Stone flat grills create a low-smoke, clean cooking environment with even heat distribution. Spacious, airy dining area stays quiet and comfortable even when busy. The atmosphere feels extremely clean with cool lighting and early Formica-style decor.
Kimchi shines in Kimchi Jjigae with rich, unique soups and stews. The Kimchi fried rice gets special attention, cooked by staff with a fun ornamental design and served as a perfect finish.
Korean BBQ features high-quality meats cooked on stone slabs, including wagyu bulgogi, brisket, and garlic butter shrimp. The menu offers spicy pork bulgogi, cheese corn, and unique soups like Kimchi Jjigae, complemented by flavorful pickled jalapeño banchan and other side dishes.
"The Korean food here, especially the marinated meats, is exceptionally tender and flavorful."
"The Budae Kimchi broth was so delicious."
Good to know
The all-you-can-eat menu has a 2-hour time limit.
Happy hour runs after 9 pm during the week.
Parking can be difficult; expect to circle for a spot.
Modern, clean space with K-pop music sets a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Seating is comfortable, and tables feature cute animal-themed menu holders with QR codes. Korean fried chicken stands out for its crunchy texture and flavorful wings, often paired with Korean beer.
The kimchi pasta features an insane sauce that stands out. It serves as a staple dish that many find worth trying.
Korean fried chicken stands out with options like honeyjam and Saigon style. The Rose tteokbokki offers a flavorful twist, and the kimchi pasta is a popular staple loved for its taste.
"The Korean fried chicken here is so juicy and tender."
"I got the kimchi pasta based on rave reviews."
Good to know
Happy hour runs until 7:00 PM with special drink deals.
Soju deals are available during happy hour.
The price for 12 pieces of chicken is now $24 after tax.
Food court setup offers a quick, compact meal with a noisy atmosphere. Korean soups like spicy soondae guk and beef back bone soup stand out for rich flavors and hearty portions. Prices run higher than nearby gukbap spots, but convenient location inside a market adds to the experience.
Owner pickles the kimchi himself, giving it a sweet and delicious flavor. Both the radish kimchi and kkakdugi stand out as especially tasty and often get refilled.
Spicy soondae guk delivers a flavor bomb with just enough heat. Pork gukbap and soondae guk appear here when they are rare elsewhere. Kimchi and radish kimchi stand out as especially delicious sides.
"I loved the hearty, flavorful Korean soups with generous meat."
"The kimchi here is so delicious and sweet."
Good to know
The restaurant is located inside the Balboa Park H Mart food court.
Each dish costs around $20, which is higher than nearby options.
Bring cash as some vendors in the food court may not accept cards.
Asian restaurant with modern, inviting decor and photo-worthy corners creates a friendly, vibey atmosphere. Loud, chill music and several TVs showing sports and K-pop fill the space. Cocktails like lychee and passionfruit complement soft dumplings and flavorful chicken rolls.
Korean fried chicken stands out here with crispy, flavorful pieces. The menu also features beef bulgogi bowls and bulgogi chow mein, both rich and savory.
"The Korean food, especially the bulgogi, is seriously delicious."
Good to know
Happy hour starts at 8pm with $1 wings and late night deals.
The $1 wings are a popular choice during happy hour.
Parking is easier at this location compared to others in the area.
Korean restaurant with clean, modern interior and K-pop music videos playing on large TVs. Atmosphere is welcoming and pleasant, suitable for casual dinners and catching up with friends. Tables are close together, creating a lively but sometimes noisy environment.
Kimchi here stands out for its authentic flavor and amazing taste. It pairs well with dishes like fish cakes, soups, bulgogi, and kalbi.
Bossam stands out with thinly sliced pork belly, fresh garlic, jalapeños, and two sauces that add a good salt profile. Cold noodles and spicy beef soup also shine, offering a close taste to authentic Korean comfort food.
"The kimchi soup broth is warm, comforting, and flavorful."
"The Korean Food's bossam was thinly sliced and artfully arranged."
Good to know
Reservations are not accepted; the restaurant uses a paper waitlist only.
Expect long wait times on weekend nights, often exceeding 40 minutes.
Parking is plentiful and free, making access easy for visitors.
Restaurant offers simple decor with K-pop music videos and Korean shows playing on TVs, creating a friendly and inviting atmosphere. The space feels clean and well-designed with plenty of seating, though it can get uncomfortably warm inside. The vibe reflects a casual dining experience with a touch of Korean street culture.
Kimchi fried rice features perfectly cooked rice coated in a savory sauce with bold kimchi flavors. Variations include versions with cheese and chicken, all delivering a rich blend of flavors.
