Best of 27 korean restaurants in San Francisco
San Francisco is a city that boasts a diverse food scene, and Korean cuisine is no exception. From vibrant neighborhoods like the Tenderloin and Richmond, to popular destinations such as Koreatown and Japan Center, Korean restaurants in San Francisco offer a range of authentic dishes that showcase the unique flavors and ingredients of Korean cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for savory stews, sizzling barbecue, or delicate banchan side dishes, these restaurants provide a true taste of Korea right here in the Bay Area. So, come explore the world of Korean restaurants in San Francisco and discover your new favorite spot.
- 1. Cocobang
- 2. 707 Sutter
- 3. ZZAN Korean Restaurant
- 4. Manna
- 5. Han Il Kwan
- 6. Aria Korean Street Food
- 7. um.ma
- 8. Surisan
- 9. Sonamu Korean Restaurant
- 10. Muguboka Restaurant
- 11. YakiniQ Korean BBQ
- 12. BANSANG
- 13. The Korner Store Bites & Vibes
- 14. Kingbob
- 15. Odumak
- 16. Zazang Korean Noodles
- 17. Blue Mermaid
- 18. Kogi Gogi BBQ
- 19. The Crew
- 20. Purple Rice
- 21. Go Go 7
- 22. ILCHA
- 23. SAN HO WON
- 24. Seoul Garden
- 25. Brothers Restaurant
- 26. Doobu
- 27. Dong Baek
1. Cocobang
All-you-can-eat option and table-side grilling

San Francisco is home to some excellent dining options, and one notable standout is a Korean restaurant that offers delicious food and a great atmosphere. On one occasion, we dined there in person, and the following night, we enjoyed the food so much that we decided to order it again using DoorDash.
The restaurant is an excellent choice for a late-night meal, open after 9 pm on weeknights. The menu boasts a wide variety of Korean favorites, along with some unique specials. The service is friendly, attentive, and contributes to the overall positive dining experience. Although the ambiance is a bit street-food-like, it adds to the charm of the place, giving it a great atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Late Night
2. 707 Sutter
Offers traditional Korean tea ceremony experience

The service at this establishment is efficient, with staff that are not only friendly but also helpful. One standout employee was the waiter, who had a deep understanding of dietary restrictions and provided excellent recommendations based on individual needs.
The ambiance of the restaurant is lively and enjoyable, earning an 8 out of 10 rating. Its vibrant and fun atmosphere makes it an ideal location for social gatherings and celebratory occasions.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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3. ZZAN Korean Restaurant
Popular among locals and tourists, vegetarian-friendly options

When I visited ZZAN Korean Restaurant in Lower Nob Hill for the first time, I was impressed with the excellent service and delicious food. The quality of the food stood out, with each dish prepared skillfully and presented beautifully. I was fortunate to arrive before the restaurant got busy, ensuring a relaxing dining experience.
ZZAN Korean Restaurant is known for its traditional and modern Korean dishes. Two standout options are the cold noodle soup with kimchi and the beef soft tofu soup. The cold noodle soup offers a refreshing, tangy flavor, with the kimchi adding a spicy kick. The beef soft tofu soup is a comforting choice, although the broth's fragrance could be more potent. I would recommend both dishes to anyone looking to explore Korean cuisine.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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4. Manna
Popular late-night spot, diverse menu options

Manna is a restaurant known for its delicious and authentic Korean dishes. The food is made with care and attention, giving it a home-cooked flavor. However, the service can be slow and the atmosphere is often chaotic. Despite these issues, Manna is still one of the top Korean food options in the city.
The restaurant stands out for its fast service, tasty food, large portions, and reasonable prices, especially for the Bay Area. Some of the must-try dishes include the bibimbap and the kimchi pancakes, which are both generously sized and full of flavor. Overall, it is a highly recommended option for those looking for a satisfying Korean meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. Han Il Kwan
Chill vibe with friendly staff, late-night menu available

Han Il Kwan is a restaurant that provides a cozy and soothing atmosphere, specializing in traditional Korean tastes. Their menu features authentic Korean dishes, accompanied by an extensive variety of banchan, or side dishes, that are refillable throughout the meal. Notable menu items include marinated galbi, a type of short rib; seafood tofu soup; dolsot bibimbap, a popular mixed rice dish served in a sizzling hot stone pot; and steamed egg. The staff at Han Il Kwan provide efficient and prompt service.
Authentic Korean cuisine is the focus at Han Il Kwan, with a wide array of banchan and main dishes to choose from. One of their standout dishes is the marinated galbi, which offers a rich and savory flavor. For those seeking a spicy and comforting soup, the seafood tofu soup is a recommended option. Dolsot bibimbap, a signature Korean dish, is presented in a heated stone pot, sizzling and crisping the rice to perfection. The steamed egg, with its soft and silky texture, provides a comforting and mild contrast to the bold flavors of the other dishes.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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6. Aria Korean Street Food
Cozy atmosphere, Friendly staff, Late-night dining option

