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Yi Cha
Master Critic Review
Yi Cha
8.5
Yi Cha is a modern Korean pub from chef Debbie Lee, bringing pocha-style drinking food, creative small plates, and a serious soju and cocktail program to Highland Park. Open late on weekends, it’s become a neighborhood destination for shared plates like Korean fried chicken, gamjatang, and playful bar snacks in a neon-lit, alley-like dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Gochujang buffalo Korean fried chicken, Wagyu bone marrow corn cheese, Gamjatang (spicy pork and potato stew)
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A true Korean pocha experience with serious cocktails outside Koreatown.
Who should go: Cocktail lovers and groups craving modern Korean bar snacks.
When to visit: Weekend late nights after 9pm for full pocha energy.
What to order: K-town nachos, gochujang buffalo wings, wagyu bone marrow corn cheese.
Insider tip: Sit in the narrow back “alley” section for the most immersive pocha feel and quicker bar access.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; can be tight on York Blvd after 7pm, so plan to circle or use nearby paid lots ($5–$10) on side streets.
Dress code: Smart casual. Trendy fits feel right, but elevated streetwear and jeans are totally acceptable.
Noise level: Loud. The neon-lit pocha vibe means lively music and chatter—conversation is possible but not intimate.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes for walk-ins after 8pm; bar seats turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—Yi Cha opens late and is primarily an evening spot.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate options—several small plates like kimchi pancakes and veggie-forward snacks.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes include dairy, egg, or fish sauce; expect 1–2 modifiable items.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free dishes (like certain stews and proteins), but cross-contamination is likely in a pub-style kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—if you want a fun, high-energy setting. The neon, alley-like dining room is memorable, but the noise level leans lively rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes, especially earlier in the evening or on weekdays. For peak weekend nights, expect to add your name to a waitlist and grab a drink while you wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The menu and environment cater to adult groups and late-night drinking culture. Best for teens and older; no dedicated kids’ menu or quiet seating.
Best For
Better for: Creative pocha-style bar snacks, a standout soju and cocktail program, late-night dining, and a vibey, Instagram-ready setting.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, extensive vegan or gluten-free options, or a traditional Korean dinner experience without the pub-style energy.