Los Angeles is a city that boasts a diverse culinary scene, and Korean food is no exception. From traditional dishes to fusion cuisine, Korean restaurants in LA offer a range of options for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of spicy flavors or prefer milder tastes, there is something for everyone. In this blog post, we will explore the best Korean restaurants in Los Angeles, highlighting their unique flavors, ambiance, and cultural significance. Get ready to indulge in some of the most mouth-watering dishes that LA has to offer.
Genwa Korean BBQ
Address: 5115 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Phone: +1 (323) 549-0760
Website: genwakoreanbbq.com
Details: $$$, Korean barbecue restaurant
Genwa Korean BBQ is a popular restaurant in Los Angeles, offering excellent Korean cuisine and attentive staff. Customers praise the waiters for their knowledge of the menu and the proper way to grill the BBQ meat, making the dining experience a memorable one. The restaurant is perfect for families or friends to enjoy the food together, as it offers an extensive menu of Korean dishes and a large number of side dishes that come with the main course. Customers who have visited Genwa Korean BBQ enjoy the quality of the food and appreciate the wait staff, who are friendly and informative.
The decor of the restaurant is described as unassuming but is quickly forgotten once the food arrives. The ambiance of the place is cozy and comfortable, with a modern and well-laid-out interior. The restaurant is accommodating for both indoor and outdoor seating. Customers have appreciated the valet parking behind the restaurant, making it convenient for those who are driving in. Despite the restaurant’s popularity, it still offers excellent service, making it a great choice for Korean cuisine.
Customers who have dined at Genwa Korean BBQ have had a delightful experience with the extensive menu, high-quality meats, and various side dishes. The set menu offered by the restaurant has been recommended as it allows customers to try a variety of dishes. The prices may seem a little expensive, but it is worth it, and customers are advised to order cautiously. The experience at Genwa Korean BBQ is more than just about the food; it is a feast for the senses, with impeccable service and a cozy ambiance.
Quarters
Address: 3465 W 6th St #C-130, Los Angeles, CA 90020
Phone: +1 (213) 365-8111
Website: facebook.com/quarterskbbq
Details: $$, Korean barbecue restaurant
Quarters is a Michelin awarded Korean BBQ restaurant located in Los Angeles. Customers rave about the high-quality meats, generous portions, and attentive service. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for young adults, families, or friends to gather. Customers recommend arriving early on weekends, as the restaurant gets very busy, and parking can be a challenge.
The menu offers a variety of meats, including bulgogi, pork belly, and marinated beef short ribs. Customers love the shredded beef and the kimchi fried rice. A unique feature of Quarters is the melted cheese that is offered for dipping the beef in. Customers recommend the large combo, which includes a selection of meats, kimchi soup, egg soufflé, and banchan.
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The staff is well trained and quick to serve customers. The restaurant also has a bar that offers unique drinks such as a peach margarita with a pear cider. The ambience is spectacular, and the decor is bright and modern. Customers highly recommend Quarters and say that it is the best Korean BBQ restaurant they have ever visited.
The Bun Shop
Address: 125 N Western Ave #108, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Phone: +1 (323) 468-1031
Website: thebunshopla.com
Details: $, Asian fusion restaurant
The Bun Shop in Los Angeles is a Korean fusion restaurant located in the Mid-Wilshire/Koreatown area, offering a variety of delicious bao buns and appetizers. The restaurant has a modern and sleek atmosphere with a sports bar vibe, and staff members are described as friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. The restaurant is praised for its menu, which is perfectly priced for its size and flavor. The Ba’corn Cheese casserole, Gyoza Nacho, Kalbi Beef Bao bun, and Pork Belly Bun are some of the favorite menu items among customers. The buns themselves are described as soft, warm, and a great vehicle to hold the meat.
Parking is free on the street and in the shared parking lot next door, which is rare in Los Angeles. The restaurant also offers a great happy hour deal. Customers are impressed with the quality of the food, which is distinctly and deliciously Korean with unique twists. The Spicy Pig and Kalbi buns, sweet potato fries, and ba’corn cheese are among the favorites. The restaurant is also recommended for its accommodating staff members, who are knowledgeable about the menu and provide excellent service.
