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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Koreatown's best

Kalbi soup

Kalbi served in a soup that balances the richness of the meat without losing the delicate, clear broth you actually came for.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Korean restaurant

Family-run Korean restaurant offers a cozy, homey atmosphere with intimate seating at just two small tables. The space feels cramped but welcoming, encouraging personal conversations with the owners. The vibe is simple and comfortable, enhanced by plants and flowers that add warmth to the setting.

Spices imported from Korea give the chicken soup an authentic flavor. The samgye tang features a whole chicken with tender meat and a blend of jujube slices, chestnuts, and pine nuts that create a rich, unique taste.

Galbi jjim features deep soy flavors with accents of sliced jujubes and pine nuts. It arrives table side with bones removed while chatting, offering a savory and less sweet taste compared to other local versions.

People are saying

"This Korean food's galbi jjim is perfectly balanced and delicious."

"This chicken soup tasted like healing comfort."

"I found the galbi jjim to be phenomenal and exceptionally good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating; only one table is available.

2

The menu features only four dishes, showcasing their specialties.

3

Calling ahead for takeout is advised as they prepare food from scratch.

02
Shin Chon Seolleongtang(신촌설렁탕) image 1

Small, cozy Korean restaurant with a simple, classic K-town style interior offers a warm, homey atmosphere. Authentic Korean soups, especially Seolleongtang and spicy variations, stand out alongside homemade kimchi and affordable prices. Free parking and a welcoming vibe make it a neighborhood gem.

Soups here have a rich, comforting broth that is never too salty. Options like the spicy hangover soup and beef and offal soup come with generous portions of meat and deep, authentic flavors.

Galbi dishes feature huge ribs and come in spicy and non-spicy versions. The spicy galbi tang includes one piece of meat, while the regular galbi tang has three large ribs.

People are saying

"The soup here has a rich, comforting broth that's not too salty."

"The beef ribs are unbelievably tender and fall-off-the-bone."

"I thought their Kalbi was just crazily fantastic."

Good to know

1

Most soups cost just over $10 and include rice and side dishes.

2

Galbijjim is priced at $30, worth it compared to most dishes around $15-18.

3

The restaurant offers free parking, which is a huge plus.

03
Jinsol Gukbap 8th image 1
Korean restaurant

Traditional Korean interior with curvy wooden tables creates a spacious and cozy dining space. Atmosphere feels authentic and soul warming, often filled with Korean patrons. Parking is widely available, adding to the convenience of visiting.

Pork soup stands out as a hearty, warm, and meaty dish that many keep coming back for. The sundae soup also offers a comforting, delicious option alongside other soups like yukgaejang.

LA galbi stands out with a fantastic flavor. The kalbi and naengmyeon combo offers great value. Other dishes like galbi tang and pork belly also taste delicious.

People are saying

"This pork soup is rich, comforting, and tasted like it was simmered with care."

"The Korean food here tastes just like Korea."

"The kalbi here was fantastic, truly the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back with valet service for $2 at lunch and $3 at dinner.

2

The restaurant is known for its authentic Korean pork soup.

3

Expect a clean environment with a new location.

04
LEE GA 이가 image 1
Korean restaurant

Small space offers a cozy atmosphere with a clean, chic interior. Noise levels vary from quiet and soul soothing to loud and crowded during busy times. The place feels warm and welcoming, reflecting a home-style Korean kitchen vibe.

Broth stands out with a rich yet clean flavor and a pure beef taste in the Beef Short Rib Soup. Soups come in large bowls and offer options like tangy galbitang and customizable salt levels.

Beef short ribs come with a smoky flavor and serve 2-3 people. Kalbi cooks over mushrooms and potatoes on hot cast iron to avoid burning. Galbi naengmyun pairs well with the ribs and offers a very good taste.

People are saying

"The Korean food's tender ribs fell off the bone."

"The short ribs in the soup were fall-off-the-bone tender."

"The Kalbi jjim was fall-apart tender and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Parking is only available by valet for $3.

2

Street parking is available but can be challenging in the evenings.

3

Expect wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

05
Mountain San BBQ image 1
Korean restaurant

Spacious Korean restaurant with a clean, modern industrial vibe and natural light fills the room. Energetic atmosphere suits groups and families, with high-quality charcoal grilling that avoids overcooking. Free validated parking and unique warm Jang-jorim banchan add to the welcoming experience.

Soups here feature clear, light, yet flavorful broth with options like seafood and beef ribs noodle soup. Traditional Korean soups such as dried pollack soup and whole chicken soup offer warming and rejuvenating qualities.

