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Illinois' best

Kimchi spots

A bowl of spicy, fermented kimchi is the only thing that satisfies the craving.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Sho Kalbi Steakhouse image 1
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Yakiniku restaurant

Modern yakiniku spot blends upscale atmosphere with cozy warmth. Guests enjoy grilling premium meats or watching chefs cook at the table. Bright, balanced kimchi pairs well with fresh cucumber salads, enhancing the interactive dining experience.

Bright and balanced kimchi offers a clean taste without being too sour or salty. It comes alongside cucumber salads that complement entrees well.

People are saying

"The Korean food here, especially the wagyu, just melts in your mouth."

"The Kalbi here is so tender and delicious."

"The kimchi here is bright, clean, and balanced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounts on select appetizers and drinks.

2

Expect generous portion sizes, especially for meat dishes.

3

You can choose to cook your own food or have the staff grill it.

02
Mimi Katsu image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian spot in a market hall serves crispy pork katsu and rich curry fast. Free kimchi and jalapeños add sharp, balanced flavors. Casual vibe with big portions draws crowds despite limited seating at peak times.

Free kimchi and jalapeño peppers serve as sharp palate cleansers. Pickled radish and kimchi side dishes taste balanced and complement main dishes well.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the crispy katsu."

"I found the tonkatsu here to be the best I've ever had."

"The pork katsu is so crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy with plenty of spots available.

2

The restaurant is located inside a food court within Joong Boo Market.

3

Expect food to be served quickly, usually within 5-10 minutes.

03
Mother's Apron Korean BBQ image 1

Modern Korean BBQ shines with an open kitchen and upscale design that feels both elegant and lively thanks to jazz music. Guests grill at the table in a polished space unlike typical spots. Kimchi quality varies widely, from fresh homemade to unpleasant batches.

Kimchi varies widely here, with some batches being incredibly fresh and homemade, while others come off as extremely unpleasant. The quality is inconsistent, ranging from phenomenal to discarded.

People are saying

"These Korean dinner spots serve top-quality beef and delicious banchan."

"The food here is outstanding, truly upscale Korean BBQ."

"The homemade kimchi here is incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect upscale pricing that reflects the quality of ingredients used.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours.

04
SGD DUBU SO GONG DONG TOFU & KOREAN BBQ Naperville (behind H-mart) 소공동 순두부 네이퍼빌 Fast served food. image 1

Spacious, clean space offers a cozy atmosphere with modern decor for casual dining. Enjoy fiery kimchi with a unique dry fish flavor and crispy pickled cucumber side dishes. The vibe stays lively yet relaxed, perfect for easy conversation.

Fiery kimchi comes with a small dry fish flavor that adds depth. Side dishes include crispy pickled cucumber and cucumber kimchi, all refilled generously and spicier than most.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and bold."

"I found the Korean food, especially the Japchae and Bulgogi, to be the best I ever had."

"The kimchi stew here is intensely spicy, which I loved."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times after 6:30 pm, especially on weekends.

2

Meals are reasonably priced, with most around $17.

3

The restaurant is located behind H-Mart, which can be tricky to find.

05
Joy Grill image 1
Korean restaurant

Casual Korean spot offers sweet sour kimchi that pairs well with mandu and miso dishes. Friendly service welcomes groups and kids, creating a chill atmosphere. Reasonably priced meals like chicken teriyaki and pork katsu shine here.

Sweet and a little sour flavors define the kimchi here. It pairs well with appetizers like mandu and complements dishes with a miso touch.

People are saying

"I loved the Korean food, especially the japchae and spicy chicken."

"The food here is delicious and cleanly prepared."

"I found the kimchi here to be delicious and a little sour."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Parking is available in the mall lot, but it can get crowded.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

06
Bibim Town image 1
Korean restaurant

Small Korean spot offers authentic dishes like vegetarian bibimbap and spicy ramen in a cozy atmosphere. Kimchi is homemade and well pickled, adding a delicious touch. Feels like a warm, family-run place with a clean, inviting vibe.

Kimchi is made from scratch here, showing clear care in preparation. It is well pickled and has a delicious taste that stands out.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The kimchi here is amazing and tastes so fresh."

"This lunch spot has really tasty, filling Korean dishes."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portions for the price.

2

Expect no side dishes served with bibimbop, unlike other Korean BBQs.

3

Prices are higher compared to similar options in the area.