Korean fried chicken stays crispy and freshly made with great taste and affordability. Kimchi fried rice comes with perfectly cooked rice coated in a savory sauce and bold kimchi flavors, while rose tteokbokki features a cheesy, rich sauce.
"The rose tteokbokki with cheese was so good."
"The kimchi fried rice is really good and worth a trip."
Good to know
Parking can be challenging on Saturday nights, so plan accordingly.
The restaurant offers both takeout and dine-in service options.
Expect to pay around $49 for a whole chicken, which may be considered pricey.
Huge Korean grocery store with spacious food court featuring about eight vendors and a small French bakery. Crowded aisles make maneuvering carts difficult, but the place offers an outstanding selection of authentic Asian foods and fresh seafood. Walls display maker-inspired graphics, adding a unique visual touch.
Offers a variety of kimchi types including cucumber and radish kimchi. Kimchi features prominently in dishes like Kimchi Kimbap and ramen, with side dishes known as BANCHAN complementing meals.
Offers a wide range of pre-marinated Korean BBQ meats and fresh seafood. Ready-made Korean dishes like kimchi kimbap, bulgogi, and various banchan side dishes are available alongside fresh vegetables and live fish.
"You can find everything you need for Korean food cravings here."
"I loved their kimchi and other Korean side dishes."
Good to know
H Mart Balboa offers a large selection of Korean food and snacks.
Parking can be challenging at times.
The store is clean and well-organized.
Charcoal grills create a smoky, vibrant atmosphere in a small, cozy space with tables close together. The place fills quickly, leading to long waits and a lively, bustling vibe. Strong smoke and limited ventilation add to the intense grilling experience.
Crisp kimchi stands out among the array of side dishes that balance the meats well. The cold kimchi noodle dish offers a unique flavor that recalls classic tastes from LA.
Charcoal grilling stands out as a game changer compared to gas at most Korean BBQ spots. The all you can eat option pairs well with a variety of side dishes like crisp kimchi and tasty cucumber, creating a balanced meal.
"The Korean food's quality meat just melts in your mouth."
"I've tried kimchi everywhere, and this is the best I've had."
Good to know
Expect wait times of 1-2 hours during peak hours on weekends.
Parking can be difficult to find, especially during busy times.
Reservations are not accepted; arrive early to avoid long lines.
Small, family-owned Korean restaurant with traditional decor and a homey, unpretentious vibe. Atmosphere feels casual and lively, filled with the scent of simmering broths and sizzling garlic. Known for authentic Korean dishes and wide variety of menu options.
Kimchi here has a balanced spice level that complements the meal well. The Jeolla-do style kimchi stew tastes rich with notes of fermented soybeans and stands out compared to other Korean spots.
Kimchi stew stands out with its Jeolla-do style, rich and fermented soybean flavor. The banchan is consistently amazing, complementing dishes like Samgyetang and bulgogi cooked just right.
"The kimchi stew here is delicious and served piping hot."
"The kimchi jjigae was legit and delicious."
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Expect a 45-minute wait for a table during peak hours.
Parking is free but can be difficult to find during dinner time.
Small Korean restaurant offers authentic home-cooked vibe with a peaceful atmosphere and occasional courtyard fountain sounds. Outdoor seating with umbrellas provides a pleasant dining experience despite the compact food court setting. Staff converse in Korean, enhancing the genuine cultural feel.
Kimchi comes as a side with meals and features in dishes like Kimchi Fried Rice and Kimchi soup. It tastes delicious and appears alongside other traditional Korean sides in to-go bentos.
Bulgogi stands out with generous portions and strong flavor, enough for two people at $16. Freshness and careful preparation show in dishes like Bibimbap, Gimbap, and Soondubu with beef, all well seasoned and appealing.
"The Korean food here is delicious and authentic."
"I found the Kimchi to be delicious and authentic."
Good to know
There is no indoor seating; all meals are takeout only.
Outdoor seating is available in the courtyard for dining.
The menu features traditional Korean dishes like Gimbap and stews.
Bright, casual space with sports games on TV adds a lively touch. Offers both quick to-go and table service options, attracting a mix of diners. Known for generous portions and Korean fried chicken that many find delicious and authentic.
Kimchi appears in several dishes like kimchi cheese fried rice and Korean chicken with rice. The kimchi fried rice comes with an over-easy egg and chopped seaweeds, and it tends to be oily due to frying.
Korean fried chicken tastes just like the ones in Korea, with standout dishes like rosé tteokbokki and Matcho chicken. The owner often shares free tteokbokki, adding to the friendly vibe.
"The Korean food here is super crispy and delicious."
"I really enjoyed the delicious rice bowl with kimchi."
Good to know
You order and pay at the counter, and then they bring your food to the table.