Galbi Jimm comes in spicy and non-spicy versions with meat that falls off the bone easily, no sauce needed. Marinated Galbi features a sweet soy-based sauce and a bone-in texture, though it leans on the sweeter side.

People are saying

"The Korean BBQ meats here are tender and excellent."

"I loved the free parking, they validated for three hours."

"The marinated kalbi here is a classic sweet soy with a bone-in texture."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 10 pm.

2

There is free parking at Koreatown Plaza with validation.

3

Parking costs $5 for valet service.

06
Seong Buk Dong image 1
Korean restaurant

Small dining area offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with beautiful seasonal paintings on the walls. The vibe is casual and easygoing, attracting those seeking authentic traditional Korean fare in a fuss-free setting.

Soft tofu soup stands out with its savory flavor and tender texture. Beef soup features tender short ribs and rich broth, while fish soup offers a great taste.

Braised galbi jim stands out with its perfect braising, balanced sweetness, and tender beef texture. The spicy version offers a rich, comforting flavor that many find more satisfying than competitors. LA Galbi also delivers wonderful flavors alongside other dishes.

People are saying

"The Korean food's galbi jim is rich and comforting."

"I found the tofu soup to be very tasty and flavorful."

"The Galbi Jim was divine, rich, and perfectly braised."

Good to know

1

Parking is convenient with plenty of open spots available.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The menu prices have increased significantly recently.

07
ORIGIN Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant with tabletop charcoal grilling and waitstaff-cooked meat offers an interactive yet relaxing dining experience. Interior blends retro-industrial 1960s Seoul style with modern design, creating a lively and warm atmosphere. Unique features include built-in hot pot burners and a scratcher game adding excitement to meals.

Soup features a bean paste broth with ramen noodles, offering a unique twist on traditional ramen. The combination of Dwenjang Jji Gae flavors creates a rich and satisfying finish.

Marinated galbi melts in your mouth with great quality and rich flavor. The galbi patty and garlic galbi come perfectly cooked and are part of generous meat selections.

People are saying

"The Korean BBQ here has delicious, tender meats and yummy sides."

"The BBQ service was outstanding; they cooked and cut the meat for us."

"The marinated kalbi here is so tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Parking can be challenging in the area, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

08
Jinsol Gukbap 3rd (진솔국밥 3가) image 1

Traditional Korean decor creates a cozy and lively atmosphere filled with '90s K-pop music and bustling chatter. Crowded tables and a mix of Korean and non-Korean diners give an authentic and welcoming vibe. Signature celebrity autographs near the entrance add a unique touch.

Rich and deep pork soup stands out here, often paired with cold spicy noodles or blood sausage. The menu also features tasty options like spicy beef soup with glass noodles and Jeju pork noodle soup.

Pork kalbi stands out with its rich flavor and is often paired with cold noodles or mul naengmyeon combos. Kalbi Tang comes packed with lots of vegetables, adding hearty depth to the dish.

People are saying

"I found the pork soup here to be hearty and tasty."

"The house-made kimchi soup was large with a whole napa cabbage."

"The pork kalbi here is the best I have ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

Parking is free but limited during peak hours.

3

The last order is taken at 9 PM.

09
Soowon Galbi image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant offers classic Korean BBQ atmosphere with dim lighting and loud environment suited for families. Tables include heaters for self-cooking while staff also handle grilling. Decor shows its age but maintains cleanliness and functional tableware.

Soups here feature spicy hot flavors and a notable soybean paste base. Kimchi soup and side dishes complement the meal well, though the soybean soup could use some improvement.

Kalbi here is tender and full of flavor, often described as melting in the mouth. The servings come with unlimited Banchans and options like pork jowl and bulgogi with lettuce wraps as add-ons.

People are saying

"The Kalbi here is so tender and flavorful."

"The food here is amazing, especially the quality of the meat."

"I found the Korean barbecue here to be the best in Los Angeles."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

Valet parking is available for a $5 fee, but street parking is limited.

3

A single serving of galbi costs around $69, making it a premium dining option.

10
Brothers Galbi image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious Korean barbecue restaurant with a friendly atmosphere and lively energy. Servers assist with cooking, enhancing the dining experience. Valet parking is available, though smoke ventilation could improve.

Soups come in varied styles like BBQ, tofu, and a refreshing hangover soup with blood sausage. Options include cold buckwheat noodle soup and hearty choices paired with short ribs and sides.

