Cocobang — Restaurant in San Francisco

While searching for a midnight supper near Union Square, I stumbled upon Cocobang, a small Korean eatery that quickly became my go-to late-night spot. Despite its modest menu, Cocobang serves up authentic Korean comfort food that hits all the right notes.

My first visit was at 1:30 AM, and the line was already packed. After putting my name on the waitlist via Yelp, I headed back to freshen up before returning 30 minutes later to be seated. I ordered the Budae Jjigae, craving something spicy, hot, and hearty. When it arrived, the vibrant colors and piping hot broth immediately impressed me. The stew was rich with kimchi, spam, sausage, tofu, and noodles, served with a bowl of rice. The deep, dark color of the broth promised authenticity, and it did not disappoint. The generous portions of meat and ingredients made it incredibly satisfying, especially at 3 AM.

I liked it so much that I returned the next night, repeating the same ritual and order. Cocobang doesn’t skimp on ingredients, packing their stew with plenty of meat and traditional flavors. I also noticed others ordering sizzling meat dishes with impressive presentation, adding to the restaurant’s charm.

The eatery itself is considered small, so if you’re not a fan of chatter or the cacophony of voices from different groups, it might feel a bit overwhelming or uncomfortable. The lively atmosphere, however, adds to the authentic late-night dining experience.

Cocobang is a hidden gem for anyone craving authentic Korean food late at night in San Francisco. The friendly service, reasonable prices, and cozy atmosphere make it perfect for a satisfying supper after hours. If you’re near Union Square looking for genuine Korean flavors, Cocobang is definitely...

It was OK. This review is for take out but I don’t think I’d dine here UNLESS I’m getting the sweet fried chicken and beers.

I ordered the half and half bbq platter with the galbi and spicy pork. Small portion, galbi was mostly bones and no meat. Pork was very very minced with mixed veg, so when I took a bite I didn’t know if I was eating pork or cabbage or something else. Both had good flavor but wouldn’t order and pay $21 for this again.

Tteokboki and tofu stew were VERY seaweed-forward, and the tofu stew was so salty I couldn’t eat more than one bite. I’ll try to dilute it and eat it with rice to not waste food but.. the flavor was just really wrong.

Bonchon they sent was fish cake and thin radish. I should’ve made a note that I don’t prefer the fish cake, so that’s my bad. Wasn’t a big fan of either. No kimchi was included with the bonchon.

Sweet and tangy fried chicken is definitely more on the sweet side. Good for an indulgent snack or meal, was definitely tasty. I didn’t really like the mayonnaise cabbage salad they sent with it but my partner happily ate it.

They sent some steamed rice, which was cooked well.

Overall, this Korean takeout was not my favorite in the city. If I was around the physical location and was craving beer and fried chicken, I’d go for...

The worst Korean bbq short ribs I’ve ever had. I tried this place a month ago and it was great. Tonight must’ve not been their night. First I called in a pickup order when I picked it up they didn’t given me ANY utensils whatsoever no napkins or forks or spoons. So I had to make a double trip just to begin to eat. Then when I actually went back got utensils and started to eat I noticed the over burned char on every piece of beef. I went back and got a refund that took 15 mins while they “searched” fir my receipt. I’ve worked in a restaurant before guys and a receipt is not necessary you know who I am I just arrived 20 mins ago come on get it together. To top it all off I also heard one if the workers whisper a racial derogatory term and they both laughed. Wow I will definitely be a returning...