6 Best Korean Restaurants near Monterey

“This place is pretty different from most of the other restaurants on Alvarado for all the right reasons. First of all, the place is very small in a good way. It has a weirdly cozy atmosphere in the same way that a understairs room does. The menu is small, but all of it was good. The kalbi was the standout to me, but the spicy chicken and pork were also great. The service was excellent; it was just one lady running the front of house and it's apparent she wants all customers to enjoy their time there. The prices were the main drawback; our bill came out to around $120 for 3 of us.“

“🛑🛑 Best Korean restaurant I’ve had in the Bay Area — considering food quality, portion size, value, and overall experience.

🍖 The massive plate of pork hock was only $40 and could easily feed multiple people. Flavor 10/10, no foul flavor, spiced to perfection

🥘 The bibimbap portion was huge — honestly enough for two people.

🍲 The soondae guk was a perfect 10/10. Rich, comforting, perfectly seasoned, and served in a bowl noticeably larger than what most Korean restaurants give you.

🍚 Even the rice stood out: plump, slightly sweet, and perfectly cooked without being sticky.

❤ What truly made this place special was the experience.

The server was an elderly Korean grandma who was one of the sweetest people I’ve ever met. When I mentioned I was celebrating my birthday, she brought out a Choco Pie with a candle, sang Happy Birthday, and made the whole experience feel incredibly personal and memorable.

🏡 The restaurant is family-owned, with the family’s house right next door. The entire place feels warm, authentic, and welcoming—like you’re being invited into someone’s home rather than dining at a restaurant.

📌 Final verdict:

* Extremely homey atmosphere
* Warm, genuine service
* Huge portions
* Outstanding food
* Incredible value for the price

This is one of those rare restaurants that I absolutely have to revisit whenever I’m heading down toward Monterey or anywhere south of the Bay.“

“I went to Bada Kitchen because I saw all the outstanding reviews. I am sure sorry I did not make it to the restaurant sooner because it is one of the best places I have had on the peninsula.

I ordered 2 shrimp sushi rolls. With one of them I asked if they could make the roll “not spicy.” Bada Kitchen made it happen!!! Was a fantastic experience from start to finish!!!! I have already went back 2 more times since I first discovered this place!“

“awesome place for date or any occasions“

“Was amazing chicken and fried chicken rice !!! You won’t be disappointed and the staff is so helpful and kind … will go again !!!“

“Yummy 😋, great experience“