Chicago is a city known for its diverse food scene, and Korean cuisine is no exception. From traditional dishes to modern fusion creations, there are plenty of Korean restaurants in the city to satisfy any craving.
Whether you're a fan of classic bibimbap or looking to try something new, you're sure to find a Korean restaurant in Chicago that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors, colorful presentation, and emphasis on fresh ingredients. Many Korean dishes feature a variety of vegetables, meats, and sauces, making them both delicious and nutritious.
From spicy stir-fried dishes to savory stews, there's something for every palate in the world of Korean cuisine.
In Chicago, Korean restaurants can be found in a variety of neighborhoods, from bustling downtown areas to quieter residential streets. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch spot or a fancy dinner destination, there's a Korean restaurant in Chicago that will fit the bill.
So if you're looking to explore the best of Korean cuisine in the Windy City, read on to discover some of the top Korean restaurants in Chicago.
1. Crisp
Crisp is a Korean restaurant serving up delicious fried chicken, burritos, and veggie bowls.
The wings are a must-try, with a great balance of flavor and crispiness. The portions are generous, making it a great value for the price.
The atmosphere is casual, with limited seating available. Service is friendly and efficient.
If you're in the mood for some tasty Korean food, Crisp is definitely worth a visit.
2. Del Seoul
Del Seoul is a Korean restaurant that offers a fusion of Asian flavors. The restaurant boasts a no-frills counter-service eatery that serves up Korean BBQ tacos and banh mi sandwiches.
The food is curated to perfection, with each bite leaving a lasting impression.
The portions are generous, and the pricing is reasonable. The restaurant has a bit of a history of non-compliance with health inspections, so it's best to keep an eye on that.
Despite this, Del Seoul is a great place to satisfy your Korean food cravings.
3. En Hakkore Bibimbap & Taco
En Hakkore Bibimbap & Taco is a trendy Korean restaurant that offers counter-service and a variety of delicious dishes.
The menu includes classic Korean favorites like bibimbap and pork mondoo, as well as unique items like paratha tacos and sashimi-bap. The portions are generous and the prices are affordable, making it a great spot for a filling lunch or dinner.
The atmosphere is chic and stylish, with a small and cozy dining area. The service is quick and efficient, making it a convenient option for a meal on-the-go.
Whether you're a fan of Korean cuisine or just looking for something new to try, En Hakkore Bibimbap & Taco is definitely worth a visit.
4. Rice'N Bread
Rice'N Bread is a must-try Korean restaurant for foodies looking for authentic Korean cuisine in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The menu boasts a variety of Korean dishes with an American twist, such as bibimbap and beef bulgogi. The portions are generous and the prices are fair.
The service is casual and friendly, making for a pleasant dining experience. Don't forget to try the spicy sauce and kimchi, which add a flavorful kick to the dishes.
The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks to complement the delicious food.
5. Ssyal – Chicago Korean Restaurant
Ssyal – Chicago Korean Restaurant offers delicious and authentic Korean cuisine.
The menu includes traditional dishes such as spicy beef soup, chicken soup with ginseng, and seafood pancake.
The restaurant also offers a variety of banchan side dishes and barley tea. The ambiance is great, with a cozy and quaint atmosphere.
The service is professional and top-notch. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a satisfying Korean meal.
6. KFIRE Korean BBQ
KFIRE Korean BBQ is a hidden gem for those looking for fast, delicious, and affordable Korean food. The restaurant offers traditional Korean BBQ dishes, including the must-try Spicy Pork Belly and KFire Chicken.
The portions are reasonable, and the side dishes, such as the corn salad and cucumber salad, are also flavorful.
The staff is friendly, and the service is fast. The restaurant has a low-key decor, but the food is the star of the show.
If you're looking for a neighborhood Korean restaurant that serves delicious food, KFIRE Korean BBQ is the place to go.
7. Kim's Home Cooking
Kim's Home Cooking is a family-owned Korean restaurant that serves delicious homemade dishes at reasonable prices.
The restaurant offers great hospitality and service, making it a must-visit spot for anyone craving for classic Korean food. The menu features tasty soups, kimbab, bulgogi, and more.
Customers have praised the garlic chicken wings, teriyaki chicken wings, and the extra spicy fried chicken. The owner is also known for being accommodating to food allergies.
The restaurant's unpretentious atmosphere adds to its charm, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
8. Kimchi Pop by Chef Son
Kimchi Pop by Chef Son is a Korean restaurant that serves delicious and authentic Korean food. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with great hospitality.
They have a simple menu that covers all the basics, and they also have some great vegetarian options.
The Japchae and bibimbap stone bowls are particularly noteworthy. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. The banchan, although self-serve, is a bit limited in selection and quality.