07
En Hakkore Sushi Burrito & Poke Bowl image 1

Small, modern spot serves kimchi fries with a spicy, tangy kick. Asian fusion menu shines with sushi burritos and poke bowls. Bright, peaceful space offers ample seating and a clean, inviting vibe.

Kimchi appears in several dishes like kimchi fries and kimchi bulgogi fries, often paired with sushi burritos or poke bowls. It adds a spicy, tangy kick that complements the other flavors well.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, delicious sushi burritos here."

"I loved the fusion of Mexican and Japanese with these amazing sushi tacos."

"The kimchi fries are so good, I got addicted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9 PM, with last orders taken at 8:30 PM.

2

After 8:20 PM, only takeout is available as the dining area closes.

3

Portions are considered great value for the price.

08
Koreana Restaurant image 1
Korean restaurant

Cozy Korean spot shines with perfectly aged kimchi and endless free banchans like spicy bean sprouts. Vibrant, friendly vibe welcomes all, blending white linen dining with a casual, family feel. Small plates and lively atmosphere make it a top pick.

Small plates come with perfectly aged kimchi and other side dishes like fish cake and spicy cucumber. Free banchans include lettuce, green onion salad, and spicy bean sprouts in endless supply.

People are saying

"I found the Korean BBQ here to be the best I've ever had."

"The kimchi fried rice tasted fresh and flavorful, like home."

"The Korean BBQ meats here are high-quality and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours.

3

A meal for two typically costs around $100.

09
KAI MOM'S K-FOOD TOGO image 1
Korean restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic Korean fried chicken with a home-like vibe and clean decor. Spicy kimchi delivers bold flavor and perfect heat, popular for takeout. Friendly energy and affordable prices make it a hidden gem for casual dining.

Spicy kimchi stands out with its bold flavor and perfect heat. Jars of kimchi are popular for takeout, praised for their authentic taste.

People are saying

"The Korean fried chicken here is super crispy and delicious."

"I loved their kimchi soup; it was delicious."

"I thought their spicy kimchi was to die for."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very small, with only 4-5 tables, which can lead to long wait times.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so be prepared for possible wait times during peak hours.

3

The restaurant is ideal for takeout, with limited seating available.

10
SGD DUBU SO GONG DONG TOFU & KOREAN BBQ (Glenveiw) image 1

Korean restaurant buzzes with lively energy and authentic flavors. Kimchi shines with fresh, crispy texture and a wonderful broth in kimchi jjigae. Cramped seating feels like a family gathering.

Kimchi here is fresh and crispy with a wonderfully flavored broth in the kimchi jjigae. The pickled cucumbers and napa kimchi add a refreshing touch.

People are saying

"The Korean food, especially the kimchi stew, is amazing."

"The kimchi here is so fresh and crunchy."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is attentive and pleasant."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on Sundays after church.

3

The restaurant has a table turnover policy; be prepared to leave when finished.

11
Two Hands Corn Dogs image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot with authentic Korean corn dogs and a K-pop theme creates an energetic vibe. Kimchi fries are spicy and fresh, pairing well with crispy rice and sausage. Clean space and loud music make it fun and lively.

Kimchi fries come spicy and fresh, standing out as a popular choice. They pair well with other items like crispy rice and spicy sausage, offering a flavorful kick.

People are saying

"I thought the corn dogs were the best mix of crunchy and meaty."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my son loved his corn dog."

"The kimchi fries here are incredibly good and spicy."

Good to know

1

You can choose a 100% beef hot dog, 100% cheese, or half and half.

2

They offer options for fillings, including spicy sausage, cheese, and plant-based options.

3

Prices are reasonable, with a corn dog and a side making for a filling lunch.

12
JeonJu Restaurant image 1
Korean restaurant

Small, family-run spot offers authentic goat meat soup and fresh, in-house made banchan. Tangy variety of kimchi adds bold flavor to meals. Cozy, low-key vibe makes it a great place for a quiet, intimate meal.

Tangy kimchi comes in several varieties including cabbage and cucumber with lots of flavor. It pairs well with dishes like goat meat soup and tofu with pork.

People are saying

"I loved the goat meat soup; it's flavorful and perfectly cooked."

"I found the authentic Korean food here to be exceptional."

"The kimchi here is so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant adds an 18% mandatory tip to the bill.

2

Parking is available in the back and on the street.

3

Vegan and vegetarian options are available on the menu.

