LA Ktown Hidden Gem Korean Restaurant Recommendations
Over the past few months in LA, Iβve unintentionally tried quite a few Ktown spots β here are my top picks (most offer valet π ΏοΈ): π΄ Sun Nong Dan Pretty much a must-eat classic in LA. Order the #25 braised beef ribs & oxtail, and definitely add cheese π§ + rice cakes (doubles the happiness!). The meat is fall-apart tender, soaked in rich broth and melted cheese. Pair it with potatoes π₯ and rice π β pure bliss! A medium portion is perfect for 3β4 people. Some of their soups are lighter β the #7 beef rib soup is especially fresh and savory. π΄ Mapo Dak Galbi Tucked away in a small plaza with very limited parking β opens at 3 PM. We went in the afternoon and had to valet next door ($10 π ). This place is all about stir-fried chicken β the auntie brings the ingredients and cooks everything step-by-step right at your table. Super satisfying and reassuring to watch. Near the end, sheβll make kimchi fried rice with nori and leftover ingredients. A really fun dining experience! π΄ Chunju Han-Il Kwan Famous for their budae jjigae (army stew) π₯ β loaded with sausage, greens π₯¬, rice cakes, Spam, kimchi, and more, all simmered to flavorful perfection. Having a hot, bubbling pot in winter is pure comfort! They also serve around 10 types of banchan. Instead of the usual seafood pancake, try their oyster pancake π¦ͺ β crispy, fragrant, and perfectly seasoned. π΄ Louders Been on my list forever β shares the same plaza as Sun Nong Dan. β οΈ Closed Tuesdays, and hours vary on some days. The stir-fried baby octopus & pork belly ππ₯ and cheesy buldak are both delicious. The skewers are just okay β you can skip those. #LAFood #StudyInUSA #KoreanFood #HiddenGemRestaurant #KtownLA #FoodieLife
