You are about to embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Korean cuisine in America. Los Angeles has emerged as a hub for diverse and high-quality Korean food, offering an array of dining experiences that cater to all tastes.
The city’s Koreatown is a testament to the rich culinary landscape, boasting traditional eateries and modern fusion concepts. Here, you can savor everything from spicy BBQ delights to comforting soups and stews, and an assortment of seafood delicacies.
As you explore the acclaimed restaurants in Los Angeles, you’ll find that Korean cuisine has evolved while maintaining its authentic roots. This guide will lead you to the most revered spots, from the heart of Koreatown to hidden gems in other neighborhoods, ensuring a truly immersive culinary experience.
The Korean Culinary Scene in Los Angeles
Los Angeles boasts a thriving Korean culinary scene that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The city’s diverse cultural landscape has given rise to a vibrant food scene, with Korean cuisine playing a significant role.
Koreatown: The Heart of Korean Cuisine in America
Koreatown is the epicenter of Korean cuisine in the United States, offering an incredible array of authentic restaurants in strip malls and standalone buildings. Since the 1960s, Koreatown has attracted Korean immigrants and businesses, creating a rich cultural hub. You can explore the diverse regional Korean cuisines represented in Los Angeles, from North Korean-style cold noodles to Busan-style seafood specialties.
- Discover the historical development of Koreatown as a cultural hub.
- Explore the diverse regional Korean cuisines.
- Experience the authentic flavors of Korea in strip mall restaurants.
Beyond Koreatown: Korean Restaurants Across the City
Beyond Koreatown, Korean restaurants have expanded into neighborhoods like the Arts District, Downtown LA, and the San Gabriel Valley. Acclaimed chefs are bringing Korean flavors to upscale dining establishments, elevating the cuisine’s profile in the culinary world. You can find exceptional Korean barbecue and new-school restaurants in these areas, offering a fresh take on traditional Korean cuisine.
Some notable mentions include:
- Korean barbecue restaurants serving high-quality meats.
- New-school restaurants in the Arts District offering innovative Korean fusion.
- Upscale dining establishments featuring Korean flavors.
Traditional Korean BBQ Destinations
Korean BBQ enthusiasts in Los Angeles are spoiled for choice, with top-notch restaurants like Park’s BBQ, Soowon Galbi, and Sun Ha Jang leading the way. These traditional Korean BBQ spots offer a range of experiences, from premium meat selections to unique dining atmospheres.
Park’s BBQ
Park’s BBQ stands out as a premier destination for special occasion traditional Korean BBQ in Los Angeles. It’s known for its premium cuts of meat, including marinated short rib and American Wagyu. The restaurant’s attention to detail is also evident in its dish offerings, such as Korean-style beef tartare.
Soowon Galbi
Soowon Galbi offers an excellent balance of quality and value, making it an ideal spot for group dining. Its top-notch meat selection, including kkotsal (marbled boneless short rib), and decent menu prices make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Sun Ha Jang: Duck BBQ Specialists
Sun Ha Jang is a unique spot in the Korean BBQ landscape, focusing exclusively on duck rather than the traditional beef or pork. The rendered duck fat is used to create a mouthwatering skillet of fried rice at the end of your meal, making it a memorable dining experience.
Each of these restaurants offers a distinct experience, from the premium meat selections to the variety of traditional Korean side dishes, known as banchan. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out with friends, these traditional Korean BBQ destinations are sure to impress.
Acclaimed Korean Restaurants for Soup and Stew
When it comes to Korean cuisine, soup and stew are staples that warm the heart and soul. You’re in for a treat as we explore the top Korean restaurants in Los Angeles that specialize in these comforting dishes.
Han Bat Sul Lung Tang
Han Bat Sul Lung Tang is a go-to destination for a traditional Korean comfort food. Their signature sul lung tang, a milky-white broth made from ox bones, brisket, and occasionally other cuts of beef, is a must-try. You can season it to your liking with salt, pepper, spring onions, and red pepper paste.
Surawon Tofu House
Surawon Tofu House takes an artisanal approach to its soondubu (soft tofu stew). What sets them apart is their in-house made tofu, including a unique black soybean variety that adds complexity to the typically neutral soy foundation. You can enjoy a bubbling, red-tinged bowl of comforting tofu soup that’s sure to satisfy.
Sun Nong Dan
Sun Nong Dan is famous for its 24-hour service and mouth-watering galbi jjim (braised short rib stew). The dish is topped with a mountain of marinated short rib, potatoes, and onion, and finished with a tableside blowtorch service that creates a bubbling, caramelized cheese crust. You’re in for a treat with this rich and flavorful stew.
These acclaimed Korean restaurants maintain traditional cooking methods, often simmering broths for hours to develop deep, complex flavors. You can explore the regional origins of these different soup styles and how they’ve been adapted for Los Angeles diners while maintaining authenticity.
