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ZipPicks Awards
Best Korean in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Perilla LA
8.0
A Busan-inspired banchan shop that rotates its lineup of Korean side dishes with uncommon precision, earning a spot on the NYT 50 Best Restaurants list for that singular focus. The format is built for solo lunchers grabbing a dosirak box or a spread of banchan to go, not a sit-down occasion. With only 62 Google reviews running at 89% five-star, early signals are strong but the track record is still short.
Must-Try Dishes:
Black Cod Dosirak, Gimbap, Gyeran-mari
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: A banchan shop inspired by Busan takeout culture, named to the NYT 50 Best Restaurants list for its obsessively perfected rotating Korean side dishes.
Who should go: Solo lunchers and Korean food devotees who appreciate craft
When to visit: Weekday lunch to avoid lines; daytime hours only
What to order: Start with the banchan sampler over rice to taste the day's rotation, then add a black cod dosirak — the smoky fish and soft-crunchy banchan underneath are the draw.
Insider tip: The banchan changes daily based on what's seasonal, so repeat visits always yield something new — grab a gyeran-mari from the refrigerated case on your way out.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated lot—ample free street parking on Centennial St, Alpine St, and Beaudry St surrounding the complex
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong vegetarian selection—vegetable-forward banchan rotate daily (collard green kimchi, garlic eggplant, sweet pepper muchim), plus Banchan & Rice Combo ($15) and Gimbap with cucumber, avocado, egg, pickled radish, and sweet soy shiitakes ($14)
Vegan options: Several banchan are fully vegan; the Mushroom Dupbap ($15) features galbi-marinated maitake mushrooms broiled with scallion-ginger sauce over rice as a dedicated vegan entree
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for a casual daytime date — but not a dinner spot. Perilla is lunch-only (closes by 4:30pm) in a charming converted garage with a leafy garden patio that feels like a friend's backyard. The laid-back atmosphere and shareable banchan spread make for easy, low-pressure conversation. Request a patio table for the most romantic setting. Not suited for a traditional evening date night.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — Perilla operates primarily as a walk-in spot given its casual, counter-service format. The 260-square-foot space is tiny, so weekend waits are possible, especially for patio seating. Arriving right at opening (11am) on weekends gives you the best shot at a patio table without waiting. Online reservations are available through their booking platform if you want to guarantee a spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, for adventurous young eaters — the casual outdoor setting and relaxed vibe are very family-friendly, but there is no dedicated kids menu. The banchan-style format (small dishes, lots of variety) works well for grazing kids. High chairs and specific children's amenities are not confirmed — call ahead at (626) 775-5645 if needed. The open-air garden patio gives kids room to breathe without disturbing other diners.
Is it good for groups? Difficult for large groups. The indoor space is only 260 square feet (a converted garage), with limited patio tables outside. Parties of 4 can dine comfortably, but groups of 6+ will struggle with seating. No private dining available. The shareable banchan format works well for small groups who want to try many dishes, but plan for a different venue if your party exceeds 4-5 people.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a garden patio within the Alpine Street retail complex, bordered by a vegetable and herb garden. The leafy, open-air space has a relaxed backyard feel and is the highlight of dining here. A handful of patio tables are available on a first-come basis. The patio is uncovered, so best enjoyed on clear days. Dog-friendliness not confirmed — call ahead if bringing a pet.
Best For
Better for: Leisurely solo lunches in the sun, grab-and-go banchan from the cold case, impressing out-of-towners with a hidden courtyard setting, or a vegetable-forward meal that doesn't feel like an afterthought
Skip if: You want dinner (closes by 4:30pm, no evening service), need indoor seating (outdoor patio only), or require reservations (walk-ins only)
Hours
Monday11am - 3pm
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday11am - 4:30pm
Thursday11am - 4:30pm
Friday11am - 4:30pm
Saturday11am - 4:30pm
Sunday11am - 4:30pm