I loved this place and frequented it many, many times for trivia, happy hour, studying, or grabbing a late-night meal that it became a fixture during my undergrad journey. It's hidden in between the East and West food courts, making its entrance nondescript, that many of my classmates are surprised to hear that there's a pub on campus. Back then, it was always bustling with students during the day and packed during sports games in the evening. The stoner tots were always a must-order. They have a lot of good craft beers on tap. I've shared countless of pitchers of IPA or cider throughout my visits. It's definitely changed drastically since the pandemic. The atmosphere is lacking. Not packed at all. Hours are a little weird. In the past 2 years, each time I've visited, it's been emptier and emptier. There will only be 2 groups there besides my own. And I feel like I have to call every time I want to stop by because I'm not sure if it's open. Prices for pints and food are up (pints are a better deal always unless it's happy hour). The revamped food menu doesn't seem appealing either. The new staff isn't as friendly (maybe they don't employ students anymore?) There was a lady whose attitude was a bit condescending and off-putting. I'll still pop in whenever I'm on campus for nostalgic reasons, but it's not the same anymore. read more

The Anthill Pub & Grille has a decent beer selection, especially considering that it's located on a college campus. It is only one of two places in Irvine that carry Pliny the Elder (the other is at Whole Foods) among their rotating taps. Draft beers are $10 for a pint (Pliny pour is slightly less - 12 oz?), though they have a happy hour Mon-Fri from 5-7pm (I think) where the beers are $8.17. Yeah, random number, I know. Didn't try the food because I can't eat like I'm in my 20's any more. Great place to grab a drink if you find yourself going to UCI, though they are closed on the weekend. Parking is $4 an hour in the garage by the student center. read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - American Near Me - Irvine, California

See all

I graduated in 2012 so it was a blast from the past to return back to the pub. To my surprise, nothing has changed! It's much bigger than I remember actually. The rotating beers on tap have improved and they have good variety. They have a couple TVs playing all the sports. I can't believe how lucky UCI students are to have a place like this directly on campus. Let's keep this place alive and continue to support this local pub. read more

See all

Oh Anthill Pub, it has been around since I started my undergrad here at UC Irvine in 2013. This is a long overdue review. This place hold so many memories in my heart from turning 21 back, getting together with friends, and celebrating special moments. This pub at UCI is a staple for not only undergrads, but also grad students and professors. Okay let's get to the point from a very honest experience & review. When I first started going to the pub in my undergrad, this place was always poppin' especially during happy hour and trivia Tuesdays. At some point the pub closed down for remodeling? and/or changed ownership? (Not 100% sure the reason) but given this was around the time of COVID-19 pandemic. Since the pub had reopened, the hours had changed and some of the selections of draft beer also changed as well. Of course due to inflation price also slightly increased. Everytime I come here I always get the stoner tots, I recommend getting an extra side of the cheese sauce since pub food is always good with beer. My partner really enjoys the Cali burrito but I think that's only available on the day menu not late night menu. It is a great place to also catch some basketball games or other sports game inside since they have TV's around. It's also a nice place to come get some drinks and study as well if you do not mind the noise level. I believe they still have happy hours from 4pm-7pm on weekdays, but the pub is closed on weekends. Something I did not know as an undergrad and wished I knew was how you are welcome to go into the pub if you are under 21 and purchase food, but of course you are not allowed to purchase drinks. read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - Drinks Menu - December 2023 - American Near Me - Irvine, California

See all

Great place to get decent prices on really good beer! Highly recommend getting a pitcher. The variety in beers is pretty good and also changes depending on the season. The food is great bar food, but not so great lunch food if you get what I mean. Recommend the Stoner tots to share! read more

We were just wondering if they had some drinks on the menu, and the OLDER lady who was "helping" us rudely remarked, "I already told you guys we don't have it" when only one person in our group was told that information. She also didn't believe my ID was real even though I gave her my real ID and student ID to show that it is me. All of the other times I've been to the pub the staff have been helpful and kind. The OLDER today was rude and condescending. I don't know if I'll be back if she's working... read more

