While the newly-opened I Heart Pancakes in Campus Plaza is a blast into the past reminiscent of a classic American diner, the story behind its colorful interior, old-timey brand characters and delectable menu stems from owner RC Turkzadeh’s nostalgic connection to the diner industry.
Offering a broad array of American breakfast, lunch and dinner items, the diner franchise opened its first Irvine location near the University of California, Irvine in 2024. Beyond its comforting American classics and welcoming retro atmosphere, the story behind I Heart Pancakes shows dedication to artistic passion and unequaled hospitality.
“I wanted to create something that you don’t see everyday,” Turkzadeh said. “My family owned diners and IHOPs when I was younger, and I wanted to recreate a diner that I wanted to go to. Good fresh ingredients that are diner-style but high quality.”
From its trademark heart emblem to its late operating hours, the diner’s distinct features are rooted in Turkzadeh’s own childhood.
“Being a kid, I would have nightmares, and my dad would take me to a 24-hour diner,” Turkzadeh said. “I would have pancakes, and we would go home and my nightmare was gone. That’s the inspiration. The heart is love. It brings many memories about my father waking up in the middle of the night. That’s why I’m open until two in the morning.”
Along with childhood memories, Turkzadeh’s lifelong passion for the visual, literary and culinary arts helped bring his vision for the diner to fruition.
“I have always been into my Persian heritage,” Turkzadeh said. “Actually, my mom cooked—it was my inspiration. Anything artistic, I was into, which helped me be creative when I came up with the menu.”
Their most iconic item is the I Heart Pancakes buttermilk pancakes. Served fresh off the griddle with an airy dollop of salted butter, the fluffy pancakes make the perfect sponge for a drizzle of nutty maple syrup.
Although delicious pancakes are their specialty, the diner also offers dishes such as french toast, burgers and crepes. Recommended by Turkzadeh, the Monte Cristo is a great choice for those torn between sweet and savory. Featuring ham and swiss cheese wedged between two slices of warm french toast and drizzled with raspberry syrup, the sandwich packs an explosive combination of flavors. The subtle tartness of the raspberry syrup enhances the sweetness of the french toast, which compliments the umami of the crispy, savory ham and gooey, creamy cheese.
Whether to indulge in a late-night treat after a bad dream or to experience the charm of I Heart Pancakes, head over to 4517 Campus Dr, Irvine any day of the week from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m.
