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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Pico-Union

Authentic spots

You are looking for an authentic experience that stays true to its roots without any unnecessary polish.

Based on 567 Opinions
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01
UMMA KITCHEN 엄마키친 image 1
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Bright, clean space serves authentic Korean banchan with a homemade feel. Calm energy makes it like a warm home-cooked meal. High-quality ingredients ensure fresh, well-prepared side dishes and convenient meal kits for home.

Authentic Korean jib-bop shines here with mommy’s food style. The banchan offers a super authentic taste of Korean home cooking.

People are saying

"The banchan here tastes so fresh, like it was just made."

Good to know

1

UMMA KITCHEN offers a variety of authentic banchan and meal kits.

2

Ordering online is simple through their user-friendly website.

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The shop is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained environment.

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Small, cozy spot offers authentic Guatemalan flavors like chuchitos and garnachas. Handmade tortillas and genuine decor create a warm, family-friendly vibe. Soft music adds charm despite limited parking and generous portions.

Food features authentic Guatemalan flavors with dishes like chuchitos and garnachas made fresh. The decor also reflects genuine Guatemalan style.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Guatemalan, like the chuchitos and garnachas."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find nearby the restaurant.

2

Expect to wait outside around 12pm on weekends.

3

Prices are on the higher side for basic meals.

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Small, family-owned spot serves authentic Korean dishes with genuine flavors in a cozy, quiet atmosphere. Friendly service and clean, spacious seating make it perfect for peaceful meals or casual lunches. Regulars love its consistent quality and warm vibe.

Offers traditional Korean dishes with genuine flavors. Serves authentic Korean cooking that stays true to its roots.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

There is free parking available at the restaurant.

2

The parking lot is large and easily accessible.

3

They charge a $1 service fee for takeout orders.

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Small mom-and-pop Cuban spot offers authentic Cuban flavors with classic dishes like ropa vieja. Humble vibes and a 1970s patio create a cozy, nostalgic feel. Fried yucca adds a tasty, traditional touch to the menu.

Food serves real Cuban flavors with dishes that taste authentic and traditional. The menu focuses on classic Cuban recipes that stay true to their roots.

People are saying

"I thought the Cuban food here was real and authentic."

Good to know

1

There is good parking available and it is secure.

2

You should bring your own bottle of wine to dine with.

3

Karaoke entertainment happens on Sundays from 2:30 P.M. onwards.

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Cozy spot serves authentic Oaxacan flavors with large portions in a clean, friendly space. Loud TVs add a lively backdrop to the quiet vibe. Parking is tough but worth it for traditional recipes and genuine taste.

Food delivers authentic Oaxacan flavors with a focus on traditional recipes. Dishes consistently reflect genuine regional taste and preparation.

People are saying

"I found the food to be very authentic Oaxacan."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the restaurant.

2

Expect to walk about three blocks if parking is full.

3

The restaurant offers large portions, enough to feed two people.

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LA 장충 평안도 족발집 (올림픽점) LA Jangchung Jokbal image 1
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Old school Korean spot with authentic jokbal and classic comfort food. Dim lighting creates a cozy vibe like Seoul. Portions are generous and flavors stay true to tradition.

Jokbal and Bossam here match authentic Korean versions closely. The menu features traditional dishes like cooked pig feet that capture genuine Korean comfort food.

People are saying

"I found the jokbal and bossam to be truly authentic and tender."

Good to know

1

There is free outdoor parking available, but the space is limited.

2

The jokbal easily feeds a crew of 4.

3

Rice isn't included with the jokbal.

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Small space serves authentic Nicaraguan flavors with fresh ingredients. Live music on weekends creates a lively atmosphere where families often dance. Music volume is very loud, adding to the energetic vibe.

Food delivers authentic Nicaraguan flavors with a focus on fresh ingredients. The overall experience stays true to traditional tastes and preparation.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Nicaraguan food here."

Good to know

1

The best days to visit are when there is a performer.

2

Parking on the weekends can be a pain.

3

La 27 Restaurante doesn't have parking, so I had to park on the street.

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Small Korean spot serves authentic dishes with a homey feel. Close tables create a peaceful vibe perfect for quiet meals. Rich aromas fill the air, making it a clean, simple place to enjoy traditional flavors.

Food offers authentic Korean dishes with a homey feel. Some dishes remind of South Korea, though authenticity varies across items.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is free at the mall.

2

There is ample parking available.

3

Expect a small wait during popular dining times.

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Mexican restaurant offers a relaxed vibe with perfectly curated decor that feels like a trip to Mexico. Food lacks authentic flavors but prices stay reasonable. Known for excellent margaritas and fresh guacamole in a cozy, dark setting.

Food comes in an understated environment with reasonable prices. Some dishes like the caldo de pescado y camarón do not taste authentic, and overall the food lacks authentic Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic food and understated environment."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area can be challenging at times.

2

The restaurant does not automatically serve chips and salsa; customers need to ask for them.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

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Pico-Union, Los Angeles

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