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HOWOO
Master Critic Review
HOWOO
8.0
HOWOO is a dimly lit, design-forward Korean barbecue restaurant emphasizing premium beef sets and composed side dishes in a sleek Midtown space just east of Koreatown. It’s built for longer, sit-down dinners where the Duo Prime or Elite packages turn the table into a multi-course experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duo Prime Package beef set, Prime ribeye and short rib selection, Spicy cold noodles with beef
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Modern, upscale Korean BBQ with curated beef packages and polished sides.
Who should go: Small groups wanting upscale KBBQ in a sleek room.
When to visit: Weekend dinners for full ambiance and slower, indulgent pacing.
What to order: Duo Prime or Elite package, plus cold noodles to finish.
Insider tip: Ask about private dining rooms if you’re celebrating with a larger party.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site parking; street parking is limited and difficult after 6pm. Nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy—jeans are fine, but most guests lean more upscale for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate-lively—energetic atmosphere but still workable for conversation across the table.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak 7–9pm window
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short 10-minute wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some banchan, cold noodles, and vegetable dishes, but the menu is heavily meat-focused
Vegan options: Very limited—possible with side dishes only and custom ordering
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free grilled meats and sides, but sauces often contain soy; staff can guide
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—especially if you want something more elevated and interactive than a standard dinner. The lighting, design, and paced grilling make it feel intentional and special without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights or early evenings, but weekend dinners are risky without a booking. Walk-ins often face long waits during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited for adults. The room runs late, lighting is dim, and the experience is slower and more premium-focused than most families with younger kids prefer.
Best For
Better for: More refined ambiance, curated beef packages, and a slower, multi-course feeling than most casual KBBQ spots nearby.
Skip if: You want all-you-can-eat value pricing, ultra-fast turnover, or a loud party-heavy Koreatown barbecue scene.