50 Best Korean Restaurants in San Diego

“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!“

“Such a great spot! The food was delicious, the portions were generous, and everything tasted fresh. The bao buns and ramen were my favorites. The staff was friendly, and the atmosphere was clean and inviting. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the Point Loma area!“

“Here’s your updated, Google-ready review with that added in:

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Went here with my other half around 5:30–6 PM on a Sunday and had a really solid experience. Took advantage of their happy hour and grabbed a beer 🍺—great deal.

We didn’t order too much since we had an event after, but we tried the soon dubu soup, honey jam wings, and some rice on the side. The wings were the clear standout—easily one of the top three wings I’ll remember 🔥 Super crispy even with the sauce, great smoky flavor from the peppers, good size, and the batter-to-meat ratio was spot on. Everything was cooked perfectly.

The soondubu was excellent as well—perfect portion size, well-balanced, not too spicy, not too heavy, and served at just the right temperature with a really clean, flavorful broth 👌

The space has plenty of seating whether you’re going as a couple or with a group. The service felt small-scale and homey, which made it really comfortable. Our waitress was friendly and patient, and the overall vibe felt very family-oriented.

You can tell it’s a popular spot too—steady flow of dine-in, takeout, and delivery orders. Location-wise, it’s tucked behind the UTC area with plenty of parking and not much traffic, which makes it easy to get in and out.

If you’re looking for a casual weekend food stop or a quick lunch or dinner bite, this is definitely worth checking out. Looking forward to coming back and trying more of the menu 👍“

“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. 👍“

“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.“

“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!“

“This place is the cats meow. Don’t sleep on this convoy gem.“

“Slurping the good stuff @woomiok in Convoy! 🥢 Their Emperor Soup is simmered for hours and loaded with oxtail, brisket, cheek meat, and shank. 🐮🥣 Nutrient-dense, rich in flavor, and the perfect cure-all for any day of the week. 🧘‍♀🔥 #sdfoodieluver #dailypost“

“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“

“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!“

“Delicious food and great atenttion“

“This is probably my first review without photos because honestly everyone else already uploaded plenty. I don't even think this place needs my review, but Yelp said I only needed one more review to unlock some Korean Restaurant badge, so here I am thinking about SongHak again haha. This place is seriously clean, and the staff are always polite, respectful, and attentive to both the food and the customers. I usually come here for date nights with my wife or family dinners. Honestly, imagine enjoying good BBQ and cold beer on the weekend, then walking around Convoy afterward... life feels pretty great sometimes.
Wishing the business continued success and that the food quality always stays this good. Oh and parking around Convoy during meal hours is an absolute nightmare but luckily I'm an angel at finding parking haha.“

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

“The Gyoza and the Gurobuta Cutlet Curry rice are both great! My wife had the Black Garlic Ramen and she said that it too was great. Our server was amazing and very attentive. We have saved this place in our memory and will definitely be coming back 😋“

“Delicious food!! Very much just like the food I ate in korea, plenty of side dishes. The food is incredibly flavorful and authentic. The staff was very friendly and quick to respond. I highly recommend this place if you're looking for authentic Korean food.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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!“

“The wings are one of the best in SD in my opinion! Hands down. Also friendly staff! Wanted to recognize Bryan for going above and beyond. We got takeout and our car would not start in the parking lot. He helped jump start our car on his break and we were able to go, no problem! Food service was already amazing, but THAT is what you call customer service. A great story to tell while recommending Pelicana. Thank you Bryan!!“

“Great to share in good company!“

“all is good!“

“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“

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

“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“

“I went to the Katy, TX location and that location also doesn’t have seating. I’m not sure if that’s a common theme. They do have a standing table that you can place your dessert and eat. I ordered the upside down with matcha and sakura berry soft serve and matcha custard filling. This was from March 29, 2026 so I’m not sure if they changed out flavors. Everything was delicious. The soft serve was good but I didn’t really taste the sakura berry. Parking is plentiful, it’s in a shared lot. Pricing is fair. Service was fast and pleasant.“

“Stumbled upon this little restaurant in Miramar when I was in the area. Came in for a late lunch and the place was empty. There was a musty smell and I think it must be because the building is old. But the restaurant was clean and service was quick.
I ordered my chicken,beef, and veggie combo rice bowl to go. There was a lot of food and the price was very reasonable. Good place to grab lunch on the go.“

