A view from the top

If you’re a fan of sunsets and skyline views or sinking into a sofa on top of a roof with a glass of wine in your hand, Hive & Honey – at the top of the Marriott Irvine Spectrum – should be on your list of places to visit.

If you’re a fan of sunsets and skyline views or sinking into a sofa on top of a roof with a glass of wine in your hand, then Hive & Honey should be on your list of things to do in the near future.

Hive & Honey is a new, open-air bar on top of the 16-story Marriott Irvine Spectrum that provides panoramic views that stretch far beyond Irvine, all the way to the surrounding mountains.

The vibe is modern and casual, with sofas and chairs grouped like so many little living rooms.

After the sun sets, strings of bulbs glow overhead. Heat lamps, which resemble actual lamps with lampshades, take the chill off. You can also ask for a blanket or grab a seat at the fire table.

On Friday and Saturday nights, a DJ shows up at 9 p.m. to spin top 40 songs, and the rooftop turns into a party.

Honey isn’t just part of the name here, by the way. Among the craft cocktails you can order are Patron tequila with fresh lime and jalapeño- infused honey; Japanese whiskey with ginger honey syrup; and Nolet’s gin with honey syrup and lemon juice, served in a cute honey bear bottle.

Even the hand-cut fries are served with a honey jalapeño ketchup. The menu has 10 items, including a grass- fed burger (they only make 25 a night though, so order it quickly).

Hive & Honey is open from 4 to 10 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays and from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.


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