If you’re craving something EXTRA from the city of angels, we suggest ditching the usual brunch spots and dive headfirst into the neon-lit wonderland that is Koreatown. K-Town isn’t just about K-BBQ (although, we definitely cover it below), there are so cool, innovative, and fun other things to do in Koreatown. The vibe of Koreatown is truly a full-on sensory experience with great food, trendy boutiques and alleyway karaoke bars. Get ready to snap pics, sing your heart out and discover a neighborhood beyond LA’s ordinary with our list of the top things to do in Koreatown.
1. Chosun Galbee
Location: 3330 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019
Skip thee AYCE (all you can eat) chains and head to Chosun Galbee on Olympic Blvd for a premium Korean BBQ experience. They have high-quality cuts of meat that melt-in-your-mouth! From galbi (marinated short rib) to bulgogi (thinly sliced marinated beef), everything is cooked right at your table on a charcoal grill. One thing you must try and can’t miss is the kimchi pancakes. They’re the perfect appetizer for sharing (or not sharing, we won’t judge). They even have a selection of banchan (side dishes) that change seasonally, so you know you’re getting a fresh experience every time.
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2. BCD Tofu House
Location: 3575 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Grab your besties and slurp down a steaming pot of kimchi jjigae (IYKYK) at BCD Tofu House on Wilshire Blvd. This classic kimchi stew is the ultimate comfort food, and BCD Tofu House does it justice EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. Their kimchi jjigae is packed with flavorful pork belly, tofu, and a variety of vegetables, all simmered in a rich and spicy kimchi broth. For a slightly milder option, try their soft tofu soup (sundubu jjigae). Just remember the extra napkins because things can get a little messy (in the best way possible).
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3. California Donuts
Location: 3540 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90020
Need a sugar rush after all that spice? California Donuts on 3rd street is a K-Town must. Forget typical pastries, these are light and fluffy creations filled with unexpected flavors like ube halaya (purple yam) and matcha cream. They also have more traditional flavors like glazed and chocolate, but their specialty is definitely the unique Korean-inspired fillings. Be ready to catch some major attention when you eat here…your DM’s will be flooded with everyone wanting to know where you got those yummy donuts (don’t say we didn’t warn you).
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4. Wi Spa
Location: 2700 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90057
One of the ultimate things we love to do in Koreatown is experience a K-beauty spa. Escape the hustle and bustle at Wi Spa on Wilshire Blvd. This luxurious Korean spa is the ultimate relaxation destination. Soak in jacuzzis infused with medicinal herbs, sweat it out in the saunas and steam rooms, or try the traditional jimjibang floor heating – perfect for melting away stress. Don’t forget to check out the rooftop pool for breathtaking city views, especially at night when the city lights are all shining below. We recommend visiting on a weekday afternoon to avoid weekend crowds, when it can get quite packed.
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5. Break Room 86
Location: 630 S. Ardmore Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Mingle with the locals at the trendy Break Room 86 on S. Ardmore Ave. This trendy bar has lots of creative cocktails that are as Insta-worthy as they are delicious. From smoky mezcal’s to botanical gin’s, their full bar has something for everyone to enjoy. They also have a great selection of local craft beers and Korean soju for those who prefer something more traditional. Plus, the laid-back atmosphere is perfect for meeting new people. If you need more things to do here, then lean into Karaoke. They have secret rooms to book out for your group and if you’re feeling nostalgic go to the back of the bar to play some arcade games too.
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Now that you’ve got your full day planned out in K-town, check out our list of the best nightclubs in Los Angeles to keep the vibe going all night long.
