Los Angeles Weekend Dining: From Korean Comfort Food to Sweet Treats
As the weekend approaches, Los Angeles offers a diverse culinary landscape for residents and visitors alike. With temperatures rising, many are seeking both comforting and refreshing dining experiences. This weekend, several establishments stand out as prime destinations, offering everything from hearty Korean feasts to light, early lunches and cool, sweet desserts. From bustling Koreatown to the sun-drenched patios of Victor Heights, there’s a flavor to suit every palate. A heatwave is forecast to descend upon Southern California, making the search for cool and satisfying meals all the more appealing.
The city’s vibrant food scene continues to evolve, with fresh openings and established favorites alike drawing crowds. This weekend’s recommendations highlight the breadth of Los Angeles’ culinary offerings, emphasizing both traditional flavors and innovative approaches. Whether you’re looking for a communal dining experience or a quick bite, these restaurants promise a memorable experience. The options range from sharing plates of succulent pork belly to enjoying a perfectly crafted bingsoo, providing a taste of the city’s diverse cultural influences.
A Bo Ssam Feast at Hangari Kalguksu in Koreatown
For those seeking a communal dining experience, Hangari Kalguksu in Koreatown is a standout choice. Known for its authentic Korean comfort food, the restaurant specializes in kal-guk-su (hand-cut noodle soup) and, increasingly, its celebrated bo ssam – a Korean pork belly feast. Hangari Kalguksu offers the bo ssam in three sizes, accommodating groups from two to six people. The dish features boiled and tender pork belly served with crisp cabbage leaves, garlic, jalapeños and spicy radish kimchi, designed for DIY wraps. The meal is completed with a choice of soup, rice, and assorted banchan (side dishes). A particularly popular pairing is the spicy seafood kalguksu, loaded with chewy, knife-cut noodles, making for a truly satisfying and substantial meal.
Hangari Kalguksu has been serving Los Angeles since 2012, establishing itself as a go-to destination for Korean cuisine. Beyond the bo ssam, the menu also includes options like Pork Bossam and Jowl Platter, offering variations on the classic dish. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods has earned it a loyal following. The restaurant is located at 3470 W. 6th Street Suite 9 and 10, Los Angeles, CA 90020.
Liu’s Cafe in Westwood: An Early-Bird Lunch Destination
For an early lunch option in West Los Angeles, Liu’s Cafe in Westwood is gaining popularity. The new location, a sister to the original in Koreatown, is attracting both locals and UCLA students. Liu’s Cafe is known for its Taiwanese-inspired dishes, including the highly recommended Chiayi chicken rice, cold sesame noodles with chile crisp, iced teas, and Hong Kong-style French toast. To avoid long lines, arriving 20 minutes before the 11 a.m. Opening is advised. The cafe’s small dining room features counter seating, creating a lively and communal atmosphere. Diners often enjoy a combination of sweet and savory dishes, such as Taiwanese beef noodle soup followed by kaya jam toast.
The original Liu’s Cafe in Koreatown has garnered positive reviews for its authentic flavors and quality ingredients. The Westwood location aims to replicate that success, offering a similar menu and a welcoming ambiance. The Chiayi chicken rice, with its tangy pickled radish and sweet fried shallot, is a particularly popular choice, serving as an excellent introduction to the cafe’s offerings. Liu’s Cafe is located at 1108 Gayley Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90024.
Banchan in the Sunshine at Perilla in Victor Heights
With warmer weather arriving, outdoor dining is a top priority for many. Perilla in Victor Heights offers a delightful option, situated within the charming Alpine Courtyard. Perilla specializes in Korean banchan (side dishes), allowing diners to create their own customized meals. Options include dosirak (Korean lunch boxes), gimbap (Korean seaweed rice rolls), mushroom bokkeum (stir-fried mushrooms), and various types of kimchi. For a sweet treat, nearby Bakers Bench offers a selection of vegan baked goods. The Alpine Courtyard, shared with other eateries like Bakers Bench, Heavy Water Coffee, Cassell’s Hamburgers, and Baby Bistro, provides a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Perilla’s focus on fresh, flavorful banchan makes it a unique dining destination. The ability to assemble your own meal allows for a personalized experience, catering to individual preferences. The combination of Perilla’s savory offerings and Bakers Bench’s sweet treats creates a well-rounded culinary experience. Perilla is located at 1027 Alpine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
Cooling Down with Bingsoo at Sul & Beans in Koreatown
As Los Angeles experiences a heatwave, a cool dessert is a welcome respite. Sul & Beans in Koreatown is a popular destination for bingsoo, a Korean shaved ice dessert. Sul & Beans offers multiple locations – in Koreatown, Buena Park, and Rowland Heights – and a variety of bingsoo flavors, including red bean paste, black sesame with red bean, chocolate banana, and fresh mango. The sweet corn bingsoo, encrusted with Corn Flakes, is a particularly unique and beloved option. The shaved ice is known for its flaky, snow-like texture, making it a refreshing treat on a hot day.
Bingsoo is a popular dessert in Korea, and Sul & Beans has successfully brought this tradition to Los Angeles. The dessert is best enjoyed with friends or a partner, creating a shared experience. Sul & Beans is located at 621 S. Western Avenue, Suite 208-A, Los Angeles, CA, 90005.
As the heatwave continues, these four restaurants offer a diverse range of culinary experiences to enjoy this weekend. From the hearty flavors of Hangari Kalguksu to the cool sweetness of Sul & Beans, Los Angeles’ food scene has something for everyone. The National Weather Service forecasts continued high temperatures throughout the weekend, so staying hydrated and seeking out cool dining options is advisable.
Key Takeaways:
- Hangari Kalguksu: Ideal for a communal bo ssam feast with groups of two to six.
- Liu’s Cafe: A popular spot for Taiwanese-inspired lunches, best visited shortly before opening to avoid long lines.
- Perilla: Offers a customizable banchan experience in a charming outdoor setting.
- Sul & Beans: Provides a refreshing escape from the heat with its variety of bingsoo flavors.
What are your favorite spots to dine in Los Angeles? Share your recommendations in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family!