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Top picks in Buena Park

Lunch soup spots

The midday slump is hitting hard. A hot bowl of soup is the only thing that will make the lunch hour feel like a real break.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Jincook image 1
Jincook image 2
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Korean restaurant

Interior resembles a Korean movie set with traditional dolls and a thatched cottage roof decoration. Atmosphere feels cozy and immersive, evoking dining in Seoul with homely lighting and cute decor. Small space divides into two parts, creating an intimate setting for friends and family.

Rich, milky pork bone broth defines the pork simmer soup, paired with tender pork slices. The beef bone soup with glass noodles offers a simple but satisfying taste, while the spicy beef soup and chicken noodle soup bring warmth and spice.

Lunch draws a crowd on weekends, making the spot busy. No lunch specials are offered. The menu suits both lunch and dinner well.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, comforting, and really, really good."

"The short rib soup here is rich, clean, and so comforting."

"You have to try the braised beef short rib at this Lunch Spot; it's so tender!"

Good to know

1

Jincook does not accept reservations, so expect a 40-60 minute wait.

2

The restaurant is open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

All parties need to be present before seating.

02
Izakaya Ichie image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Space blends modern sushi bar with classic izakaya vibe featuring cozy, intimate atmosphere and R&B music that sets a relaxed mood. Guests use magical girl wands to call servers, adding a playful touch. The spot suits casual dates and late-night hangouts with fresh sashimi and a wide sake variety.

Miso soup arrives quickly and pairs well with dishes like honey garlic karaage and oden. It complements the meal with a warm, savory touch.

Consistent quality, service, and atmosphere make it a solid choice for lunch. It works well for casual meals with friends, especially on Sundays near opening time.

People are saying

"The service at these dinner spots is so kind and attentive."

"The gyoza at this Lunch Spot is probably my favorite dish."

"The miso soup here hits the spot and is to die for."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is available at the Source Mall on the 1st floor, at the back.

3

No reservation is needed since there's plenty of space.

03
Kaju Soft Tofu Restaurant - 가주순두부 image 1

A Korean restaurant blends traditional decor with modern robot servers that deliver food and sing birthday songs. The atmosphere feels cozy and homey, with a relaxed and welcoming vibe. Tables are spaced well, creating a comfortable dining experience with a touch of futuristic charm.

Tofu soup stands out with rich, comforting flavors and variations like vegetarian dumpling and ham and cheese options. The soups pair well with traditional sides like kimchi and bean sprouts, creating a satisfying meal.

Lunch offers generous portions that can cover dinner and the next day's meal. The Kaju Lunch Special features flavorful Chicken Bulgogi served with banchan and rice, providing great value.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic."

"I found the tofu soup here to be so delicious and flavorful."

"Their kalbi is the best lunch spot, even better than my own."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

3

The lunch set offers the best value for meals.

04
Kkanbu Korean Restaurant image 1

Small, clean Korean restaurant with a casual chicken joint vibe and cozy atmosphere. Offers wide variety of traditional dishes with fresh banchan and brass serving ware. Quiet and inviting, often busy even early in the day, with reasonable prices and comfy seating.

Fish roe soup and oxtail stew stand out with rich, bold flavors. The menu offers a variety of soups and stews, including spicy pork and soybean soup, plus a beef rib soup lunch special.

Lunch features hot stone bibimbap, beef rib soup, and spicy squid with well-prepared side dishes. Food arrives quickly, especially with morning and lunch specials that come with extra sides.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is just right, not too salty or sweet."

"This lunch spot has delicious food and good ambiance."

"The fish roe soup and oxtail stew burst with flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is a bit difficult, so arrive early or be patient.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

The menu features a wide variety of traditional Korean dishes.

05
Tang image 1
Restaurant

Cozy restaurant offers quiet, homey atmosphere with authentic Korean soups made from real beef bone broth. Space feels warm and inviting yet super quiet, allowing diners to hear a pin drop. Portions are generous and prices affordable, making it a solid choice for hearty, flavorful meals.

Soups arrive piping hot with rich, authentic flavors made from real beef bone broth. Options like ox knee soup and sundae soup stand out for their deep, satisfying taste and quality.

Lunch offers large portions with specials like yukgaejang that can easily be shared. Prices stay under $14 with good service making it a solid affordable deal.

People are saying

"I loved their rich, authentic, and flavorful soups."

"The seafood pancake was pretty big and packed with seafood."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is really delicious."

Good to know

1

The lunch special at Tang costs $14.99 and is available from 10am to 2pm, Monday to Friday.

2

There is free parking in the small plaza, but avoid parking in the Enterprise lot.

3

The portions of soup are generous, providing good value for the price.

