50 Best Korean Restaurants near El Cerrito

“I had the beef bi-bim bop. I rarely eat Korean food but I tell you for the price you pay you get a more than adequate amount of food. I need to come back and try other menu items. I have a big appetite and appreciate generous portions. In this day and age it's hard to come by. It was tough for the server to come by to collect my credit card. They were whirling around to other tables but a bit oblivious. Still worth trying this place though.“

“we actually wanted to eat korean bbq with a grill and then came across a different kind of korean bbq - luckily for us. the food was bombastic. five of us went to eat and ordered a big pot for everyone. all the ingredients (meat, vegetables, cheese and spices) were so extremely delicious. definitely worth a visit if you make a trip to japantown.“

“A gem. SF is so lucky to have a place like this to call its own. Non-caricature chef’s tasting: in every bite you feel the chef’s soul and peer into his vision (if you frequent nyc fine dining or read Pete Wells’ piece on Nōksu, fair or not, you know what I mean.) Seasonal ingredients, personified in the chef’s diverse culinary journey.During the winter months, be sure to round up a crew of 4-6 and pre-order the king crab. The vibe is cali-convivial, in the best sense of laid back but get it done way.Early weekday seating, the restaurant is sparsely seated and it feels like you are a guest in chef’s home, warm and inviting.“

“Came here with a group of 5 for a friend’s bday and was so pleasantly surprised!Good:- The tater tots were awesome, loved the bulgogi- Great pricing for a large group not too expensive- The bulgogi hot pot was so good- I like the fruit wine here as well and came with a lot of ingredients in it- Service was great friendly staff who also brought out ice cream and sang happy birthday, food also came out quicklyBad:- The chicken karaage was pretty normal not super fancy though and was a bit blandOverall this place was a solid place for a hangout with friends and great Korean food. Was packed as well on a Thursday night“

“What a great surprise. The food was delicious, and the service was great. We look forward to trying the rest of the menu. I highly recommend the Loco Moco.“

“As a Korean-American, I hate Korean fusion or Korean flavor/influenced food. But, please TRUST when I say the kalbijjim pastry is soooo good. I thought it'd suffice because I needed something thick to take with my meds. I was pleasantly surprised as it was not heavy, nor was it excessively sweet. It did not have too much of that soy sauce + sugar taste that other places put in too much of. It was so perfect. I shoved it in my mouth as I was turning right, crushing the box on my lap, with a cop on the corner staring at me like I was so dumb to do this in front of him. It was worth it. Anyway, the lines aren't too bad as it goes by, and they are very nice there.“

“My best friend took me here for a dinner date and Omg . I felt so healthy I can't explain it lol . I was telling her I usually need my meats but this dish was so flavorful and delish and the tofu was some of the best I've ever had . I would go back again to try other dishes or even the same one ! It was that good. One of my new fav restaurants in town now !“

“Made a reservation for a large group of 8 a week in advance and was easily able to find time slots. Highly recommend that you split the table amongst parties of 3-4 if you have a large group because the plates are definitely small and not large enough for more than 4+ people. But because the plates were small, we were able to try a bunch of different dishes which is always fun. We ordered: * Tomato Kimchi - 7/10: nothing to special for me, was a little too much on the acidic side * Mulhwe Noodle - 9/10: I wish I had a full size portion of this, was absolutely delicious as it was a beautiful combination of raw fish and noodles * Uni Scallop Toast - 7/10: I do think this was good, but it's pricey ($29) * Jjimdak bao - 7/10: Little bao with chicken, but wasn't mindblowing * Soy-Glazed Potato - 9/10: great little addition with a creamy delicious sauce * Rice Cakes & Chorizo - 10/10: I'm not usually a fan of rice cakes but this kind of reminded me of pizza, the crust was crispy and chorizo super delicious * Miso Marinaded Pork - 9/10: can't go wrong with a pork dish, goes well with rice * Galbi Ribeye - 10/10: juicy and flavorful; recommend you get with the lettuce wraps * Radish Kimchi Fried Rice - 7/10: portion size was soooo small, was good but nothing unique * Chocolate Cake - 8/10: can't go wrong with chocolate cake * Banana Milk Ice Cream - 9/10: deep banana flavor that paired well with the chocolate cake Overall, great food, service, and vibes makes this an easy recommendation for me.“

“Solid Korean BBQ in the East Bay!I visited this spot with my buddy after having the desire to find a good Korean BBQ spot in the East Bay. We got there early, so getting a table was a breeze. This spot specializes in pork, but we also ordered Jumuluk (beef) as well.The Banchan arrived at the table, all looked fresh and very tasty. The Kim chi was awesome. Presentation of the food was good and the meat were all marinated perfectly.Service was solid and helped us navigate the menu with some recommendations and the restaurant itself was well equipped to handle the smoke, so you didn’t leave smelling like a complete BBQ unit.This place is a must try in the East Bay!!!“

