Two-and-a-half years later, and I thought I was going to complete the Zov's-review set. And then I find out they have two Tustin locations, a new San Clemente location, and and a COMING SOON! Costa Mesa location. Oh, Zov's, what will I ever do with you? Since I last dined at this Zov's location with my parents, which was after I dined at the Newport Coast location with just my mom, there has been un-Zov's-related Zov's news: My mom met Zov herself! At some sort of ladies' party in Orange County. And she is a lovely, kind person, according to my mom. The food here is as good as it is in Newport Coast, which is to say it's excellent. All three of us enjoyed what we ordered, and my dad especially was raving for a while about whatever meat he had. The service is also very good. We were seated in a booth near the front door, to the right as you enter. Maybe it was that table location, or the entire restaurant may just have an odd layout, but it didn't feel comfortable or cozy the way the other Zov's felt. Again, this is only the physical space I'm talking about; the host and server were both attentive and great. There's also a kind of mysterious-feeling hallway on the way to the bathrooms and kitchen, but there is no seating there. The restaurant may simply have been too brightly lit and open. This location is closer to my parents' house, but if drive time didn't matter, I'd visit the other location every time. The less-than-ideal setting isn't enough to ding Zov's a full star, but I'm hoping that when I visit the other locations, they're better. read more

Great food, service, and overall vibe. My family and I came here for brunch. We had the most fantastic time catching up over some delicious food/drinks. The service is amazing here- Ethan, our server, was very thoughtful, knowledgeable, and friendly. We thoroughly enjoyed dining our dining experience at Zov's, and will be back soon read more

A truly delightful dining experience from beginning to end. The food was nothing short of perfect. I ordered the Chicken Pillard salad, which was beautifully portioned and full of well-balanced, vibrant flavors. The service was equally impressive. Our waiter was attentive without being intrusive, consistently checking in and ensuring our glasses were never empty. It made the entire experience feel seamless and thoughtfully cared for. With ample seating both indoors and outdoors, it's the perfect setting for a relaxed and elegant lunch. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to enjoy great food, exceptional service, and a charming atmosphere. read more

I love eating the food here for happy hour. The lamb chops are amazing and I really enjoyed the eggplant fries. There were lots of flies buzzing around my table but not sure if there's anything they can do about that because the restaurant is not closed off to the outside. read more

The service was great Maury was really helpful and was friendly! The ambiance is nice we love how cozy it is and how open it is... the food was delicious as well we love the dirty fries it is one of our favorite at zov's and the beef kebob was amazing as well!!! We got the trio kebob where you have to choose your own meat and we chose beef and loolah! We love the beef but the loolah wasn't as tasty! The price of the trio kebob was a little bit expensive but it was good for 4 people! We liked the golden lentil soup which was very tasty and the chicken harissa! I wish there was more sauce on the chicken as it tends to be on the dry side, we do love the fingerlings potatoes on it as well!!! I do recommend this restaurant!!! Hope to try more items in their menu!!! read more

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I've been meaning to try Zov's for a while, and we finally made it in on a Saturday for lunch, which meant we were ordering from the brunch menu. The staff was very friendly and our waiter was helpful with explaining the menu and offering recommendations. We ordered the dirty fries, breakfast burrito, and short rib hash. The dirty fries were a standout. The name fits, but they weren't as heavy as you might expect. They were flavorful without being overwhelming. The breakfast burrito was similar in that way. Don't expect your typical diner-style burrito because this one has their Mediterranean twist on it. I did wish there had been more bacon, especially since theirs is stellar. The pieces were a bit few and far between. The salsa, unfortunately, left a little to be desired. I also enjoyed the short rib hash, though it wasn't quite what I was expecting. That's on me since I was leaning into my classic diner expectations. While the dish names may sound familiar, Zov's clearly infuses its Mediterranean influence to create a more refined, upscale version. Overall, we had a great experience and I'll definitely be back to explore more of the menu. read more