06
Kobe Gyukatsu image 1
Restaurant

Small interior with cozy ambiance and candle grills at each table creates a casual dining experience. Background music is limited, contributing to a chill but unremarkable vibe. Tablets at tables enable quick ordering without waitstaff, supporting a relaxed pace.

Miso soup comes with many meals and tastes very tasty and awesome. It accompanies sets like Beef Gyukatsu and Cheese Cutlet, adding a warm, savory touch to the meal.

Lunch features special bowls priced between 14 and 20 dollars. Each bowl includes miso soup and offers very good quality ingredients.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the katsu, is crispy and delicious."

"The miso soup here is awesome and very tasty."

"The gyukatsu beef at this Lunch Spot is juicy, tender, and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough; street parking is available if the lot is full.

2

Each table has a tablet for ordering, allowing for quick service.

3

The restaurant adds a 20% tip to the bill for groups larger than 4.

07
Pixiu Mala Hongtang Buena Park (피슈마라 홍탕 부에나팍) image 1

Spacious interior with a modern, clean design creates a comfortable setting for meals. An open sauce bar and self-serve ingredient stations encourage a casual, interactive dining experience. The atmosphere stays lively and welcoming, suitable for groups of all sizes.

Broth stays fresh and clean with a delicious malatang flavor. Soup can be customized without the numbing Mala spice and works well with various ingredients cooked in different styles.

Modern and sleek interior creates a comfortable atmosphere for lunch. The space suits groups, dates, or solo visits with a quiet vibe during late lunch hours.

People are saying

"The Chinese food service here is so friendly and attentive."

"I loved customizing my malatang with fresh ingredients and spice level."

"The malatang soup broth was so delicious."

Good to know

1

You pay the bill at the front after you are done eating.

2

Parking at The Source is easy with a dedicated parking structure.

3

The price is based on weight, allowing for customization of your bowl.

08
Jinsol Gukbap Buena Park image 1
Korean restaurant

Modern Korean-style interior features clean wooden tables and digital ordering kiosks at every table. Atmosphere is friendly but noisy, often crowded with families sitting close together. The space feels authentic and well-lit, resembling a restaurant in Korea.

Rich, savory pork soup stands out with a Busan-style recipe that's rare even in Seoul. It comes with rice and a special red paste that adds flavorful heat and depth.

Lunch features a delicious broth that pairs well with a bottle of soju. The Korean dishes offer a fantastic midday meal experience.

People are saying

"This pork soup is more than good enough."

"This Lunch Spot's galbi tang and dolsot bibimbap were delicious."

"I found plenty of free parking available."

Good to know

1

They serve breakfast menu until 10 am.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially around noon.

3

Parking is limited and can be challenging during busy times.

09
Thai Addict Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Traditional Thai decor and soft lighting create an intimate, cozy atmosphere with modern seating. The vibe balances between authentic Thai and casual dining, attracting those seeking genuine flavors. Prices tend to be on the higher side, with small portions and no outdoor seating available.

Boat Noodle Soup stands out as a frequent choice and is consistently flavorful. The menu also features Tom Yum and pork soup, which appeal to a range of tastes.

Lunch features great specials with affordable prices and a variety of dishes like curry, dumplings, satay sticks, and fried rice. The setting suits midday meals, though orders can take longer than expected during busy times.

People are saying

"This Thai food is so authentic, it's like eating in Thailand."

"The green papaya salad was a burst of freshness."

"The Boat Noodle Soup here is so delicious."

Good to know

1

There is a 3% surcharge for credit card payments.

2

Meals are served family style.

3

Parking is plentiful.

10
JAWS Topokki image 1
Korean restaurant

Food court setting offers generous portions of Korean street food with a varied menu including spicy tteokbokki and fresh gimbap packed with meat and veggies. Atmosphere is casual and convenient, with quick service and plenty of seating. Flavors feature a musky, nutty umami profile, and prices have increased notably over time.

Topokki soup stands out with its spicy and flavorful kick. Assorted fish cake soup offers a cozy, refreshing option that suits a quick meal or cold day. Oden soup comes in a large portion for the price.

Lunch offers convenient options with both take-out and dine-in available. The food court setting adds a fun atmosphere to the meal.

People are saying

"The Korean sausage had a musky, nutty umami flavor."

"The gimbaps here are so neatly made and pretty."

"The spicy fish cake soup is really hot and chewy."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $25 for a duo combo meal.

2

Credit card usage incurs an additional charge.

3

Generous portions make meals suitable for sharing.

11
SUP Noodle Bar - Buena Park image 1

Modern Vietnamese restaurant with a large dining area and shared patio seating offers a lively, noisy atmosphere filled with well-chosen music. The place draws a busy crowd and features unlimited noodle refills, creating an energetic vibe suited for casual gatherings.