This place is great for quick and delicious Korean-inspired meals. One standout option is their Korean Mexican Street Tacos, which are unique and full of flavor. In particular, the Korean Fried Chicken Taco is a must-try. The chicken is perfectly crispy, while the flavors are bold and delicious.
If you're looking for a tasty and satisfying meal, this Korean eatery is definitely worth checking out. The Korean Fried Chicken Taco is a highlight, but all of the Korean-inspired tacos are delicious and worth trying. With its quick service and bold flavors, this spot is perfect for anyone craving high-quality Korean cuisine.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Late Night
- Social Gatherings
7. um.ma
Offers traditional Korean BBQ with high-quality meats and unique marinades, charming interior design with Korean cultural elements

Um.ma is a Korean restaurant known for its diverse range of delicious dishes at affordable prices. The menu includes vegetarian options such as tofu soup and kimchi fried rice, as well as vegan choices. One of the standout dishes is the soon tofu, a unique take on a classic Korean dish. For those who enjoy meat, the Korean wings, particularly the citrus gochujang flavor, are a must-try.
The atmosphere at Um.ma is always lively and upbeat. Stepping onto their patio is like attending an early 2000s-themed house party, complete with throwback pop and R&B music playing in the background and flowing soju cocktails and kimchi beer. It's impossible not to have a great time at Um.ma.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
8. Surisan
Family-owned, homemade recipes, organic ingredients

The food at this establishment is highly regarded by customers, with many praising its Korean fusion dishes. Standout options include the Millionaire's Bacon and Bulgogi Bap, which have received particular acclaim. In addition to these dishes, the fried chicken offerings have also gained a strong following, with customers raving about their juiciness and crispy texture.
Moving on to the service, reviewers generally note that it is quick and attentive. However, during busier times, some have found it to be chaotic. Despite this, the staff is consistently described as friendly and accommodating, which contributes to the overall positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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9. Sonamu Korean Restaurant

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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10. Muguboka Restaurant
Traditional stone pot cooking, extensive kimchi selection, vegetarian-friendly options

Muguboka Restaurant is a small, charming Korean eatery known for its kind and helpful staff. The attentive staff go above and beyond to meet customers' needs, creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. The restaurant's menu features a variety of traditional Korean dishes, such as the HaeMul Pa Jun (Seafood & Veggie Pancake). This dish boasts a light and airy batter filled with an assortment of ingredients, all served with a sweet and savory sauce.
Diners can expect excellent service, large portions, and delicious food at Muguboka Restaurant. The restaurant is committed to providing a high-quality dining experience, with a focus on traditional Korean flavors and ingredients. The HaeMul Pa Jun (Seafood & Veggie Pancake) is a popular menu item, known for its unique combination of light batter and savory ingredients. Overall, Muguboka Restaurant is a great choice for those looking for a authentic Korean dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. YakiniQ Korean BBQ
Located in the heart of San Francisco, offers a unique atmosphere with its vintage decor and natural light

The drink selection at this establishment is distinctive, offering a good balance of light sweetness. Among the notable options are the black sesame cream, pumpkin pie, and sweet potato latte.
The cost of dining at this restaurant is on the higher end, with two pricing tiers for guests to consider. The first option is priced at $32.99 per person, while the second option comes in at $39.99 per person.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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12. BANSANG
Vegan and gluten-free options available

Bansang is a Korean fusion restaurant that aims to provide a unique dining experience. It modernizes traditional Korean dishes while preserving their authentic flavors. The restaurant offered excellent food and service during our visit. Our waitress recommended 6-8 dishes for our party of three, and although there was a mix-up and we only received 5, it was still more than enough for us.
Bansang's approach to Korean cuisine distinguishes it from other Korean restaurants. Instead of serving typical dishes, Bansang elevates them by adding a contemporary twist. The menu offers various options, including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, ensuring that there is something for everyone. This originality and inclusivity make Bansang an excellent spot for food lovers looking to try something new.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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13. The Korner Store Bites & Vibes
Offers a unique fusion of Korean and California cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere and friendly service.