“We tried their goat soup, beef ribs and soju. Portions were good, the beef soup came in a wok on top of a stove. Their complementary sausage, fish cake, mashed potatoes, spicy cucumber, and rice were nice to have. Ambiance was the best thing to me - quiet, traditional, and not overcrowded.“

“Everything on this menu is spectacularly delicious, Super Fresh and appetizing. My favorites are anything with Crispy Ginger Fried Chicken and roasted tofu. I'm not a big fan of sweet potatoes so I usually opt for the roasted broccoli and mushrooms. The Jammy egg is perfect and for something that's a pickup menu the presentation is actually quite lovely and comes in a very stylish lavender heavy duty handlebag that you can certainly use a few times more. Their sauces and dressings are so delicious you will want to try all of them and there's a lot of choices. My only suggestion is this, if you're watching the salt and you order the french fries ask them to lighten up on the seasoning because it's pretty salty. Excellent customer service just text them if you have any comments or suggestions and they get right back to you. Also, in case you haven't figured it out yet, you have to download their app to place direct orders that you pick up yourself, of course you'll find them on all the food delivery apps that's how I first found out about them when they were having a two-for-one special. One last thing the bowls are big enough for a big appetite or you can save some for tomorrow if you see what I mean.“

“The menu has a solid selection of meats and seafood. The highlights for us were the 5-Spiced Marinated Lamb, Marinated Pork-Belly, the Sweet Spicy Cajun Chicken, and the Cumin Squid—all packed with flavor and cooked beautifully over the charcoal, which provided a unique, smoky-char flavor. The sides/appetizers (Rice Paper, Beef Soup, Steamed Egg, House Salad) were similar to what you’ll find at most Korean BBQ places, but the Boiled Whole Peanuts were a pleasant surprise. They were perfectly boiled and had a great texture. As for the sauces, I highly recommend their House Garlic Sauce, Sea Salt Sesame Oil, and House-Spicy Powder, which pair well with their vast meat menu.
One thing to keep in mind is that the restaurant is pretty small, so it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED to arrive as early as possible since it can get crowded very quickly. My group ended up waiting about 1.5 hours for a table. Despite the wait, the food was excellent, and the staff was very accommodating, attentive, and professional throughout the experience.
Overall, this spot is definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for something a little different from the typical KBBQ experience.
P.S. This might become a new “Fire Spot” for the homies to hang out 🔥“

“Epic grub! Will be back for sure!!“

“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 food!!!!❤️👍👍 must try“

“The food was great the servers were nice, however, for some I can see how the atmosphere may be a bit overwhelming. But if that isnt the case for you then dont worry, the music is popping and the soju selection and food variety is delicious!“

“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.“

“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.“

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

“Took my friend to her very first late night Korean pub. We had such a good time here and so was everyone else. It was loud and boisterous, but like I said, everyone was having a good time.
The food is pub-grade but no complaints. It was after midnight and we were HUNGRY!
garlic edamame- nice strong garlic flavor but wish it had more salt or heat . This was quickly fixed with a dish of salt.
Ramen was okay, but I liked my katsu with curry.
The service was seven stars. (remember to hit the call button if you need anything; otherwise like most asian restaurants, they try to leave you alone)
Would definitely go again for late night refueling.“

“Treat the service nice and you will get fantastic service. This is a very popular kbbq spot because the food is fantastic. Even though they are super busy they do a great job ensuring they check up on you for another round of meat and ensuring water is being filled. The meat quality is great and ensure you try the non marinated meats first to ensure you taste the great quality of meat. The place is nice, dark enough where it is intimate but bright enough so you can still see your party.“

“affordable, friendly and fast 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.“

“Yum! So many meats and goodies to choose from. I love the self-order kiosk right at the table. Prices seem reasonable given the all you can eat format.

Be aware that it is all about the meats at a place like this. Vegetables are in short supply, but condiments are available plus rice, corn, mushrooms, onions.

I highly recommend this place whether you are with your significant other, best friend or a whole group of friends. The only drawback is that they get busy and they don't take reservations. So, you may have a little bit of a wait.“

“This place is good at first I was really bummed to see bibigo disappear and was thinking that nothing would ever replace it ,but this place does a fine job at that. I really enjoyed all the food here and it has motivated me to. visit the UTC more often so I can eat here.“

“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.“