Finding the best Korean restaurant in Chicago is easy, as the city has a robust and diverse dining scene. While Chicago is known for its celebrated favorites like hot dogs and deep-dish pizza, the city’s range of Korean restaurants is equally impressive.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot for Korean barbecue with friends or a cozy destination for classic dishes like bibimbap, here are the top options for the best Korean restaurant in Chicago, Illinois.
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Read on to discover the 9 best Korean restaurants in Chicago.
For a steakhouse experience infused with Korean flavors — head to PERILLA steakhouse (Downtown/Loop)
PERILLA steakhouse combines the best of both worlds—fancy chophouse fare with traditional Korean ingredients and dishes. Choose from a la carte or pre-set menus starring luxe cuts of meat like wagyu and ibérico prepared on tabletop grills. Pair them with seasonal banchan and dishes like rice cake cacio e pepe in a stylish space with sprawling banquette seating and light wood accents.
For a Korean barbecue feast — book a table at Daebak Korean BBQ (Wicker Park)
Head to Daebak Korean BBQ for a choose-your-own-adventure Korean barbecue experience. Ideal for large groups and celebrations, the menu includes a variety of meat combos along with traditional dishes like veggie pajeon (scallion pancake), Korean chicken wings, and banchan galore. The light-filled industrial space is inviting and convivial, and the tableside barbecue is a great conversation starter.
For Korean American barbecue in a contemporary setting — head to PERILLA fare (West Loop)
The sibling spot to the beloved namesake steakhouse, PERILLA fare serves up Korean American flavors and traditional ingredients in a more casual setting. Focused on barbecue, the restaurant’s menu stars locally sourced meat for tableside grilling, plus dishes like honey butter potatoes and dwenjang (fermented soybean paste) stew. The stylish, art-filled interior and impeccable service make this MICHELIN BIB Gourmand recipient a contender for the best Korean restaurant in Chicago,
For street-style food at the best Korean restaurant in Chicago — head to TAK Korean Bistro (South Loop)
South Korea is known for its pochas (street food tents) that serve Korean casual dining favorites like spicy ramen, crispy fried wings, and kimchi pancakes. TAK Korean Bistro brings that outdoor food experience indoors, with a traditional street food-forward menu that includes made-for-sharing plates along with suggested beverage pairings. Signature dishes include fried pork belly and popcorn chicken. For a fun night out, book one of the private karaoke rooms.
For Korean fusion and barbecue — check out SoJu BBQ (West Loop)
SoJu BBQ focuses on Korean staples like bulgogi and kimchi fried rice, while also preparing innovative fare like Korean tacos, which come in beef, chicken, or tofu options. The loaded fries with kimchi and sweet soy sauce are a favorite, ideal for sharing with large groups or families. Don’t miss inventive Korean alcoholic beverages like the yogurt soju pitcher, which features house-made yogurt.
For a bar setting with Korean cuisine and entertainment — reserve a table at Miki’s Park (River North)
Miki’s Park presents a dynamic bar setting backed by crowd-pleasing Korean fusion dishes, including tiger fries and Seoul sliders. The colorful, neon-lit bar interior is host to a roster of lively entertainment and events, where you can enjoy DJ nights like K-Pop and House Fridays and open mic. Keeping the party going, Miki’s menu of cocktails highlights Korean soju alongside ingredients like lychee puree. The ambience makes it great for groups looking for a fun night out.
For Korean pub fare at the best Korean restaurant in Chicago for creative cocktails — make a reservation at Palilgu (Logan Square)
Chicago’s Palilgu features a menu structured around classic Korean dishes balanced by fusion-style cuisine. Sample noodle dishes like mushroom japchae along with elegant, made-for-sharing plates like steak tartare and hamachi crudo. Wash it all down with a Makgeoli or Korean beer in the modern, inviting space.
For homestyle Korean cooking — book a table at Mister Tiger (West Town)
Seeking to recreate the homestyle cooking of the founders’ upbringing, Mister Tiger focuses on traditional Korean dishes like ssam and stews. Settle into the cozy, stylish interior to dig into favorites like dumplings and chive pancakes, while locals consider Mister Tiger’s inviting interior a hidden gem and top date spot. Don’t miss standout dishes like galbijjim and spicy cod.
For a high-end Korean dining experience — reserve a place at Jeong (West Town)
To experience the best Korean restaurant in Chicago in a stunning space, book a table at Jeong. The compact menu stars elegant and contemporary Korean dishes like cod prepared alongside bugeoguk, shimeiji, Napa cabbage, and gochugaru. The chic interior and refined, artistic plating make Jeong a top spot for special occasions and celebrations as well as a fancy solo night out.
If you’re looking for the best Korean restaurant in Chicago, there are plenty of options to suit all occasions. Choose from Korean barbecue, inventive fusion fare, and traditional favorites, plus restaurants with fun social aspects like karaoke and K-Pop.
