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Hwal A Kwang Jang
Master Critic Review
Hwal A Kwang Jang
8.1
This Korean-style sushi and sashimi specialist operates from a modest mini-mall location but delivers remarkably fresh seafood. The hwe dup bap rice bowl arrives overflowing with assorted raw fish that diners mix with spicy gochujang sauce, while the live octopus experience draws adventurous eaters seeking authentic Korean seafood traditions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hwe Dup Bap (Raw Fish Rice Bowl), Live Octopus, Assorted Sashimi Platter
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Fresh seafood so pristine it's still moving, Korean grandmother-style execution
Who should go: Adventurous seafood lovers seeking authentic Korean raw fish experience
When to visit: Lunch for quick hwe dup bap; evening for live octopus
What to order: Hwe dup bap for value, live octopus for thrill-seekers, sashimi combo
Insider tip: Small space fills fast during peak hours; arrive early or late
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Strip mall lot with 15-20 spaces, usually available except Fri/Sat dinner rush. Street parking on Olympic & 8th
Dress code: Come as you are - regulars in everything from business casual to workout gear
Noise level: Moderate to loud - bustling mini-mall acoustics, better for casual conversation than intimate talks
Weekend wait: 20-40 min peak hours (6-8pm) - small space, no reservations
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, usually seated within 5-10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited - maybe 1-2 cooked veggie sides, this is a raw seafood specialist
Vegan options: Not recommended - Korean seafood-focused menu with minimal plant-based options
Gluten-free options: Possible but requires modification - request no soy sauce, bring tamari for mixing
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date is adventurous and comfortable with casual settings. The live octopus is a bonding experience for the right couple, but the fluorescent-lit mini-mall vibe isn't romantic. Better as a 2nd or 3rd date for foodies.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations. Arrive before 6pm or after 8:30pm on weekends to minimize wait. Weekday lunches are your safest bet for immediate seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids - raw seafood focus, no kids menu, and watching live octopus might be intense. Teens who eat sushi will love it. High chairs available but rarely needed.
Best For
Better for: Korean-style raw fish preparations and live seafood theater - the hwe dup bap has more variety and better value than most KTown spots. More authentic and less polished than trendy sushi bars.
Skip if: You want upscale ambiance, cooked seafood options, or are squeamish about extremely fresh (moving) ingredients. Choose Sugarfish for cleaner sushi execution, or Guelaguetza if someone in your group doesn't eat raw fish.