For a pub that's conveniently located on the UC Irvine campus, the location does not get any better than this. I've been here a few times before and after the management change and a few noticeable changes: * they now take credit card (not that it's a big issue when you have a plethora of ATMs just steps from the door) * prices have gone up on both drinks and food * food quality isn't as great as it used to be - fried zucchini (see picture) - was oily and soggy. Portobello mushroom melt (picture) was decent - but would've liked fries instead of the rock-hard potato chips that came with it. * none of the prior-change staff work here anymore One of the most noticeable changes is how empty this place gets on what should be their busier nights. Weekends used to draw a decent sized crowd, but it seems those people are finding elsewhere to go. It's good they still retain the "theme" nights such as Karaoke on Saturdays or Trivia on Tuesdays. The management change definitely took with it a bit of it's character and what made the Anthill Pub, "our" pub. Still, it's a good spot to grab something if you need to unwind, yet stay on campus. read more

See all

This place has deleted many of the bad reviews on yelp since it was bought out; Surprise! It was once the heart of great brews, conversation, and intimacy in a time when people's heads were glued to their phones. My colleagues and I would frequent the pub even after we graduated as it was the best bar in Orange County. UCI granted the contract to the space to Aramark, who has since been a dementor or succubus of sorts for "soul" of a restaurant. Many of the students have left campus since this catastrophe and I just wanted to kick some skeletons out of the closet to remind UCI that many times, the independent places will always be remembered for their hospitality and unique ambience and you can try to trick people but your gross business practices are carved in the minds of many alumni. Long live the pub. read more

Great pub on UCI campus (so walking distance of anyone that attends UCI). They are open until midnight, even though google says they close at 10pm (at least on Wednesdays). They have a big variety of beers and also ciders. I believe happy hour runs until 7pm and pitchers are around $16 during that time. They allow paying by card now, so it is perfect if you aren't carrying cash. About their food: it was bad on my first order and good on the second (I went two days in a row). The first day, I got a Portabella burger (the menu was saying "burger", not sandwich). So, I was very surprised when I saw that the pads of the buger weren't burger pads but sandwich bread. Moreover, the burger itself was burned so I could just eat half of it since it was disgusting. The second day, we ordered bulgogi fries and chicken wings to share between 2 people. This was a correct choice. Both things were good, so I guess I was unlucky the previous day. I would encourage them to don't burn the food their serve anyways. read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - Chicken Wings (bbq and parmesan&garlic) and Bulgogi fries - American Near Me - Irvine, California

I love the Pub :) I spent every day of winter quarter 2011 here cause my friend was part of quarter club and our group of friends would come here everyday after our 11-12 class. one of my friend would get his daily beer. sometimes the guys would get a pitcher to share. we would also get their sandwiches, burgers, fries, tatter tots and other lunch things. It was pretty awesome... their bbq pulled pork was one of my favs. depending on your preference you should ask for extra bqq sauce on the side, because it can get dry on some days... and whenever i get a sandwich i would always ask for an extra pickle :) i would get an extra pickle for my friend too, so i can jack his :) teheeheeee!! so many good memories here!!!!!!!! On my 21st birthday, on the first week of spring quarter 2011, this was my second drink of the day :) the free huge bday mugg!! (pix is attached) It was hilarious cause I went to my discussion with my balloons and other stuffs all tipping over and pretty buzzed... ahaha :) I will definitely come back to visit the pub, even after graduation!!!!!!!!!! read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - :) 21st birthday mug - American Near Me - Irvine, California

A surprisingly solid and chill spot set on UCI's otherwise cleanly health-driven campus, but that's exactly what gives this place its charm. This place made me really appreciate beer and casual drinks. I waited until I was 21 to have my first taste of alcohol, and I really enjoyed the free birthday pint they give you on your birthday! They have a lot of different brews for cheap, which has allowed me to get a little more comfortable with my palette. Their happy hour prices are the BEST. This place made me realize how cheap their drinks are, as opposed to dining out in other restaurants where you can't get as much beer for cheap. Sharing pitchers with friends is nice, as well as single pints. My favorites are the Cotton Candy--a lighter, easier to drink yet subtly sweet beer typically made with Mission Hed and a cider--and the Snakebite--black butte beer with cider. The staff is overall really nice and personable and willing to help you out, as well as understanding your youth/"new-ness" to beer since it is on a college campus. They're willing to help you out and give any recommendations which is nice. The food is also ON POINT. Satisfies any craving with a lot of flavor and enough heartiness. The Stoner Tots are DELISH, and you can change them into anything you want--curly fries (which I recommend), chips, etc. It's basically a lovely carne-asada/nacho plate. Definitely pairs well with the vibe. The overall atmosphere of this place is comforting as well, as there are a good number of pleasant grad students here and ample working space throughout the day to be comfortable enough for you to do work. Towards the night, the place gets more packed with more students and there's a lot of social drinking in groups which makes this place an overall chill and exciting atmosphere to be in. I also love it when they have some live music going on! Thank you for bringing a little culture and edge to UCI's somewhat bland campus. read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - Street Tacos and a $4 pint to go with my work. Perfect pairing. - American Near Me - Irvine, California

