The dining destinations at retail centers get more attention, but those working in the office buildings of Irvine can take advantage of restaurants and cafes that are convenient and often spectacular. Consider Benny & Mary’s at Irvine Towers. Cynthia Vigil, co-owner with her husband, Chad Reinhardt, designed every inch of the dazzling venue.
What do Benny and Mary have in common with Chad and Cynthia?
Benny and Mary are an exciting couple I made up. Benny was a retired interior designer and Mary his ex-fashion model wife. They have the best dinner parties – everybody wants an invitation!
You’ve described your cuisine as “eccentric.” What does that mean?
Fun, a little funky, kind of youthful and kind of silly. Cheese dumplings in tomato bisque served in a spoon, bulgogi on bao – but also a filet mignon and creamy lemon bucatini.
How do you make such a sprawling space feel cozy?
My aesthetic is maximalism – more is more, not less is more. Different patterns and textures together make you feel cozy. A lot of restaurants are white, clean, crisp and bright and very open. We’re not that.
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