13
92 Town Korean BBQ Restaurant | 구이촌, 시카고 맛집, 한식 #1, 고기집 image 1

Korean barbecue shines with tabletop grilling and owners preparing meat at your table. Kimchi offers a strong, flavorful kick that complements the meal. Curtains create a private, family-style vibe, while traditional drinks like soju add an authentic touch.

Spice and flavor come through with a well-balanced kick in the kimchi. It stands out as strong and flavorful, often noted as some of the best around.

People are saying

"I found the Korean food here to be the best in the area."

"The BBQ here has amazing meat quality."

"The kimchi here is so good and homemade."

Good to know

1

Portions are large, so come hungry and be prepared to take food home.

2

The restaurant charges for side dishes, which is uncommon.

3

Expect to pay around $140 for two people, including extra charges.

14
Kogii Kogii Express image 1
Korean restaurant

Small Korean spot offers fresh kimchi as a free side, enhancing dishes like beef bibimbap and kimchi fries. Cozy, casual vibe with K-pop music and clean, modern design. Quick ordering via self-service kiosk and outdoor patio seating add to the easy, lively experience.

Kimchi comes as a free side and tastes like it's made in store. It pairs well with dishes like beef bibimbap and features in kimchi fries alongside hot dogs with cheese.

People are saying

"The Korean fried chicken here is incredibly crispy and juicy."

"I loved the fresh, sweet Korean corn dogs."

"The kimchi fries here are really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-5pm on Tuesday to Thursday with bibimbap bowls at $6.99.

2

Expect the restaurant to be busy, especially on weekends; arrive early.

3

The restaurant has a kiosk for easy ordering and customization of bowls.

15
KBBQ image 1
Korean restaurant

Tables with built-in grills offer a fun, hands-on Korean dining experience. Fresh and aged kimchi add bold flavors to every meal. Cozy rooms and lively K-pop music create a warm, family-friendly vibe.

Fresh and tender kimchi comes with the meal and can be requested for the grill. Side dishes include aged kimchi that stands out alongside other fresh banchan.

People are saying

"This Korean food is my absolute favorite place for this cuisine."

"This is the best Korean BBQ I've ever had."

"The kimchi here is fresh and outstanding."

Good to know

1

Expect higher prices for premium quality meats at this KBBQ.

2

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours to avoid long waits.

16
You Korean & Japanese Sushi Bar image 1

Spacious dining offers a calm, quiet atmosphere with authentic Korean flavors highlighted by three kinds of house-made kimchi. Guests enjoy adult gaming options like karaoke and slot machines in a separate room. A small Asian market adds a unique touch to the experience.

Three kinds of house-made kimchi arrive with clear care and authenticity. The kimchi tastes like the real deal from Korea and pairs well with dishes like tofu steak.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's bulgogi was grilled to perfection and very flavorful."

"I'd return for the crispy Korean fried chicken."

"This kimchi is authentic and reminds me of home."

Good to know

1

Reservations are typically required for parties of five or more.

2

The lunch special costs $15 and does not include a drink.

3

The restaurant has a small grocery section for Korean and Japanese snacks.

17
Bonchon Tinley Park image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Small modern spot offers crispy fried chicken and phenomenal bao buns with quick service. Kimchi is exceptionally fresh and pairs well with rice and dishes like jap chae. Quiet interior keeps energy low, perfect for a fast, tasty meal.

Kimchi here is exceptionally fresh and flavorful. It comes as a side that pairs well with white rice and other dishes like jap jae and chicken katsu.

People are saying

"The Korean fried chicken here is delicious and crispy."

"The Korean fried chicken takeout is crispy and coated in amazing flavors."

"The kimchi here is fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

This location is takeout only, with no dine-in options available.

2

The restaurant is hard to find without GPS due to its hidden location.

3

Parking is limited and may be difficult to spot as it's behind another restaurant.

18
Gung Ho - Bolingbrook image 1
Ramen restaurant

Anime-themed decor and TVs playing anime create a quirky vibe that sparks creativity with sketchbooks and games. Kimchi here is fresh and spicy, shining in dishes like kimchi fries and chicken ramen. Private booths offer good lighting and outlets for comfort and convenience.

Kimchi here has a nice spicy kick and stays fresh and crunchy. The kimchi fries stand out as a flavorful dish, and the kimchi chicken ramen combines well with the spice.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be excellent and delicious."

"The milk teas here are great, especially the brown sugar."

