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The Bop
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
The Bop
7.6
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
The Bop is a compact 3rd Street counter spot where Japanese-leaning rice bowls and chirashi donburi share space with Korean flavors. Locals use it as a casual option for customizable bowls that land somewhere between sushi bar and comfort takeout.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bara Chirashi Don, Bulgogi Bowl, Salmon Ikura Don
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Japanese-Korean rice bowls and chirashi in a tiny counter space.
Who should go: Diners wanting casual, customizable rice bowls and chirashi.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner for fastest pickup and seating.
What to order: Bara Chirashi Don, Bulgogi Bowl, Salmon Ikura Don.
Insider tip: Use online ordering to customize toppings without holding up the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along 3rd Street; spots turn over quickly during lunch but become scarce after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual—athleisure, tees, and everyday wear are all appropriate for the counter setup.
Noise level: Low to moderate—small room with steady pickup traffic but still easy for normal conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on takeout rush; seating is limited but turnover is fast.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait aside from brief pickup lines.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several veggie-forward bowls and build-your-own combinations.
Vegan options: Limited—some bowls can be modified with tofu and vegetable toppings if requested.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—several bowls can be made gluten-sensitive by swapping sauces; no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want a super casual, quick, no-pressure meet-up. The tiny counter and fast service make it better for low-key hangs than long conversations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Seating is limited but quick turnover means you’ll usually find a spot within a few minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like rice bowls and simple flavors; space is tight, so strollers and high chairs aren’t practical.
Best For
Better for: Fast, customizable rice bowls with Japanese-Korean flavors at very friendly prices—strong for quick solo meals and takeout.
Skip if: You want full-service sushi, premium nigiri, or a longer dine-in experience—head to Sushi Fumi, Sushi Tama, or Enya instead.
The Bop
8.2
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
The Bop is a tiny counter-service spot turning out comforting Korean and Japanese rice bowls just off The Grove. Regulars praise the generous portions, clean flavors and quick turnaround, making it a reliable weeknight or lunch stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Chicken Bowl, Salmon Ikura Don, Potato Croquettes
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Compact bowl shop focused on straightforward, satisfying Korean-inspired rice bowls.
Who should go: Solo diners and locals craving fast, filling bowls.
When to visit: Weekday lunches and early dinners to avoid small crowds.
What to order: Spicy chicken bowl, salmon ikura don, potato croquettes.
Insider tip: Order ahead online—indoor seating is limited and goes fast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Beverly and nearby residential blocks; spots turn over often but can be tight during peak Grove traffic. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Totally casual—come as you are. Gym clothes, jeans, and work-from-home fits all welcome.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout traffic and short dine-ins, so conversations are easy.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on takeout rush; seating may not be available.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though the line moves quickly even when busy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few solid options like veggie bowls and croquettes; customizable bowls can also be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—some bowls can be modified by removing sauces or proteins, but choices are minimal.
Gluten-free options: Partially—rice bowls work well, but many sauces contain soy or wheat. Ask to simplify toppings/sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates ultra-casual, quick counter-service meals. It's more functional than atmospheric, better for a low-pressure meetup than a romantic night out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations here, but indoor seating is extremely limited. Expect to dine quickly or take your bowl to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick, low-fuss meals. Portions are generous and mild options exist, but there’s no high-chair setup or space for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Fast, filling rice bowls with clean flavors at a budget-friendly price—ideal for solo diners and quick meals.
Skip if: You want a lingering sit-down experience, a large group meetup, or extensive Korean BBQ-style offerings.