However, the food is consistently tasty and of high quality. Kimchi Pop is a great spot for Korean eats, whether you dine-in or get it delivered.
9. bopNgrill
BopNgrill is a Korean restaurant that offers a unique twist on classic dishes. Their cheesy kimchi fries are a must-try, and the fire chicken plate is spicy and delicious.
The burgers are also noteworthy, with a perfect amount of sauce that sets them apart.
The service is polite and helpful, and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. Don't forget to try the egg roll on weekends!
BopNgrill is a great option for those looking for a tasty and affordable meal.
10. Parachute
Parachute is a Korean-American restaurant with a French influence. The menu is creative and eclectic, featuring shareable plates with unique flavors.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, providing excellent recommendations for both food and drink.
The dessert is a must-try and the wine list offers unique options. The restaurant has a moody and hip atmosphere, making it perfect for a special date or night out with friends.
Parachute's Michelin star is well-deserved, making it one of the best new restaurants in town.
11. Jin Ju
Jin Ju is an upscale Korean restaurant with a modern vibe. Their authentic dishes are delicious, including the banchan.
The atmosphere is intimate and dimly lit, perfect for a date night or friend meet up. The staff is attentive and helpful with dietary restrictions.
The cocktails, including the mango habanero soju, are creative and tasty. The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous.
Jin Ju is a great option for those looking for traditional Korean cuisine in a hip setting.
12. BIBIBOP Asian Grill
BIBIBOP Asian Grill is a Korean restaurant that offers fresh and delicious chipotle-style Korean bowls.
Their bibimbop tastes better than the traditional Korean dish and comes with free miso soup. The restaurant has a sauce counter where customers can mix and try various sauces.
BIBIBOP Asian Grill offers generous portions for a low price, making it a great place to stop by for a quick and hearty bite.
The restaurant is clean and well-kept, with a good selection of vegetables and tasty beef. BIBIBOP Asian Grill is highly recommended for those looking for a healthy Asian grill experience.
13. Yeowoosai
Yeowoosai is a must-visit Korean restaurant that serves delicious and authentic Korean cuisine.
The portions are quite generous, making it perfect for sharing with a group. The staff is friendly and attentive, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The menu offers a variety of dishes, including the mouth-watering meat and the famous kimchi fried rice.
The restaurant also has a full bar with a great selection of drinks. Yeowoosai is a casual eatery and lounge that is perfect for a night out with friends or family.
14. Noon Hour Grill
Noon Hour Grill is a cozy Korean restaurant that serves up delicious home-style meals.
Run by a single person, the restaurant offers a basic menu at great prices. The food is cooked in front of you and the beef in the Bulgogi is of good quality.
The homemade kimchi is a must-try. The atmosphere is modest and homey, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with family and friends.
It's a gem of a find for anyone looking for Korean comfort food.
15. TAK Korean Bistro & Karaoke
TAK Korean Bistro & Karaoke is a hidden gem that offers an upscale and trendy atmosphere.
The menu is filled with delicious, authentic Korean dishes that are sure to please everyone's taste buds. The in-house made kimchi is a must-try.
The full bar service and karaoke make it a perfect spot for a night out with friends. The private rooms are perfect for upscale events.
The service is attentive and friendly. The only downside is that the prices are on the higher side, but the ambience and quality of food make it worth it.
16. Bobijoa Korean Kitchen
Bobijoa Korean Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Korean food. Their dishes are fresh and tasty, and the portions are decently sized for the price.
The restaurant has a pleasant atmosphere, with friendly servers and a nice ambience.
They also offer takeout for those who prefer to enjoy their food at home. Their menu has a variety of options, including Korean takes on street food.
The gogi burger and pajeon are particularly noteworthy. All in all, Bobijoa Korean Kitchen is a gem for those who love Korean cuisine.
17. Dong-ne
Dong-ne is a Korean restaurant that serves up delicious street food favorites. The food and service both receive a perfect 5 out of 5 rating.
The atmosphere is casual and the service is quick. The pork bibimbap is a must-try, but the scallion pancake and Tteok-bokki are also delicious options.
Customers appreciate that everything is made to order and the staff cares about ensuring a great customer experience.
The restaurant also offers takeout and is a great spot for a quick snack. Come hungry and enjoy the authentic Korean flavors at Dong-ne.
18. JB Snack Corner
JB Snack Corner is a cozy Korean restaurant located in a fantastic grocery store.
The food is incredible and everything is fresh and spiced well. It's a nice place to grab a snack while shopping.
The environment is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal. The Korean cuisine is definitely worth trying and will leave you craving for more.
If you're looking for a tasty and convenient dining experience, JB Snack Corner is the place to go.
