From rich and tender Galbi, to spicy kimchi and sizzling bibimbap, Korean cuisine is a marvelous culinary experience of vibrant tastes, textures, and fresh ingredients. When you're craving something that's both comforting and nourishing, definitely stop into these best authentic Korean restaurants, all highly regarded not for their impeccable cuisine, but also for their stunning interiors and kind service.
See also: Best SF Bay Area Korean BBQ Restaurants
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2170 Bryant St / (415) 868-4479 / Website
Barbeque is a staple in Korean culture, and the recently opened SAN HO WAN is uplifting this tradition in the most luxuriously upscale way possible. Located in the Mission, this must-visit sleek and minimalist hotspot has instantly garnered widespread acclaim for both their ultra-modern aesthetics as well as Chef Corey Lee and Jeong-In Hwang's refined approach to barbeque, perfectly charring their thick house-cut Galbi Mandu and Spicy Rib Cartilage Kochi. Their kimchi and silky tofu soup are also standouts, and all in generous portions.
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1220 9th Ave / (415) 566-5777 / Website
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1560 Fillmore Street / (415) 441-9294 / Website
Opened in spring of 2022, Bansang became an immediate landmark in Japantown due to their elegant wooden interior and rich food that evoke the noble meaning of their name, which is a traditional table setting reserved for dynastic opulence. You'll certainly feel treasured and taken care of here with their perfectly-portioned tapas of Uni Scallop Toast, Korean Steak Tartare, Jang Cream Pasta, and more, all served simultaneously for a highly dynamic and stimulating dining experience fit for royalty.
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2151 Lombard St / (415) 613-9288 / Website
Meaning "first round" in Korean, you'll definitely want to go multiple rounds at this contemporary gastropub designed like a futuristic and cutting-edge art gallery. The enthralling masterpieces here are their vast Premium Soju menu, and their delectable bar bites of Bulgogi Tater Tots, Cheese-stuffed Tteok Kkochi, and warming Dubu Beoseot Jeongol stew. Opened in Spring 2022, this is an impressively chic, yet casual cove when you want a sleek reprieve from the bustling Cow Hollow.
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3814 Noriega St / (415) 731-0232 / Website
Rustic, homestyle, and boldly spicy, Toyose is tucked within a former garage and authentically evokes a no-frills late-night street food vibe. The spicy chicken wings are ideal for those who crave the hot challenge, while their kimchi pancakes, Spam and ramyeon stew, and corn cheese are comforting snacks that are truly revitalizing when you need something affordable and quick after midnight. This is the ultimate casual first-come, first-serve style hidden gem of a pub that's generous, charming, and absolutely nourishing after a day out at nearby Ocean Beach.
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1620 Post St / (415) 563-1388 / Website
A mountain of beef short ribs, spicy sauce, and chewy rice cakes, all generously topped with a plethora of cheese that's blow torched tableside for a freshly broiled crust- what more could you need? This is Daeho's specialty- the Kalbijjim, and it is an ever-popular menu item that has trended for its Instagrammable spectacle. Whether you come to Japantown for this iconic dish, or for any of their other over-the-top bibimbap and kalbitangs, just be sure to arrive hungry and early ahead of their consistent lines!
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154 McAllister St / (415) 795-8777 / Website
HoM is located just off of the Asian Art Museum and City Hall, and makes for a highly efficient and casual meal after such monumental sightseeing. Their service is just as impressive, allowing you to fully customize your bowl in three easy steps by picking- a base of rice, quinoa, or salad, a protein (we love their Firecracker Pork or Spicy Shrimp), and a choice of three vegetable banchan. These bowls are ingenious, effortless, and feel incredibly healthy being packed with the freshest of flavorful veggies.
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845 Irving St / (415) 665-5969 / Website
Manna is a trusted Inner Sunset cornerstone that has been beloved by the community for over a decade due to owner Moon Young Yun's familial style cooking. Snug, clean, and bright, Manna genuinely feels like you've stepped into the coziest home, ready to present to you the most affordable large portions of kimchi fried rice, dolsot bibimbap, and silky soft tofu soup, each for under $20! The diverse lunch menu also can't be beat, making for the ultimate beacon of sustenance after exploring nearby Golden Gate Park.
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505 Beach St / (415) 771-8449 / Website
Our luxurious brunch option is Surisan by the innovative owners of Bay Area favorites Sweet Maple and Kitchen Story. Located in Fisherman's Wharf, this is a must-visit choice to start your day with, especially with their inventive braised short rib benedict, picture-perfect Pimped Up Ramyun, and famous Blueberry Stuffed Crunch French Toast. With both a classic American and an Asian-inspired options to their vast menu, Surisan will satiate all morning cravings, especially with their unbeatable seaside view!
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1802 Balboa St / (415) 752-4447 / Website
The Richmond is a renowned neighborhood for authentic Asian cuisine from small mom-and-pop businesses, and Han Il Kwan is as charmingly convivial as their large portions are remarkably filling. This is a family-run favorite with elegant architecture that creates a sumptuous ambience to indulge in their affordable seafood, fresh house-made banchan, tofu soups, luscious glass noodles, and more.
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366 Golden Gate Ave / (415) 834-5007 / Website
Another exceptional choice near the Civic Center, Jin Mi is gorgeous hidden gem with massive servings offered in their even more expansive menu. Their cooking amd atmosphere are casual, relaxed, and welcoming, especially with their many under $20 offerings. You must try the spicy Chicken Bulgogi, the crispy Kimchi Pajun pancake, and the jam-packed Meat Lover's Soup. Don't forget to start off with an order of their Fried Dumplings, which will truly be hard to share!
Picturesque settings, incredible cooking, positively pleasant service- these restaurants truly have it all!
See also: 5 San Francisco Korean Beauty Shops For The Best Skincare Products
Photography by: Courtesy of Lawrence Lim/Unsplash