Beware, this place is cash only! I'm a student at UCI so I hit up this place continuously. I don't find it to be that great. I give it one star for happy hour (even though I don't drink), one star for the vibe of the pub, and another star for the place/setting. It's always hard to find a table at the pub, especially if you have a big group of people. Food here isn't amazing, it's "pub food". I find the food to be slightly overpriced and the taste isn't anything spectacular. It is very oily and greasy. Service is slow, food can take past fifteen minutes to come out. But if you get a beer, it comes out immediately. The workers here are very nice, the people serving alcohol are so friendly and sometimes if you know them they hook it up! But the people taking orders.. I often find them not as friendly. I recommend this place if you want to drink or hang out with friends, but not for a lunch or dinner. read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - From the Grille, Chicken Tacos - American Near Me - Irvine, California

Came here with a friend to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and was shocked to find us as one of the only people there (I guess nobody wants to party on campus, whatever lol). The beer list was pretty standard and included popular craft beer from around SoCal and a few from other areas. My only gripe is I wish they actually had a printed beer list--or at least one that didn't constantly rotate on the TV screens every two seconds. Each time I tried to read the list it moved on to the next section. Maybe devote a particular screen for each part of the list or make the rotation time slower. Anyways, I'll step off the soapbox now haha. Service was great and the beer was refreshing. Haven't tried the food yet but I'm sure I'll be back and will re-review with added info at that time! read more

CASH ONLY. Yes, really. But don't fear, you ARE on a college campus and there are major ATMs within walking distance. I have to admit, I'm a regular here. So regular that I know all the bartenders by name and have met new friends barside. AND I'm not even a UCI alumni, but everyone thinks I am lol. I'll just label myself an honorary anteater. Zot Zot! With beer snobs as my friends, I get the update on what's coming up (tap takeovers) and which new beers they think I would like. So nice to have someone watching out for me. I usually lean toward stouts and the Old 38 by North Coast has been a favorite, which they usually have stock of...always. Plenty of seating and I have seen this place packed with lines out the door, but movement is pretty quick. That is, if you know what you're getting. If you don't know, don't be a douchebag and look at the menu once you arrive to the front. You might want to take a gander as you wait because you'll have a general idea of what's available. If you're indecisive about a few options, you can ask for a sample beforehand. Depending on the line, they may offer that option to you. Because you're on a college campus, the rules are bit tighter than a bar. If you want to get cray, go to Eureka across the street. Just a few things to note: - They won't serve you the strongest beer in a pitcher. It usually comes in a 10oz. - Please don't chug your beer. They will ask you to leave. Why the hell would you chug great beer?! Savor it! - Lastly, be nice to the bartenders. They are human too! As for food, I highly recommend the "stoner" tots. Probably my fav thing to get here to soak up all the beer. I'm usually here on weekends, so come say hi if you see me haha. read more

I came here for my 21st. You get a free pint! Their selection of beers and ciders is awesome for a place on campus or any place at all as a matter of fact. Their staff is friendly. Beware: they only take cash. The atmosphere is nice if not a little on the noisy side. It's not unusual to find students working there in the afternoon. I, myself, have gone there just to hang out a few times. read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - Stoner fries (not on the menu). Fries, salsa, sour cream, beef, and cheese. - American Near Me - Irvine, California

