Everspring Modern Chinese: Tustin’s Must-Try Spot for Modern Chinese Cuisine
Explore Everspring Modern Chinese in Tustin, CA—home to bold flavors, handmade dumplings, and Toby Zhang’s vision for redefining fast-casual Chinese dining.
Tustin, California, is home to a culinary gem that’s quickly gaining a reputation for redefining fast-casual Chinese dining: Everspring Modern Chinese. Known for its innovative take on classic dishes like soup dumplings, orange chicken, and a one-of-a-kind crispy beef, Everspring stands out not just for its bold flavors but for the story behind it. At its heart is Toby Zhang, a first-time restaurant owner with a big vision: to turn his passion for food and community into a nationwide franchise.
Everspring isn’t just about food; it’s about bringing people together, crafting unique experiences, and offering a taste of modern Chinese cuisine that’s unlike anything else in Orange County. Let’s dive into the journey that brought Toby and Everspring to life—and why you’ll want to make it your next dining destination.
A Culinary Dream Rooted in Family and Vision
Toby’s journey into the restaurant world was deeply personal. “This all started because of a family friend in China,” he explained. That friend’s family runs China Mama, a celebrated Chinese restaurant in Las Vegas, known for its authentic flavors and traditional recipes. After visiting their restaurant and falling in love with the concept, Toby saw an opportunity.
“We wanted to bring their incredible recipes to a wider audience, but with a modern twist,” Toby shared. Inspired by the idea of turning traditional Chinese dishes into a scalable, fast-casual concept, he trained at China Mama’s kitchen for several months. “I rediscovered my passion for culinary arts,” Toby said. This passion became the foundation of Everspring Modern Chinese.
The Flavors You Can’t Miss
Everspring’s menu offers a fresh take on Chinese classics, with every dish crafted to deliver maximum flavor. Toby didn’t hesitate when asked about his must-try recommendations:
Crispy Beef – A true standout, this dish uses premium beef and a top-secret house-made sauce. “We’re even considering applying for a patent for the recipe,” Toby revealed. It’s unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.
Handmade Soup Dumplings – “Customers often compare our soup dumplings to Din Tai Fung’s, and some say ours are even better,” Toby said proudly. Made fresh in-house daily, these dumplings are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality.
Orange Chicken – A beloved favorite with a twist, Everspring’s orange chicken uses fresh orange juice and real orange peels for a vibrant, zesty flavor.
Building Community Through Food
For Toby, the most rewarding part of running Everspring isn’t just about the food—it’s about the people. “When I meet someone who says they’ve tried our restaurant and loved it, that recognition is everything,” he said. Creating a space where people can gather, enjoy a meal, and feel connected to the community has always been central to his vision.
Despite the challenges of operating a restaurant in California, Toby’s determination is unwavering. “The regulations and rising costs can be overwhelming, but I remind myself daily of the bigger picture. My goal isn’t just to have one restaurant—it’s to build a national franchise,” he shared.
What’s Next for Everspring Modern Chinese?
Looking ahead, Toby has big plans for Everspring. “We’re working on adding seasonal specials to keep the menu fresh for our customers,” he said. He’s also laying the groundwork for expansion by developing a central kitchen to support additional locations. “Scaling efficiently is key to our vision of turning Everspring into a franchise,” Toby explained.
With a clear focus on growth and innovation, it’s only a matter of time before Everspring becomes a household name in modern Chinese cuisine.