Celebration Stories
RYAN YANG & RINA ZHANG
Founders, Orange Market Tableware
Culver Plaza
Irvine Spectrum Center (NOW OPEN)
THE ART OF GATHERING
For Ryan Yang and Rina Zhang, Lunar New Year is defined by the hum of a busy kitchen, the steam rising from fresh dumplings, and the warm glow of family gathering after a long year apart.
They capture this nostalgia in every piece of handcrafted ceramic they curate, because they believe a beautifully set table helps neighbors create intentional moments where art, food, and tradition meet.
“We show customers how simple objects like a cup or plate can carry warmth, care, and cultural storytelling,” the founders explain.
This season, they’re reinterpreting the holiday through collaborations with ceramic artists in Asia and throughout the modern diaspora. These exclusive pieces marry traditional sentiments with contemporary forms.
Entering the Year of the Horse, Ryan and Rina plan to expand these creative partnerships. They aim to build a community grounded in craftsmanship, driving their business forward with grace and intention.
“Stay true to yourself, and good things will follow.” — Ryan Yang & Rina Zhang
STEPHANIE LIN
Owner, KESTAN
Irvine Spectrum Center
DRESSING FOR A NEW BEGINNING
For Stephanie Lin, the heart of KESTAN began in childhood, during cherished mother-daughter Lunar New Year outings to choose new clothes for the year ahead. “Those moments taught me the joy of using style for self expression,” she reflected.
Today, Stephanie channels the ritual of renewal into her boutique. She encourages customers to view getting dressed not as a routine, but as a way to welcome a fresh chapter with confidence.
Beyond the clothing, Stephanie infuses the space with the hospitality of her family’s holiday gatherings. “I’m proud that we’ve developed a reputation for personalized care,” she explains. “It’s my way of bringing a little bit of that cultural warmth into every interaction.”
Stephanie plans to harness the energetic spirit of the Year of the Horse to deepen her connection with the community, ensuring every neighbor feels seen, welcomed, and ready for their own new beginning.
“Real success is about creating something you are proud to share with the people who raised you.” — Stephanie Lin
KHANH MONG
Co-Owner, Junbi Matcha & Tea
Culver Plaza
MATCHA FROM A 100-YEAR-OLD FARM
Khanh is passionate about more than just tea; he is dedicated to building community through quality matcha sourced directly from a 100-year-old farm in Uji, Japan—the matcha capital of the world. For Khanh, the name Junbi (meaning “to prepare” in Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Vietnamese) represents a mission to help people “prepare daringly” for the future.
The Lunar New Year holds deep emotional significance for the brand. Khanh views this celebration as a powerful moment for renewal and resolution. He sees matcha’s vibrant green color as a symbol of this fresh start, embodying the energy and wealth needed to tackle the year ahead. By serving authentic, farm-to-cup matcha, Khanh strives to create a community hub where everyone can gather to share energy and warmth for a prosperous new year.
PALETTE DIM SUM
The Market Place
TOUCHING THE HEART
For the team at Palette Dim Sum, the culinary experience is defined by the literal translation of dim sum: “to touch the heart.”
Rooted in the vibrant culture of Hong Kong, the restaurant balances deep tradition with modern refinement. The owner draws inspiration from childhood memories of a full house, the spirited game of “Fish, Shrimp, Crab,” and the aroma of a grandmother’s kitchen filled with radish cakes and savory dumplings.
“Culturally, it is our routine where friends and family get together, catch up, and drink aromatic teas,” the owner explains.
At Palette, this nostalgia meets innovation. Traditional symbols of longevity are elevated with contemporary ingredients, such as wok-seared scallops served with black truffle. It is a fusion that invites every guest to share in the abundance.
As 2026 arrives, the Year of the Horse represents “momentum with purpose.” The team is dedicated to sharpening their craft without rushing, ensuring that every meal fosters genuine connection.
“Success isn’t just about growth or recognition. It is about longevity.” — Palette Dim Sum
NATURE REPUBLIC
Irvine Spectrum Center
A RITUAL OF RADIANCE
For the owner of Nature Republic, Lunar New Year is a celebration of identity. She vividly recalls a defining moment when she visited her daughter’s kindergarten class wearing a traditional hanbok. She taught the students how to bow to elders and handed out crisp dollar bills, transforming a misunderstood holiday into a shared moment of cultural pride.
“I’m so glad she had the opportunity to proudly share her heritage,” she reflects.
That emphasis on well-being translates directly to the store’s mission. In Korean culture, the traditional New Year bow is a request for health and blessings. Nature Republic mirrors this by treating skincare as a consistent, daily ritual for overall health rather than just a beauty routine. They encourage customers to slow down and invest in themselves.
To welcome 2026, the team is highlighting their Ginseng Gold Silk line which uses 99.9% pure gold to bring radiance to the new year. While they plan to ride the “fast and furious” energy of the Horse, their advice for success remains grounded. Be consistent. Do not give up.
“Skincare becomes more than a routine. It becomes a meaningful ritual that supports long-term wellness.” — Nature Republic Team
Hong & Hoang Nguyen
Owners, 399 Vietnamese Kitchen
The Market Place
A LEGACY AT THE TABLE
The name “399” is more than a number for this family business. It’s the address of the owner’s grandfather’s home built by hand in Saigon in 1953. Generations gathered there to celebrate Tết, watching her grandmother prepare the traditional recipes they serve today.
“The flavors and memories continue to inspire how we honor Lunar New Year,” the owners share, recalling waking up on the first morning of the New Year to a home transformed by yellow apricot and pink peach blossoms.
Today, 399 Vietnamese Kitchen recreates that specific warmth. They serve comforting dishes like braised pork belly to invite guests to experience the generosity of a true Vietnamese family table.
In 2026, the family plans to embody the Fire Horse’s boldness to introduce new heritage dishes and welcome the community. They remain guided by a simple philosophy of resilience.
“As long as you stay true to yourself and your values, you will eventually find your way.” — Hong & Hoang Nguyen
HANA GRILL
Fashion Island
A RECIPE FOR RESILIENCE
At Hana Grill, the menu is built on Japanese-inspired flavors, but the heartbeat of the restaurant is proudly Korean. For the owners, Lunar New Year is a time of deep respect and connection, defined by the traditional bow to elders to receive blessings of health and wealth.
Serving food is a way of blessing their community. They strive to extend this warmth to every guest, creating an “Ohana” experience. “We have seen some of our loyal customers grow from kids to young adults,” they reflected. “They have become family.” This continuity extends to their craft, with a signature teriyaki sauce that’s been perfected and passed down since the 1980s.
In 2026, the Hana Grill team is drawing on a reservoir of hard work, faith, and kindness. After the challenges of recent years, they’re ready to harness the year’s forward momentum, aiming to “ride into the sunset with nothing but smiles.”
“Hana Grill is about being able to bless our customers through our food.” — The Family at Hana Grill
The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Irvine Management Company (“IMC”) or its members or affiliates.