The pub has to be among my Top 5 places (if not THE top place) for me on campus. Beer & grub? What's not to love? There's always a plentiful amount of beers on tap & they also have different food options from sandwiches and fries to tots! If you haven't already, get yourself some stoner tots! Note, you can also sub tater tots with other potato options (i.e. curly fries). And okay, while they not be as amazing to those who don't love potatoes as much as I do but I definitely think they're worth it. &!when the food pickings are slim and you're on campus and want two things? Food and good beer. The pub is where I venture to! You can also get your food to go! Also, if they have it on tap. Yes, get the Black Beauty Cream Stout. Da best beer bae option for me f'sho without a doubt. CASH-ONLY, but I mean there's ATM's and you're on a college-campus...they're literally like thirty steps give or take some steps away...but really who's counting? Don't forget to tip your bartender bee tea dubs! read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - American Near Me - Irvine, California

I really wanted the pub to remain successful despite the university trading in the independent owners for a giant soulless corporation (Aramark)... Unfortunately, the new overlords haven't been very good for the place. -The food is wildly inconsistent, which is probably mostly due to the kitchen being woefully understaffed (kitchen closed early Thursday because of understaffing). -I've had the onion rings, the grilled cheese, and a quesadilla. The quesadilla came out fine. They hired a new sous chef, I hope he finds a way to effect change. -The beer is okay (some limitations at the moment due to licensing that should resolve itself in time). -They cheaped out on the bar when the refinished it, so the poly coat is already coming off. -There were no trash cans last week. -The "house made" potato chips were kettle cooked Lays out of a bag. -French fries are cut fresh and then frozen to make sure you get that McDonalds quality. -There is nowhere to sign receipts at the food PoS system, except against the wall. -Sodas are now 50c refills. From what I can tell, these decisions are being driven by the Aramark managers, Kelly and Shawn. Hopes are low that Aramark will manage to make the pub back into something nice. I wrote the above opening week. I decided to hold off on posting this review to give them a chance to fix things. Alas, the Aramark people have created a truly toxic environment for the former employees, almost no one is left. I stopped by last Friday to check if anything has improved. It hasn't. May as well mark the Anthill closed. It has lost its soul and redeeming qualities. There are still new policies to be implemented that will directly impact the beer consistency, such as disallowing lines to be tested to ensure the keg has tapped properly, and not sampling beers from distributors. read more

The Anthill Pub is now run by Aramark. It is now your typical corporate bar; money is more important than quality. The food sucks, but at least they don't Coor's Light on tap... yet. I can't express how much it hurts me to say this. I loved the pub so much that I asked for a job and worked in the kitchen for the last school year just because of the awesome people and the atmosphere they created. All of that is gone now. read more

Sadly, the beloved Anthill Pub will be closing July 26th since UCI opted to not renew the contract. Figured the best way to express my gratitude would be to write this review. So here we go! Thanks, Anthill! I was already pretty ecstatic to finally attend a university with a bar on campus. My expectations were initially low as I was an under the impression that such establishments thrived more from the convenience rather than the quality of beer on tap. Anthill Pub completely shattered my expectations as they boasted a rather respectable rotating selection of local (and not so local) craft beers! I took solace knowing that I could pop in and possibly drink beers from Ballast Point, The Bruery, Founders, Russian River, Alpine, or even Almanac. Occasionally, I would stop in after class to celebrate a job well done or just grab a beer after a rough day as a TA. I still reminisce about those epically hilarious karaoke nights with my classmates or those awesome-as-heck tap takeovers. The free pint on your birthday was also a nice touch. Food generally left something to be desired. While average food and stale tortilla chips will certainly fill you up,they make for a mediocre dining experience. Still, I'm pretty bummed out that I'm unable to make one last visit. I'll miss this pub. Shoot, I may even miss those crappy stoner fries too haha! ZOT ZOT ZOT! read more

Pretty decent price for the quality of the food! Def a different vibe from all other restaurants on campus.

