Discovering Buena Park’s Koreatown
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Discovering Buena Park’s Koreatown

Buena Park's Koreatown has garnered a reputation in Southern California for its vibrant scene, boasting over 90 diverse and delectable restaurants, unique shopping, and lively atmosphere. Renowned for offering some of the best Korean BBQ experiences outside of Korea, the area is home to several eateries that originated in Korea and have chosen Buena Park as their sole US location. The neighborhood begins on Rosecrans Avenue and Beach Boulevard, and leads all the way to Orangethorpe Avenue. Exploring this 2.5-mile stretch is a breeze, thanks to ample free parking and easily walkable areas filled with interesting things to discover. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, let this guide and map be your gateway to Koreatown in Buena Park.
Korean hot dogs at Myungrang Hot Dog at The Source OC in Buena Park, CA

Wander Around at The Source OC
At The Source OC, the city’s premium dining and entertainment destination, you'll find endless Instagram-worthy food options to satisfy your cravings and elevate your social media game. At Basilur Tea, foodies will indulge on a feast for the eyes and taste buds with their iconic soufflé pancakes that come in unique flavors like banana, ube, and matcha. Ultra crispy fried chicken can be found at Pelicana Chicken, where those with an elite spice tolerance will be impressed by their fiery “hot spicy” sauce. Enjoy the ultimate cheese pull at Myungrang Hot Dog, where the twist on the American tradition is made with mochi flour that results in the perfect crispy, yet chewy bite. Italian food fans will love the wood fire pizzas at Il Fiora, with a gorgonzola pie that is proof that sometimes the simplest ingredients make for the best recipes. Desserts like macarons at SweetBox, strawberry croffles (an ingenious cross between a croissant and a waffle) at Don Melt, or earl grey soft serve at Overflo also need to be on every sweet tooth’s list of must do’s. After you fill up on some of the best eats in town, explore boutiques with high-end clothing lines, Korean skincare (said to be the best in the world), a KPOP Center for aspiring stars, and more.

Those looking for an evening out can venture over to Misoolkwan OC, where they are well known for their family-style corn cheese platter and extensive list of Soju flavors to cheers to with friends. Movie buffs can also catch the latest American and Korean blockbusters in 4D at CGV Cinemas, with subtitles in English and Korean available for their respective films. For those looking to release their inner KPOP star, EKO Karaoke Lounge offers private karaoke rooms perfect for singing your heart out with your best friends. For a memorable keepsake, don’t miss out on Photogram OC or Life4Cuts for a fun photo studio experience and prints you can take home with you.

Bulgoli pizza at Koreatown Pizza Co. in Buena Park, CA

Choose from 90+ Diverse Restaurants
Dining in Koreatown offers a culinary adventure like no other, with restaurants that cater to every taste. Koreatown Pizza Co. stands out with its over-the-top pizzas featuring toppings like bulgogi and sweet potato, blending Korean flavors with a classic favorite. Kyung Bok Kung is a must-visit for those seeking a taste of han-jeongsik, a traditional Korean multi-course meal that showcases the essence of Korean cuisine. And don't forget to stop by Smoking Tiger Coffee and Bread for their famous cream cheese garlic bread, a delectable treat that perfectly combines sweet and savory flavors.

You don’t have to travel all the way to Korea for some of the best Korean BBQ out there. Right here in Buena Park, you can visit Gangnam Station, home to some of the most premium cuts of meat, with their all-you-can-eat wagyu and buffet-style banchan. Arisu’s top tier dining package includes prime cuts such as ribeye steak, short rib, and brisket which should be paired with their kimchi soup for added umami. Cham Soot Gol is a local favorite, with fun perks like a service button at every table so you never have to wait more than a moment for the next round of food. Kings stands out with their real charcoal grills and specialty pork rib, which has a delightful smokiness added to every bite. At M Korean, you can order the classic meat options with a side of their bright wild vegetable or beef tartare bibimbap for the table. Saemaeul prides itself on their Yeoltan Bulgolgi, a tender pork cut marinated in their special house sauce and grilled to perfection.

Wagyu beef at Gangnam Station in Buena Park, CA

Stock Up on Unique Snacks
No trip to Koreatown would be complete without indulging in its array of delicious Korean snacks, and you're in luck with the variety of grocery stores available. HMart, Zion Market, and Hannam Chain Super Market are just a few of the places where you can find a diverse selection of snacks to fulfill your cravings. From iconic spicy rice cakes to the addictive shrimp chips, these stores offer a flavorful glimpse into Korean cuisine that you can savor at home or on your travels. Don't miss the chance to explore the aisles of these stores and discover a world of unique eats waiting to be enjoyed.

Explore Local Vendors
Koreatown is also home to a vibrant community of local vendors offering one-of-a-kind finds and treasures. Places like Home Shopping World, Jane Boutique, Jin Department Store, Tiffany Gift, and many more are where you can discover hidden gems and support local businesses. Whether you're looking for stylish clothing, artisanal gifts, or authentic Korean goods, these local vendors have something for everyone.

After a long day of excitement, choose from over a dozen comfortable and affordable hotels in Buena Park to stay in after your day of exploring Koreatown. Check out our ‘suite’ hotel and ticket deals. To start planning your SoCal vacation, order your FREE Buena Park Travel Guide.

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