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Mixed Grain
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Mixed Grain
7.9
Korean comfort staples—stone-pot bibimbap, stews, and BBQ plates—served fast in a straightforward room. It’s a quiet, efficient option when you want hearty food and a 45-minute turnaround.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bibimbap (stone pot), Spicy tofu stew, Short rib (LA galbi)
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Hearty Korean favorites with dependable, quick lunch pacing.
Who should go: Teams needing fast, filling lunches
When to visit: 12:00–12:45 to beat the second wave
What to order: Bibimbap; LA galbi; spicy tofu stew
Insider tip: Request stone-pot bibimbap for extra crunchy rice edges.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free public lot behind Locust Street and limited metered spaces along Bonanza; fills quickly during peak lunch hours.
Dress code: Casual — business-casual attire is common from nearby offices but not required.
Noise level: Low to moderate — easy to hold conversations even when tables are full.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes at peak hours; turnover is fast so waits are manageable.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:15; brief line forms by 12:30.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several options like vegetable bibimbap and tofu stew.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications (request no egg or fish sauce).
Gluten-free options: Partial — some dishes use soy sauce; inform staff for adjustments.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — more functional than romantic, but fine for casual lunch meetups or low-pressure dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are the norm; tables turn quickly even at lunch rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — quiet setting and familiar rice-and-noodle dishes suit families; no kids’ menu but portions are shareable.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and heartier portions than trendier downtown lunch spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking ambiance or cocktails — this is a straightforward lunch stop, not a linger-and-lounge venue.
Mixed Grain
8.1
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Quick Bites Champions
Casual Korean spot known for bibimbap, stews, and BBQ plates with steady execution and fair pricing. A reliable downtown choice that’s been serving Walnut Creek since 2012.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dolsot Bibimbap, Kimchi Jjigae, Spicy Pork Bulgogi
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Downtown mainstay for customizable bibimbap and homey stews since 2012.
Who should go: Casual groups and weeknight Korean comfort seekers
When to visit: Weeknights after 7pm for easier seating
What to order: Dolsot bibimbap, kimchi jjigae, spicy pork bulgogi
Insider tip: Ask for a crispy rice crust on the dolsot bowl; it’s best piping hot.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking and nearby city garage options on Locust or Main; free after 6pm, but fills up on weekends.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and T-shirts are fine, but many diners come from nearby offices in business casual.
Noise level: Moderate; can hold a conversation but expect some background chatter during dinner rush.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours 6–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait except around noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several bibimbap, tofu, and vegetable stir-fry options.
Vegan options: Limited – can modify certain vegetable dishes by omitting egg and sauces containing fish or oyster.
Gluten-free options: Partial – rice-based dishes and grilled meats work; avoid soy-marinated items unless requested gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups than romantic dinners; the relaxed setting and shared dishes make it low-pressure and conversational.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially on weekdays; expect a short wait during weekend dinners, but turnover is quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – families are common, with high chairs available and mild-flavored dishes suitable for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Home-style Korean comfort food and quick service in a relaxed downtown setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for tableside Korean BBQ or a more upscale, atmospheric dining experience.