You have to go all the way to the Yardhouse at Triangle Square (Nike Tower) in Newport beach to find a beer selection better than they have at the AHP and at the AHP u don't need to worry about what you are going to wear. Off menu... "stoner fries" are worthy of the carbs. u inhale. The sweet potato fries and tater tots are also great bar food/snacks. I've tried pretty much everything on the menu and just keep going back to the Cheese Steak sandwich. Not much else leaves me sated. Prices can't be beat, even if u don't make happy hour (4 PM to 7PM), and the bartenders are friendly. Devils advocate says, there is no pool table, shuffle board, or darts for entertainment and sometimes it is dead when u hit it on an off night or during academic breaks, so bring some friends, a good book or a laptop, just in case. The pub is closed during academic breaks so call ahead if you're not sure if it will be open. Comedy nights can be VERY good. Where else can you go see a free comedy show and get great beer without a cover? Sometimes you can find out what is going on at AHP on fb http://www.facebook.com/pages/Anthill-Pub-Grille/8562876692 . Keep in mind this is a University campus pub so you will need to pay for parking at the kiosk or ticket machines, which isn't cheap, but you'll save a lot on the price of beer so it more than equals out when compared to any other local pub. Don't chance it, the UCI Police are real Irvine PD police and the tickets are not cheap. You are expected to bus your own table so if you are with a large group and are the last to go you should clear the table(s) before you leave. Bartenders keep their tips so if you want extra good service tip your bartender. At UCI smoking is prohibited in outdoor areas within 25 feet (or more depending on special circumstances) of entrances, exits, operable windows, ventilation air intakes, and any other locations where smoke may be brought into a UCI facility but everyone smokes directly outside of the pub at night. read more

This place is not what it used to be. Came back here as an alum couple days ago. The whole community vibe is gone. Place is dead. Staff are rude. Lastly, the beer selection and food are all meh. read more

WOahhho, hey. They kinda remodel-ed ish and have new management! By remodel-ed ish, I mean they changed up some of the wall decorations and it seems like they have new or more tables? EH. ANYWAYS. Same ol' irvine pub with the same ol' students drinking and laughing. I'm most surprised by the food there now. It's surprisingly cheap and pretty good! I also found out you can ask for a burger, protein style! So for those doing Keto or low carb.... you can eat here! But your burger does come with chips...so share those with friends if you must xD read more

- Locale Destination - Happy hour : $1 off/pints, $3 off/pitchers, 4 -7 pm. Cash only! You can park at the building in front of the student center. $3 for 1.5 hour. But there's a big shopping center - a minute away from the building. Free - FYI. - Gluttony Expedition - Pear cider: I tried it before at "Yard House". They have also apple and raspberry. I thought it was more bubbly. It was kinda stale and had a bit funky pear flavor. Meh. Ale smith anvil esb: medium body w hint of mild bitterness. I like it! ** I tasted more but I forgot. I was already tipsy ;p Curly fries: They were like everyone else's. I'm not a fan of ranch dressing in general, but their ranch dressing was good. I also liked their chipotle sauce - it was spicy but good! - Conqueror's Deduction - Good varieties and nice casual atmosphere. Good happy hour joint in UCI. read more

See all

AleSmith Wee Heavy on tap now. Whatever you do, DO NOT ORDER THIS BEER. It's all mine. Most recent discovery: Stoner Fries w/ Jalapenos. read more

Gotta give my first 5-star rating to my school's pub. Happy hour from 4-7PM If you go earlier, it's calm and empty enough so you can study. I'm one of those people that likes background noise. Go any later, it's gets crowded, chairs get pushed everywhere and suddenly, you find yourself in the middle of a sea of tables and chairs with no escape. I don't know if putting a pub on campus was a good idea but for now, I won't think too much on it. CASH ONLY! read more

See all

Cool servers. Amazing craft beers and rotating handles. Perfectly chill and welcoming atmosphere -- not too divey and definitely not uptight as well. Lots of tables with plenty of space and outlets if you want that too. HAPPY HOUR FUCK YEAH. Food is good, not gourmet by any means, but definitely geared towards a good time. Mexican yums. (just plodded down campus dr tipsy cuz why not have a good time on 2nd day on campus woo woo.) They have beers and some wines but no hard liquor because these kids are here to get you ready for a good time, not dead wasted. Cash only so trot trot trot yourself down to the neighborin' atms first. yaaaaasss read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - Current temporary menu as of 10/2! They temporarily ran out of nut brown ale, aw :( - American Near Me - Irvine, California