Seafood Specialties at Los Angeles Korean Restaurants
From spicy stews to delicate raw delicacies, Los Angeles’ Korean restaurants are serving up a wide range of seafood specialties that are sure to impress. You can experience the best of Korean seafood at restaurants that have perfected traditional dishes, offering a fresh and exciting culinary experience.
Soban: Home of Ganjang Gejang
Soban is a standout destination for seafood lovers, particularly for its exceptional ganjang gejang, or soy-marinated raw crab. This no-frills eatery on Western Avenue offers an impressive assortment of banchan and is known for its high-quality ganjang gejang. You can discover why Soban has attracted a celebrity following, including food critic Jonathan Gold and Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho, with its impeccable banchan selection and signature ganjang gejang.
The meticulous preparation process behind ganjang gejang involves marinating raw crab in a special blend of green chilies, white onion, and soy sauce, resulting in a buttery, sweet flavor profile. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to try something new, Soban is a must-visit destination for any seafood enthusiast.
Master Ha: Raw Crab Delicacies
For an elevated dining experience, Master Ha is the place to go. This polished eatery serves two versions of ganjang gejang, presented with an element of hanjeongsik—a traditional Korean tablescape that transforms a simple meal into a feast. You can explore the differences between the whole crab presentation and the shell-removed serving style, and decide which is better for your first-time ganjang gejang experience.
Master Ha also offers other seafood specialties, including live sea urchin and raw salmon rice bowl offerings. With its commitment to quality and traditional Korean cuisine, Master Ha is a great choice for those looking to indulge in a memorable seafood meal.
Noodle and Dumpling Havens
In the heart of Los Angeles, you’ll find exceptional Korean noodle and dumpling establishments that showcase the city’s diverse culinary scene. These restaurants offer a range of traditional and modern noodle dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
MDK Noodles
MDK Noodles, formerly known as Myung Dong Kyoja, is a renowned restaurant that specializes in traditional Korean noodles and dumplings. Their kalguksu, or knife-cut noodles, are prepared fresh daily and served in a comforting broth. You can also enjoy their deliciously garlicky kimchi and freshly steamed pork mandu.
The noodle offerings at MDK Noodles change with the seasons. In warmer weather, they serve an excellent spicy naengmyeon, made with chewy, ultra-thin strands of arrowroot flour. This dish is a perfect meal for hot days.
Hangari Kalguksu
Located next to Sun Nong Dan’s original location, Hangari Kalguksu is a restaurant that specializes in Korean kalguksu, or hand-cut noodles. They offer a variety of broth bases, from mild chicken to spicy seafood, catering to different palates. You can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of chicken kalguksu on a cold day or opt for a spicy seafood soup if you prefer a bit of heat.
The artisanal approach to noodle-making at Hangari Kalguksu ensures that their dishes are always flavorful and satisfying. Their traditional techniques result in the ideal noodle texture – neither too soft nor too chewy.
Modern Korean-American Fusion Restaurants
You’re in for a treat when exploring modern Korean-American fusion restaurants in Los Angeles, where innovation meets tradition. These restaurants are not just serving food; they’re offering an experience that blends the bold flavors and spices of Korean cuisine with the creativity and freshness of California’s culinary scene.
Yangban
For an artful, unexpected riff on Korean cooking, look no further than Yangban. This restaurant takes the traditional definition of Korean cuisine and turns it on its head, which is exactly why it’s so beloved. Early favorites like the twice-fried chicken wings have become classics among devoted fans.
Baroo
After closing in 2018, Kwang Uh’s modern Korean restaurant Baroo has made a triumphant return in the form of an Arts District tasting menu. Alongside his wife, Mina Park, Uh now offers a $110 seven-course offering that’s big on the fermentation-forward Korean flavors that first captivated L.A. in 2015.
These modern Korean-American fusion restaurants are not only redefining Korean cuisine in Los Angeles but are also incorporating local California ingredients while maintaining authentic Korean flavors and techniques. By understanding the influence of Korean Buddhist temple cuisine on vegan offerings and getting insights into the chefs’ personal stories and culinary training, you can appreciate the depth and richness these restaurants bring to the culinary scene.
Late-Night Korean Food Destinations
For those who crave Korean cuisine late at night, Los Angeles offers a variety of exceptional dining experiences. The city’s Koreatown is particularly known for its late-night Korean food spots, where you can enjoy everything from traditional Korean BBQ to comforting bowls of noodle soup.
Dan Sung Sa
Dan Sung Sa is a legendary late-night institution in Koreatown, known for its authentic pojangmacha (Korean street pub) atmosphere and extensive menu of anju (Korean bar food). Owner Caroline Cho recreated her memories of Seoul’s tented street pubs when she opened the establishment in 1997, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking a genuine Korean experience in Los Angeles. The menu features standout dishes like corn cheese, fresh clam soup, and the shake-it-yourself lunch box.
