Looks like upscale Chinese is replacing chicken pot pie in Irvine.

The Irvine Company announced plans to turnover the old Marie Callender’s space to the sleek Sichuan eatery, Meizhou Dongpo, which has more than 100 locations in China.

The Chinese restaurant, which started in 1996, specializes in Sichuan cuisine with dozens of locations throughout China, according to its website. In 2013, it opened its first U.S.-based restaurant at the Westfield Century City mall in Los Angeles.

The Irvine upstart is expected to open in late fall at the Culver Plaza Shopping Center, which is home to Little Sheep Mongolian Hot Pot, Sam Woo, J.J. Bakery Cafe, Tasty Noodle House, Tea Station and a 99 Ranch Market.

Besides Orange County, Meizhou Dongpo is planning to open locations in Arcadia and Las Vegas.

“We’re excited to bring such a distinguished and innovative concept to Orange County and especially to our Irvine community,” said Easther Liu, chief marketing officer for Irvine Company Retail Properties. “Meizhou Dongpo will be a great fit to the center and neighborhood.”

The Irvine Marie Callender’s closed at the end of 2015 after a 15-year run at the shopping center. The chain said it wanted stay, but the Irvine Co. would not renew its lease.

The restaurant is at 15363 Culver Drive.

Contact the writer: nluna@ocregister.com