50 Best Korean Restaurants in San Diego

“This is absolutely the best food experience that I have had in the past three months. Atmosphere is absolutely lovely., every server in here is wonderful, however, Ethan was our server tonight. He was thoughtful, checked up on us when needed, and still managed to accommodate everybody around us. It was slammed tonight, and I saw a smile on everybody’s face, they were stuffed to the brim, and satisfied, obviously with their experience. Another thing to note, another server named Phil checked up on us as well when he noticed his server, Ethan busy. Fantastic teamwork, fantastic accommodations, all around kind atmosphere. I will be coming back here for sure! This was wonderful!“

“A Culinary Masterpiece: An Unforgettable Evening with Chef Jiwoo Choi From the moment my girlfriend, Kassandra, and I stepped into the Choi’s in downtown San Diego, we knew we were about to experience something truly special. What followed was an extraordinary seven-course tasting menu crafted by the incredibly talented Chef Jiwoo Choi, a chef whose passion for food is evident in every detail of his dishes. Chef Choi created the menu around several questions sent via email before the date. He truly took his time to understand his customers and who they were. The dinner was designed around my girlfriend, for whom the night was centered around for Valentines Day. The customer service was impeccable from the start. The hostess greeted us warmly, immediately making us feel at home, and the entire staff was attentive yet unobtrusive throughout the evening. We were sat at an oval table exclusively to ourselves with candles and wonderful ambiance. Included was a little note card that read “A Dinner Written By You” . Wow. Our server was Chef Choi himself. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the ingredients, offering insightful explanations of each dish, telling the story of the meal, and even sharing about the inspiration behind his creations. The entire team worked seamlessly together, ensuring that every moment of our dining experience felt effortless and elegant. Now, onto the food—a true work of art. Each course was not just a meal but a beautifully presented masterpiece that engaged all the senses. Chef Choi has a remarkable ability to balance flavors, textures, and aromas in a way that leaves a lasting impression. Every dish had a story, each bite revealing new layers of complexity and creativity. Some standout dishes included: A delicate amuse-bouche that set the tone for the evening, bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Inspired by Kimchi, a sauce enveloped the bits of tofu with a fried rice cake. A The main course was an Australian Wagyu with fingerling potatoes in a chile con carne sauce based from my girlfriend’s childhood. The wagyu melted in our mouths. Potatoes so crispy and delicious you forgot what other potatoes tasted like. A sauce so savory, bursting with tomatillo, garlic, and other flavors. Perfectly balanced as all things should be. The unexpected dish that left me in so much shock was the Greek wedding soup. A cold dish that is better experienced than explained. If I could eat that everyday for the rest of my life it would never be enough. Nothing I could say would live up to the incredible flavors. I ate mine and half my girlfriend’s portion. Finally, a dessert course that was as stunning as it was delicious, showcasing unexpected flavor combinations that worked in perfect harmony. A hot desert, a play on sticky rice. Cardamon, sugar, a small stone fruit with rich notes of raisin and plum. The second dessert was unexpected and intended for my likes (which I found to be such a class act). A ferment plum wine reduction that he infused into a frozen dish (somewhere in the realm of sorbet meets gelato) with a crème brûlée top. Amazing, outstanding. Chef Choi himself took the time to visit our table, a gesture that truly elevated the experience. He shared his inspiration for the menu, spoke about the ingredients, and genuinely wanted to ensure that we were enjoying ourselves. This level of dedication and personal touch is rare and speaks volumes about his commitment to his craft and his guests. He even orchestrated a surprise set of roses for my girlfriend and played it off like I planned it. By the end of the evening, Kassandra and I were completely in awe. The attention to detail, the passion behind every dish, and the warmth of the staff made this one of the best dining experiences we’ve ever had. Chef Jiwoo Choi and his team went above and beyond, creating an evening we will never forget. Five stars are simply not enough!“

“We ended up here today quite accidentally. Glad we did! We ordered Combo 1 with Kimchi Fried Rice and had 6 wings in sweet and sour style and the other 6 wings in saigon style. We asked for extra spicy in all. The waiter explained that they can make fried rice but not the other wings as the spicy is preset in respective sauces. We said fine. When dishes come out, the fried rice came out just the we wanted. When we alternated eating between rice and wings, it just perfect. We loved it.“