“Double cheese smash burger with grilled onions was fire ! The bun was soft & sweet (like a Hawaiian roll) but not to "bready" if you know what I mean... and the special sauce was perfect spread. The fries hit too! Usually you don't get both at the same place. Im still drooling on how good this burger was.“

“I am glad that they are located in Montclair. They have a clean store with good selection of items. Great customer service!“

“Very good Korean fare in a laid back setting. Ollei serves up tasty late night grub and vibes in Russian Hill. The grill is burning, the meat is cooking, soups are boiling, the drinks are flowing and kpop is popping, this is a good Korean restaurant in San Francisco. Tasty food at an affordable price and where you can also go to throw a couple back as well. It was the perfect place to warm up on a cold SF night, food and drink wise. I’m definitely coming back to try various other dishes. Very good.Kid-friendliness: Not really“

“I’m not sure I recall what Sikdang meant but I am inclined to keep going back until I do. This restaurant offers a well curated variety of Korean food: some you would recognize like the kimchi or seafood pancake and others that are more specialized like the Jokbal (Pig Trotters aka Feet) that’s so well executed you forget you’re at a casual diner.We had the Galbi Tang (beef rib soup), the Pig Trotters Kimchi Fried Rice and the spicy chicken bulgogi. All were excellent.“

“I love the Crammy Kimbap here!!! The crab and mayo combination is really satisfying and contrasts the pickled veggies well. They don't skimp on the portions and the staff here are kind. If you're looking for a quick lunch spot or some takeout in the Chinatown area, this is a decent spot to check out!“

“I tried Saucy Asian for the first time after a few months of working close by. I got the kimchi burrito, which I was curious about because I didn't see many reviews on it. Which I don't know why because it was so good! I took a bite of it and literally fell in love! It was really good and the flavors mixed well together. Even the chips and salsa were really good! Definitely coming back, and I am so glad to work close by!“

“Joodang is quite possibly my favorite restaurant right now. The food is to die for and the service is phenomenal. My friend n I decided to try their Te Mari handroll tasting menu which is only offered on Sunday and Monday w/ two time slots of 5:30 and 8PM (you hav to make a reservation). I rec coming at 8PM, show up a bit early so you get first pick at seats, and you HAVE TO sit at the bar. Chef andy and Jeffrey are a hilarious duo, and the staff are all super nice and will not hesitate in pouring you drinks. Must try's are their truffle toro parfait, cajun albacore tuna roll, hokkaido scallop roll, salmon belly w unagi roll, and the korean raw beef perilla wrap. Even the unassuming dishes like inari shiitake and snapper bone soup were amazing (we were even offered seconds for it). I did not dislike a single thing and the chef even made me a toro roll (i think?) cause I’m allergic to bean sprouts. Typically i don’t write reviews (i actually have four exams to study for right now) but this place is so good i have to share my experience.“

“My cousin showed me this place and I fell in love! They always have k-pop playing and the corn dogs are so mouth watering good!Vegetarian options: They have dogs that don't have any meat in themParking: It's Berkley. The parking here is tough to find“

“Best KFC in oakland hands down!! Everyone is super friendly and was so welcoming! I got the soy garlic chicken and the spicy rice cakes and it was so crispy and juicy! i love supporting small businesses and i cant wait to come back and try other things on the menu!!“

“A hidden gem of a korean spot! They give you soo much food. The soup was good, but different from the style I usually like more. The banchan was also delicious with a good variety. They have seating inside and outside with really cute lights and window seating. They also sell lots of korean food and instant food inside! Service is very attentive and speedy.“

“Better than Seoul Sausage and they won the Great American Food Truck Race! Perfect balance of spice, sauce, and crunch. The outside is amazing and the Parmesan was a nice touch!“

“Food is amazing here! Everything from the short rib plate to burgers! The only thing better than the food is the people running it. Everyone is so friendly it's incredibly refreshing. James is usually at the register- awesome guy that treats you like family. Love it!“

“traveling and yelped this .. just go..“

“MBR is the perfect place to go when you are feeling down and need to eat your way out! Every time I come here I always leave with a full stomach and comfort. Their fried chicken is especially satisfying and has the perfect crunch and flavor balance.“

“Our favorite Korean restaurant in the East Bay. We eat here at least twice a month. Galbitang, kimchi soondoobu, bibimbap, dolsot bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi/seafood/chive pancakes, chicken katsu, naengmyeon, banchan—everything is always amazing. The bibimbap can be made vegetarian with tofu instead of beef. Love the service, atmosphere, and that the broth soups are salted to taste at the table. It’s smaller and parking is limited so getting there early is a must.“

