Overview

Kare Japanese Curry in Irvine offers a genuine taste of Japan through its carefully crafted curry dishes. Nestled on Campus Drive, this restaurant shines as a go-to spot for those craving hearty, flavorful Japanese curry plates. The highlight here is undeniably the Chicken Katsu Curry Plate—a crispy, juicy cutlet bathed in a rich, savory curry sauce that echoes the authentic flavors familiar to anyone who has experienced Japanese comfort food.

The menu goes beyond the classic chicken, featuring options like tender pork belly and beef belly plates that are equally satisfying. Each plate is thoughtfully accompanied by fluffy white rice, pickled radish, and garnishes like green onions, creating a balanced and comforting meal. Sides such as vegetable and chicken gyoza, shrimp tempura, and uniquely seasoned fries add variety, perfect for sharing or customizing your meal.

The environment at Kare Japanese Curry complements the dining experience well. The space is clean and inviting, with a casual ambiance that suits solo diners, professionals grabbing a quick bite, and casual dates alike. Friendly staff and efficient service make both dine-in and to-go orders seamless. Customers often highlight the swift pickup times and well-packaged meals, though a small attention to detail like including utensils could enhance takeaway convenience.

What stands out most is the authentic curry—rich, flavorful, and reminiscent of what you’d find in Japan. It’s hearty, comforting, and powerful enough to turn a simple lunch into something memorable. Whether you’re a working professional seeking a satisfying midweek meal or someone looking to indulge in quality Japanese comfort food without the fuss, Kare Japanese Curry delivers consistently.

In summary, Kare Japanese Curry offers a concise yet immersive experience of Japanese curry cuisine with highlights like juicy chicken katsu, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly, and flavorful sides. The location and atmosphere cater well to a diverse audience—from food enthusiasts to casual diners—making it a strong contender for your next meal in Irvine.


Amenities & Services

Offerings
Quick bite

What Customers Say

Kyleellen Come on and Sing
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Great Chicken Katsu with amazing curry sauce and delicious beef belly, as well as, fries with curry sauce my favorite. Tried a variety of thing so everything was great. Reasonable prices too! This is my new go to for Togo food a nice warm fulfilling meal. Love the inside of the place too. Highly recommend. A+
Austin Frenes
Dec 3,2025
5/5
The food is delicious. I tried the chicken katsu plate and the beef belly plate. I personally preferred the beef belly. I am hoping to try the pork belly plate next time I go. I ordered online both times and the orders were ready in less than 15 minutes, and pick up was smooth. The employees were very kind too. It's a decent amount of food packed with flavor for 15 bucks. I am a working professional so that price is not bad for me, however if I were a student again I could see this being something I'd treat myself to every once in a while. Definitely a great place to take a potential date too.
Boba Milk Tea (Pissedoff Reviewer)
Dec 3,2025
4/5
The curry and menu is extremely well presented! Delicious types of meats to choose from and not just traditional chicken katsu. I'm really impressed. Four stars because when I ordered take out, they did not put any utensils or napkins in my bag. How the hell was I supposed to eat my food? Like a caveman with my hands? Pls don't forget basic SOPs like this. Thanks.
B K
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Tonight was my first time visiting Kare in Irvine. I’ve been to their Rodeo 39 location before and loved it, so having one at the UTC is perfect for me because of how close it is. The Irvine location is very nice with a clean dining room and good music. The employees at both locations have always been helpful and courteous. I’ve now tried the Chicken Katsu (on Monday) and the Pork Belly (tonight), and honestly, I still can’t decide which one I like more. The chicken was incredibly juicy with the perfect crunch, and the pork belly… omg. So good. The curry was another highlight—super flavorful and tasted just like the curry I enjoyed during my time in Japan. And here’s a tip: the best value is to make every plate a combo (+ miso & drink). You get more variety for the price, and it’s absolutely worth it. Next time, I’m going for the beef belly plate, and I think this place will be on my rotation.
Inga Yeh
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Curry is super good! Reasonable price. Clean environment. Good service. Fried shrimp is crispy and fresh; pork belly is tender and juicy. Highly recommend this place!
Emily Wagner
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Flavorful curry and crispy katsu! decent portion and it held up well for takeout. Online ordering worked well.
Thomas Trac
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Wish they had this spot back when I went to UC!! Such a beautiful spot - had them before at Rodeo 39 serving up delicious japanese Curry and they've carried it over to UTC with a lunch special as well! I personally have always loved the Chicken Katsu with my curry but can't go wrong with their other proteins! Add an egg on top for even more deliciousness. Definitely a quick and easy meal for many that pass by, as they've already got it in perfect packaging to go. Irvine has got a gem here!
Ian Erickson
Dec 3,2025
5/5
I ordered online and picked it up. Portion sizes are generous for the price, and curry is flavorful and delicious. I would have also ordered a dessert had they had any, maybe the company could look into adding some! I picked up my food Saturday night and the restaurant was vacant. I really hope this place is catching some attention because they deserve to do well! Great food that doesn’t break the bank. Perfect for college students and great for anyone else who enjoys curry or this type of cuisine.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
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