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Korean food is showing up everywhere these days, and people can’t get enough of it. From cool neighborhood spots to busy street markets, K-cuisine is popping up on menus all over the world. With tongue-tingling flavors, eye-catching presentations, and a healthy balance, it’s no surprise everyone’s falling in love with Korean food.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and the Korean Food Promotion Institute just recognized seven restaurants overseas as “Outstanding Korean Restaurants,” celebrating their authenticity, quality, and contribution to spreading K-food culture internationally.
What It Means to Be “Outstanding”
The Outstanding Korean Restaurant program isn’t just an award. It’s a rigorous recognition of excellence. Restaurants are evaluated across 27 criteria, including the quality of their dishes, use of Korean ingredients, service, and hygiene standards. The program aims to boost trust in Korean cuisine worldwide and highlight the cultural and culinary authenticity of K-food. The ministry has noted plans to expand the program to 100 restaurants globally by 2030, strengthening Korean cuisine’s international footprint.
The 7 Restaurants to Watch
This year, the following 7 Korean establishments earned the distinction:
Singapore: Nae:um, Seoul Restaurant, Um Yong Baek Paris: Soon Grill Champs-Elysees Los Angeles: Baroo, Daedo Sikdang, Soowon Galbi
These restaurants are more just than dining spots, they are ambassadors of Korean culture and cuisine.
Korean Highlights from Los Angeles Baroo
Baroo is reinventing fermentation through a modern, artful lens with lobster doenjang, soy‑braised black cod, succulent short ribs, and rice paired with wild namul greens. In 2024, the restaurant was named Los Angeles Times’ Restaurant of the Year, and by 2025 it had already secured a spot on The All-Time Eater 38 list solidifying its status as a must‑visit destination for lovers of forward‑thinking Korean cuisine.
Daedo Sikdang brings the soul of Seoul‑style barbecue straight to Los Angeles, offering impeccably marinated ribeye and bulgogi grilled tableside, followed by their signature kimchi‑inspired fried rice. It’s a must‑try for anyone craving authentic, high‑quality Korean barbecue in L.A.
Soowon Galbi delivers an immersive Korean barbecue experience with grilling stations and premium meat in the heart of Koreatown. The restaurant has also earned a spot in the 2024 edition of the Michelin Guide.
Whether you’re a devoted foodie or just beginning to explore Korean cuisine, these restaurants represent the pinnacle of what Korean culinary culture has to offer in Los Angeles.