Best of 17 korean restaurants in Oakland
Korean restaurants in Oakland are a foodie's delight, offering a wide range of authentic and modern Korean dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From traditional stews and BBQ to fusion cuisine, these restaurants showcase the rich flavors and culture of Korea right here in Oakland. Whether you're a Korean food enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, these restaurants are not to be missed.
- 1. Ohgane Oakland
- 2. Gogi Time
- 3. Joodooboo
- 4. Hancook
- 5. Pyeong Chang Tofu House Oakland 오클랜드 평창 순두부
- 6. K Banchan x Vons chicken
- 7. Gangnam Jajang
- 8. Hanshin Pocha Oakland
- 9. Seoul Gom Tang
- 10. Korean restaurant
- 11. Don Blanc
- 12. Azit
- 13. Bento & Bowls
- 14. Oriental BBQ Chicken Town
- 15. Yuyu Za Zang
- 16. Tik Dak
- 17. Yori Korean Kitchen
1. Ohgane Oakland
Wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options, unique selection of Korean liquors
The food at this establishment is consistently solid and offers a wide range of options, such as Korean BBQ. However, the dinner menu is priced at a premium. The service is a standout aspect of this place, as the staff is described as friendly, attentive, and providing quick service. Some customers have even noted that the staff went above and beyond to deliver excellent customer service.
This restaurant offers a variety of food options, with a particular highlight being their Korean BBQ. Despite the high price points for dinner, customers keep returning for the delicious food and outstanding service. The staff members are commended for their top-notch, friendly, and attentive service. They serve customers quickly and make sure to provide excellent customer service, even going the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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2. Gogi Time
All-you-can-eat option, High-quality meats, Cozy atmosphere
The service was impressive, but the overall experience was disappointing. One notable issue was that the fume hoods did not seem to be functioning, resulting in a higher level of smoke than usual. This left a lingering smell on personal belongings for several days. The quality of the meats varied, with bulgogi and kalbi being the only standout options due to their sufficient seasoning. At $38 per person for all-you-can-eat (ayce), it provided a reasonable value.
We opted to order from the a la carte menu, and the portion size was sufficient for two people. The rice, particularly the multigrain option, was a highlight. However, the banchan was mediocre, and the potato portion was unenjoyable. Extra banchan was available for an additional charge.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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3. Joodooboo
Offers traditional Korean seating on the floor, and a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options
I often struggle to find Korean food that is both satisfying and healthy, but Joodooboo in the East Bay consistently delivers. They have an extensive selection of greens, which allows me to get all the nutrients I need while still enjoying a delicious meal. Their buckwheat noodles, in particular, are a favorite of mine - they are both tasty and healthy.
Joodooboo is a unique gem in the East Bay, as it is the only shop that specializes in fresh tofu. Coming from a family that has a long history with tofu and soy, I am particularly grateful that Joodooboo exists. Their tofu is always fresh and the food presentation is stunning, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
4. Hancook
Free side dishes (banchan) with each meal, vegetarian options available
Inconsistent delivery times and service quality are common issues described in reviews. Some customers have reported receiving their food significantly later than expected, which can negatively impact the quality of certain dishes, such as fried chicken. This inconsistency can lead to an unreliable experience for customers, which is disappointing given that the food itself is generally regarded as good.
The service experience is similarly mixed, with some reviewers praising the staff for being friendly and attentive, and others criticizing them for being rude or unhelpful. This inconsistency in service quality can be frustrating for customers who may not know what to expect during their dining experience. Overall, while the food has been consistently praised, the delivery service and customer service experiences require improvement to ensure a positive and reliable experience for all customers.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Dinner
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5. Pyeong Chang Tofu House Oakland 오클랜드 평창 순두부
Vegetarian-friendly options, Cozy and comfortable atmosphere
The food at this establishment is consistently described as delicious, authentic, and comforting. Some of the most popular dishes include tofu soup, kimchi stew, bibimbap, and seafood pancakes. These dishes are carefully prepared and presented, resulting in a dining experience that is both satisfying and enjoyable.
The atmosphere of the restaurant is decidedly casual, but the quality of the food is anything but. Patrons can expect to leave feeling very satisfied, and perhaps even in need of a nap, after indulging in the delicious offerings. The restaurant's popularity is a testament to its ability to provide a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience, accompanied by delicious and satisfying food.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
6. K Banchan x Vons chicken
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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7. Gangnam Jajang
Homemade Korean-style noodles and sauces
Two delicious seafood dishes are highlighted in the first paragraph: jjamppong and combo zajiang noodles with seafood broth. The jjamppong is praised for its rich seafood taste, featuring mussels, squid, pork, and veggies. The combo zajiang noodles and seafood broth are also mentioned, although no specific details about their flavor are given.