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The staff at this Zovs are attentive and friendly. Normally the food is excellent but last night I got 2 way kebabs and it usually has a lot of flavor and seasoning to it and is cooked really well but last night none of that was true. The seasonings were hardly noticeable , it tasted plain and the chicken and the beef were both overcooked and dry. I am mentioning it so that maybe they will talk with their chef and make sure that he pays more attention when he's cooking cause each meal goes to a separate person who has an expectation of excellence from Zovs. Sadly, I got it to go and so I wasn't able to have them correct it. Giving 4 stars for that reason. I was very disappointed in my meal. read more

Wow, wow, wow!! First time here and it was absolutely amazing. Food was delicious and the service was so attentive. Had more than just our server taking care of us, it's really nice to see a restaurant work together as a team like they did. I want to specially give a big big thank you to Juan who was our bartender and who primarily served our table for the evening, he was such a gem!! So sweet and fun! Also he makes the best Carajillos I have ever tasted (and I'm a bartender so that's not super easy to admit!) I can't wait to come back. Will definitely be added to my list of go to places! read more

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Zovs on 17th St Tustin is an upscale restaurant at mid-scale prices. We have been going to lunch regularly for years. The thing about Zovs is not only the great food, but the attractive ambiance, the personal attention by servers, and the general good will prevailing. Customers at nearby tables get interested in one another's discussions. Our favorite server is Sarah, who always treats us like royalty. And she remembers our preferences so our mocha is on the table when she sees us in the parking lot, and we don't have to ask for the little bowl of onions to put on the rice. Its all automatic. read more

Trish is the most amazing server at Zovs. We have been going here for years and there have been a lot of turnover. Please keep her! She is the reason why we coming back. She is not just a server, she has become a friend. Keep this "Cheer" atmosphere. Its all about the people. read more

Food is great but feels a bit overpriced. Servers are nice and attentive. The eggplant fries are yummy. read more

Zovs - New American Near Me - Irvine, California

Ordered the short rib parpadelle - it was way over salted! Extreme. There was 1 mushroom that I could detect. The short rib was cut into chunks and it was a bit tough.chewy. I'm used to a short rib that you can cut with a fork and very tender. It was so salty, I really can't comment on the sauce as you really couldn't taste anything else. My suggestion is watch the heavy hand. I like salt, but not a salt lick in my food. read more

Zovs - Picture is of leftovers I couldn't even eat - New American Near Me - Irvine, California

First time here. Our server, Whitney, did an amazing job. We got great service. TJ help assisted us with the air conditioning. Thank you TJ and Whitney for outstanding service. The food was absolutely delicious and fresh. There is live music here! Nice touch. Place is beautifully decorated. Everyone who works here, works hard. Thank you Zov's team! The food was a big portion and absolutely delicious. Definitely will come back when I come back to Orange County!! Beautiful service and food! Thank you Zov's team!! read more

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t's a nice restaurant with a pleasant ambiance. We were hoping to try their brunch, but unfortunately found out that it's only served on weekends. The service was excellent, and the food was good. Overall, it was a nice dining experience, and we'd be happy to visit again. read more

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Excellent grilled Brussels Sprouts with vinegrette. Lamb chops baby with vegetables. Excellent service & ambiance. read more

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Yes a must try! I love a short rib, they have short rib pappardelle and YESS its killer good. Also had lamb chops medium rare and babaganoush, exquisite. They were kind enough to make me an affogato even though it's not even on the menu THANK YOU! Got there just before sunset, sat inside, it was cozy, service was wonderful.. They suggested the lamb chops and I'm glad they did!! read more

