Dizzy Bird
Irvine Spectrum Center
“Spun, not fried!” Those are the watchwords at rotisserie chicken destination Dizzy Bird, a winning new concept offering 24-hour-marinated, spatchcocked and slow-roasted chicken as served in Lebanon and Greece. Whole-bird or plates of bone-in chicken – halal-certified and flavor-packed – come “classic” or finished with lemon-garlic marinade; choose two tasty sides. Wraps include the spicy Hot Bird and vegan or vegetarian Hippy Bird. Bowls and salads are popular, too.
Rooster & Rice
Alton Retail Center
There are half a dozen Bay Area locations; Irvine is the first in Southern California. The specialty: khao mun gai, Thai-style poached chicken served over fragrant jasmine rice, ideal with “k.m.g.” or ginger-scallion sauce. Other highlights include Thai-fried chicken leg and fried chicken skins – an idea whose time has come. Fruity hard seltzers are a focus. A cheery mural features Irvine landmarks – with a tropical vibe.
bb.q chicken
Northpark Plaza, Cypress Village, Quail Hill
The global Korean fried chicken spot marks 30 years with 3,500 locations, including these three. The bb.q in the name stands for “best of the best quality.” More than a dozen crispy and juicy chicken dishes are offered whole bird, wings or boneless. Complementing house favorite Honey Garlic are three new garlic styles: sweet and salty, golden and garlic crunch. Jerk sauce-slathered Caribbean Spicy also debuts.
