Korean food does not seem to get its due. Though its savory grilled meats are just as delicious as other cuisines, it never seems to be quite as popular as other Asian fare. If there is one thing I hope to accomplish by writing this, it is to make sure that I convince my readers to love Korean food as much as I do. What’s not to love when it comes to searing your dinner right at the table while partaking in kimchi, omelets, and all of those tasty sides that come along with them? If you are in the San Diego area and have never tried Korean food, then I encourage you to try one of these spots on your next outing. If you’re looking for delightful meal that also includes a lot of fun, then keep reading to learn about my three favorite Korean restaurants in San Diego.
Serving up tasty cuts of meat is one thing. Serving it up as an all-you-can eat option is every carnivore’s dream. Their premium cuts include my favorites such as steak and pork belly. The pork belly is extra fat but extra delicious so sometimes I let it sit on the grill a bit longer to turn the fat into crispy pork fat and it is amazing. Since I like to be just a tad adventurous, I suggest trying their teriyaki beef tongue. Yes, I know it sounds weird but I'm telling you right now it tastes very good. While you are getting your fill of all the meats you could ever want, I recommend that you wash it all down with a glass of their Korean rice wine or a chilled bottle of their authentic Korean soju. Soju is a big part of Korean BBQ and it goes well together after eating a lot of meats.
What I recommend: steak and pork belly are the best
Location: 4428 Convoy St Ste R210 San Diego, CA 92111
Located on Convoy Street, Cross Street is a great place to take a large party. If you want to know what they offer, their name says it all. My personal favorite is their Classy as Cluck chicken sandwich. It features a batter-dipped chicken thigh fried to a perfect level of crispiness with their herb mayo on a brioche bun. Those who are looking for some good, old fashioned Korean comfort food must try their kimchi fried rice topped with an over-easy egg. Bring the kids as they will love their crispy hand-held chicken tenders with a side of their savory tater tots.
What I recommend: Classy as Cluck chicken sandwich is my go to
Location: 4403 Convoy St San Diego, CA 92111
With locations in both Tucson, AZ and San Diego, Taegukgi’s menu features all of the wonderful meat options you could want alongside those traditional Korean barbecue sides. It is tough to choose just one favorite, so I order both the beef belly and spicy chicken. And though it may not be traditionally Korean, their cheese dip is an excellent side dish choice. Save room to try a little bit of each of those sides. Their pickled radish wrap and kimchi are a must-try.
What I recommend: beef belly and spicy chicken
Location: 7655 Clairemont Mesa Blvd Ste 501 San Diego, CA 92111
If you are planning to visit the San Diego area for their beaches, I would like to recommend adding a trip to one of these above spots to your vacation plans. I promise you will soon become a fan of Korean cuisine. Since most Korean barbecue restaurants offer all-you-can-eat options, then you will want to make sure you bring with you at least two things: a group of friends and a large appetite.