“Always a great time shopping at Korean grocery store H Mart near Convoy Street! Large selection of Asian groceries, great quality seafood, sushi, and meat, snacks, produce, rice, as well utensils, household goods and more. Friendly staff and check out lines move quickly. Nice food court and other little shops as you enter. Recommend!“

“Just finished a Bibimbap cooking class at Sue's, so fun! Loved learning a bit about Korean cooking. Our meal was delicious and so filling! Sue was warm, kind, thoughtful, and detailed. Looking forward to trying take out next time.“

“I haven’t come here in over a year, but I think it’s time to address my issues. Back then I used to think it was decent, definitely not the most authentic sushi, but it was still pretty good. I still think it’s okay, but I feel like the quality and portions of food are inconsistent, some days it tastes good and some days it tastes like 💩. The drinks are good and overall I think this place is okay but just fix the portions and quality. 👍“

“Visiting family from the East Coast and my daughter took me here today. I was stationed in Daegu South Korea for 2 years while in the Army. we used to get bb.q chicken almost every weekend. The kids loved it and so did I. This was my first time having it in 8 years and it immediately brought me back to being in Daegu. The food was amazing and brought us right back to being there. I highly recommend you check them out, you won't regret it!“

“Delicious ice cream and best red bean paste! We can’t wait to go back!“

“I’m not a huge fan of Korean food but this place was amazing. Really nice if you come with friends to try a lot of dishes. We had bossam and oxtail soup and Korean pancake along with bulgogi in stone pot.

The side dishes were good and it was nice they had the World Cup on. Would come again, just parking can vary in that lot but that’s most of the area“

“Got the large hangover soup and easily shared it with 3 people and still had leftovers to eat for 2 more meals. It was a PACKED pot, and never ending. Their bonchon was also a good accompaniment. Steamed egg was also so fluffy and a big portion. Cheesy corn was delicious. And I absolutely loved the tteokbokki!!!“

“Delicious food and great atenttion“

“Delicious food and great atenttion“

“I got off work past 9 PM last night and was craving dinner, so I looked up restaurants and found this Korean spot on Convoy that stays open until 1 AM. Once I walked in, I immediately saw it’s the perfect late-night hangout with such a great vibe. It’s styled like a cozy Korean pojangmacha pub, K-pop tracks playing nonstop, and the lighting sets such a nice mood.

The three of us ordered bossam, and it was absolutely incredible!! The pork belly had the perfect balance of fat and lean meat—it’s their signature dish for a reason. I couldn’t stop giving it thumbs up 👍 This dish alone guarantees I’ll be coming back for more.

We also got spicy beef soup, which was rich, hearty and delicious, plus cold noodle soup. The cold noodles were decent but nothing mind-blowing. Next time I want to try classic Korean comfort foods like seafood pancake and cheesy spicy stir-fried chicken. Corn cheese is another highly recommended item here too.

Our three dishes totaled $71, around $24 per person—pretty reasonable, and we left completely stuffed. It was only 10:30 when we headed out, and there was already a line forming out the door. This place is definitely super popular!“

“I’ve tried quite a few Korean spots in San Diego, and Song Hak is definitely one I’d come back to.

Their Korean food is really good overall, but the stone pot bibimbap was probably my favorite. It came out super hot, and I loved how the rice at the bottom got crispy from the stone bowl. Mix everything together with the sauce and it’s just so comforting and satisfying.

Everything we ordered tasted fresh and flavorful, and it honestly felt like one of those meals where you keep eating even when you’re already full 😂

Definitely a solid spot when you’re craving Korean food!“

“Bombtastic as usual! Been going for ever! Total San Diego staple!“

“this was the very first time i ate something so delicious that i felt like writing a review on how good it is, our server was extremely kind we felt very welcomed there. the drinks and appetizers got to the table in 3-5 minutes and the entrees got to the table around 10 minutes after ordering them(we did not feel rushed btw i really appreciated the fast service) and when my ramen got to the table it was amazing, the broth was rich and creamy and just the right amount of salty, the noodles were delicious and not too mushy but were still nice and soft, the pork was so rich and flavorful and it just melts in your mouth and the way that the flavors all came together was truly enlightening.“