Unlimited short rib galbi offers tender and flavorful meat with a sweet marinated taste. The galbi pairs well with Korean style cold noodles and comes with amazing banchan sides.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is amazing and proper."

"The kalbi here is so tender and flavorful, it's the best I've ever tried."

"The soup here is amazing, and the sides are great too."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat menu costs $49.95 per person.

2

Valet parking is available for $3 on weekdays.

3

The restaurant has its own parking lot for guests.

11
MOOHAN Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

High-volume Korean barbecue restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat buffet with self-serve meat stations and a modern, stylish interior. The atmosphere is clean and well lit, lively with loud music and a vibrant vibe. Private rooms and a walk-up bar add options for groups and waiting guests.

Soybean paste soup stands out with rich flavor. The soondubu hot tofu soup and steamed egg offer comforting, flavorful options alongside a free kimchi pancake and salad bar.

LA galbi stands out with solid meat quality and rich flavor. The seasoned rib finger and boneless short rib also deliver strong taste and texture.

People are saying

"The Korean food here, especially the bulgogi and pork jowl, was delicious."

"The LA Kalbi here is delicious and high quality."

"The marinated meats here are very good and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 5-8pm and Saturday to Sunday from 2-6pm.

2

Drinks cost $5 during happy hour, with cocktails at $8.

3

Expect a wait time of up to two hours during peak hours.

12
Surawon Tofu House image 1
Korean restaurant

Small Korean restaurant offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with a quiet vibe and plenty of tables inside. The place draws a young crowd enjoying gluten-free tofu stews and a variety of banchan, with quick service and a parking lot behind the building.

Soups here simmer for hours, delivering rich galbi tang and authentic tofu soups. Spicy tofu soup stands out with its deep, bold flavors.

Thick-cut galbi offers a smoky, sweet, and savory flavor with juicy, premium beef. Galbi tang and LA galbi show deep, slow-cooked richness and a slightly sweet taste.

People are saying

"The Korean food's soon tofu is rich, silky, and deeply satisfying."

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

"The thick-cut Kalbi is smoky, sweet, and incredibly juicy."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available in the back of the restaurant.

2

Parking at the back could be challenging during rush hours.

3

Expect a wait during meal times as the restaurant is popular.

13
Corner Place Restaurant image 1
Korean restaurant

Old-fashioned Korean BBQ spot with a somewhat dingy, no-frills interior and no music, just sizzling meat and chatter. Mostly Korean clientele and staff create an authentic, local vibe. Known for large portions, dongchimi cold noodles, and classic KBBQ meats at reasonable prices.

Cold noodle soup stands out with its refreshing taste and is a popular choice in summer. The dongchimi cold soup offers a memorable, crisp flavor that often becomes a highlight of the meal.

Kalbi stands out as a staple dish here, paired often with dongchimi broth that complements its flavor. The combination with noodles or pork belly adds a satisfying mix to the meal.

People are saying

"The Bulgogi here is so refreshing and delicious."

"Their Korean BBQ is amazing, especially the refreshing cold noodles."

"The kalbi and dongchimi cold soup are unforgettable."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot in front and a secured lot across the street.

2

Expect large portions; a meal can feed two or three people for about $40.

3

The restaurant charges extra for rice and lettuce, so plan accordingly.

14
Jeong Yuk Jeom Korean BBQ LA image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Contemporary Korean barbecue restaurant with smokeless charcoal grills and high-quality range hoods creates a warm, comfortable atmosphere ideal for conversation. Spacious seating and small private rooms offer a refined dining experience. The vibe suits adults dining with friends or family in a fancy, exotic setting.

Soups come with generous short ribs, especially the GalbiTang which includes three ribs. Traditional Korean soups like beef short rib and tofu soup are well prepared and pair well with rice dishes.

Marinated galbi stands out with its savory marinade and perfect grilling that keeps the meat tender. The flavor is rich and the texture is consistently well-cooked.

People are saying

"The dry-aged beef BBQ here is flavorful and juicy."

"I enjoyed their well-prepared tofu soup."

"I found the marinated galbi here to be flavorful and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Validated parking is available for 2 hours with restaurant receipt.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

3

A 22% gratuity is automatically added for tables of two.

15
Seogwan by Yellowcow Kbbq 서관면옥 image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Modern decor creates a clean, comfortable dining space with ventilation systems at each table. The vibe stays lively, suitable for family gatherings or groups. Authentic Pyongyang naengmyeon stands out as a unique offering in the US.

Rich meat broth stands out immediately in the cold noodle soup. Onban offers a hearty Korean soup flavor, while the noodle soup tastes very clean and tasty.

