Korean food is not just barbecue: exploring Ktown’s oldest restaurants
As a 36-year-old who has lived in Koreatown for the past 24 years, I’ve had the privilege of watching the neighborhood evolve while staying connected to its culinary roots. I know where to find the best seolleongtang, the most flavorful kimchi jjigae and the hidden spots that even longtime locals might overlook. My passion for Korean cuisine extends beyond trends — I appreciate the stories behind each dish and the restaurants that have preserved these traditions for decades.
TRADITIONAL KOREAN food includes soondae gukbap, a hearty meat stew.
For many Angelenos, Koreatown is synonymous with sizzling barbecue, but this vibrant neighborhood has so much more to offer. While smoky grills and marinated meats may dominate the popular perception of Korean cuisine, Ktown’s rich culinary history is built on a diverse array of dishes that have been passed down for generations. Some of the area’s longest-standing restaurants continue to serve these traditional specialties, offering an authentic taste of Korea beyond the barbecue grill.
Chung Ki Wa: A classic destination for seolleongtang.
Specialty: Seolleongtang (ox bone soup). 3545 W. Olympic Blvd., 323-737-0809.
Parking: Limited lot parking; street parking available.
For those seeking a taste of authentic Korean comfort food, Chung Ki Wa is a must-visit. This family-run establishment specializes in seolleongtang, a rich and milky beef bone soup that has been simmered for hours to develop a deep, velvety broth. Served with rice, green onions and a side of freshly made kimchi, this dish is a staple in Korean households—nourishing, simple, and profoundly satisfying.
Soban: A hidden gem for banchan lovers. Specialty: banchan & galbijjim (braised short ribs). 4001 W. Olympic Blvd., 323-936-9106. Parking: Street parking only.
Soban is one of Ktown’s most unassuming yet exceptional restaurants. Known for its thoughtfully created banchan, this cozy spot elevates the small side dishes that accompany every Korean meal. Banchan refers to a variety of complementary plates—pickled vegetables, marinated seafood and delicate egg soufflés—all carefully prepared to enhance the flavors of the main dish. Pair these with their signature galbijjim (braised short ribs) or haemul pajeon (seafood pancake), and you’ll experience the depth and balance that define traditional Korean cuisine.
Olympic Noodle: Handmade noodles done right. Specialty: Kal-guksu (handmade knife-cut noodles). 4008 W. Olympic Blvd. 323-931-0007. Parking: Small parking lot; additional street parking available.
Specializing in kal-guksu (knife-cut noodle soup), this restaurant crafts each bowl with care, ensuring a silky yet chewy texture. Their house-made dumplings, generously stuffed with pork and vegetables, are another highlight.
Hangari Kalguksu: A legacy of hearty soups. Specialty: Chicken kalguksu (handmade chicken noodle soup). 3470 W. 6th St #9, 213-388-2326. Parking: Small lot and street parking available.
For those in search of a warm, nourishing meal, Hangari Kalguksu delivers. Their chicken noodle soup is a standout, featuring handmade noodles in a fragrant, rich broth. It’s the type of dish that locals crave on a chilly evening, offering a taste of home-cooked tradition with every spoonful.
Gwang Yang Barbecue: A different approach to bulgogi. Specialty: Bulgogi (traditional korean marinated beef). 3435 Wilshire Blvd. #123, 213-385-5600. Parking: Valet parking available;limited street parking.
Specializing in bulgogi, this restaurant follows a traditional cooking method from Gwangyang, South Korea, where thin slices of marinated beef are grilled over an iron griddle rather than an open flame. The result is a delicate, smoky-sweet flavor that stands apart from the standard tabletop barbecue experience
Culinary heritage
The neighborhood’s oldest restaurants have stood the test of time by staying true to their roots—offering soulful, handcrafted dishes that reflect Korea’s deep and diverse food culture. Whether you’re exploring the comforting warmth of seolleongtang, the refined complexity of banchan or the hearty satisfaction of handmade kal-guksu, there’s always more to discover in Ktown’s rich dining scene.
Next time you’re in the area, take a step beyond the grill and explore the timeless flavors that have made these restaurants beloved institutions.
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