Nak Won (Beaverton): My Go-To Spot for Unbeatable Korean Food 🥢

If there’s one restaurant in Beaverton that has my heart (and my stomach), it’s Nak Won— I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve visited, and not once has it let me down. 🍖In fact, every trip only makes me love it more; this little Korean gem serves up dishes so flavorful, so authentic, that it’s become my default recommendation for anyone craving great Korean food in the Portland area 😍. First, let’s talk about Nak Won’s unique schedule:🌶️ it’s only open for three hours a day— from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. At first, I worried the short hours would make it hard to visit, but now I get why it’s so popular: they focus on quality over quantity, and every dish feels like it’s made with care, not rushed to keep up with a busy all-day service 🕒. Even with that limited window, there’s always a line out the door when I arrive— but let me tell you, that wait is never a hassle. 🍚The staff keeps things moving smoothly, and the second you step inside, the cozy, homey vibe (think warm lighting, friendly chatter, and the aroma of garlic and soy sauce wafting from the kitchen) makes the wait feel totally worth it 🧄. One of my all-time favorites here is their Galbijjim (Braised Short Ribs). I order it every single time, and it’s always perfect: the short ribs are slow-cooked until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender, submerged in a rich, sweet-and-savory sauce that’s packed with Korean soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of pear (which adds a subtle sweetness that cuts through the meat’s richness). The sauce clings to every bite, and when you pair it with a spoonful of their fluffy white rice 🍚, it’s pure comfort in a bowl. I’ve had galbijjim at dozens of Korean restaurants, but Nak Won’s version is the gold standard— no one does it better 🥩. Another must-try is their Jjajangmyeon (Black Bean Noodles). I was skeptical at first (I’m not usually a fan of heavy noodle dishes), but Nak Won changed my mind. The noodles are thick, chewy, and coated in a glossy, umami-rich black bean sauce that’s not too salty— just deeply flavorful. They toss in tender chunks of pork, crisp zucchini, and carrots, which add a nice crunch and balance out the richness of the sauce. Every slurp is satisfying, and I always finish the entire bowl (even when I swear I’ll save room for dessert) 🥢. If you’re in the mood for something spicy, their Bibimbap is a winner. Served in a hot stone bowl (so the rice at the bottom gets crispy— my favorite part!), it’s loaded with fresh, colorful toppings: sautéed spinach, julienned carrots, bean sprouts, sliced mushrooms, and a perfectly fried egg on top. You mix it all together with a dollop of gochujang (Korean chili paste) until everything is coated in a spicy, tangy sauce, and the result is a dish that’s vibrant, hearty, and full of texture. The crispy rice at the bottom is a game-changer— it adds a crunchy contrast to the soft vegetables and tender beef, making every bite feel new 😋. And let’s not forget the banchan (side dishes)— Nak Won serves up a generous spread every time, and they’re all homemade. My favorites are the kimchi (tangy, spicy, and fermented just right— not too sour), the pickled radishes (sweet and crisp, perfect for cutting through rich meats), and the spinach namul (sautéed spinach with garlic and sesame oil, which is light and refreshing). They even refill your banchan if you run out— a small touch that makes you feel like you’re eating at a friend’s house, not a restaurant 🥬. Even the little details make Nak Won special: the staff remembers regulars (they always greet me by name now!), the portions are generous (you’ll definitely have leftovers to take home), and the prices are reasonable— especially for the quality of food you get. It’s the kind of place that feels like a secret club for food lovers, and I love that it’s in Beaverton (close enough to Portland, but away from the downtown crowds) 📍. If you’re in the Portland/Beaverton area and looking for authentic, delicious Korean food, do yourself a favor and visit Nak Won. Just make sure to arrive early (the line gets long fast!), and be prepared to leave full, happy, and already planning your next trip. It’s not just a restaurant— it’s a culinary experience that’ll make you fall in love with Korean food all over again ✨. #Food #Oregon #OregonFood #Portland #PortlandFood #PortlandEats #OregonPortland #PortlandFoodHunt #PortlandMustEat #KoreanFood #Beaverton