Broth offers a clean, slightly sweet flavor with a rich, savory base. Beef belly is tender and plentiful, and noodles are delicious with refillable options. Shaken style adds a smoky depth from wok-fried green onions and marrow.

Long waits happen but the $11 beef belly pho lunch special makes it worth it. The AYC lunch special stands out as amazing, making it a solid choice for family or date lunches.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has the best pho broth."

"I thought the Pho soup here was the best I'd ever had."

"You have to try the $11 beef belly pho lunch special."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; it's first-come, first-serve.

2

Expect wait times of 20 to 60 minutes during peak hours.

3

A special promotion offers a free passion fruit green tea for dining in from June 17th to 24th.

12
M Korean BBQ image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean BBQ spot with classic joint feel offers large tables and private rooms suited for groups. Loud techno music creates a high-energy, club-like atmosphere that can make conversation difficult. Drinks include cold draft beer and unique cocktails like peach makgeoli blends.

Cold soup beef tartar stands out with its rich flavor that makes you want to drink every drop. House soup and steamed egg come as memorable, complimentary side dishes that complement the meal well.

Lunch offers a special under $20 that provides good value. The spot suits casual celebrations with a friendly atmosphere during midday hours.

People are saying

"The Korean Barbecue here is the best I've had, with tender beef tongue and generous portions."

"The Lunch Spot service was so attentive, Donnie kept the meat perfect."

"Kristine and Reuben were outstanding, especially during birthday celebrations."

Good to know

1

M Korean BBQ is a no-tipping establishment; a 10% service fee is included.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially at night.

3

Plenty of parking is available in the attached parking structure.

13
K SOUL FOOD image 1
Korean restaurant

Outdoor seating beneath a vibrant red canopy creates a cozy Korean street food vibe reminiscent of a pojangmacha. Inside seating is small and minimal, offering an authentic, no-frills atmosphere. Fish tanks with live seafood highlight a focus on freshness that complements the overall experience.

Fish cake soup stands out with its rich, savory broth and a mix of flavors that use every ingredient. Mussel soup also appears as a thoughtful addition when dishes take longer, adding to the variety.

Offers a quick lunch option with Korean dishes suitable for casual meals with friends.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and amazing."

"I've eaten the popcorn chicken teokbokki and Korean fried chicken rice cake endlessly since 2020."

"The Korean BBQ Bulgogi is an 8 out of 10 for a great Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of The Source OC plaza, with ample parking available.

2

K SOUL FOOD offers outdoor seating, providing a pleasant dining option.

3

Expect to pay extra for additional bowls of rice, which cost $1 each.

14
Yuchun Buena Park image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant offers clean indoor and outdoor seating with a large shaded patio. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy, featuring Christian music that adds a unique touch. It draws diners looking for comforting cold noodles in a peaceful setting.

Soups here stand out for their rich flavors and variety, including warm options like yukaejang and galbitang and cold soups like mul naengmyeon. The menu also features healthful choices like doganitang, an ox knee soup, and a rich chicken soup.

Low patronage during peak lunch hours stands out. Orders may include unexpected items like cucumbers, but time constraints limit adjustments.

People are saying

"I found the naengmyeon here to be the best in Orange County."

"I loved the cold noodle soup here; it's the best I've ever had."

"I was surprised there was only one customer at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Ample parking is available at the restaurant.

2

Credit cards are accepted, but they do not take AMEX.

3

The price for a meal is around $18 before tip and tax.

15
Porto's Bakery and Cafe image 1

Huge, bright bakery combines classic goodness with modern architecture and offers ample outdoor seating with a shaded patio. Atmosphere feels chaotic and vibrant, especially when crowded, with Cuban and salsa music adding to the energy. Space is well organized for fast service despite heavy foot traffic.

Soups come in a warm, comforting, and hearty style. Bread served alongside works well for dipping in the broth.

Lunch features fresh sandwiches and flavorful plates like Chicken Cilantro and chicken milanesa. Baked goods and tasty drinks complement the satisfying meal options.

People are saying

"You'll wait in a long line for these pastries."

"This lunch spot has amazing empanadas and potato balls."

"I loved the variety of soups and sandwiches here."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited at this location, making it difficult to find a spot.

2

Expect long wait times, especially shortly after opening.

3

The cafe's menu does not include breakfast foods all day.

16
Kyung Bok Kung Korean BBQ image 1
Korean restaurant

Luxurious Korean restaurant with modern Korean aesthetics and semi-private booths creates an upscale yet cozy atmosphere. Large space feels like a club, offering private dining rooms for comfort and exclusivity. Music and socializing maintain a festive but not intrusive vibe.

A tray with seaweed soup, rice, and banchan arrives for birthdays as a thoughtful gesture. The traditional Korean birthday soup, miyeok-guk, appears as a special plate when birthdays are known.

