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ILCHA
Master Critic Review
ILCHA
8.2
Korean sool-jib in the Marina serving anju—snacks built for drinks—by co-owner/chef Kuumi Kim. Expect crisp KFC, kim mari, and occasional soy-marinated crab alongside a focused soju list in a polished, lively room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ganjang gejang (soy-marinated raw crab), Kim mari (fried seaweed spring rolls), Soy-cured shrimp with rice & egg
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Chef-driven Korean anju and soju program with occasional raw crab.
Who should go: Soju lovers and snack-centric date nights
When to visit: Tue–Thu after 7:30pm for easier seating
What to order: Soy-marinated crab, kim mari, soy-cured shrimp rice
Insider tip: Ask if ganjang gejang or ganjang saewoo is running—limited availability.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Lombard and nearby side streets; it can get tight after 6pm, so ride-share is recommended on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but most guests lean dressy given the bar-forward scene.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversation possible but volume rises after 8pm when the bar fills up.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch; evenings midweek usually seat within 15–20 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some anju and rice dishes can be made vegetarian—ask staff for guidance.
Vegan options: Limited—only a couple of small plates can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Moderate options; soy-based marinades contain gluten, but grilled and seafood items can be adjusted.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—great energy, stylish setting, and shareable food make it fun without being overly formal. Sit at the counter for a more engaging vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted early evenings or late night, but prime hours fill quickly—reserve ahead for weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—menu and atmosphere are geared toward adults with soju and late-night service; best for ages 16+ only during quieter early hours.
Best For
Better for: More refined and drink-driven than typical Korean BBQ spots; ideal for cocktails and contemporary anju.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full BBQ setup or large group platters—this is a polished small-plate experience instead.