In Chicago, experiencing the joy of Korean cuisine goes beyond just barbecue. From bibimbap to kimchi pancakes and hearty stews, the city's Korean lineup offers a variety of delights.
Whether you crave traditional or fusion dishes, Chicago's best Korean restaurants have you covered. From old-school classics to innovative fusion spots, explore the rich flavors here.
After the pandemic, Chefs Johnny Clark and Beverly Kim updated the menu to feature more traditional Korean flavors. Parachute's new menu includes aged bulgogi, cured fish, and Ssam with pork belly and collar.
They've also added more wine options and a variety of Korean drinks. It's a funky-chic spot serving modern and creative Korean-American dishes and a selection of wines and cocktails.
Address: 3500 N Elston Ave
It's a comfortable Korean restaurant in Chicago where you can bring your own drinks. Lucky if there's no line! They offer a cook-your-own-meat BBQ, along with a variety of traditional soups and noodles.
It's a straightforward place with no fancy frills, just good Korean food. Don't miss the chance to try this Korean staple, Cho Sun Ok, if you're in the area.
Address: 4200 N Lincoln Ave
This no-frills, family-owned eatery serves up Asian fusion delights with a twist. The Korean BBQ tacos served on grilled corn tortillas steal the show with choices like sesame-chili shrimp, spicy BBQ pork, and blackened tofu.
If you're feeling adventurous, dive into kalbi poutine with braised short rib and beef gravy or the spicy calamari stir-fry served in a traditional hot pot.
Address: 2568 N Clark St
It's the ideal late-night Korean restaurants Chicago, perfect for satisfying hunger after some drinks. They offer excellent banchan, kimchi-jjigae, seafood pancakes, and grilled meats. They remain a rare Korean barbecue joint that uses charcoal.
At San Soo Gab San, diners get to cook their own meats on charcoal grills built into each table.
Address: 5247 N Western Ave
BiXi Beer is a modern brewpub that offers Korean, Chinese and Vietnamese inspired cuisine and a house-brewed beer infused with Asian flavors.
The menu includes cheesy rose rice cakes, a spicy fried chicken sandwich, and beef bulgogi poutine. Don't miss the special Korean fried chicken on Wednesdays.
Address: 2515 N Milwaukee Ave
This Korean restaurants in Chicago keeps it simple with a short but delightful menu. Customers can enjoy bowls of bibimbap, mandu dumplings, japchae, and tacos served on Indian-style paratha.
A sister restaurant, En Hakkore 2.0 in Wicker Park, expands its offerings with items like kimchi, sushi bowls, and bulgogi fries. Both spots are counter-served, dishing out Korean classics, tacos, sandwiches, and sushi in a trendy setting.
At this modern Korean eatery, SoJu BBQ, servers handle the grilling for you in a sleek and minimalist setting. They serve updated Korean cuisine and offer delivery services.
As the best Korean restaurant in Chicago, they provide delicious food alongside soju for you. So, experience the convenience of a modern Korean BBQ with a contemporary twist at this establishment.
Address: 36 S Ashland Ave
This laid-back Korean BBQ spot, Gogi, offers tabletop grills and extended hours. They provide a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy late-night dining, alongside beer and wine options.
Featuring a diverse selection of meats, there are wide variety to choose for those looking to savor delicious barbecue flavors in a local setting.
Address: 6240 N California Ave
A cozy and well-established restaurant, Ssyal serves homestyle Korean dishes, smoothies, and teas in a charming space. If you're feeling unwell, their specialty, Samgye-tang, is the perfect remedy.
A whole Cornish hen is stuffed with glutinous rice, jujubes, garlic, and ginseng root, then simmered to create a nourishing broth. It's served with sweet brown rice and mixed greens. As a result, these Korean restaurants in Chicago offer a comforting and wholesome option.
Address: 4201 W Lawrence Ave
This trendy place offers traditional Korean cuisine, creative cocktails, and sake in a cozy, dimly lit setting. Customers appreciate the great service and delicious dishes at reasonable prices.
With its hip vibe and a blend of traditional flavors with modern twists, this Chicago Korean restaurant provides a satisfying and enjoyable dining atmosphere.
Address: 5203 N Clark St
For an incredible Korean BBQ experience in Chicago, check out Daebak Korean BBQ in Chinatown. The food is fantastic! The venue has an industrial-chic vibe and offers table-grilled Korean BBQ alongside other classics in a cool decor setting.
It's an ideal choice if you're craving street-style bites or sizzling BBQ delights. It's a two-story establishment with street food served downstairs and BBQ options available upstairs.
Address: 2017 South Wells Street, Square
Experience upscale Korean dining at this authentic bistro in downtown Chicago. This sleek lounge offers a speakeasy vibe, focusing on genuine Korean cuisine and pub-style dishes.
Enjoy a variety of Korean drinks and cocktails from a full bar. With indoor dining, a full bar, and private karaoke, this upscale Korean Pocha is a stylish destination to savor authentic Korean flavors.
Address: Lower Level, 1132 S Wabash Ave
Enjoy Korean barbecue in a spacious venue with high ceilings, brick-walled industrial decor, and table grills.
Perilla focuses on Korean American Cuisine, emphasizing communal dining. Inspired by classic Korean flavors, they offer traditional dishes with new and exciting twists.
Address: 401 N Milwaukee Ave
This little spot in Lincoln Square is famous for ox bone soup, a special soup from Seoul.
The cozy milky white broth, Seolleongtang, is filled with noodles and various cuts of cow-like brisket, flank steak, tripe, tendon, and tongue. You can customize it with salt, green onions, and chili paste.
Address: 2723 W Lawrence Ave