Freshness stands out in the LA kalbi and the Galbi Lunch Special. The kalbi pairs well with cold noodles, offering a balanced meal.

People are saying

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

"I loved the soup with its alluring vinegar and savory flavor."

"The Kalbi servers were so welcoming and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to avoid long wait times.

2

There is a two-order minimum for meat selections.

3

Valet parking is available for $3, but tips are expected.

16
HanEuem by Chef Kang image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant offers authentic dishes with generous servings in a cozy, newly renovated interior. The atmosphere is lively with loud music typical of the area. Popular for seafood specialties like spicy raw crab and braised short ribs, it attracts diners seeking quality Korean flavors.

Spicy raw crab and skate ray soups stand out with their bold flavors. Bean sprouts soup offers a comforting mix of purple rice, kimchi, seaweed, and squid, often seen as a hangover cure. Short rib soups come loaded with vegetables and balance richness without heaviness.

LA Galbi offers lots of meat and stays flavorful with every bite. Wagyu galbi jin melts in your mouth, showcasing rich tenderness.

People are saying

"The food here tastes like authentic, homemade Korean comfort food."

"The LA Galbi had a lot of meat and was flavorful."

"This bean sprouts soup is so comforting and similar to Seoul."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; consider using Uber or walking to the restaurant.

3

Check your final credit card charge carefully; discrepancies have been reported.

17
Yangji Gamjatang image 1
Korean restaurant

Small Korean restaurant offers a quiet, relaxing atmosphere with homey, welcoming vibes. Generous portions and authentic, flavorful dishes like gamjatang and galbitang define the experience. Limited parking and reasonable prices distinguish it from others.

Beef short rib soup stands out with its rich flavor and generous portions. Spicy beef soup and ox bone soup deliver bold heat and depth, while seafood soup offers a fresh taste alongside hearty pancakes.

Spicy Galbi Jjim comes piping hot with torched cheese on top for a visual treat. The meat is tender, falling off the bones easily, though the dish can be a bit salty for some.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is delicious, especially the bibimbap and kimchi jjigae."

"I loved the pork bone soup; it was huge!"

"The Kalbi jjim here is awesome, rich with flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking at Yangji Gamjatang is a challenge due to limited space and high demand.

2

Visitors should plan ahead for parking, especially on busy nights.

3

The restaurant offers generous portions, enough for two people to share.

18
BCD Tofu House image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant offers 24/7 service with a lively, crowded atmosphere and generous portions. Interior feels small and busy, often making conversations loud and the environment energetic. Menu includes varied tofu soups and stone pot rice, known for consistent quality across locations.

Soft tofu blends smoothly in the authentic Korean tofu soup with a rich, tasty broth. Combo meals often include this excellent soup paired with a good portion of rice and other items.

LA Kalbi stands out for being delicious and less sweet than usual. The Galbi Combo offers a tasty variety, with flavors that surpass some found in Korea.

People are saying

"I felt like I was back in Korea after eating the Korean food here."

"The tofu soup here is delicious and fresh."

"I thought the LA Kalbi was delicious and not too sweet."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open 24/7, making it accessible at any time.

2

Expect a wait of approximately 45 minutes during peak evening hours.

3

Parking is easy with plenty of lots available around the restaurant.

19
LA Tofu House image 1
Korean restaurant

Small Korean restaurant offers authentic flavors with a cozy, casual atmosphere and warm lighting. Regulars fill the space, enjoying well-seasoned tofu soups and excellent banchan. Open late, it suits both solo diners and groups seeking genuine Korean meals.

Tofu soup comes piping hot with a rich kimchi base and plenty of soft tofu. The broth offers complex seasoning and a spicy but balanced heat, making it filling and authentic.

Hearty LA Galbi stands out with a flavor that beats other versions. The C1 Sundubu Galbi set offers a rich taste that rivals even Korean originals.

People are saying

"The Korean food, especially the tofu soup, is piping hot and richly flavored."

"The Kalbi marinade here is a perfect balance of sweet and salty."

"The tofu soup here is piping hot and richly flavored."

Good to know

1

LA Tofu House is open until 4am, perfect for late-night dining.

2

The restaurant validates parking for easy access.

3

Prices are affordable compared to most places in Koreatown.

20
Gangnam Station Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant offers self-serve meat and side dish bars that let diners grill their own food at the table. Large glass windows provide a panoramic city view with seating that overlooks the block below. The atmosphere is modern and inviting, with K-pop music playing softly in the background.

