0 Followers
Goopojib
Master Critic Review
Goopojib
7.8
Since 2005, this specialist serves traditional chueotang using mudfish in nourishing soups alongside chueo-bulgogi stir-fry preparations. The well-being dishes attract older Korean clientele seeking authentic flavors that match quality standards found in Korea itself.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chueotang (mudfish stew), Chueo-bulgogi, Abalone mudfish soup
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.3
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: SoCal's best chueotang matching Korean standards for 20 years
Who should go: Adventurous eaters and Korean seniors seeking traditional well-being food
When to visit: Lunch hours to avoid running out of signature dishes
What to order: Chueotang, chueo-bulgogi, banchan spread
Insider tip: They often sell out of choo-a-galbi during peak times
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on 6th St and Vermont, metered during day. Small lot behind building often has 2-3 spots. Easier parking after 6pm when meters expire.
Dress code: Ultra casual - come as you are. Locals in workout clothes, office wear, whatever. It's about the food, not the scene.
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - mostly older Korean diners having calm conversations. Easy to talk, no background music blaring.
Weekend wait: 5-15 min typical, rarely crowded. Older clientele dines earlier (5-7pm peak).
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait, though popular dishes may sell out by 1:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited - banchan sides only. This is a mudfish specialist, not vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Not recommended - even banchan may contain seafood/fish sauce. Call ahead to confirm.
Gluten-free options: Possible with modifications - soups are naturally GF, avoid anything fried. Staff speaks limited English so bring translation app.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date is adventurous and into authentic Korean food. Mudfish soup isn't everyone's vibe. Better for 3rd+ dates when you know their food boundaries. Very casual, zero romance factor.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, reservations rarely needed. Just show up. Only exception: if you're coming specifically for choo-a-galbi, call ahead to confirm they haven't sold out (especially weekends after 6pm).
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for Korean kids familiar with these flavors. No kids menu, but banchan and rice work. Not a playground vibe - quiet, traditional atmosphere. Most kids under 10 won't touch chueotang unless raised on it.
Best For
Better for: Authentic chueotang that matches Seoul quality - this is THE spot in SoCal for traditional mudfish soup. Older Koreans choose this over trendier K-town spots for a reason. If you want real well-being food (not Americanized), this beats competitors.
Skip if: You want modern K-town vibes, Instagram-worthy plating, or you're squeamish about mudfish. If your group has picky eaters or needs vegetarian options, hit BCD Tofu House instead. This is specialist food for those who know what they're getting.