Extra dipping sauces require an additional payment; you only get one per order.
The Hot Fried Tenders cost $8.99 for four larger pieces, enough for one person.
Korean barbecue restaurant features robot servers and tablet ordering for a mostly automated experience. Atmosphere stays cozy and inviting with lattice grills that enhance smoky flavors. The vibe is fun and relaxed, suitable for casual meals and special occasions.
Aged kimchi stands out with its deep flavor and pairs well with pork belly. The kimchi complements other dishes like potato salad and japchae, adding a tangy kick to the meal.
Offers Korean BBQ with a generous spread and big flavor. Side dishes include kimchi, pickled radish, japchae, and steamed egg. Known for LA Galbi and a wide variety of options for lunch or dinner.
"I thought the Korean BBQ here was one of the best I'd ever tried."
"This kimchi tastes just like real Korean food."
Good to know
Happy hour specials are available, offering great deals on drinks and appetizers.
The restaurant opens at 12 PM, and there is usually no wait at that time.
The ordering process is efficient and involves cute robots for service.
Korean-style corn dog shop with freshly made, pop culture-inspired corn dogs and a varied menu featuring spicy and cheesy options. Cozy, cool interior with light-up decorations creates a relaxed vibe for casual hangouts. The place draws a crowd that appreciates unique flavors and quick service without wait times.
Fries come with a side of kimchi seasoning that adds a spicy kick. The kimchi fries stand out as a favorite, pairing well with other items like the spicy dog and half and half.
Kimchi fries stand out with spicy seasoning and a great price. The menu also features a spicy dog and a half and half option that pair well with the fries.
"You have to try the Korean corn dogs; the flavors are amazing."
Good to know
The restaurant maintains a clean environment for dining.
There are many unique corn dog options inspired by pop culture.
Prices are reasonable considering the portion sizes.
Sushi restaurant blends Korean pub style with a vibrant izakaya vibe, featuring K-pop music and multiple TVs showing music videos. Atmosphere stays lively and cool with neon signs and a large fan. Bar offers a variety of soju cocktails alongside high-quality sushi and Korean dishes.
Dubu Kimchi offers perfectly balanced flavors that satisfy well. The kimchi pancake comes huge, fresh, and crispy, while pork belly with kimchi stands out as a favorite dish.
Bibimbap and Korean fried chicken stand out with strong flavors and crisp textures. The menu also features bossam, kalguksal, Dubu Kimchi, fried Mandu, and bulgogi fries, with soju sometimes offered on the house.
"The Korean food here is exceptionally flavorful and fresh."
"The Dubu Kimchi was incredible and perfectly balanced."
Good to know
Zzan is open late for late-night food cravings.
They sometimes play K-dramas and mukbangs alongside music videos.
Credit card payments are accepted, and tap pay is available.
Large, modern Korean grocery store with spacious aisles and bright lighting creates a pleasant shopping environment. Frequent bursts of K-pop music add lively energy, while food court and bakery options offer diverse Korean cuisine experiences.
A huge kimchi selection stands out here, including the crisp and spicy Twins Kimchi. Prices stay cheap while quality stays high, making fresh kimchi a reliable choice alongside other Korean foods.
A huge kimchi selection stands out alongside an amazing Korean BBQ range. The store offers a wide variety of soju, meat, and seafood, plus many Korean food products and banchan.
"I found the fresh kimchi and rice cakes to be my loyal sidekicks."
"I found the kimchi here to be crisp and spicy."
Good to know
There are special offers every week.
Zion Market has a great selection of seafood, both fresh and frozen.
Expect to find the best deals on produce in California.
Korean barbecue restaurant with table grills and K-pop music creates an energetic, Seoul-like vibe. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting despite occasional loud music and smoke from grills. Guests cook fresh, tender meats themselves, enjoying interactive dining with a lively, casual pace.
Free-flow banchan includes over ten sides with kimchi stew and kimchi fried rice standing out. Pickled radish and kimchi sides complement meats well.
Fresh Korean BBQ comes out quickly with options like beef belly, pork, and beef bulgogi. Sides include japchae and steamed egg, all served in an affordable all-you-can-eat style with no wait times.
"The Korean food here is served with incredible speed and attentiveness."
"I loved the kimchi and other banchan sides."
Good to know
The all-you-can-eat buffet costs around $34.99 per person.
Expect a 30-minute wait for parking and an additional hour to be seated.
A gratuity of $27 is automatically added to your check.
Marketplace setting buzzes with lively atmosphere and constant overhead plane noise. Seating spreads across indoor and outdoor areas with picnic tables and turf. Fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors stands out, offering varied sauces and large portions that attract a diverse crowd.