Beer on a college campus. What more could you want? I'm disappointed that I didn't get a chance to participate in Quarter Club before they got rid of it! But all in all, it's a pub on campus. How convenient is that? The rule is that you're not there to get trashed, so be respectful and don't chug your pint. It can get super packed during happy hour (yes, even on the weekdays), so it might get difficult to find a table or seat during that time. The food here is pretty good if you're looking for some greasy eats. Definitely recommend the stoner fries or stoner tots. I'm biased towards fries so if you're going to ask me to pick, I'd recommend the fries over the tots any day. Tips: - Cash only (there are ATMs right outside) - Happy hour: 4PM-7PM - Claim your free birthday pint (any beer on the menu) read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - Stoner fries - American Near Me - Irvine, California

This place really made me love beer! Especially after turning 21 and frequenting it often (and since many friends did quarter club while it was still in session). Although I never liked the cheap water-like beers, I definitely can never ever go back ESPECIALLY after finding a love for darker beers like stouts and porters. The bartenders also let you sample beers before you buy a pint or pitcher if you're unsure about the new selections. They also now serve different types of wine. STONER TOTS here are a must must must get! OR the variation with fries or curly fries (OR a mixture). Basically tots with carne asada (or if you want chicken you can ask too) with guacamole, sour cream, salsa & cheese. A PERFECT combo with any beer - trust me. All their other food items are good too, but these are the best - all for only ~$7. I would also get the chipotle ranch on the side too. Happy hour is $1 off pints and $3 off pitchers! It is cash only for both the foods & beers AND remember to tip! Free pint on your birthday too. A perfect place to go after classes, work, to hang out and catch up with friends, or even to study. It can get pretty crowded during the evenings especially on holidays, week one, or finals week & more so during happy hour. Generally good service (there have been hits & misses for me), lots of inside seating, cozy, and multiple TVs are always playing game. If you go to UCI and have not been to the pub, I would recommend coming here even if you're not 21 just for the food! If you are 21, then you're missing out on some good brews. read more

Food's unusually killer, beer's expected, artwork is kitsch, logo is horrible and screams out, "I was too egotistical to hire a professional designer so I took a few moments to fiddle around with the free photo editing software that came with my dell laptop to come up with the disappointment that we present to you. The pub represents UCI, but there's no blue and yellow in the entire place. Needs to have more collegiate memorabilia on the walls. It's all about the atmosphere. Dear owners, we know you're all beer sommeliers, we get it. But OC kids love Stella so please stock it! The old pub's bathroom was easy for hooking up in. The new one is overly lit and non-hookupable-friendly. Of course, just my luck, right? Oh did I mention their sweet potato fries & cheese quesadillas? *BOMB* read more

As a college student, I very much appreciated this pub on campus. They have a good selection of beer that changes every so often. My faves were Lagunitas and Karl Strauss either pale ale or red trolley. Definitely not a beer expert so don't quote me on anything. I usually come for the pitchers because it is just so much more worth it. The food here is also really good, no matter what you choose. Stoner tots are probably my fav and one of the more popular choices. EXCEPT one time, my friend ordered mozzarella sticks and some sticks had no mozzarella, so it was just stick. But I mean that was one time out of the many that I have been here, so you gotta give them the benefit of the doubt. I just graduated and I'm still coming back. It's sad because I'm back on campus, but the beeer!!!! I'll find a new place soon, but the pub ain't so bad! It's has a cool ambience to it too. Also for those underage, you don't have to be 21 to enter. read more

Stoner fries. This was a great place to fill up time during senior year of undergrad. Cash only. I miss you pub. read more

This place had a change in management last summer. I came in during that summer before the change and also in March to meet some friends who still attended UCI. I am a fan of this new management and the changes they've implemented as well as what they kept. First of all, you don't have to pay with cash only! Before that would be the case, but now you can pay with card as well when you order a pint or pitcher at the bar. It would be somewhat annoying to always have to take out cash at the ATM's and an even bigger hassle if they weren't working. The pricing for the beer is about the same as before and they still have their happy hour specials as well. The best option when ordering drinks is to get a pitcher and split it with friends or with yourself if your drinking alone for some reason. The food items and recipes have changed at the pub. My usual order here is always the Stoner Tots and you can see the difference in appearance an taste if you've been a regular at the pub like myself. Overall, I still enjoy coming to the pub. Till next time! read more

