KOGI — Restaurant in Richmond

I have eaten at this place several times and have really enjoyed it except for my last visit. The food here is really delicious and I always enjoy it, the service however has been very lackluster. I usually dine in so I’m not sure if this is always the case but my last order I decided to order to go and had a pretty bad experience. When I walked in the place wasn’t very crowded but I was not greeted at all I stood by the bar waiting to talk to a server or host but waited 5 mins before anyone even said anything to me. When I told the lady I was picking up she just walked away didn’t say anything back which was just kind of rude, didn’t ask for my name at all. I waited a long while before I was even spoken to again, several people walked in behind me and asked how long I had been waiting and when I told them that it had been over 10 minutes they walked out to go elsewhere. It seemed like the restaurant was really prioritizing food for the customers inside because I saw several tables get food before I was even asked what the name of my order was. I understand that customers in the restaurant are probably going to spend more money and tip but you really can’t just neglect to-go orders because this leads to losing loyal customers like myself. Finally after 20 minutes of waiting I was finally asked for the name of my order and they stated that the order was now being prepared. I ended up getting my food well over 15 minutes past the time my order was supposed to be ready and my girlfriends food was somehow cold and had to be reheated. Honestly wouldn’t have even left a poor review because I know that sometimes restaurants have an off night but as a local business your focus should be on providing good service and the employees did not reflect that. I felt ignored and unimportant, to-go orders should not...

The Korean food at the restaurant was absolutely incredible. From the tangy and spicy kimchi to the tender, flavorful beef and the perfectly crispy katsu, every dish was a delight. The kimchi had just the right balance of spice and acidity, adding a bold kick to the meal without being overpowering. The noodles were cooked to perfection—firm yet tender, absorbing the rich flavors of the broth or sauce they were paired with. One of the standout dishes was the loaded fries, which were generously topped with savory ingredients that complemented each other beautifully. Every bite was bursting with flavor, making it hard to put the fork down.

While the food was outstanding, the service, unfortunately, left much to be desired. Getting a simple refill for a drink proved to be quite a challenge, as the servers seemed either too busy or inattentive, honestly they could probably hire a few more people. There was no clear system for seating, as the restaurant operated on a first-come, first-served basis. This led to a chaotic atmosphere where customers were left scrambling to find a table. Some guests even ended up arguing over seating, which created unnecessary tension in what should have been an enjoyable dining experience. A host or a more organized seating arrangement would have made a significant difference in the overall experience.

Despite the lackluster service, the food alone made the visit worthwhile. Every dish was packed with authentic flavors, cooked to perfection, and presented beautifully. If the restaurant could improve its service and organization, it would easily become a top-tier dining destination. Until then, it’s best to go prepared for a bit of a wait and some patience—but rest assured, the food will more than...

The food is good, that is just a fact. However, their ordering ahead leaves much to be desired. Once upon a time they had their own ordering platform on their own website. And it worked beautifully, as long as they remembered to activate it each day (which they didn't always). Now they use Quickness for their ordering platform and website, the buggiest of all food ordering platforms. I ordered my food earlier in the day so I could pick it up from work and head straight home. And despite ordering it ahead (as my receipt shows), they made it when I ordered. The woman behind the counter was exceptionally lovely and apologetic, saying it was something to do with Quickness. I will say, I won't doubt her. However, why not call me or double check the receipt. She said they thought about calling me, but didn't despite the significant gap between when I ordered and the pick-up time.

No matter how good the food is, it's a moot point if it's difficult to get or not edible when you do get it. She asked if I would like to have my food remade, instead of just offering to do it. I have enough anxiety being in a situation like that, I don't want to have to engage further. And I have a long commute home, I didn't want to have to wait (another reason, maybe call if the person doesn't show up? I already paid for it, isn't that enough to say I want the food?).

I probably will get food again at some point in the distant future. As I said up top, the food is good. I probably will never order ahead, though, or make an all caps note in the Order Notes section.

But really, why did you go...