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
View this post on Instagram
2170 Bryant St.; 415-868-4479 / Website
Barbecue 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 hot spot has instantly garnered widespread acclaim its ultra-modern aesthetics as well as chefs Corey Lee and Jeong-In Hwang’s refined approach. The thick house-cut Galbi Mandu and Spicy Rib Cartilage Kochi are perfectly charred, and. the kimchi and silky tofu soups are also standouts. Serving dinner Wednesday to Monday (but closed on Tuesday), you'll leave satisfied after these generous portions.
View this post on Instagram
1220 9th Ave.; 415-943-6071 / Website
Located in the Inner Sunset, Chris Oh’s um.Ma is bright, inviting and sports a radiant outdoor back patio. With captivating artwork that pays tribute to Korean mothers, the acclaimed menu of elevated comfort classics include Kimchi Jjigae and perfectly grilled Kogi, creating a snug homestyle atmosphere that melds heartwarming nostalgia with sophisticated flavor. This Korean soul food favorite is open for lunch on Tuesday, closes between lunch and dinner on Wednesday and Thursday, and stays open all day from 11 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
View this post on Instagram
1560 Fillmore St.; 415-441-9294 / Website
Bansang is a landmark in Japantown due to its elegant wooden interior and rich food that evoke the noble meaning of its name, which is a traditional table setting reserved for dynastic opulence. You’ll certainly feel treasured and taken care of here with 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. Bansang is open Wednesay through Sunday.
View this post on Instagram
2151 Lombard St.; 415-613-9288 / Website
Meaning “first round” in Korean, you’ll want to go multiple rounds at this contemporary gastropub designed like a futuristic and cutting-edge art gallery. The enthralling masterpieces here come on the vast Premium Soju menu. Do try the delectable bar bites of Bulgogi Tater Tots, Cheese-stuffed Tteok Kkochi and warming Dubu Beoseot Jeongol stew. This is an impressively chic yet casual cove when you want a sleek reprieve from the bustling Cow Hollow. Do keep in mind that Ilchas is closed on Mondays.
View this post on Instagram
3814 Noriega St.; 415-731-0232 / Website
Rustic, homestyle food comes boldly spiced at Toyose. Tucked within a former garage, this spot evokes a no-frills late-night street food vibe. The spicy chicken wings are ideal for those who crave the hot challenge, while the 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 nourishing after a day out at nearby Ocean Beach. It's open even later on Friday and Saturday!
View this post on Instagram
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—an ever-popular menu item trending for its Instagrammable spectacle. Whether you come to Japantown for this iconic dish or for any of the other over-the-top bibimbap and kalbitangs, just be sure to arrive hungry and early ahead of their consistent lines! With multiple locations across the Bay Area, this original Japantown location is open for lunch and dinner every day.
View this post on Instagram
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. The 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 the Firecracker Pork or Spicy Shrimp), and a choice of three vegetable banchan. These bowls are effortless and feel incredibly healthy, packed with the freshest of flavorful veggies.
845 Irving St.; 415-665-5969 / Website
Manna is a trusted Inner Sunset cornerstone beloved by the community for over a decade due to owner Moon Young Yun’s familial style of cooking. Snug, clean and bright, Manna genuinely feels like you’ve stepped into the coziest home, ready to present to you large portions of kimchi fried rice, dolsot bibimbap, and silky soft tofu soup for less than $20. The diverse lunch menu also makes for the ultimate beacon of sustenance after exploring nearby Golden Gate Park.
View this post on Instagram
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, especially with the inventive braised short rib benedict, picture-perfect Pimped Up Ramyun, and famous Blueberry Stuffed Crunch French Toast. With both classic American and Asian-inspired options on this vast menu, Surisan will satiate all morning cravings with unbeatable seaside views!
View this post on Instagram
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 one of our favorites. As charmingly convivial as its large portions are remarkably filling, this is a family-run favorite with elegant architecture that creates a sumptuous ambiance in which to indulge in their affordable seafood, fresh housemade banchan, tofu soups, luscious glass noodles, and more.
View this post on Instagram
366 Golden Gate Ave.; 415-834-5007 / Website
Another exceptional choice near the Civic Center, Jin Mi is a gorgeous hidden gem with massive servings offered in an even more expansive menu. The cooking and atmosphere are casual, relaxed and welcoming, especially with 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 with an order of Fried Dumplings, which will be hard to share!
Now that you've got an inner glow from all that delightful food, bring that glow to your skin with a shopping spree at one of our favorite Korean skincare shops.
Photography by: Courtesy of Lawrence Lim/Unsplash