Spicy house tofu soup stands out with its bold flavor and consistent quality. Japchae and other banchan complement the well-made tofu soup offerings.

Variety of marinated galbi stands out, including short rib and finger rib cuts. Beef belly with galbi sauce and yakiniku premium galbi finger offer tender, fresh options at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"You can find parking nearby easily, and it's often validated."

"I loved the marinated galbi and all-you-can-eat options."

"The complimentary tofu soup was so delicious and silky."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays until 4 PM with all-you-can-eat options for $25.

2

The weekday lunch special starts at $26.99 with 45 items available.

3

There is a two-hour limit for the buffet, and last orders are denied 20 minutes before time is up.

21
Borit Gogae image 1
Korean restaurant

Restaurant features artsy traditional Korean decor with paintings and memorabilia that create a warm, cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a Korean home. The environment feels inviting and peaceful, enhanced by calm music and friendly smiles. It offers a unique dining experience distinct from typical Korean restaurants.

Set meals include over a dozen side dishes and two soups, featuring perilla seed soup with chicken and other unique varieties. Soups come alongside barley rice and stews, offering a variety of Korean small dishes not commonly seen.

LA Galbi tastes like Hyeongje Galbi, offering a familiar and delicious flavor. Sharing specialty dishes include bosam and LA grilled galbi options.

People are saying

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

"I loved the variety of soups and banchan served."

"The kalbi here was tasty and good."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-minute wait during weekend lunch hours.

2

Parking costs $3 in the back lot.

3

The restaurant offers a $30 set menu with numerous side dishes.

22
Yuchun Restaurant image 1
Korean restaurant

Small space with simple, traditional design creates a cozy and buzzing atmosphere. Guests serve themselves from a complimentary unlimited bone broth station, adding a unique self-service element. Known for best-in-town cold noodles, the place draws steady crowds early evening.

Bone broth soup comes with all-you-can-drink self-service and has a spicy kick from lots of pepper. Cold noodles arrive with frozen soup poured over them, making the broth extra flavorful and refreshing.

Galbi comes flavorful and tender, often paired with lightly cooked raw onions that enhance its taste. It appears in combos with cold noodles or dumplings, making for a well-rounded meal.

People are saying

"The kimchi dumplings are a must-try, perfectly seasoned and just the right size."

"I found the kalbi here to be flavorful and tender."

"The cold noodle soup here is incredibly refreshing and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Parking is very difficult to find, especially during lunch hours.

2

The restaurant only accepts cash payments; no credit cards are accepted.

3

Complimentary bone broth is served with meals, enhancing the dining experience.

23
Ya Sik Na Ra image 1
Korean restaurant

Spacious Korean restaurant with multiple TV screens playing nonstop K-pop music videos creates a loud, lively atmosphere. The vibe is authentically Korean and chill, attracting groups for casual dining and drinking. Food variety is broad, with spicy chicken feet and seafood dishes standing out.

Fish cake soup features a sweet onion seaweed broth with a variety of fish cakes. Clam soup and spicy chicken feet also appear alongside the fish cake soup.

Galbi dishes come tender and juicy with a strong umami flavor. Galbi skewers serve as mini meaty flavor bombs and pair well with kimchi fried rice.

People are saying

"The Kalbi spice levels here can be very fiery."

"The spicy chicken feet at this Late Night Spot are super flavorful."

"I loved the fish cake soup and chicken feet the most."

Good to know

1

Parking is convenient with free 3-hour validation available.

2

The entrance is at the back on another street, which can be hard to find.

3

Basement parking is available, and an elevator leads to the restaurant.

24
Woo Hyang Woo image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Modern, spacious Korean barbecue spot offers excellent ventilation that keeps smoke away from diners. Atmosphere feels inviting and cozy with a laid-back vibe suitable for families and groups. Quality meat and well-designed space create a comfortable, enjoyable dining experience.

Unlimited soybean soup comes with the meal for $24. The tofu soup arrives at the start and pairs well with other dishes like corn-cheese and kimchi fried rice.

Marinated short ribs have a subtle sweet flavor that is not overpowering. The kalbi melts in your mouth, especially the galbi tomahawk which stands out.

People are saying

"The short ribs here are unbelievably tender with a subtle sweet flavor."

"I ate six and a half plates of their brisket, and it was lean."

"The Kalbi melts in your mouth, it's unbelievably tender."

Good to know

1

They have a Valentine’s Day special right now.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait if you don't make a reservation.

3

Parking costs $10 at their lot, free during weekday lunch.

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