“The best sushi I've ever had! I went during my vacation to SF, and you can definitely taste the difference compared to some of what is served back east. It was quiet when my family and I went, and they provided a cozy, friendly experience. The owner was very kind. I greatly recommend visiting if you're in the area.“

“We returned to this restaurant twice during our visit to SF, it was that good. Very much enjoyed the garlic soy chicken wings, salmon eggs benedict, kimchi, bulgogi, pimped up ramyun, and of course the bacon.“

“traveling and yelped this .. just go..“

“Both of us enjoyed our dinner though we dined on starters because the entrees seemed to fit the colder weather. My dining companion had the fennel soup, which presentation alone made you want to tuck in. She also had the potato pancakes that were plentiful. I had the tuna tartare with a delicious herb sauce & the outstanding, crunchy chick pea fries with a tangy harissa sauce. The fries alone will make me go back. We will be back.“

“Super fun and lively pocha, with tons of delicious food too! The seating is open and spacious, and the ambiance is great, feels just like a pocha in Korea. Not to mention, the food is bomb! ? My favorite item was the spicy pork belly with cheese; the pancakes and marinated crab ? (their specialty) are super good too. Definitely an awesome place to hang out with friends and grab some great drinks and food!??“

“American preparation food serve fast and is delicious , server are friendly if you ask about choices got explain on its. Mundito is nice waiter. Say hello to him !!“

“Super nice/friendly folks. Food came out quick. Nice large portions. Was super satisfied“

“I knew exactly what I wanted as I walked in. I smelled the Bibimbop and my tummy was already smiling. the service was great! and the food was delicious! our 3 year old approved the Chicken Cutlets with their special sauce! we're definitely coming back the next time we're in town!“

“Came by on Tuesday night and it was a slow night, with lots of tables still open. Everything is pretty straightforward. You can add beef or lamb in your order at the counter (not available at the self serve area). I aimed for a medium plate of food and accidentally got myself a large plate by the time I got to the end of the self serve table. I just kept piling on item after item, oops! I did end up with leftovers, which I packed and happily finished for lunch the next day. I like heat, but the lowest level of heat for the stir fry was just about enough for me. Anymore heat and I don't think I could enjoy the food. I'd love there to be a level or two below this lol. I was expecting a mild, tinge of spice, but this felt like a full on medium. I liked my plate, but my stomach didn't like me afterward. Their strawberry tanghulu was good! Wanted to try a tomato version but the one left in the box didn't look really fresh. Looking forward to coming back to try more!“

“Best ramen I've ever had, in a hot stone bowl!The sushi tends to taste a little bitter here, though. Stick to hot dishes, in my opinion.Vegetarian options: Can substitute any protein option for spiced tofu. The staff went out of their way to clarify when I asked to clarify that their soup stock was explicitly vegetarian, and they even ask about egg.Definitely a great place to go if you're veg, even if I'm not vegetarian myself.“

“Went here after watching a show in the area. A small quaint place that is open till late. The servers were really nice and friendly. We got kinchi fried rice with chicken and spicy sauce boneless fried chicken. The spicy sauce was more sweet and less spicy and I wish it were the other way around but overall food was decent.“

“Kurabuta pork and truffle oil dumpling soup easily served two as did the fried organic chicken breast sandwich on an Acme torpedo roll. Soup was complex and wonderful. Sandwich was hearty. The house-made pickles were just one more excellent thing about it. Will take pic next time. Big sandwich. Pick up times are accurate, if you arrive very early they have beautiful cookbooks to page through. Service is excellent. Once I found parking right in front. More often arrived at pickup time, order was ready, back in car in less than 5 minutes. Also, parking on west side of 23rd just north of Macdonald. There are fewer spots on east side of 23rd because of curb cutouts for the large McDonald's parking lot. (And if you see a hint there, OK.)“

“Quick and delicious place if you're craving Japanese or Korean food. Came here around 9pm on a Saturday and there was no wait. The restaurant is spacious and clean. Service was friendly and responsive. I ordered the Jjam Pong ($18) and it was filled to the brim with seafood (mussels, clams, shrimp, and even a whole crab leg) and udon. Taste was authentic and the kitchen was able to accommodate my "mild spicy" request. The bento box ($24) was a classic, nothing out of the ordinary and satisfied all cravings. Something unique was the black sesame dressing for the salad! Also, a must order is the Lucky 7 roll ($17) if you enjoy seared salmon. Overall, I had a great experience and the quality is amazing for what you pay for. Note that parking was difficult ... there's mostly street parking and a few garages two blocks down for $12-15 an hour.“