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How did my previous rating go from five stars to one star? Read on. My dining companion ordered the lamb chops special. I've had it before; it's good. I ordered the spiced lamb burger. Her plate came out quickly. When our server finally got around to checking on us, my dining companion had nearly finished her meal, but my order had yet to hit the table. When the server asked "how is everything" or words to that effect, I replied, "I don't have my food," which was self evident by the lack of a plate in front of me. I told the server "if the cooks haven't started making it, I don't want it." When she returned to our table, she said it would take just two minutes to make it. I reiterated, "I don't want it now." To add insult to injury, the server seemed to cop an attitude when I told her "I don't want it now." She was sweet as pie before that. Perhaps she thought I would hammer her on her tip. I didn't, but maybe I should have. Furthermore, not once did I hear an apology. The server should have gotten the manager involved, but she didn't. I didn't want a free desert or whatever. I just wanted the screw up to be acknowledged. We've eaten at Zovs a number of times, but I have no desire to eat there again. read more

We always love going to Zov's for the amazing food and drinks (happy hours are a blast!), but the last time we went for dinner was one of our favorite experiences thanks to our incredible server, Yvette. She really made our night so memorable with her attentiveness and wonderful energy. She definitely deserves a shout out! read more

Tucked away in one of Irvine's northern villages, Zov's on Portola is a lovely spot for families, first dates, or just to hang out. Live music on Friday and Saturday adds a great ambiance for those dining on the patio or inside. We always sit at the bar so we get the best of all worlds. Trish, a long time bartender, always provides the friendliest and sassiest service, and makes AMAZING drinks, from Old Fashionds to Spicy Pineapple Margaritas. Some of the starters could easily be mains, such as the salmon tacos or steak tostadas, which NEVER break at the first bite and always hold their texture. The economy has hit this location, as the amount of steak on the tostadas went from a lot to just crumbs, but still yummy with lots of fresh veggie toppings. Highly recommend if you want a mellow evening and great food/service. read more

Zovs - Sitting at the bar, live musician performing - New American Near Me - Irvine, California

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Good food and friendly staff. Definitely will try again . Good price and quality food

You just can never go wrong here. Service is nice and efficient, it is the place to go if you want something quick and healthy, in a calming/clean environment :) The food is good quality as well :) Highly, highly recommend for a good semi-casual spot. This place would be a perfect spot for friends, families, and business. And if you want tea or coffee afterwards, Peet's is next door! read more

We just had a family dinner there with our kids, the server was above and beyond. She has an amazing customer service. I wish i can remember her name! Food was great and the vibe as well. read more

My 3rd time in a row just terrible service, unorganized and no server is happy. They are frustrated when you have a reasonable request. I've been sitting for 35 minutes and no one has come to patio to ask if I need anything. 17th street is definitely more attentive. read more

Once again Trish always is the most incredible food server extraordinaire! We love coming to Zovs and Trish is incredible!!!

The food was really good! We got the kebob plate and sea bass. I'm not sure if the food was interesting or amazing enough to justify the price, but it was very good. Portions weren't huge but still filled us up. The live music was lovely- we went on a Friday night. Side note- There seemed to be a small gnat problem unfortunately when we were there. Yvette was our excellent server who took great care of us and made our anniversary very special! The "Ridiculous Sundae" was soooo delicious. Overall I do recommend this place! read more

Zovs - Kebob Two Ways - New American Near Me - Irvine, California

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If your looking for a Mediterranean place, don't come here. Insult to Mediterranean food... the koobideh is literally a burger patty.

Great customer service! Food and drinks are always excellent. Well stocked bar with draft beer including craft beer. All around my go to restaurant. read more

Have you tried Zov's? What are you waiting for?!? The Irvine location is outstanding and server Kim is a level above your traditional server. Knowledgeable, friendly, and full of positivity, Kim is service forward for her guests and a blessing for Zov's. Food was outstanding and the wine selection is first rate, try a bottle of Bonanza cab with your meal. We dined on Friday night and the patio had a great singer/performer to add to the casual fresco dinning experience. read more

we were group of 12. Food was simply amazing, and what was even greater, was the customer service and the warm welcoming attitudes of everyone working there!! It totally felt like we were having special dinner at a close friend's house. What a lovely experiance! read more

