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SSAL
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
SSAL
8.9
Polk Street’s Michelin-starred Korean tasting menu pairs precise technique with quietly luxurious flavors. Reserve for a polished progression that blends Korean roots and modern Californian sensibilities.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal tasting progression, Fried chicken yasik menu (limited runs), Bingsu finale
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 9.1
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: A focused Korean tasting menu with Michelin-level execution.
Who should go: Fine-dining fans and special-occasion planners
When to visit: Early seatings for calm pacing and chef interaction
What to order: Current tasting menu; consider supplements; dessert course
Insider tip: Watch for late-night yasik pop-ups featuring elevated KFC.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Polk can be limited in the evenings; nearby garages at Broadway and Polk are the safest bet.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy; jackets and cocktail attire feel at home though not required.
Noise level: Low to moderate—ideal for conversation; ambience is polished without being hushed.
Weekend wait: Reservations required; book 2–3 weeks in advance for prime slots.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; dinner-only format.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited accommodations; advance notice required for substitution menu.
Vegan options: Not reliably available; best to call ahead—tasting menu is protein-driven.
Gluten-free options: Yes—kitchen can adapt most courses with prior request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want to impress—Michelin-starred setting, refined service, and a multi-course format make it memorable.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely—book in advance; walk-ins are rarely accommodated given limited covers.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—no kids’ menu or casual options; best suited for adults and older teens comfortable with tasting menus.
Best For
Better for: High-end Korean tasting menus with precise technique and Michelin-level service—ideal for anniversaries, luxury dates, and culinary enthusiasts.
Skip if: You want à la carte Korean comfort food, casual pricing, or a family-friendly atmosphere.
SSAL
8.7
Michelin-starred Korean tasting room that periodically runs a reservation-only, yasik-style late-night menu headlined by a half fried chicken per guest. Precision frying meets champagne-friendly polish.
Must-Try Dishes:
Half Fried Chicken (yasik menu), Gamtae Gimbap, Tteokbokki
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 9.2
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Michelin-level technique applied to a late-night fried chicken menu.
Who should go: Fine-dining fans chasing elevated comfort
When to visit: When yasik menu is offered; book early
What to order: Half fried chicken, gamtae gimbap, tteokbokki
Insider tip: Pair the chicken with a dry champagne from the deep list.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available ($20). Limited metered street parking nearby, often scarce after 6pm.
Dress code: Upscale attire recommended—smart casual leaning dressy. Jackets common; jeans acceptable only if elevated with nice shoes.
Noise level: Moderate, controlled dining room—conversation-friendly even at peak hours.
Weekend wait: Reservation-only; walk-ins not accepted.
Weekday lunch: N/A – late-night yasik menu only, not open at lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited; the yasik menu is protein-heavy, though sides like gamtae gimbap or tteokbokki may suit.
Vegan options: Not suitable; frying and broths rely on animal fats and bases.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free preparation; cross-contact likely. Some rice-based sides may work with staff guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—intimate, polished setting with conversation-friendly ambiance and a unique late-night menu makes it memorable.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No—the yasik fried chicken menu is offered by reservation only. Same-day spots are rarely available.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for children. Late-night hours, upscale tasting format, and limited kid-appropriate dishes make it adult-focused.
Best For
Better for: Best for diners seeking a rare blend of Michelin-level precision applied to comfort food, with refined service and deep champagne pairing options.
Skip if: If you’re looking for casual fried chicken, generous portions at budget prices, or family-style dining, other neighborhood spots are more fitting.