"The kimchi fries were next level."

Good to know

1

Online ordering is available with many customizable options.

2

Expect a wait for a table during busy hours.

3

Prices are on the higher side, with a family meal costing around $76.

19
Mr kimchi Korean AYCE BBQ Algonquin image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Grill-at-table setup offers an interactive dining experience perfect for groups. Kimchi shines with perfect spice and free refills. Calm atmosphere with soft music makes it great for gatherings, while the birthday wheel adds fun to meals.

Kimchi comes with a perfect spice that stands out among the side dishes. Staff offer proactive refills to keep it coming throughout the meal.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"The service at this BBQ spot was super attentive and friendly."

"I thought the kimchi here was perfect."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ with fresh, flavorful meat and attentive service.

2

They celebrate birthdays with a fun song and a prize wheel for the birthday person.

3

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours on weekends.

20
Eggs with Benefits image 1

Hole-in-the-wall spot offers a chill vibe with minimalist decor and self-serve ordering. Cooked kimchi shines as a strong flavor side, especially in the kimchi/spam bowl with smoked bacon. Spacious seating and great lighting make it perfect for quick meals.

Cooked kimchi comes as a side and adds a strong kimchi flavor to dishes. The kimchi/spam bowl pairs well with smoked bacon, creating a savory combo.

People are saying

"The breakfast sandwich here is so good, it brought us back to life."

"The Japanese Hash Curry Bowl is a fantastic combo."

"The owner's genuine kindness was evident when he gave me complimentary kimchi."

Good to know

1

The Target underground parking is free for the first hour.

2

The evening taco menu is available from 4 to 10 pm.

3

They probably do not accept cash, but they accepted my Apple Pay.

21
Daebak Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Grills cook meat tableside with smoke vents keeping air fresh. Unique kimchi flavor and spicy kimchi stew complement dishes well. K-pop music adds a lively atmosphere while spacious seating with stools for comfort enhances the dining experience.

Unique kimchi flavor stands out, unlike typical Korean versions. Sides include radish kimchi and other banchan like corn cheese. Kimchi stew offers a spicy, warm touch that pairs well with meat dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The marinated short ribs were outstanding and flavorful."

"I found the kimchi to be especially exquisite."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a large lot at a nearby shopping center.

2

Street parking is also plentiful around the restaurant.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially on weekends.

22
SGD DUBU SO GONG DONG TOFU & KOREAN BBQ image 1

Spacious dining area with high ceilings offers a calm, modern vibe perfect for family dinners. Kimchi features a balanced sourness that complements spicy cucumber and sweet banchans. Popular spot draws crowds seeking authentic Korean cuisine in a clean, tidy setting.

Kimchi here has a balanced sourness that is not overpowering. Side dishes include spicy cucumber and well-seasoned banchans with a mix of sour and sweet flavors.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"This Korean food's soft tofu stew is always hot and spicy."

"I loved their kimchi because it wasn't too sour."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak lunch hours, especially around 12 PM.

2

The restaurant closes for staff lunch at 2:45 PM.

3

They offer a variety of customizable protein, rice, and noodle options.

23
Mr. Kimchi ALL YOU CAN EAT Korean BBQ image 1

Korean BBQ offers private booth seating with smokeless grills for a clean, interactive meal. Fresh kimchi adds a tangy kick and pairs well with thinly sliced meats. Warm decor and K-pop music create an authentic vibe that blends modern and traditional elements.

Fresh kimchi adds a must-have tang to many dishes here. It pairs well with a variety of thinly sliced meats and comes alongside other small plates like pickled radish and spicy rice cakes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The BBQ service was so fast and attentive."

"The marinated meats here are perfectly seasoned and fresh."

Good to know

1

Lunch special offers 30% off from 12-3pm.

2

All-you-can-eat lunch is available from 11am to 2pm for $19.99.

3

The restaurant hosts birthday celebrations for large groups.

24
Mr.Kimchi Korean AYCE BBQ Niles image 1

Large, modern space offers an interactive grilling experience with choose-your-own instant ramen bar. Kimchi is bold and fresh, ranking among the best. Laid-back, family-friendly vibe pairs well with flavored soju and cocktails.

Kimchi here stands out for its bold flavor and freshness. It ranks among the best versions available.

People are saying

"The food here is great and flavorful."

"Our server was so attentive with our Korean food."

"The kimchi here is flavorful and well-marinated."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 3 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect it to get busy after 6:30 pm, especially on weekends.

