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ZipPicks Awards
Best BBQ in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Korea BBQ House
7.8
A sizzling-skillet Korean BBQ operation that has held its spot on the third floor of Weller Court since 1997, running both plated dishes and tabletop grilling at prices that undercut most comparable spots in the neighborhood. It works as a loud, communal, no-frills destination where groups split galbi and bibimbap without watching the bill, anchored by nearly three decades of repeat-customer trust in Little Tokyo.
Must-Try Dishes:
Galbi (BBQ Short Ribs), Spicy Pork, Hot Stone Bibimbap
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Little Tokyo fixture since 1997 serving Korean BBQ plates on sizzling skillets alongside table-top grilling on the third floor of Weller Court
Who should go: Groups and families wanting affordable Korean BBQ in Little Tokyo
When to visit: Weekday lunch for quick service and full banchan spread
What to order: Start with the galbi or spicy pork off the grill, add a hot stone bibimbap to share — the stone pot crisps the rice at the bottom — and the tri tip and shrimp sizzling plate rounds out the table
Insider tip: Parking validation is available at Weller Court — the restaurant is on the third floor, easy to miss from street level
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Located on the 3rd floor of Weller Court—use the Weller Court parking structure off 2nd St. Metered street parking on 2nd St is free after 6pm
Dress code: Ultra-casual—jeans and t-shirts standard, but wear something you don't mind smelling like BBQ smoke after (small space, tableside grills)
Noise level: Moderate—sizzling tabletop grills and group chatter create a steady hum, but you can hold a conversation across the table
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional first date. This is a casual, no-frills Korean BBQ spot on the 3rd floor of Weller Court mall — think shared grilling tables, smoky air, and a laid-back cafeteria-style vibe. Conversation is easy since it's rarely packed, but the atmosphere leans more fun and informal than romantic. Could work well for a relaxed, low-pressure first date where cooking together breaks the ice, but skip it if you're going for candlelit ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this spot is walk-in friendly and doesn't typically require reservations. Weekday lunches you'll likely seat immediately. Weekend dinners may have a 15–30 minute wait, but it's generally not a hard-to-get table. Lunch specials (under $9) make weekday visits especially worthwhile. Call ahead at (213) 680-1826 if you want to confirm availability for a larger party.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual atmosphere and moderate noise level make it very family-appropriate. Kids tend to enjoy the interactive element of tabletop grilling. Portions are generous and affordable, and reviewers specifically mention bringing their families here. No dedicated kids menu has been confirmed, but the straightforward BBQ plates, rice, noodles, and bibimbap work well for younger eaters. Best for kids old enough to be safe around a table grill.
Is it good for groups? Yes — Korean BBQ is built for group dining, and this spot handles it well. The shared grilling format means everyone participates. Parties of 4–6 are comfortable; for larger groups, expect slightly longer weekend waits. Affordable pricing (lunch specials under $9, dinner plates reasonably priced) makes splitting the bill painless. For groups over 6, calling ahead is recommended to ensure table arrangements.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — the restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of Weller Court and has some outdoor seating available. Specific details on whether the seating is covered or heated have not been confirmed — call ahead to ask about current outdoor availability, especially during colder or rainy months.
Best For
Better for: Budget-conscious groups and families who want authentic tableside Korean BBQ—most plates under $10 with banchan spread included, AYCE options available
Consider Alternatives If: You want polished service or upscale ambiance—decor is spartan, service pacing can be inconsistent, and the space is compact
Hours
Monday10am - 9pm
Tuesday10am - 9pm
Wednesday10am - 9pm
Thursday10am - 9pm
Friday10am - 9pm
Saturday11am - 9pm
Sunday11am - 9pm