The Korner Store Bites & Vibes is a wonderful establishment known for its Korean cuisine and extensive soju selection. One standout dish is the Korean fried chicken, which is a favorite among customers. In addition to the delicious food, the restaurant also boasts a vibrant atmosphere, making it a great spot for both dining and socializing.
One of the must-try dishes at The Korner Store Bites & Vibes is the bulgogi stuffed mushrooms, which are packed with flavor. Another popular choice is the tteok-bokki, a spicy Korean rice cake dish that is sure to please. Overall, this restaurant is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy delicious Korean food in a lively setting.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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14. Kingbob
All-you-can-eat Korean BBQ option, Modern and stylish atmosphere

The service at this establishment is quick, friendly, and attentive, creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for guests. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that each customer feels valued and satisfied with their experience.
The food served is fresh, fast, and affordable, making it a great option for those looking for a quick and tasty meal. The menu includes a variety of options, such as kimbap, tofu soup, bulgogi, and crab salad, catering to a wide range of taste preferences and dietary needs. Each dish is delicious and prepared with care, using high-quality ingredients that allow the flavors to shine.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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15. Odumak
Family-owned and operated, offering home-cooked style meals

Odumak is a family-owned Korean shop that offers a variety of comforting Korean dishes, such as their popular fried chicken and tteok-bokki. One standout menu item is their fried chicken, which is available in multiple flavors, including soy garlic and hot & spicy. Customers can enjoy all parts of the chicken when they order this delicious dish.
San Francisco is home to many Korean chicken places, but Odumak is considered one of the best. In addition to their Korean fried chicken, the shop also offers other tasty Korean dishes that customers rave about. Those looking for a new place to try for Korean cuisine should definitely consider visiting Odumak.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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16. Zazang Korean Noodles
Vegetarian and vegan options, hearty stews, friendly service

Chewy and fresh black bean noodles are a must-try dish. They have a unique and delicious flavor that sets them apart. The texture of the noodles is exceptional, with just the right amount of chewiness. These noodles are clearly made with care and attention to detail.
The black bean noodles are a standout dish due to their great texture and flavor. They are the perfect combination of chewy and fresh, with a delicious taste that is sure to satisfy. These noodles are a great choice for anyone looking for a tasty and satisfying meal. It's clear that a lot of thought and effort has gone into creating this dish, and it truly pays off in the end.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
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17. Blue Mermaid
Authentic Korean dishes, fresh ingredients, and cozy ambiance

This establishment offers eight varieties of delicious chowder, including a first-place winner from a major contest in the eastern region. While I cannot personally vouch for the quality of their other seafood dishes, I can attest to the care and attention that goes into their chowders. I was directed to this restaurant by Sarah and NoName, and it is located in the renovated Cannery, connected to the Argonaut Hotel. They have a suitable patio area for outdoor dining, although on Fridays and Saturdays, the Farmer's Market can cause some disturbance until noon.
The interior of the restaurant is characterized by rustic bench-style seating, open brick walls, and large overhead beams, creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. This setting makes it an ideal spot for a quick and enjoyable lunch while exploring the wharf district.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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18. Kogi Gogi BBQ
In-table grilling, unique sauce variety, cozy atmosphere

A new Korean barbecue restaurant, Kogi Gogi BBQ, has opened at 1358 9th Ave. in the Inner Sunset neighborhood of SF. The establishment offers an all-you-can-eat grill-your-own meat experience with prices at $18 for lunch and $26 for dinner.
Kogi Gogi BBQ stands out for its delicious food and excellent service. The restaurant's ban chan is tasty, and the ventilation system is designed to ensure a comfortable dining experience. With quality food and lower prices compared to other Korean barbecue options in SF, Kogi Gogi BBQ offers great value to its customers.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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19. The Crew
Family-owned and operated, homemade recipes, focus on fresh ingredients

The Crew is a restaurant situated on Noriega Street, San Francisco, offering a unique combination of Korean and Asian Fusion cuisine. It boasts a quick kitchen, distinctive decorations, and affordable prices for high-quality meat dishes. The BBQ Combo #2 is a standout option, ideal for sharing with friends or family. This combo includes spicy pork, pork belly, and beef bulgogi, promising a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Grilled meat lovers in San Francisco frequently choose The Crew as their go-to destination. Known for its exceptional BBQ offerings, this establishment attracts patrons with its specialty dishes and inviting atmosphere. The BBQ Combo #2, in particular, showcases a variety of flavors and textures that reflect the fusion of Korean and Asian culinary traditions, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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20. Purple Rice
Specialize in purple rice dishes

Purple Rice's Veggie Soft Tofu stew is a highly recommended dish that has won the speaker's heart. Among the various Korean food places in the city, this establishment stands out for its consistent quality and delicious taste.
However, while the tofu soup is excellent, the japchae failed to impress. Despite the slight disappointment, the tofu stew remains a strong recommendation. Overall, Purple Rice offers a positive dining experience with a memorable and tasty Veggie Soft Tofu stew.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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21. Go Go 7
All-you-can-eat Korean barbecue, unique soju cocktails

