh salads, warm bowls and protein plates, will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the 3,350-square-foot space.

The menu includes Sweetgreen favorites such as the Harvest Bowl, Crispy Rice Bowl, Caramelized Garlic Steak and Miso Glazed Salmon. For a limited time, guests can also try the new Chicken Sesame Crunch salad, a citrus-forward take on a California classic, along with a Korean BBQ-inspired menu featuring Sweetgreen’s popular protein paired with a savory glaze and balanced heat.

The University Center location will also introduce Sweetgreen’s newest menu format, wraps. The protein-packed wraps are designed for meals on the go and include options such as Chicken Caesar, Jalapeño Ranch and Bacon Club, each with more than 40 grams of protein.

Sweetgreen’s focus on fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients is reflected throughout the restaurant, from its open kitchen to a visible source board highlighting partner farms and suppliers. Ingredients at the Irvine location will include baby spinach, wild arugula and spring mix from Jayleaf; cilantro and romaine from Coastal Fresh Farms; and kale from Dynasty Farms.

Guests can order in person, online or through the Sweetgreen app, which includes access to SG Rewards. Members earn points toward perks, exclusive offers and free menu items.

To celebrate the opening, Sweetgreen will host several community events throughout the week at University Center.

On Tuesday, May 12, beginning at 10 a.m., the grand opening celebration will include giveaways featuring seasonal produce-inspired candles from Happy Organics, limited-edition Sweetgreen merchandise and an appearance by UC Irvine mascot Peter the Anteater. The first 75 in-store guests between 10 and 11 a.m. will receive a complimentary entrée, up to a $20 value, while supplies last.

On Thursday, May 14, from 5 to 8 p.m., Sweetgreen will host a junk journaling evening with Junklub, featuring curated Junk Boxes for the first 50 guests and complimentary boba from Cha for Tea.

On Saturday, May 16, beginning at noon, Sweetgreen will partner with neighboring business The Drop Irvine for a vintage and streetwear pop-up alongside teas from Aurelia Teas.

Sweetgreen is also partnering with Food Finders, the nonprofit food rescue organization focused on reducing hunger and food waste in local communities. For every meal purchased on opening day, Sweetgreen will donate a bowl to help nourish people experiencing food insecurity in Orange County.

4289 Campus Drive, Irvine.

Alabaster International Debuts in OC with ‘Her Light & Legacy’

Alabaster International is making its Orange County debut with a community event on Thursday, May 15, 2026, at Deli Nerds in Costa Mesa. The nonprofit supports the health, nutrition and empowerment of indigenous women and families in East Africa and Sri Lanka, and this gathering offers a meaningful way for the local community to connect with its mission.

Titled Her Light & Legacy | An Evening with Alabaster International, the event introduces the organization to Orange County while building momentum for a larger fundraising gala planned for September 12, 2026.

The day begins with an all-day dine-out fundraiser, with 10 percent of all food purchases at Deli Nerds benefiting Alabaster International’s programs. The evening program runs from 7 to 9 p.m. and includes light bites and champagne, remarks from founder and CEO Shannon Fernando-Rubera, and interactive experiences such as the “Wall of Women” storytelling display and “I Believe in Her” card activity. Guests can also take part in raffle drawings, browse select silent auction items and find opportunities to give.

Admission is complimentary, with suggested donations welcomed. Space is limited, and advance RSVP through Eventbrite is encouraged.

Founded in 2012, Alabaster International partners with local communities and NGOs to deliver sustainable, community-driven solutions across healthcare, nutrition, food security, female entrepreneurship and education. Its work spans Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan and Sri Lanka, with a focus on equipping women with the tools and resources needed to strengthen their communities for generations.

“This event is about connection, bringing the stories and the work we do globally right here to Orange County,” said Fernando-Rubera. “We’re excited to meet our local community, share how women-led initiatives create lasting change, and build support for even greater impact through our September gala.”

The May 15 event offers an approachable way to learn more, meet the founder and connect with others supporting women around the world.

Mother’s Day Dining Across Orange County

Whether it is an elegant afternoon tea, a relaxed coastal brunch, or a comforting Southern meal, Orange County restaurants are planning thoughtful ways to celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 10.

In Anaheim and Irvine, Puesto is offering a complimentary Pistachio Tres Leches Cake for moms dining in. The dessert highlights pistachio in multiple forms, finished with passionfruit whipped cream. Pair it with a Puesto Perfect Margarita made with tequila reposado, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar. Menus, locations, and reservations are available at eatpuesto.com.

In Costa Mesa, Knife Pleat at South Coast Plaza is hosting a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Michelin-starred Chef Tony Esnault’s service includes premium LaMill tea, tea sandwiches, and a selection of pastries, with optional caviar and champagne upgrades. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Book at exploretock.com/knifepleat or call 714-266-3388.

Also in Costa Mesa, Naisho Omakase offers an intimate 14-seat experience with 12- or 16-course tastings curated by Chef Shimpei Shinohara. The restaurant will be open from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., with the last seating at 9:30 p.m. Reservations can be made at naishoomakase.com.

In Huntington Beach, The Waterfront Beach Resort is hosting an oceanfront brunch buffet in the Breakwater Ballroom and Vista Lawns. The menu includes seafood, carving, omelet, and dessert stations. Seating runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Details and reservations are available at waterfrontresort.com.

In Irvine, Georgia’s Restaurant is serving a Soulful Sunday Brunch with favorites such as fried chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and cinnamon-apple waffles. Each mom receives a complimentary mimosa. More information is available at georgias-restaurant.com.

In Laguna Beach, Driftwood Kitchen is offering a waterfront brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with carving stations, seafood, made-to-order omelets, and desserts. Reservations can be made at opentable.com/driftwood-kitchen or by calling 949-715-7700.

In Newport Beach, Sushi Roku at Fashion Island is featuring special dishes including Chilean seabass, tiramisu, and a Sakura Pear Martini. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended at sushiroku.com/menus/newport-beach or by calling 949-706-3622.

In Orange, Bruxie will open its Old Towne location early at 7 a.m., serving its signature waffle sandwiches, chicken tenders, and custard shakes. Details are available at bruxie.com. Haven Craft Kitchen+Bar will offer brunch from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by dinner service, with seasonal additions and classic favorites. Reservations can be made at havencraftkitchen.com or by calling 714-221-0680.

In San Clemente, ILYA is hosting a Coastal Mediterranean brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a menu that ranges from mezze and seafood to dry-aged ribeye and classic desserts. Reservations are available at ILYArestaurant.com. Zov’s, recently opened in San Clemente, will also be serving its signature California Mediterranean cuisine. More information can be found at ZOVS.com.

In Tustin and Newport Beach, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar will offer brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and dinner from 4 p.m. to close, featuring Chef Yvon Goetz’s Wine Country-inspired dishes. Reservations and menus are available at thewineryrestaurants.com or by calling 714-258-7600 for Tustin and 949-999-6622 for Newport Beach.