Always good service, though sometimes slow because it's busy but I don't mind. Tables are hard to get if it's busy, and that is a problem but you can usually find even a small one and just add on chairs from tables not using them to build your group. My favorite order is a snake bite with raspberry cider and beer, or raspberries better by itself. If the kitchen is still open, stoner fries are delicious. I do wish they had a little more meat, but they are great overall and it comes with guacamole sour cream and salsa at no extra charge. The salsa is surprisingly spicy, this coming from someone that loves spicy. Make sure you take cash because they do not accept credit cards or debit cards. There are ATMs very close by in case you forgot cash. read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - Stoner fries, yum. The chili sauce is actually spicy. - American Near Me - Irvine, California

A great place to meet up with friends for a drink on campus :) During their happy hour, I ordered a pitcher of Stone Pale Ale for $8 compared to their regular price of $11 :) I also ordered Stoner Fries (which weren't on the menu but seems like everyone at UCI knows about it lol) and they were crazy good consisting of fries, gaucamole, sour creme, cheese and meat bits :D The place does get crowded but it wasn't too hard to snag some chairs and tables together for more friends on the way :) I would definitely come again next time I visit my anteater friends! read more

Probably the best spot on campus. Cash only (which when I was in college was massively inconvenient because who carries cash!) - there is literally a row of ATMs right outside the pub in the courtyard. Anyways, can get crowded and there can be long waits to get a drink. My favorite was by far a classic Snake Bite (half Guinness, half cider). Prices during Happy Hour are good! Also, splitting pitchers with friends is always a solid move. I loved the pub food when I was in college. The stoner fries, stoner tots, quesadilla, etc were all great! Loved the grilled cheese with tomato too. Large portions for decent prices. Love that they do trivia and have lots of big TVs to catch your favorite sporting events. A UCI staple - hopefully for many years to come. read more

Great place to grab some food or drink while on campus. A bit hard to find though, but completely worth it once you do!

3.5/5 stars. believe it or not, my first time here was about 2 weeks ago... since i graduated all the way back in 2009.... i can not believe i didn't utilize this pub more often during my senior year as an undergrad. i came here with a friends to catch up and we ordered a pitcher of hef, stoner fries, and fire ants. all for about 22-23 bucks? (i heard the stoner tots are delicious as well) also... the stoner fried are not on the menu, so you gotta ask for it! the food was delicious, but don't take my word for it. i might have been hungry so my review might be a little biased. the wait time was about 10 minutes to get the food, since the night i went it was extremely packed!!!! the fire ants work really well with blue cheese and the stoner fries are delicious without any ketchup! this place gets packed and you'll be hard pressed to find a seat. try to go there early and get/reserve seats! read more

See all

WHO DOESN'T LOVE BEEER ON CAMPUS?! I still come here even after I graduated to sip on a beer and catch up with a few college friends. I came on a day of graduation where many people stopped by and had a sip before/after seeing my fellow friends' graduation. Congrats c/0 2013! First things first. The pub is a great place to kick it with friends and grab really good reasonable cheap beers. I LOVE the happy hour. $1 off pints and $3 off pitchers! BEER: My favorite beers are GREAT WHITE and RACER 5 (strong IPA). FOOD: They keep increasing the prices every now and then, but definitely get the STONER FRIES and the GRILLED CHEESE. This place is only CASH ONLY. Luckily there are ATMs (chase, wells, boa) to help you drink your thirsty needs. ENJOY! read more

Anthill Pub & Grille - Green light IPA - American Near Me - Irvine, California

I'm in here wayyyy too often chugging beers and (not so successfully) doing homework. Music is a little loud but that's what headphones are for. The food is good bar food - carne asada fries, chicken strips, burgers, etc. Staff is super friendly! I wish they stayed open later during summer, but what can you do? As of now, hours are 11a-3p and bartender said they'll be open later once the quarter starts. I'm mostly writing this review to say - if you want a brew on campus accompanied w/ some more than decent food, this is the place to go and prices are pretty OK. Easily my favorite place to hang out on campus. Only reason it's not a 5 star review is because the music could be better (hits from 2012 only slap so hard lol) and the hours, but really there isn't anything wrong with the Anthill. A UCI gem, forsure! read more