The second paragraph focuses on the positive aspects of the restaurant, including delicious food, wonderful customer service, and a convenient private parking lot. The kimchi fried rice is singled out as a standout dish. Overall, the review is enthusiastic and positive, emphasizing the high-quality food and excellent service.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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8. Hanshin Pocha Oakland
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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9. Seoul Gom Tang
Open late, Friendly service, Delicious side dishes
Seoul Gomtang, a Korean restaurant located in the East Bay, is known for its delicious beef bone soup, as recommended by a Korean acquaintance. The soup is so flavorful that it's worth ordering to go and enjoying the broth and meats at home.
Seoul Gomtang is a favorite among locals, and it's not hard to see why. With a varied menu that includes galbitang, kimchi soondoobu, bibimbap, dolsot bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi/seafood/chive pancakes, chicken katsu, naengmyeon, and an assortment of banchan, everything on the menu is consistently amazing. It's a go-to restaurant for many, who dine there at least twice a month.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
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10. Korean restaurant
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. Don Blanc
Authentic Korean recipes, diverse menu options, great for groups
The service at this establishment is exceptional, providing a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant is well-equipped to manage smoke, ensuring that guests can enjoy their meal without any discomfort. The marbled beef is a standout menu item, with its rich and satisfying flavor. The lite marinades add an extra layer of taste, elevating the dish to new heights.
Bonchon, a popular Korean fried chicken dish, is also a must-try at this restaurant. It boasts a delicious and crispy exterior, with a tender and juicy interior that will leave you craving more. The banchan, or side dishes, are equally impressive, featuring fresh and tasty options that complement the rest of the meal. Overall, the combination of excellent service, a well-managed environment, and delicious food make this restaurant a standout dining destination.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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12. Azit
Vegetarian and vegan options available, unique selection of soju and Korean beer
The seafood pancake at this establishment is widely considered one of the best in the region. It boasts a generous assortment of seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and mussels, all delicately encased in a golden, crispy exterior. The pancake's impressive size and flavor make it a must-try for any seafood lover.
Meanwhile, the Korean Fried Chicken also deserves special mention. This dish features large chicken pieces with a remarkable crunch and a seasoned batter that is both flavorful and well-balanced. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or as an accompaniment to the seafood pancake, the Korean Fried Chicken is sure to impress even the most discerning of palates.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Chinese Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Rooftop
- Downtown Spots
- Hidden Gems
- Suburban
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Late Night
- Seasonal Times
- Weekend Dining
13. Bento & Bowls
Korean tea cocktails, homemade kimchi
Korean Togo food, also known as Bento & Bowls, is a popular take-out spot that offers a variety of flavorful Korean dishes. They are highly recommended for their high-quality restaurant-level Korean food. One of the standout menu items is the bulgogi bowl, which is a favorite among customers.
Bento & Bowls provides a range of delicious Korean dishes that are perfect for take-out. The bulgogi bowl is especially noteworthy, as it is a customer favorite and a staple of their menu. With its high-quality Korean cuisine offered in a take-out format, Bento & Bowls is an excellent option for those seeking the taste of restaurant-level Korean food in a more convenient setting.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
14. Oriental BBQ Chicken Town
All-you-can-eat options, Friendly staff, Cozy ambiance
Oriental BBQ Chicken Town is a popular restaurant in the Oakland/Berkeley area, known for its quick service, affordable prices, and generous portions. The chicken pieces are large and satisfying, and the fried rice is a hit with customers. The restaurant has a welcoming vibe and is a great place to bring friends and family for a drink and a meal. However, some customers may be disappointed to find that the meat used is not of high quality or cruelty-free.
The chicken at Oriental BBQ Chicken Town is tasty, but the restaurant may not be suitable for all dietary preferences. The portions are very large and meat-heavy, with small side salads. The restaurant's name is memorable and playful, but the quality of some menu items may be a drawback for some. The daikon, in particular, was reported to have a bad smell. Some customers may enjoy the restaurant as an occasional treat, but frequent visits could lead to overindulgence in meat. It is a suitable spot for meat lovers looking for a filling meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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15. Yuyu Za Zang
Offers unique and less common Korean dishes
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
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16. Tik Dak
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
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17. Yori Korean Kitchen
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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