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Park's BBQ
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Park's BBQ
8.7
Park's BBQ leads LA's Korean BBQ scene with prime USDA meats, precise grill service, and a bustling local crowd. Since 2003, it's earned Michelin distinction for its brisk, knowledgeable service and consistently high-quality cuts. Locals flock for both celebratory dinners and weekday feasts, drawn by excellent banchan and flavorful marinades.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Beef Galbi, Kobe Style Ribeye, Short Rib Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Michelin-distinguished meats and exemplary table service.
Who should go: Korean BBQ lovers, celebratory groups, culinary explorers
When to visit: Evenings for peak energy, weekends for celebratory buzz
What to order: Prime Galbi, Ribeye, banchan spread
Insider tip: Request house-made kimchi and unique banchan refills.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available for $5 after 5pm; limited street parking can be tough after 6pm, and adjacent lots often fill up quickly.
Dress code: Smart casual—polished jeans and neat tops are standard, though a dressier touch fits right in.
Noise level: Lively and energetic—conversation is doable, but expect bustling grill sounds and a festive buzz.
Weekend wait: 45-75 minutes without a reservation; walk-ins should expect to wait, especially after 6:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait, though peak lunch (12-1pm) can bring a 10-20 minute queue.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—solid range of vegetable banchan, grilled mushrooms, and tofu dishes, though meats remain the focus.
Vegan options: Limited—options mostly among side dishes and grilled vegetables, but mains are meat-centric.
Gluten-free options: Yes—staff can guide you to gluten-free cuts and sauces; cross-contact is possible, so alert your server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Ideal for a fun, interactive dinner or foodie outing—less intimate than a quiet spot, but great if you want lively luxury and a shared cooking experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible for smaller groups, but waits can be long at dinner; reservations are strongly advised for peak weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are welcome, high chairs available, and menu suits older kids; toddlers may find the grilling and energy overwhelming.
Best For
Better for: Top-tier meats and table service that outclasses most KBBQ spots, with a Michelin touch and upscale but welcoming vibe.
Skip if: Skip if you seek a quiet meal, are vegan/vegetarian focused, or dislike waiting and bustling atmospheres.
Park's BBQ
8.5
Vibes:
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Hidden Gems Heaven
Comfort Food Classics
LA's Korean barbecue institution since 2003, Park's BBQ showcases premium cuts of beef and attentive tabletop grilling. It’s a top pick for lively celebrations, with bustling energy, authentic flavors, and reliable service year after year.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Galbi, Beef Tongue, Kimchi Pancake
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: 30-day dry-aged meats and expert tableside service
Who should go: Meat lovers, KBBQ fans, special occasion groups
When to visit: Dinner, weekends, festive group nights
What to order: Prime Galbi, Beef Tongue, Kimchi Pancake
Insider tip: Ask for the off-menu house-cut beef rib specialty
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available for a fee (approx. $12), but the lot is small and shared with other businesses. Street parking is possible but can be difficult after 6pm. Consider nearby public lots for backup.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Jeans and casual wear are welcome, but many groups lean slightly dressy for celebrations.
Noise level: Lively and bustling. Conversation can be challenging at peak hours, but it's festive and energetic (not quiet).
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation. Arrive early or expect a wait.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, especially right at opening.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some vegetable and banchan options, but meat is the focus—limited for main courses.
Vegan options: Very limited; possible with banchan and side dishes only, not a full meal.
Gluten-free options: Possible to dine gluten-free—choose non-marinated meats and confirm with staff. Some banchan are gluten-free; ask your server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Park's BBQ is fun and memorable, but the energetic vibe and hands-on eating are better suited to couples who want lively conversation and aren't worried about getting a little messy. For a quieter or more intimate first date, consider somewhere else.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are accepted, but expect long waits at prime times. Arrive early or prepare for a queue, especially on weekends. Reservations are strongly advised.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—it's frequently busy and loud, so children fit right in. High chairs are available and the festive environment makes it suitable for families with school-age kids.
Best For
Better for: Premium beef quality and expert tableside grilling. Group celebrations and birthdays shine here due to lively energy and reliable service.
Skip if: If seeking a quiet, intimate meal, vegetarian or vegan mains, or fast in-and-out dining, consider alternatives.
Park's BBQ
8.8
Korean BBQ destination renowned for its USDA Prime and Kobe-style beef, Park's BBQ combines high-quality cuts with attentive, efficient service. Locals and visitors alike praise the well-executed banchan, precise grilling, and vibrant energy. Established in 2003, it remains a Koreatown staple with a lively, bustling ambiance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Galbi, Beef Short Rib Soup, Spicy Pork Belly
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Legendary quality meats and iconic LA KBBQ experience.
Who should go: BBQ aficionados and food explorers seeking premium cuts.
When to visit: Evenings or weekends for lively energy and variety.
What to order: Prime Galbi, Spicy Pork Belly, Beef Short Rib Soup
Insider tip: Reservations recommended—order the Prime Galbi early as it can sell out.