“I've been to this place 10+ times. It's a small mom & pop spot, serving the type of Korean fare that you might expect. It's widely considered to be one of the best Korean joints in SD and I don't dispute that. But the star of the show is the Kimchi jiggae. I usually don't order Kimchi jiggae in restaurants, but the kimchi jiggae here is my absolute favorite, and I always get it. Their banchan is also simple yet excellent. If you want Korean food staples in SD, this is the place. Parking can be difficult, but it's Convoy, so you should know the drill.“

“Just keep in mind I came here on a Monday at 6 PM so we didn't have to wait for a table or battle for parking. This parking lot was not turned into a paid lot try. It's where Chorus and Hive are. It's still fairly new so the menu is slightly limited. We saw photos of dishes on the wall but were told they were not available until next year. The jjajangmyeon was slightly watery. I got the "meat" one so there were strips of grilled pork. My husband got the "spicy" one which was green chili on top. It was not crazy spicy according to him but it was not that painful spicy. We got the chili shrimp and I really liked that. It was crispy, fried jumbo shrimp over with sweet chili sauce on a bed of cabbage. It had enough heat making your lips feel some heat. I liked it even though it's not a fancy dish. If I don't have to come on a busy weekend night I'm down to come back.

Oh just be ready to order on really slow tablets but your order gets through as long you're patient with the tablets. The tables are far enough where you feel like you're not on top of each other like at other restaurants in Convoy.“

“Every time I go to work and leaving work, I see this place and planning to go here. I finally got a chance to today. The place is hidden and probably does get busy during lunch hours, but the place is very clean and the aroma is smells delicious! I’ll post a PS after I get my takeout order. Stay tuned!“

“all is good!“

“We had a great experience at Pelicana! The food was fresh, flavorful, and definitely worth trying. The atmosphere was welcoming, and we had a wonderful time together. If you’re looking for delicious food, this is a great spot. We’ll definitely be back!“

“Great to share in good company!“

“Good variety of proteins, lots of amazing sauces, veggies, and overall good vibes. My most favorite part that I love about this place is that you get the opportunity to be creative and become your own chef. Another great thing is you yourself get to serve and pick what you want since it’s buffet. Have fun, enjoy, and have a good time whether it’s for a date night or with a group of family or friends. Definitely a place I will go back.“

“First timer. Not dissapointed at all. Food was yummy“

“Delicious ice cream and best red bean paste! We can’t wait to go back!“

“It is located inside HMart. It is pretty good, I am noticing that they are getting little sloppy. They stopped giving sesame powder with the soup. They didn't pack chili sauce when we ordered food to go. I hope they don't cut corners train their staff better.“

“My favorite Nashville hot chicken sandwich and tenders!!!!!!“

“Si ojalá iii iii Ku m lo más seguro“

“We were looking for a traditional Korean restaurant in North County that served banchan, sundubu, and other classic Korean dishes. It seems like most places in the area are AYCE Korean BBQ only, so we were pleasantly surprised to find Shozen BBQ.

They had all of the traditional meals we were hoping for, while also offering AYCE and combo Korean BBQ options if that’s what you’re looking for. We enjoyed the cold barley tea, and the banchan was fresh, flavorful, and excellent.

The menu had a great variety, they were open late, and there was plenty of parking, which made the whole experience even better. Best of all, we didn’t have to drive all the way to Convoy just to enjoy an authentic Korean meal.

The service was warm, attentive, and very kind. We’re so happy we found this place and will definitely be back soon!“

“Staff very attentive and friendly“

“Great place for a Teriyaki bowl or plate. Food was delicious and reasonably priced. Staff are very friendly and hard working. You can tell they had their regulars. It was busy and over half of the patrons were known to the employees and knew their regular orders. Decor typical for mom and pops place with decent amount of seating. Will definitely go back if in the area again.“

“The food at Min Sok Chon is really good, and the overall atmosphere is lively and fun. Since it’s more of a Korean drinking spot, it can get pretty loud, but that’s also part of the vibe.

One thing I really like is that every table has a button to call the staff or request the check, which makes the service very quick and smooth. You don’t have to spend time trying to get someone’s attention.

The only downside is the parking. The lot is a little small and tight, so finding a spot can be difficult when it’s busy.

