Since 1963, the Improvisation Comedy Clubs have remained the premier stages for live comedy in the United States. Over the decades, the talent who have graced Improv stages represent the Who’s Who in American comedy.
Located in the Orange County region of Southern California, Irvine Improv delivers a combination of A-list comedy, good food and cocktails. The club regularly hosts top tier talent, from Kevin Hart to Patton Oswalt. And Robin Williams once surprised the crowd when he took the stage.
When the Improv opened in Irvine in 1983, Orange County residents suddenly had a slice of Hollywood in their own backyard. A pre-sitcom Jerry Seinfeld was Irvine Improv's Opening Night headliner. And since that amazing summer night, the Improv has been providing Orange County with the biggest and brightest stars in entertainment.
Irvine Improv is located in the Irvine Spectrum Center. Known for its stunning architecture, the design for the luxury outdoor shopping center was inspired by the world-famous Alhambra-- 13th century citadel overlooking the city of Granada, Spain. The Spectrum features Alhambra design cues such as buildings united by magnificent courtyards, an exotic blend of classical architecture, and a colorful overlay of Spanish tile mosaics and elaborate carvings.
Been here about 5 times in the past year. Great comedians that come through, excellent staff and best if all, Reina the manager is an absolute doll.
I'm not a drinker, so I've tried almost everything on the menu and I always go back to the fries (hot tip: do not share these). The chicken & waffles and caesar salad are also favorites.
RA
ray andcats
5 days ago
5.0
Saw Mark Norman. It was freaking awesome. I've seen lots of comics from all over the country here, I'm really happy that the improv in Irvine has become a common stop for many fantastic comedians... "comedy"
PH
PM Henderick
Jun 29, 2026
3.0
Speakers are too loud and nothing to eat if you are vegan, but other than that the location serves its basic purpose.
JS
Jaime Solis
Jun 16, 2026
2.0
The food and drinks were good and the comedians were great but the service was terrible. At first they tried to give us bottles of water (which they charge for) instead of glasses of water. Then the waiter came back in the middle of the show to show us that we didn't tip him. We didn't tip intentionally because of how bad of a server he was. We proceeded to not tip him. Other than the service the place was nice but I would not recommend it because our server nearly ruined the show for us.
JR
J R
Jun 13, 2026
4.0
Come with a group or something you get stuck with crappy seats.
Edit to add: people were seated in front of us after we (two) were seated. I'm sure it doesn't happen often but that was my experience. Everything else was great.
Unless otherwise specified, you must be at least 18 years of age to enter and at least 21 years of age to purchase and consume alcohol. You will need to show valid photo identification to enter our club. Accepted forms of identification include:
-State issued Driver’s License
-State issued ID
-Passport
-Military ID
-U.S. Permanent Resident Card
What happens if I show up late?
Guests are allowed into our showroom up until 15 minutes after the show begins. We stop seating 15 minutes into the show due to the disruption caused to the performers. No exceptions, no refunds.
Do you allow cameras inside the venue?
Photography, filming, videotaping or other forms of recording without consent of the club and the artist is strictly prohibited. Guests who abuse this policy will be ejected immediately. Certain artists may also prohibit cell phones from being allowed into the show. Please check the details of your show at purchase.
How do I learn more about upcoming shows and what's happening at the venue?
Check us out on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for the latest news or visit our website to check out our event calendar!
What is your bag policy?
No oversized bags or backpacks are allowed. All bags are subject to search upon entry. The venue has the right to refuse entry and to restrict any items at any time without prior notice.
Can we eat at the show?
We highly encourage you to dine with us! See our website for our current menu. Please note that outside food and beverage is prohibited. There is a two-item minimum food & beverage purchase requirement for all guests in the showroom.
Does the two-item minimum purchase requirement mean I have to buy two alcoholic beverages?
No. Any food item or beverage (with or without alcohol) counts toward the two-item minimum. We offer a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and encourage our guests to please drink responsibly.
What are the age requirements to enter the Irvine Improv and to purchase alcohol?
You must be at least 18 years old to enter and at least 21 years old to purchase and consume alcohol. Valid photo ID is required for entry.
What happens if I arrive late for a show at Irvine Improv?
Guests can enter up to 15 minutes after the show starts. Seating stops after that to avoid disrupting performers; no exceptions or refunds.
Is photography or recording allowed inside Irvine Improv?
Recording without consent from the club and artist is strictly prohibited. Violators will be ejected immediately. Some shows may also restrict cell phones.
How can I find out about upcoming shows and events at Irvine Improv?
Follow Irvine Improv on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or visit their website to check the event calendar.
What is the bag policy at Irvine Improv?
No oversized bags or backpacks allowed. All bags are subject to search. The venue can refuse entry or restrict items without prior notice.
Can I bring outside food or drinks to Irvine Improv?
Outside food and beverages are prohibited. There is a two-item minimum food and beverage purchase per guest from their menu.
Does the two-item minimum purchase have to be alcoholic beverages?
No, any combination of food or beverages, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, counts toward the two-item minimum.
What dining options are available near Irvine Improv?
You can enjoy meals nearby at Umami Burger, L'Opera at the Irvine Spectrum, Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen, and Kabuki Japanese Restaurant among others.
Are there convenient places to grab a quick snack or dessert near Irvine Improv?
Yes, nearby options include Charley's Grilled Subs, BoardWalk Ice Cream Co., Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream, and Sprinkles Irvine for desserts and snacks.
How can I combine a visit to Irvine Improv with shopping or other entertainment in the area?
Irvine Improv is located in Irvine Spectrum Center, a luxury outdoor shopping center with stunning architecture. You can shop, dine, or enjoy entertainment like Sega City before or after your comedy show.
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