Among the hallmarks of Orange County Restaurant Week, now in its 17th year, have been its special culinary themes, among them date night, vegetarian and wine lovers. This year’s event – now through March 14 at 150 dining destinations, a quarter of them in Irvine – offers 10 such themes.

Making its debut: Global culinary passport. More than half of the Irvine restaurants participate in the experience; they’re listed at the official website (ocrestaurantweek.com).

Here are five standout offerings.

Brazil: The unlimited dining experience at Venture Park’s Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse stars 18 grilled meats, including the 24-karat golden steak, and 45 gourmet salad bar items ($88).

China: Bopomofo Cafe at Alton Square offers dinner for two ($45) including its nori fish sandwich (lauded in the L.A. Times), honey walnut shrimp burger and mapo tots, plus a $10 Bopomofo e-giftcard.

Cuba: Habana at Irvine Spectrum Center offers lunch (two courses, $25) or dinner (three courses, $45). Entrée options include ropa vieja (shredded beef) and vegetarian tamal en cazuela (creamy baked polenta).

Italy: Dinner at Spectrum Center’s Brio Italian Grille ($70) includes a glass of wine and three courses, perhaps chopped salad, pasta la vodka and tiramisu.

Singapore: Possibilities at Spectrum Center’s Le Shrimp Noodle Bar ($20 lunch/dinner) include the Big Prawn Noodle main and bok choy side with vegan oyster sauce plus tea or beer.