Lunch features decent lunch boxes and options like the VVIP Han Jeong Sik set for groups. Prices run on the expensive side, even without a reservation on weekends.

People are saying

"The Korean food here, especially the K-BBQ courses, is always satisfying."

"The wagyu BBQ here is so tender and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's Han Jeong Sik experience was refined and memorable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a hassle-free dining experience.

2

The restaurant only accepts credit cards with chips; no gift cards without chips.

3

Expect higher prices due to the premium dining experience offered.

17
Gangnam Station Korean BBQ - Buena Park image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious, modern interior with self-serve meat and salad bars creates an interactive dining experience. Lively atmosphere with loud music and a diverse crowd fills the clean, well-ventilated space. Tables feature built-in grills for cooking fresh, well-seasoned meats quickly and efficiently.

Breakfast soups come in affordable bowls around $11.99 and taste good. The buffet includes two soup choices that pair well with sides like japchae and banchan.

Weekday lunch offers a $25 special with a solid selection of meats from both buffet and kitchen. Service stays outstanding even during busy hours.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best Korean BBQ in town."

"The meats at this Lunch Spot had perfect fat ratios and were seasoned just right."

"I loved the spicy shin ramyun and gukbap finish."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday until 4 pm with a $24.99 all-you-can-eat deal.

2

A minimum of 2 adults is required to sit down for AYCE dining.

3

There is a 2-hour time limit for all-you-can-eat orders.

18
Gangnam House image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Large Korean barbecue restaurant offers spacious seating and an open floor plan that suits big groups and families. The atmosphere is clean and chic but can be too loud for conversation. Tables come with tools for cooking meat, emphasizing a hands-on dining experience.

갈비탕 bone soup offers a rich, savory broth with tender meat. The banchan includes a tofu soup and steamed egg, adding variety alongside the main dishes.

Lunch offers a peaceful atmosphere with immediate seating. There is a happy hour available during lunch.

People are saying

"The Korean food here has great marinated short rib, juicy and tender."

"This lunch spot's bibimbap is a must-try dish."

"The galbitang soup had a big piece of juicy, tender meat."

Good to know

1

Reservations are accepted for large parties, such as groups of 20.

2

Happy hour is available for lunch, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking is easy in the structure for the Source shopping center.

19
Komi Buffet image 1
Buffet restaurant

Buffet restaurant offers an open layout with comfortable seating and a Mongolian grill where cooks prepare dishes to order. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, attracting mostly seniors and groups. Small buffet area includes an ice cream bar with multiple flavors.

Chinese hot & sour soup stands out with its rich flavor and beats most restaurants. Sweet and sour soup also offers a delicious taste. Soups come with fresh ingredients like vegetables and meat.

Lunch offers a buffet option priced around $15 with a drink included. Seniors over 65 pay less than $12 for the weekday lunch special, making it an affordable choice for that group.

People are saying

"I thought the buffet was good for its price."

"The ice cream here is delicious with so many flavors."

"This lunch spot has good food for the price."

Good to know

1

The weekday lunch special costs less than $12 for seniors over 65.

2

Crawfish is served in the evening after 4 p.m and all day Sunday.

3

The price of approximately $15 with a drink during lunch is affordable.

20
Venice Beach image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers spacious seating with high ceilings that create an open and airy vibe. Atmosphere stays clean and quiet, making it comfortable for groups. Fresh seafood options like sashimi and live octopus stand out as key features.

A pot of roe soup comes packed with ingredients and offers a filling experience better than many found in Korea. The tofu soup carries a spicy flavor, though some soups do not meet expectations.

Lunch specials offer affordable pricing around $19.99 and include options like a raw fish rice bowl. Specials apply to dinner hours, providing better value for meals.

People are saying

"The roe soup at this Lunch Spot is surprisingly full of ingredients."

"The sashimi rice bowl was exceptionally fresh."

"The roe soup here is full of ingredients, better than any I've had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials offer great prices on dishes like grilled eel.

2

Public parking lots at Venice Beach cost $10 a day.

3

Free parking is available in the structure by The Source.

21
Claim Jumper Steakhouse & Bar- Buena Park image 1

Restaurant offers old west themed decor with wooden aesthetics and views of a nearby amusement park. Atmosphere tends to be loud with many conversations and can feel dated and shabby. Salad buffet and quality BBQ sauce stand out among the menu options.

Potato cheese soup appears on the menu and gets ordered often. French onion soup is no longer available. Soups taste average and come in 12 oz. bowls.

Lunch offers large portions at a decent price. The food is consistently very good and suits casual dining occasions.

People are saying

"The food here is great, with really good quality and portions."

"I found the lunch here to be great tasting and delicious."

"I loved their potato cheese soup."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM daily.

2

Kids eat free on Mondays during happy hour.

3

The happy hour menu features expanded food options.

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