The Right Way to Experience Sun Nong Dan

If you could only eat one meal in LA’s Koreatown, what would it be? Probably 8 out of 10 people would say Sun Nong Dan. But is it really that legendary? I used to be skeptical — until today. Now I finally agree: it deserves its top-tier status! Mentioned a craving for it yesterday, and my roommate was totally on board — so we went today… and it was AMAZING! Reflecting on why this visit felt extra special, here are my tips for the best Sun Nong Dan experience (for the original location across from H Mart): 🌟 Avoid Peak Hours For a better experience, skip dinner rush. The original Ktown spot is tiny, waits are long, and they only seat complete parties. Once you’re in, servers might subtly hurry you. Better to go off-peak — or hit the nearby potato pork bone soup spot if it’s packed.😁👍 🌟 Group Dining? Not Ideal The space is small with long tables — dishes in the middle make it awkward for those on the ends. The portions are huge, so just take leftovers home. No need to cram a big group here. 🌟 What to Order #24 or #25 + Cheese + Rice Cakes = a classic, no-fail combo! (I prefer #24 — less work than oxtail.) Add cheese — torched until slightly charred, stretchy and creamy. The rice cakes are tender, and the beef stays juicy and flavorful. 🌟 Photos & Videos I’m no pro, but portrait mode works great. Many film the cheese torching, but live is way better than video. Still, catching the flame in a photo? Epic! 📸🔥 🌟 Parking Tips The plaza gets packed at mealtime, but don’t skip driving in — they offer valet for $3 cash (unlimited time). Parking at H Mart requires a purchase: $30 = 1 hour free, $100 = 2 hours free. 🌟 Bubble Tea Nearby Two great options: Tiger Sugar — must-get brown sugar boba drinks. Tan-Cha — tiramisu foam top is a must!😘❤️ 🌟 Celebrity Sightings? There’s a chance of spotting Korean celebrities here! Haven’t seen one myself, but some lucky diners have. That’s all — enjoy your meal! 😋 #LAEats #KoreanFood #SunNongDan #KoreatownLA #LALife #LAFoodie #KtownEats 🥘🧀🔥