Overall, The Bun Shop is a must-visit for anyone seeking good Korean flavors in a modern and friendly environment. The prices are fair, the portions are perfect, and the flavors are complex and satisfying.
Kobawoo Restaurant
Address: 698 S Vermont Ave #109, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Phone: +1 (213) 389-7300
Website: facebook.com/Kobawoo-Restaurant-113187828704583
Details: $$, Korean restaurant
Kobawoo Restaurant is a popular Korean restaurant in the heart of Korea town, Los Angeles, which serves authentic and delicious Korean dishes. Upon entering, customers will notice that the majority of customers are Korean, which is a testament to the restaurant’s authenticity. The restaurant is clean and has a welcoming atmosphere, with authentic Asian designs and thick wooden tables.
The menu at Kobawoo offers a variety of Korean dishes, including BBQ, stews, savory pancakes, and Korean homestyle specialties. The portions are generous, and the food is beautifully presented. The standout dishes are the spicy cod, potato pancake, and the traditional Korean dish of sliced pork belly called Bossam. The service is efficient, friendly, and attentive, and the staffs are very polite.
The restaurant offers valet parking for $2, which is reasonable, considering the limited parking in the strip mall where the restaurant is located. The restaurant is often busy, so there may be a wait, but the food and service are worth it. Kobawoo Restaurant is a top choice for great food, cleanliness, efficient and friendly service, and affordability.
The Prince Restaurant
Address: 3198 1, 2 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Phone: +1 (213) 389-2007
Website: facebook.com/The-Prince-Restaurant-257833677577910
Details: $$, Korean restaurant
The Prince Restaurant in Los Angeles is an old-fashioned bar and restaurant with classic faux-leather booths and flocked wallpaper, giving off a retro and vintage vibe. The atmosphere is dimly lit and features red booths, velvet walls, and classic music. The restaurant is a popular spot for a casual gathering with friends, and it is known for its craft cocktails and delicious Korean fried chicken.
The menu is extensive and offers combo sets, vermicelli, and spicy chicken hot pot, in addition to the famous Korean fried chicken and Kimchi fried rice, which are highly recommended. The restaurant has been featured in Mad Men and New Girls for its unique and nostalgic atmosphere. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the service is efficient.
The Prince Restaurant is a go-to place for both locals and visitors who want to experience Korean food and craft cocktails in a vintage ambiance. It is a popular spot for casual gatherings with friends, and it is highly recommended for those who want to try the best Korean fried chicken in town. Despite being crowded on weekends, the service is quick, and the atmosphere is perfect for intimate conversations. The Prince Restaurant is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for an authentic Korean food experience in Los Angeles.
Cha Cha Chili
Address: 4625 Valley Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90032
Phone: +1 (323) 222-8900
Website: chachachili.com
Details: $, Asian fusion restaurant
Cha Cha Chili is a dive restaurant that specializes in Korean-Mexican fusion cuisine, which was featured on the show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. The restaurant has a simple and unassuming ambiance, located in an industrial area with a small number of tables, but its unique and delicious menu more than makes up for it. The restaurant is described as being a local gem, with incredible and magical food that combines the best of both cuisines.
Customers have highly recommended the spicy pork chimichanga, the short rib burrito, and the short rib tacos, which are all described as being exceptionally flavorful and tender. The chimichanga is even cut into sushi rolls for added convenience. The restaurant’s inventive menu is highlighted as a significant positive aspect, with dishes such as the cheese steak sandwich, beef bulgogi burrito, and short rib quesadilla. The restaurant is praised for its unique blend of flavors, creative combinations, and excellent execution.
Despite the restaurant’s small size, customers report that the wait times are well worth it, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. The restaurant is described as a hidden gem that one would drive past if not looking for it, making it a great spot for those seeking something new and off the beaten path.
In conclusion, Los Angeles is a paradise for food lovers, and Korean cuisine is an integral part of its vibrant culinary scene. From traditional BBQ spots to modern fusion restaurants, LA’s Korean restaurants offer a diverse range of flavors and experiences. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, exploring the best Korean restaurants in LA is a must-do culinary adventure. So, grab your chopsticks, bring your appetite, and experience the unique flavors and culture of Korean cuisine in Los Angeles!
