Categories: CommunityCulinaryEvents/What's HappeningNews

Irvine Celebrates Bistango’s Legacy as a Business Lunch Hub

Guests enjoying their meals in the elegantly styled Bistango restaurant, a top business lunch spot in Irvine.

News Summary

Bistango, a prominent dining spot in Irvine, has celebrated over three decades as a premier location for business lunches, founded by John Ghoukassian. After his passing in 2021, his children now manage the restaurant, which is renowned for its seasonal cuisine, unique décor, and community feel. Offering a serene dining atmosphere through innovative changes, including a botanical garden, Bistango remains a favorite among local executives. The restaurant is also introducing live jazz performances to enrich the dining experience, solidifying its place in the region’s dining scene.

Irvine Celebrates Bistango’s Three Decades as a Top Business Lunch Spot

Bistango, a well-respected restaurant in Irvine, has marked over three decades as a premier location for business lunches and client dinners. Founded in 1987 by renowned restaurateur John Ghoukassian, the establishment has garnered a loyal following among local executives and business professionals.

After the passing of John Ghoukassian in early 2021, the family-run business is now under the management of his children, Karyn and Marc Ghoukassian. Along with Bistango, they also oversee Bayside Restaurant in Newport Beach, which John opened in 1999.

A Unique Dining Experience

Bistango is celebrated not only for its elevated cuisine but also for its artful décor, contributing to a unique dining experience. The restaurant’s menu is refreshed seasonally, featuring various dishes that highlight fresh ingredients. However, certain popular items, such as the garlic soup, remain staple offerings for the faithful patrons.

Among the restaurant’s frequent visitors is Shelley Hoss, a business executive known for her preferred order of salmon on spinach, showcasing the personalized dining culture at Bistango. Additionally, Richard Reisman, the Publisher of the Business Journal, has dined at Bistango more than 3,000 times, a testament to the restaurant’s enduring appeal.

Community and Networking

Bistango serves as a significant meeting spot for local CEOs, who often bring clients for lunches and events. This practice fosters networking and social interaction among tables, creating a sense of camaraderie among regulars. Many customers develop a connection with the restaurant, returning to their favorite tables, which enhances the community feel.

Innovative Changes Under New Management

Under Karyn Ghoukassian’s management, Bistango is undergoing an exciting transformation. The patio area is being reimagined as a botanical garden, intended to enhance the dining atmosphere with flowers and plants, creating a serene escape from the bustling work environment. This initiative aligns with Karyn’s vision of providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for diners.

Live Music and Events

In addition to the culinary offerings, Bistango is set to host live jazz performances during the “Bistango Summer Jazzy Mondays” series. From June 16 through the end of August, guests can enjoy live music featuring Joey and his Jazz Cubs every Monday from 5 PM to 7 PM. Further, the garden area will welcome nightly live music in the lounge starting in July, providing an enriched dining experience for visitors.

Accessibility and Location

Bistango is conveniently located at 19100 Von Karman Ave. in Irvine, making it easily accessible for both local and visiting business professionals. The contact number for reservations and inquiries is (949) 752-5222.

Conclusion

With its rich history, commitment to quality dining, and innovative changes under new management, Bistango remains a cornerstone of the Irvine dining scene. As it continues to adapt and enrich the experience for its patrons, the restaurant affirms its status as a premier choice for business lunches and gatherings, ensuring it will delight customers for years to come.