Any insider tips for Yi Cha?

Sit in the narrow back “alley” section for the most immersive pocha feel and quicker bar access.

What should I order at Yi Cha?

K-town nachos, gochujang buffalo wings, wagyu bone marrow corn cheese.

When should I visit Yi Cha?

Weekend late nights after 9pm for full pocha energy.

Who should go to Yi Cha?

Cocktail lovers and groups craving modern Korean bar snacks.

Any insider tips for Modu Cafe?

Check social media for weekend specials and preorder popular pastries when possible.

What should I order at Modu Cafe?

Mochi brownie muffin, milk cream bun, perilla or kabocha tart.

When should I visit Modu Cafe?

Right at opening to beat pastry sell-outs and lines.

Who should go to Modu Cafe?

Pastry hunters, coffee nerds, and solo laptop campers.

Any insider tips for Holdaak Fried Chicken - Highland Park?

Call in or order online for pickup—then eat at nearby York Boulevard parklets if the small indoor space is packed.

What should I order at Holdaak Fried Chicken - Highland Park?

20-piece mixed-flavor wings, Spicy Holdaak Chicken Sandwich, spicy tender box.

When should I visit Holdaak Fried Chicken - Highland Park?

Midday or early evening to avoid delivery rushes.

Who should go to Holdaak Fried Chicken - Highland Park?

Takeout-focused wing fans and budget-minded locals.

Any insider tips for Jane?

Head to the back patio for a quieter, more spacious brunch experience.

What should I order at Jane?

Kimchi fried rice, orange brioche French toast, chicken wings.

When should I visit Jane?

Early weekend mornings to avoid patio wait times.

Who should go to Jane?

Brunch crews and families wanting relaxed, patio-friendly plates.

Best Korean Restaurants in Highland Park (90042)

4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

#1 Yi Cha

8.5

$$$ Highland Park

Vibes: Late Night Legends Date Night Magic Trendy Table Hotspots Instagram Worthy Wonders

Yi Cha is a modern Korean pub from chef Debbie Lee, bringing pocha-style drinking food, creative small plates, and a serious soju and cocktail program to Highland Park. Open late on weekends, it’s become a neighborhood destination for shared plates like Korean fried chicken, gamjatang, and playful bar snacks in a neon-lit, alley-like dining room.

Must-Try Dishes: Gochujang buffalo Korean fried chicken, Wagyu bone marrow corn cheese, Gamjatang (spicy pork and potato stew)

What makes it special: A true Korean pocha experience with serious cocktails outside Koreatown.

View Full Review →

#2 Modu Cafe

8.4

$ Highland Park

Vibes: Sweet Treats Escapes Instagram Worthy Wonders Hidden Gems Heaven Solo Dining Sanctuaries

Opened in October 2024, Modu Cafe is a minimalist bakery and coffee bar from pastry chef Jiyoon Jang specializing in Korean-inspired pastries with meticulous design. Items like dark chocolate mochi brownies, milk cream buns, and sweet potato or kabocha tarts draw early crowds and frequent sell-outs.

Must-Try Dishes: Dark chocolate mochi brownie muffin, Perilla lime tart, Milk cream bun

What makes it special: Design-driven Korean-inspired pastries that feel both playful and refined.

View Full Review →

#3 Holdaak Fried Chicken - Highland Park

8.1

$ Highland Park

Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Comfort Food Classics Solo Dining Sanctuaries

HOLDAAK’s Highland Park outpost is a counter-service Korean fried chicken specialist where crisp double-fried wings and spicy sandwiches lead the menu. With combo boxes that hover around ten dollars, it’s one of the best value plays in the area for serious wing cravings.

Must-Try Dishes: 20 PCS Wings (Spicy or Caramel Soy), Spicy Holdaak Chicken Sandwich, Five-Piece Spicy Chicken Tender Box with Fries

What makes it special: Double-fried Korean wings and combos deliver big crunch and flavor for surprisingly low prices.

View Full Review →

#4 Jane

8.1

$$ Highland Park

Vibes: Brunch Bliss Spots Comfort Food Classics Family Friendly Favorites Outdoor Dining Oasis

Jane is a daytime bungalow cafe on York Boulevard known for brunch plates that mix American comfort cooking with Korean touches like kimchi fried rice and sticky wings. With front and back patios and consistently warm service, it’s a go-to for relaxed weekend hangs in Highland Park.

Must-Try Dishes: Kimchi fried rice with egg, Chorizo huevos rancheros, Orange brioche French toast

What makes it special: A cozy bungalow cafe where brunch classics meet Korean-inspired dishes.

View Full Review →