Upon first glance at Sq 1 Pizza Cafe at OC Weekly’s Holiday Cheers event a couple months ago, it seemed just live an average pizza shop with basic food. I took a menu to be polite, however, and eventually glanced over it. When I noticed some better-than-basic-looking offerings, I thought, hey! maybe i’d give it a try one day!
That day finally came a few weeks ago-and it was no mistake. Square One is tucked away in the corner of a typical Irvine shopping center. They have a gorgeous front and back patio (dog-friendly!) with ample seating. Indoors, there is a bar and lots of seating as well. (Yes, they even have happy hour !!)
Husband and wife, Paul and Liz, (the owners) are extremely friendly, kind, and familiar with what seemed like a majority of their customers. After chatting with them for a bit, I was amazed to learn about all the giveback they do for the community. Already a high-rating in my book!
OK, but now on to the food. Wow. I was so impressed- I’m pretty sure this was one of the best meals I have had since Christmas dinner. I got a variety of items to try and took my leftovers home for the fam.
Bruschetta Appetizer : Did someone say GOAT CHEESE? Absolutely. You cannot go wrong with this.
Turkey BLT Sandwich : OK, I don’t normally go for BLTs, but this just sounded good. My taste buds were correct. I don’t know what it was about the simple goodness of the sandwich. Fresh, soft, fluffy bread. A little herb aioli. Turkey. Bacon. Little bit of lettuce. SO good!!?!?
1/2 and 1/2 Pizza (Honey Chicken & Grilled Chicken Pesto) : Super thin crust, super packed with flavor. This is definitely a pizza you will not fill guilty eating. I loved it. I am anxious to try the BBQ chicken now.
Chopped Salad w/ Chicken : So fresh and packed with veggies! Asparagus & squash- say wha?! Chicken was perfectly grilled and seasoned !
***French Fries***: “at least you stole the show…” (Kygo song reference) OH MY GOSH. If you are going to die anytime soon, MAKE SURE YOU GO TRY THESE FRIES. Up to this point, I thought I found World’s best fries at Burnt Crumbs…..- I am now at a loss for words. The fries here MAY have taken the title..
Overall? I kind of want to just live in Square One Cafe. Friendly people, great atmosphere, awesome prices, and simply delicious food. This is a winner.
Sauce Boss Suggestions : BALSAMIC VINAGERRETE AND CREAMY SHALLT DRESSING – holy salad what do they put in those !! I don’t know but they are probably the best salad dressings- ever. All the sauces are house made here. And to-die-for.
Square One Pizza Cafe : 5789 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92618
Sauce Boss Shelby 