Bulgogi dishes stand out with tender meat and authentic flavors, often mixed with a hint of Mexican influence. Korean Fried Chicken wings and kimchi or bulgogi fries offer bold, tasty options that highlight the fusion of Korean and Mexican styles.
"The Korean food, especially the bulgogi beef, is incredible."
Good to know
Expect about a 15-minute wait for food preparation.
The restaurant offers a variety of six different sauces for customization.
Open carry is allowed for the brewery/bar in the market.
Spacious and clean interior hosts a lively but comfortable atmosphere with upbeat energy and ample seating. The place fills with people enjoying varied Korean BBQ meats, especially different types of intestines. It offers options to cook food in the back, allowing for a more relaxed dining experience away from the grill.
Sides include kimchi with a super flavorful taste and just the right tang. Meals come with combos featuring kimchi, steamed egg, and other sides like potato salad and bean sprouts.
Quality Korean BBQ shines with prime meats and a wide variety of options including different types of intestines. LA Galbi stands out as a super tasty dish, complemented by various sides like kimchi, steamed egg, and corn cheese.
"The Korean food here has amazing quality and pairs so well together."
"The kimchi and japchae were so fresh and tasty."
Good to know
Parking is challenging, especially during rush hours and weekends.
The restaurant is not all-you-can-eat, but prices are reasonable for meat sets.
The menu features a wide variety of KBBQ meats, including unique options like intestines.
Spacious Korean grocery store offers wide variety of fresh seafood and diverse Asian foods with an ethnic food court and onsite bakery. Clean and organized aisles create a pleasant shopping environment. Fresh fish and meats stand out as key highlights.
A solid selection of kimchi and other fermented, stinky foods fills the shelves. The kimchi stays fresh and cold, avoiding warming up before checkout.
Bibimbap and kimbap come in large portions with authentic flavors and fair prices. A wide selection of seafood, soju, ramen, kimchi, and sauces offers variety not found in regular stores.
"I found a great variety of authentic Korean food here."
"I thought the kimchi should be placed in the middle or back of the store."
Good to know
Weekly sales feature a few items at discounted prices.
Expect to find the best selection of fresh fish available in the area.
H Mart is known for its cleanliness and well-organized aisles.
Spacious Korean barbecue restaurant with electric grills and a calm, cozy atmosphere. Offers eight types of free banchan and delicious tofu soups alongside fresh, tender meats. Seating suits large groups, though the space can feel hot during meals.
Kimchi here is notably fresh and served in generous portions. It appears in dishes like kimchi pajeon and kimchi jiggae, which are popular and well-finished quickly.
Soft tofu stew shines with options like oyster sundubu and a combination tofu soup and bulgogi combo. Every meal includes freshly made banchan that varies and complements the main dishes well.
"The oyster sundubu here is plump and delicious."
"Their kimchi was especially good and fresh."
Good to know
The first 90 minutes of parking are free with a restaurant receipt.
Parking can become crowded if not arriving close to opening.
Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours.
Neighborhood cafe with down-home decor and a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere. Offers kid-friendly amenities and a patio for outdoor dining. Known for atypical breakfast options and a clean, inviting space.
Kimchi features prominently in dishes like the kimchi fried rice omelette and the kimchi eggs benedict, blending spicy and sweet flavors. The kimchi itself is very good and adds a flavorful kick to various menu items.
Breakfast features bulgogi and eggs with a mix of spicy and sweet flavors, including a kimchi eggs benedict with hollandaise and poached egg. Korean fried chicken appears alongside waffles, while kimchi fried rice shows inconsistent quality.
"I loved the flavorful, savory, sweet bulgogi and eggs for breakfast."
Good to know
Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.
The cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, including Korean dishes.
Dogs are not allowed inside the cafe due to state law.
Spacious modern dining area with bronze-colored Liberty Bell exhaust hoods and effective ventilation keeps smoke away despite indoor grilling. Loud music creates a lively, energetic atmosphere that can make conversation challenging. Outdoor patio is pet-friendly, adding a relaxed option for seating.
Cucumber kimchi stands out with its fresh, crunchy, spicy flavor. Kimchi pairs well with meat and tastes authentic and not overly sweet like in other spots.
Offers dry-aged ribeye and Wagyu short rib in an all-you-can-eat setting, which is rare. The place has excellent ventilation so the air doesn't get heavy with meat smoke.
"The Korean food service was excellent and attentive."
"You have to try the cucumber kimchi; it's a flavor bomb."
Good to know
The restaurant has a 2-hour dining limit and last call is at 9:45 PM.
They require a minimum of two people for the all-you-can-eat option.
You must get on the wait list even if the place is empty.