30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Korean in Downtown LA
Best Romantic Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Michelin Star Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Tasting Menus in Downtown LA
Best Chef's Table Restaurants in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Baroo
8.4
Chef Kwang Uh's LA Times Restaurant of the Year channels Buddhist philosophy and temple fermentation techniques learned during six months with nun Jeong Kwan into a six-course, $125 tasting menu that borrows from homestyle Korean bansang traditions. The Arts District space keeps service deliberately relaxed, avoiding the self-importance of typical tasting menus. Vegetarian and vegan options require 24-hour notice but rank among the city's best special-occasion plant-based meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hokkaido Scallop, Soy-Braised Wild Black Cod, Brandt Beef Short Rib
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Chef Kwang Uh's fermentation-focused modern Korean tasting menu draws from Buddhist and Taoist philosophy, with house-made ferments adding depth to every course.
Who should go: Solo diners and adventurous eaters seeking fermentation-driven cuisine.
When to visit: Reservations recommended; check hours before visiting.
What to order: The $125 tasting menu with the $55 wine pairing. Vegan and vegetarian menus are available—ask about the bansang (vegetable bowl collection).
Insider tip: The name 'Baroo' refers to bowls used by Buddhist monks—the menu represents a life cycle of birth, growth, and renewal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available
Dress code: Smart casual
Noise level: Quiet—rated 2 out of 5 on noise scale; conducive to conversation
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Vegetarian tasting menu available with 24-hour advance notice
Vegan options: Vegan tasting menu available with 24-hour advance notice
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free options offered; note menu contains gluten, soy, dairy, nuts, sesame
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - the minimalist, upscale-yet-casual atmosphere with concrete floors, black-and-white walls, and moody recessed lighting creates an intimate vibe. Chef's counter seats offer front-row views of the open kitchen. The innovative Korean tasting menu ($125) with fermentation-focused dishes sparks conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No - reservations required. Book through Resy up to 21 days in advance (opens at 10:00am). Parties of 1-6 can book directly online. For 7+ guests, email hello@baroolosangeles.com for buyout arrangements. Note: 24-hour advance notice required for vegetarian/vegan menus.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, with accommodations - Baroo explicitly welcomes children and offers a truncated tasting menu for older kids. High chairs and booster seats available. Parents of infants/toddlers may bring their own food. One of the few fine dining spots in LA with a formal children's policy.
Is it good for groups? Limited - parties of 5-6 can book directly on Resy. Cannot accommodate 7+ unless arranging a full buyout. $62.50/person cancellation fee if canceled within one week. 20% large group service fee in lieu of tip. Contact hello@baroolosangeles.com for buyout inquiries.
Is there outdoor seating? No outdoor seating. The restaurant offers three indoor seating options: dining room, chef's counter, and bar. The full tasting menu is available at all seating areas. The minimalist Arts District space is entirely indoors.
Best For
Better for: Contemporary Korean tasting menu in a refined yet casual setting; three seating options including chef's counter
Consider Alternatives If: You have multiple restrictions without advance notice—dietary menus require 24-hour heads up
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday5:30pm - 9pm
Wednesday5:30pm - 9pm
Thursday5:30pm - 9pm
Friday5:30pm - 9pm
Saturday5:30pm - 9pm
SundayClosed