LA Tofu House
LA Tofu House is a hidden gem located on Vermont Avenue, offering a delicious and comforting Korean meal at any hour. This tiny restaurant is known for its soondubu (soft tofu stew) and extended hours, staying open until 3 am on weekends. The combination of its homestyle Korean cuisine, all-day hours, and easy $3 valet parking makes it a favorite among neighborhood residents and night owls alike.
Both Dan Sung Sa and LA Tofu House are testaments to Los Angeles’ vibrant late-night Korean food culture, serving as community gathering spots for Korean Americans and food enthusiasts from all backgrounds. Whether you’re in the mood for anju or soondubu, these establishments are sure to satisfy your late-night cravings.
Specialty Korean Dishes in Los Angeles
From spicy rice cakes to savory pork belly, Los Angeles’ Korean restaurants offer an array of specialty dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. You’re in for a treat as you explore the unique flavors and culinary experiences that these establishments have to offer. The city’s Korean culinary scene is a vibrant reflection of its cultural diversity.
Kobawoo House: Bossam Specialists
Kobawoo House, a family-run restaurant in Koreatown, has been serving some of the city’s finest bossam for four decades. This build-your-own sliced pork belly dish is served with thinly sliced pickled vegetables, including daikon radish and Napa cabbage, plus other types of flavorful kimchi. The experience is interactive, allowing you to wrap your own bossam with the perfectly steamed pork belly.
Mapo Chicken: Signature Galbi Dish
Mapo Chicken, also known as Mapo Galbi, is a beloved favorite among Korean food lovers. The signature dish is a family-style, bubbling red concoction full of chicken, rice cakes, perilla leaves, and other vegetables, which can be spiced to your liking. This no-frills, ajumma-run restaurant has created a loyal following with its delicious and interactive dining experience.
Yup Dduk LA: Tteokbokki Paradise
Yup Dduk LA is a haven for those who love tteokbokki, a popular Korean street food. The dish is elevated with various toppings and customizable spice levels, making it a delicious and fiery snack. The gochujang, or Korean fermented red pepper paste, is a key ingredient that gives the dish its signature flavor.
These specialty Korean dishes not only showcase the diversity of Korean cuisine but also highlight the cultural significance of preserving traditional flavors in Los Angeles. By exploring these unique culinary experiences, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the techniques and ingredients that make each dish special.
Vegetable-Forward and Banchan-Focused Korean Eateries
Vegetable-centric Korean cuisine is gaining popularity in Los Angeles, thanks to innovative restaurants like Perilla LA and Jinsol Gukbap. These eateries are redefining the Korean dining experience by highlighting the often-overlooked vegetable-centric aspects of Korean cuisine.
Perilla LA
Perilla LA, founded by Rustic Canyon alum Jihee Kim, has transitioned from a pandemic-era banchan pickup service to a permanent storefront on the border of Echo Park and Chinatown. You can enjoy seasonally driven, vegetable-forward Korean side dishes, made-to-order lunch plates, and a phenomenal bowl of chilled garlic noodles. Delights include delicate gyeran mari (rolled eggs), ong choy yuba muchim (water spinach and tofu skin salad), and tomato kimchi, perfect for your next summer picnic.
Jinsol Gukbap
In Koreatown, Jinsol Gukbap stands out for its comforting gukbap, a slightly cloudy pork belly noodle soup seasoned to taste. It’s served with an array of house-made kimchi, including radish kimchi and cabbage kimchi, along with chives and a tiny bowl of onion, jalapeno, and doenjang (fermented soybean paste). This meal showcases the rich flavors of Korean cuisine.
Both Perilla LA and Jinsol Gukbap demonstrate how Korean cuisine can be both vegetable-centric and flavorful, challenging the common perception that Korean food is predominantly meat-focused. By focusing on banchan and seasonal vegetables, these restaurants offer a fresh and exciting dining experience in Los Angeles.
Conclusion: Exploring Los Angeles, California’s Acclaimed Korean Restaurants
From traditional barbecue specialists to innovative fusion concepts, Los Angeles’ Korean restaurants showcase the incredible diversity of Korean cuisine. As a global destination for Korean food enthusiasts, Los Angeles offers a dining experience that rivals or even surpasses that of Korea itself.
The city’s Korean restaurant scene is characterized by emerging trends, including a growing emphasis on regional specialties and sustainable ingredients. Whether you’re a first-time diner or a seasoned foodie, navigating the vast landscape of Korean restaurants in Los Angeles can be a rewarding experience.
Some of the best Korean dining experiences can be found in the city’s acclaimed restaurants, which not only serve exceptional Korean food but also act as cultural ambassadors, popularizing Korean cuisine throughout America. As you explore the best restaurants in Los Angeles, you’ll discover a world of flavors that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
In conclusion, Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates Korean cuisine, offering a rich culinary experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The above is subject to change.
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