3

There is a promotion every Monday and Wednesday where Premium AYCE customers can get ramen for free.

25
Chicago Galbi House image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue shines with smokeless grills and a cozy atmosphere featuring bright lighting and spaced tables. Authentic kimchi like cucumber kimchi and daikon with jalapeno complements the meal. Staff provide attentive service using call buttons.

Banchan features authentic kimchi alongside sides like eggplant and acorn jelly. The cucumber kimchi, fish cake, and daikon with jalapeno stand out. Staff keep the kimchi refilled attentively.

People are saying

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

"The kalbi here is so tender and flavorful."

"The nappa kimchi here is still in the early stages of fermentation."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller orders.

26
Gumii image 1
Korean restaurant

Small, modern space with a warm atmosphere and calming Korean pop music offers a laid-back vibe. Kimchi shines in many forms, from kimchi stew to kimchi fries and refreshing cucumber kimchi. Meals often feature beef bulgogi topped with sesame seeds alongside kimchi sides.

Kimchi appears in several forms including kimchi stew with excellent sides, kimchi fries resembling McDonald's style, and refreshing cucumber kimchi. Meals often include kimchi as a side alongside dishes like beef bulgogi topped with sesame seeds.

People are saying

"The bibimbap here is fantastic and the best in town."

"I adored the scallion pancakes; they were crispy and soft."

"The kimchi fries were pretty good, like McDonald's fries."

Good to know

1

Dishes require an additional $3 to include meat.

2

There is no alcohol available at Gumii.

3

Several menu items may be unavailable during your visit.

27
SGD DUBU SO GONG DONG TOFU & KOREAN BBQ - WICKER PARK image 1

Small, cozy spot with a friendly atmosphere and clean space. Kimchi has a spicy kick that shines with pork belly and kimchi jjigae. Seating fits small groups, making it perfect for intimate meals with authentic K-pop vibes.

Kimchi here has a spicy kick and pairs well with dishes like pork belly and kimchi jjigae. The combination of pork belly and kimchi stands out as especially flavorful and satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really delicious and tasty."

"I found the seafood pancake to be one of the best I ever had."

"I loved the kimchi here; it had spice."

Good to know

1

There is limited street parking near the restaurant.

2

This restaurant is best accessed by public transit or by foot.

3

The portions are large enough to share an entree.

28
KFire Korean BBQ - Old Town image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue offers plentiful portions and a cozy atmosphere perfect for casual meals. Freshly grilled meats like kalbi and spicy chicken shine alongside delicious kimchi that adds a spicy kick. Service is quick and dishes are well-seasoned.

Kimchi stands out as a delicious side that pairs well with everything. The spicy pickles add a nice kick alongside it.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"I thought the kalbi here was awesome and well seasoned."

"The kimchi here is delicious and pairs well with everything."

Good to know

1

KFire offers a variety of vegan options to accommodate dietary restrictions.

2

Customization of orders is available, allowing for personalized meal choices.

3

Pricing is affordable, with meals averaging around $17 including a drink.

29
Bonchon Bolingbrook image 1
Korean restaurant

Robot servers glide through a spacious dining room with modern decor and soft lighting. Kimchi offers a perfect kick that complements fried zucchini and noodles. Cozy, quiet energy makes dining relaxed and inviting.

Kimchi has a very good quality with just the right kick. It pairs well with dishes like fried zucchini, fries, and noodles.

People are saying

"I thought the fried chicken here was awesome and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the Korean Fried Chicken here to be the best I've ever had."

"The fried chicken here is so crispy and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is available close by, but it requires a short walk.

2

The restaurant offers robot delivery for dine-in meals.

3

Expect higher prices than average for the portion sizes.

30
Tenichi Sushi & Ramen image 1

Cozy dining room with cherry blossom decor creates a peaceful vibe. Bold, crisp kimchi pairs perfectly with fried chicken and ramen. Innovative tablet ordering makes dining smooth and fun.

Kimchi here comes with a bold flavor and a crisp texture. It pairs well with dishes like fried chicken and ramen.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, melt-in-your-mouth salmon sashimi."

"The ramen broth was savory and prepared over 18 hours."

"I found the kimchi to be spectacular and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant uses an iPad ordering system for convenience.

2

Expect a 20% gratuity added for parties of six or more.

3

Parking is easy and available at the village crossing plaza.

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