Best Korean Restaurants in Sawtelle
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
The Mulberry
Korean-inflected bistro on Sawtelle blending French technique with Korean flavors
Worthy Picks
#1
The Mulberry
7.8
A Sawtelle bistro that applies French technique to Korean comfort—acorn noodles, kimchi pancake, and steak tartare that lean refined without losing their roots. The tight 54-review sample skews heavily positive (81% five-star), suggesting early adopters respond well to the upscale date-night positioning. Best suited for couples or small groups willing to explore Korean-American crossover in a polished setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Short Ribs, Steak Tartare, Acorn Noodles
What Makes it Special: Korean-inflected bistro on Sawtelle blending French technique with Korean flavors
#2
Tofu Ya
7.8
A straightforward sundubu specialist on Sawtelle where combo meals pair bubbling tofu soup with sizzling bulgogi or galbi at a price point that keeps the neighborhood coming back. The format is loud, fast, and built around value—expect a no-frills Korean lunch counter that delivers solid heat-and-protein combos for around $20 a head.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seafood Tofu Soup, Bulgogi, Bibimbap + Sundubu Combo
What Makes it Special: Sawtelle's reliable sundubu house where combo meals pair bubbling tofu soup with sizzling bulgogi or galbi, all for around $20.
7.7
A Sawtelle strip-mall specialist built around bubbling stone pots of soon tofu—silky soft tofu in brothy, spiced soups that arrive volcanic and stay hot through the last spoonful. The banchan spread adds dimension without distraction, and the late-night hours make it a reliable landing spot when the craving hits after normal kitchen hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tofu Soup, Galbi, Bibimbap
What Makes it Special: Sawtelle staple specializing in bubbling-hot soon tofu soup served with an extensive banchan spread