“My fav place to eat in FiDi. Delicious food and variety with seamless operation and friendly staff. Always make it my mission to support this business and I am not the only one. Situated in a shopping center that is mostly all closed, Julie’s is one of a few tenants (3 or so tenants) that single-handedly drives a majority of the foot traffic in this shopping center. People come in either ordering buffet or their deliciously selected menu items. You can never go wrong with Julie’s!“

“This is our local, “go to” place whenever we’re craving Korean food. It never disappoints. At night, they generally project K-pop music videos onto a large wall, which brings the whole room to life. Lotsa fun!“

“We ordered take out and all of the food transported well including the crispy garlic chicken. The garlic chicken was the best - good flavor and good crunch - and the Yangnyeom chicken had a nice smoky flavor although not as spicy as we expected. Very saucy so have lots of napkins handy. Rice bowl and rice cake rounded out the dinner with decent sized portions. The spicy pork was tasty and it was good to get some veggies in. The rice cake is the only dish I probably would not order again as it was too chewy. Overall I would return here!“

“There's never been a time we've been unsatisfied leaving San Wang. The dishes are always so delicious and in generous portions. Especially the dry-fried chicken, jjajangmyeon, and clams. The service is always friendly and attentive. It's a mom-and-pop shop that's been an important part of the neighborhood for decades. We always enjoy dining in here and would recommend it for any setting, small or big group!“

“I LOVE Bento & Bowls. I always order the bulgogi bowl for take out online. It’s plenty of food and it’s consistently good.I’ve never eaten at the restaurant, it’s definitely meant to be a take out spot. There are a couple small tables if you realllly want to eat there.There’s a small, free parking lot. Could park on the street too.Anyway, go here if you don’t feel like cooking dinner :)“

“Korean Fried chicken here is so delicious. Freshly made and house made sauce makes this place so unique. The single portion of chicken can fill 2-3 people. Comes with pickled radish. Corn dog was crispy on the outside with melted cheese on the inside. This corn dog is also dusted with sugar. Customer service is very friendly and always happy to explain the menu if you need help.“

“Great addition to the Berkeley community! I saw that they had bulgolgi fries so I just had to stop by and try. I ended up also getting an order of the kfc bowl with purple rice and japchae. Everything was made to order and came out super fresh. The spicy mayo was the perfect topping for both and made the food so much richer and flavorful. Our food also came out relatively quick and the presentation was beautiful (see attached photo)! We went during opening time so it wasn't busy but this place will be a hit for sure!“

“I love this place. Food is great, well-priced, banchan is super fresh, and the people who work here are so nice. I came in and ordered soft-tofu soup to go while I had a cold and the woman who brought my order said she gave me extra broth and hot rice for free because she wanted me to recover more quickly. Wonderful restaurant with a community orientation. Also, order the chicken wings. Just do it. They're amazing.“

“The food is delicious. We always get a takeout, and the only thing that bothers us is the occasional lack of consistency. We are used to bento boxes containing decent portions of meat, noodles, rice, and salad, but sometimes the portions are much smaller, to the point my husband is still hungry afterward... The price has been the same for the bigger portions as for the smaller ones, so naturally, we are disappointed to receive less food...“

“First timer, Tin & Pig is def serving up some authentic Korean food. The ambiance was great the meals are extremely hearty but also pretty pricy which is why I took a star away - not saying it's not worth it but it could be a tab then again what's not now a day's. I'm a huge fan of Kimchi Stew this one had pork in it, very rich & comforting on a rainy night served with a side of rice. Def enjoyed it. Got the sweet & spicy wings & the plain wing's I wanted the sauce on the side but it's $3 to have the sauce on the side which kinda confused me? Regardless packed with flavor and fried to perfection. The bulgogi w/rice & egg which is semi pictured could honestly be skipped on. It was good but it didn't stand out to me. Def wanna try hot pot going back. Over all the customer service was great, the gentleman who served us was very personable & he checked in but also gave enough space for us to have a conversation. Hopefully you guys enjoy this place & try it out :)“

“This place was very different and tasty. The rice triangles are wrapped in seaweed with your filling of choice, like a little sandwich. I got the 2 triangle order and it came with edamame. I got chicken teriyaki, which was tasty and fresh, although a bit sweet for my taste. It was my son’s favorite. I also got the spicy Ahi Tuna. Tuna was delicious. I would return.“

“This place is AMAZING!!! We got the rose and carbonara tteokbokki and both were flavor bombs! The rose tteokbokki had a nice creamy consistency and slight kick (highly recommend adding sausages and mozzarella). The carbonara tteokbokki was literally one of best things I've ever had ~ it's creamy, flavorful, umami, and the bacon adds a nice texture! We also tried the so-tteok which was delicious! Highly recommend and will be back!!! Also the service is awesome ~ I think the owner took our order but he was so nice!!!“

“Very good food and great atmosphere“