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.