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10 out of 10 recommend this place for lunch or dinner. After our first meal, I can say they have gained regulars. Everything was amazing. From the outside setting and beautiful ambiance, this was a great lunch date. All the staff was very friendly. We started with the Armenian flatbread that had so much flavor. For our main entree, my fiance had the herb crusted salmon. The flavors we perfect, great healthy meal and the orzo was cooked just right. I had the angel hair pasta. I am still drooling over how great meal was. Have noy had pasta that great in a long time read more

Came here for lunch today, wasn't sure what to expect but definitely was not disappointed. Arrived around 3pm and it was pretty empty, but that gave us a chance to really see the restaurant. Awesome decor, half indoor, half outdoor. Full bar with a few TVs... but elegant, not BWWs looking. Service was good. Pretty standard, but not complaints. We ordered the eggplant fries, Two Kebabs plate, and the breakfast sandwich. Eggplant Fries- awesome, unique app. Served with a chipotle aioli. The kebabs- surprisingly fantastic. I had a feeling when our server asked how we'd like the beef cooked... for a kebab. 1 beef, 1 chicken, came out perfect. The breakfast sandwich with hash browns was simple yet tasty as well. No misses here. Only reason it didn't get 5 stars was that it was a little pricey, but no regrets. read more

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Great for steak and similar meat dishes. But drops off the list after removing Eggs Benedict from their breakfast menu, and to which their servers were amazed as were we after decades of enjoying Zov's variety of Benedicts. And while their patrons have aged gracefully over the years, Zov's management has not reciprocated, in having constant turnover of the entire workforce. Leaving Tustin for the City of Orange with it's offering's of breakfast restaurants and back to enjoying our Benedicts. read more

Food is incredible!! The lamb burger is always 10/10. We also had the salmon and it was so soft, cooked perfectly, so so yummy. I also had the lavender lemonade which was 10/10. Our server Kimberly was very hospitable and attentive and we had a nice night at Zov's. It was our first time at this location. read more

Zovs - Spiced Lamb Burger - New American Near Me - Irvine, California

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Great spot for casual lunch! Quick and friendly service. Comfortable seating! Great wine list and the is tasty too!

A new year, a new work outing at Zov's. We had very attentive wait staff this time around and everything went smoothly even with our large group of 14. We ordered several appetizers including the Mezze Platter and the Bacon Brussel sprouts. The Brussels were cooked perfectly and they were very tasty! I wasn't really a fan of the Mezze platter, but all my coworkers loved it! I ordered the Angel hair pasta with shrimp and the flavor was okay-- I added a lot of red pepper flakes and black pepper to doctor it up the way I liked it. It's a good portion, I had no trouble finishing it all in one sitting. I also ordered a hot tea and our waiter shared a plethora of choices -- the wild sweet Orange was delicious! The atmosphere was nice, they pushed several tables together to accommodate us and the place seemed very clean and well-kept. All in all, it's still not one of my first choices, but I can leave being satisfied after eating here at least. read more

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Excellent, Service Food 5 Star Quality! Ambiance Inviting Calm...indoor outdoor seating ! Never disappointed.. read more

Came in on Sunday with a friend for a late lunch/ early dinner (Linner?) Food was fantastic as usual. Fried Eggplant appetizer, Lentil soup and Chop Chop salad. Ashley is an exceptional server. read more

Wonderful food, great service! Wonderful food, great service Wonderful food, great service read more

Love it! I ordered the Truffle Tagliatelle because I'm dramatic and needed something that felt luxurious enough to silence the chaos in my soul. It tasted like therapy with butter and carbs. So friendly, I started trauma-dumping on my waiter by the end. Bless his heart, he just kept refilling my water and nodding. Icon. their Tiramisu should be illegal. It's not a dessert a religious experience layered in espresso and regret. read more

Food is great and music always sets the mood but "Trish" our wonderful bartender always creates a perfect evening.... Much love read more

Zovs - New American Near Me - Irvine, California