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Chicago's best

Authentic kimchi

You have no interest in watered-down versions of kimchi that cater to a generic palate.

Based on 542 Opinions
+539
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Updated June 2026
01
SGD DUBU SO GONG DONG TOFU & KOREAN BBQ - WICKER PARK image 1
SGD DUBU SO GONG DONG TOFU & KOREAN BBQ - WICKER PARK image 2
SGD DUBU SO GONG DONG TOFU & KOREAN BBQ - WICKER PARK image 3
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Small, cozy Korean restaurant with a clean, intimate space and friendly atmosphere. Music often includes K-pop, adding an authentic vibe. Seating suits parties of 2-4, with a layout that feels tight but welcoming.

Offers authentic Korean food with dishes like chicken bulgogi and soondubu that capture traditional flavors and atmosphere.

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 Korean food here to be delicious and authentic."

"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.

02
Kimโ€™s Korean Cuisine & Sushi image 1

Traditional Korean restaurant offers a cozy, family-like atmosphere with relaxing jazz music and a BYOB policy that includes wine glasses. The interior feels warm and welcoming, though noticeably hotter than outside, creating an intimate dining experience. Quiet energy suits families and those seeking a comfortable, homey vibe.

Food offers a home-cooked authentic taste with full of flavor dishes. Portions come in good size for leftovers and stay fresh.

Homemade kimchi stands out with its rich flavor. Kimchi appears in various forms like Kimchi Soup loaded with tofu and a kimchi pancake option.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and well priced."

"The food here is authentic and full of flavor."

"The bibimbap here is so delicious and sizzling."

Good to know

1

Kimโ€™s Korean Cuisine & Sushi is BYOB, so bring your own wine.

2

Expect to pay around $65 for two meals and a drink after tip.

3

The restaurant offers excellent value with large portion sizes.

03
Ssyal - Chicago Korean Restaurant image 1

Korean restaurant offers a clean, authentic vibe with cozy, homely atmosphere and eye-catching decorations. Warm energy fills the space, enhanced by 80s music and inviting seating arrangements. Diners often enjoy traditional dishes in a setting that feels like dining in Korea.

Offers authentic Korean flavors with traditional dishes like Samgyetang served with salt and green onions to adjust taste. Known for authentic chicken ginseng soup and flavorful Korean soups.

Banchan includes radish kimchi with crunch and refreshing cucumber pickles. Kimchi pairs well with dishes like bulgogi and rice cakes, adding a tasty, flavorful touch.

People are saying

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

"The seafood pancake was crispy and generously packed with squid."

"The kimchi here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

There is a parking lot behind the restaurant and free street parking available.

2

Expect no waiting time around 7pm for a table.

04
Hello Jasmine - Lincoln Square image 1

Bubble tea store offers a cozy and stylish ambiance with bright, chill vibes and comfy seating suited for eating or working. Music plays a fun, upbeat soundtrack enhancing the relaxed atmosphere. Unique decor includes mystical, magical elements and seasonal themes, creating a charming and inviting space.

Braised pork bento offers authentic Chinese flavor. Beef noodle soup tastes hot and tasty with a clear Taiwanese influence.

Kimchi here tastes sweet not sour with a balanced spice level. It pairs well with grilled tofu, adding a perfect kick without overwhelming heat.

People are saying

"I loved the creamy, tasty milk tea here."

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

"The grilled tofu with kimchi was perfectly spicy and deliciously spicy."

Good to know

1

Monday through Thursday, they have a $10 bento special.

2

Customers can order at a kiosk or at the register.

3

Spending over $30 earns a free fried chicken leg.

05
Daebak Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Grills cook meat tableside while vents reduce smoke and odors, creating a clean, well-maintained environment. K-pop music plays, adding to a welcoming, lively atmosphere that feels authentic to Korea. Spacious seating includes stools for personal items, enhancing comfort during meals.

Korean BBQ here delivers authentic flavors that match those found overseas. The food is consistently delicious and true to traditional recipes.

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."

"I loved the authentic Korean BBQ with all the banchan."

"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.

06
Han Mi Jeong image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant offers authentic hometown flavors with a menu blending traditional Korean side dishes and Chinese-influenced main courses. The atmosphere feels warm and homey with simple, casual decor and a clean, spacious interior. Generous portions and a variety of dishes create a satisfying dining experience.

Extremely authentic Korean flavors deliver a true hometown taste. Dishes like budae jeongol come in filling portions with fresh, genuine ingredients.

Grilled kimchi pairs well with pork belly and garlic, creating a flavorful lunch. Stir fry beef with kimchi and beef fried rice with kimchi also stand out as delicious combinations.

People are saying

"The Korean food, especially the bulgogi, is flavorful and tender."

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

"The grilled pork belly with kimchi was delicious."

Good to know

1

There is easy street parking available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant runs a promotion for free side dishes with reviews.

3

Ordering is done through an app, even for dine-in customers.

07
To Korean Cuisine image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant with K-pop-themed decor and colorful interior creates a chill, casual atmosphere that feels like being in Seoul. Tables include charging stations, enhancing convenience. The vibe attracts a younger crowd seeking lively, trendy street food experiences.

Dishes like Jajangmyeon and Japchae taste fresh and match authentic flavors closely. Every meal delivers a solid, authentic Korean experience.

Kimchi here has a balanced flavor that is flavorful but not overpowering. The kimchi fried rice combines bacon, pork belly, and seaweed with a perfectly cooked egg, making it very comforting. Side dishes include kimchi and pickled radish that complement the meal well.

People are saying

"This Korean food is so fresh and flavorful, I loved it."

"I found the food to be amazing and authentic."

"The kimchi fried rice has stellar flavor and comforting ingredients."

Good to know

1

Parking is on the street, costing about $2.50 an hour on weekdays.

2

After a certain time on weekends, parking is free.

3

The restaurant is open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

08
Ahjoomah's Apron Korean Restaurant image 1

Small Korean restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with dark, modern decor and dividers for privacy. The vibe stays chill and comforting with good music and warm hospitality. Seating is tight with low tables and limited space around booths.

Dishes deliver a very authentic Korean taste that transports you to Korea. All meals are delicious and true to traditional flavors, even with some saltiness.

Kimchi shows up in several dishes with perfect fermentation and balanced spice. The tofu and cucumber kimchi side dishes stand out, along with the kimchi pancake which is a favorite.

People are saying

"You get a ton of Korean food for the amount you pay."

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

"The kimchi here is delicious and tastes super authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 50% off alcohol, making a bottle of soju $9.

2

Daily specials include 50% off bibimbap and half-off noodles on Tuesdays.

3

The restaurant serves large portions, ideal for sharing or taking leftovers.

09
SGD DUBU SO GONG DONG TOFU & KOREAN BBQ image 1

Korean restaurant inside a market offers authentic spicy pork bulgogi and generous sundubu jjigae portions. Atmosphere is casual and food court style, with the place getting packed during peak hours. It stands out for great kimchi and delicious fried dumplings.

Spicy pork bulgogi offers authentic Korean style with a genuine taste. These Asian dishes feel more authentic than typical Chinese restaurant fare.

Side dishes include kimchi, radish, and cucumber with an average portion size. Kimchi stew comes in chicken and beef options in bento boxes.

People are saying

"The tofu soup here is really good, with lots of flavor."

"The kimchi jjigae here has a really nice, flavorful broth."

"I found the spicy pork bulgogi to be authentic Korean style."

Good to know

1

The restaurant gets packed during peak hours.

2

The total price for the doenjang jjigae is $18.99.

3

The soup costs $15 and no egg is included in the base price.

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