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Sura Korean BBQ Tofu House Restaurant
Master Critic Review
Sura Korean BBQ Tofu House Restaurant
8.3
Family-owned since 2008, this Eater LA essential and LA Times award winner delivers authentic Korean comfort food with standout tofu soups that locals claim rival Koreatown's best. The gastropub-style space balances traditional Korean BBQ with creative fusion items like bulgogi tacos, while maintaining an extensive vegan menu that draws plant-based diners from across Long Beach.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soon Tofu Soup, Bulgogi Beef, Korean BBQ Short Ribs
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Eater LA essential with tofu soup that competes with Koreatown's finest
Who should go: Korean food lovers seeking authentic flavors without the Koreatown drive
When to visit: Tuesday for all-day happy hour and $1 taco specials
What to order: Soon tofu soup, overnight-marinated galbi, fusion Korean tacos
Insider tip: Free parking lot behind restaurant, extensive vegan menu available on website
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind restaurant - rare find in Downtown Long Beach
Dress code: Casual comfortable - it's a neighborhood spot where locals come in everything from gym clothes to date night outfits
Noise level: Moderate to lively - Korean BBQ sizzle and family conversations create buzz, but you can hold a conversation without shouting
Weekend wait: 15-30 min Friday/Saturday 6-8pm, call ahead to add your name
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, usually seated immediately
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options including tofu soups, vegetable bibimbap, kimchi pancakes
Vegan options: Yes - full vegan menu available on website with dedicated section, including vegan versions of classic dishes
Gluten-free options: Limited - most dishes use soy sauce, but staff can accommodate with advance notice for certain items
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Solid choice if your date enjoys interactive dining - the tabletop BBQ gives you something to do together and breaks awkward silences. Skip if you want quiet romance; choose if you want fun and flavor.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early weeknights (before 6pm), yes. Friday/Saturday dinner and Tuesday $1 taco night, expect 15-30 min wait or call ahead. They don't take reservations for small parties.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - family-owned vibe with high chairs, kids menu basics, and parents managing tabletop grills nightly. The interactive BBQ keeps kids engaged. Ideal for ages 5+ who can handle hot surfaces safely.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Korean comfort food without Koreatown traffic, superior tofu soup quality at neighborhood prices, extensive vegan options rare in Korean BBQ, free parking (huge win for Long Beach), Tuesday specials that actually deliver value
Skip if: You want upscale K-BBQ ambiance or premium wagyu cuts - this is gastropub-style comfort over luxury; you need a quiet business dinner; you're seeking trendy modern Korean fusion rather than family-recipe classics