If you’re looking for a place to hang out, catch up with friends, have some good food and a few drinks, this is a great choice. They’re also open late, which makes it a perfect spot for late-night gatherings.“

“This food is incredible! This has to be one of the best plant based Korean bbq dishes I've ever had! I am Korean and have been eating all of these dishes since I was a kid but stopped when I became vegetarian. I cannot believe how close this is to every dish I'm familiar with. Keep up the great work whoever is making this wow!“

“Epic grub! Will be back for sure!!“

“Tasty all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue at The Fire Spot on Convoy Street! So fun, and so tasty. We got the original plan which was $38 per person. We enjoyed the house choice steak, marinated short rib, marinated lamb, miso pork belly, garlic finger meat, and button mushroom. They have Sapporo and other beverages available. Friendly and attentive staff. Recommend!“

“This is located inside H Mart. They have a little good court at the entrance. My mom ordered the pork soft tofu soup and I ordered the beef soft tofu soup. soups were very good and tasty. The bonchons were incredible. My mom loved the fried fish especially/. This is a definitely go to place for tofu soup. will come back again to try other dishes“

“This was my family's time first trying out this place and I've got to say the chicken has a unique crisp to it and is very flavorful and it's one of my favorite.

The wings I've had in a very very long time everyone loved him including my kids and the non spicy options were great for them we got the secret sauce as well as the Galbi wings.“

“I would highly recommend this place to anyone wanting delicious korean food. It felt like a home cooked meal, with great quality! We got the Kimchi Duruchigi (My favorite), Soft tofu stew & Stir fried squid. Portions were huge, definitely for sharing. The service was great, staff were super friendly and helpful in making selection on what to order. I’m surprised it wasn’t fully packed. Everyone should go support this local family owned business. Will definitely be back 💛“

“Amazing spot! Open really late and has a VARIETY of menu options ranging from grilled, to REALLY fresh sushi. The chefs made everything to our liking allowing us to customize a lot about their food. The main thing is they are amazing in all aspects of their cuisines from sushi to grilled. Went here all 4 nights we were in San Diego would really recommend this place!“

“Good food, fair prices and a healthier option when compared to most other fast food places in the area. I usually opt for a 1/2 and 1/2 bowl over veggies instead of rice and put some of their "magic sauce" on it. Good food, decent price, and fast.“

“I had such a wonderful experience at this Flame Broiler location! This was my first time visiting this specific location, and I was truly impressed. The restaurant was spotless, and I really appreciated the outdoor seating option. that it made the visit even more enjoyable.

I want to give a special and heartfelt thank you to Elma. Elma's customer service was genuinely above and beyond. Elma is an incredibly kind and compassionate person, and Elma made my experience feel safer, more comfortable, and absolutely amazing. It’s rare to come across someone who brings that level of warmth to their work, and I’m so grateful.

I ordered the chicken with white rice, carrots, and green onions, one of the few options I can eat with my allergies. As always, Flame Broiler delivered the consistent flavors and textures I love.

Thank you, Elma, for being so awesome! I’ll definitely be returning to this location.“

“Amazing food!!!!❤️👍👍 must try“

“Small learning curve for someone with my cultural background, but once I found the right cuts and grilling technique it was game over. If you aren’t sweating by the end of a meal here you aren’t doing it right. Really excellent value all things considered! Would happily come back!“

“affordable, friendly and fast service“

“Went late at night and still the service was very warm and welcoming. Last call for food is around 12-12:30AM btw! I tried kimchi jigae for the first time. The bulgogi was very flavorful and one of the best in the area. Also shoutout to Vinnie and Mari for the exceptional customer service!“

“Great food, loved the chicken I had. Had the hottest of their offerings and loved it. Just a perfect amount of spice and loaded with flavor for me. Jalepano hot I would call it. Staff was friendly and helpful. Luch special was affordable and delicious. Loved the sides that came with the special. Food was ready quickly. I'll be back.“

“Outstanding place to dine“

“Always my favorite chicken place to go to. ☺️“

“I love coming here for my Jjjamppong craving. Huge portions and a great seafood aroma. I appreciate that they now give customers actual spoons instead of those tiny throw away spoons. I always finish my noodles and drink the broth as it is that good.“

“Ordered the original rice chicken and also the roasted chicken.....it was all delicious.....found a new favorite Korean restaurant and it’s in the neighborhood 👍🏼“