The seafood noodle soup offers a rich and savory taste that is incredibly similar to the ocean, creating a depth of flavor that is unmatched. The broth is expertly crafted to provide a true seafood experience. The service at the establishment is commendable, with staff providing quick and friendly service.
Additionally, the sides offered, such as the spicy pork, are delicious and well-seasoned without being overly spicy. This allows for a range of palates to enjoy the offerings. The quality of the food and the attentiveness of the staff create a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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22. ILCHA
Homemade recipes, fresh ingredients, vegetarian-friendly options

Ilcha is a lively Korean restaurant, known for its modern decor and communal tables, making it an ideal spot for group gatherings. The restaurant offers a range of dishes, with some, like the chicken karaage, being average. However, the bulgogi hot pot and corn cheese tater tots are standout dishes that shine. Given its popularity, reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours when the restaurant can get noisy.
At Ilcha, customers can enjoy delicious Korean food, including the popular bulgogi and tater tots, at great prices. The staff is friendly, and the atmosphere is bustling, creating an enjoyable dining experience. One of the surprises at Ilcha is the fruit wine, which is a hit among customers. Furthermore, the restaurant goes the extra mile to make customers feel special, such as providing ice cream for birthdays, making it a great place to celebrate any occasion.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
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23. SAN HO WON
Traditional stone pot cooking, extensive side dish selection

On a cold Saturday evening, I took my date to San Ho Won, a restaurant I had booked a month in advance. Despite the late hour, there was still a bustling crowd when we arrived. The house menu offered a variety of dishes with rich, deep flavors and impeccable service, making for a memorable meal. I would highly recommend a visit to anyone and plan to return myself.
My reservation was for 9:30 PM, and although I arrived on time, there was still a short wait before I was seated. Fortunately, I was given a spot at the bar overlooking the open kitchen, which added an entertaining element to the experience. The standout dish for me was the pancake with mountain yam, while the lettuce and greens basket were also fresh and delicious. Overall, I was impressed with the friendly service and will certainly consider returning in the future.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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24. Seoul Garden
Family-owned, offers unique traditional Korean side dishes

Seoul Garden, a Korean restaurant situated in a mall, offers a soothing interior and friendly staff. Their menu is diverse, featuring hot stone bowl dishes like bibimbap and ramyun, all served quickly and kept hot. Generous sides, including the traditional kimchi, accompany each meal.
At Seoul Garden, customers can enjoy a great Korean BBQ experience with a fun twist - you cook your own food at the center of your table. The staff is very friendly and helpful, making it an ideal place for first-timers to try Korean BBQ. However, the price is a little higher than other restaurants due to the unique dining experience. Despite the cost, Seoul Garden consistently provides an enjoyable and memorable visit.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
25. Brothers Restaurant
Family-owned and operated for over 10 years, using traditional recipes and techniques

If you're looking for the best Korean BBQ in San Francisco, two dishes stand out: the kalbi and bulgogi. The kalbi, or beef short ribs, are marinated to perfection with a sweet and savory sauce. The bulgogi, thinly sliced marinated beef, is equally delicious with its tender and juicy texture. The service at this establishment is consistently friendly and efficient, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
For those craving Korean food, this is an ideal place to visit. Two must-try dishes are the spicy pork and tofu soup. The spicy pork is flavorful and tender, while the tofu soup is comforting and warming. Anyone who loves Korean cuisine will appreciate the quality of the food and the friendly service. Highly recommended for anyone looking to satisfy their Korean food cravings.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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26. Doobu
Attentive service, unique hot stone pot dishes

Doobu is a Korean restaurant that offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff. It is known for its delicious and fresh food, including a variety of dishes that satisfy customers. The tofu soup, in particular, is a must-try, which comes in a generous portion and is reasonably priced. Although some customers found the pork tofu soup a bit bland, others enjoyed it. The kimchi and banchan are also tasty and add to the overall dining experience.
However, there were mixed reviews on the service. While some customers praised the quick and efficient service, others were not as fortunate and experienced slow service. Nonetheless, the food is generally fresh and served promptly. Overall, Doobu is a great option for those looking for a Korean dining experience that offers a range of delicious dishes at reasonable prices.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
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27. Dong Baek
Friendly staff, late-night hours, and private room options

This place offers amazing food that is sure to impress. Even though I am not Korean, I can attest to the greatness of the food after spending 30 days there. The dishes served are flavorful and authentic, and the portions are generous.
The food at this establishment is highly praised for its delicious taste and authenticity. With heaping servings, the restaurant goes above and beyond to satisfy its customers. The generosity of the portions is sure to leave patrons feeling full and content.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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