Dan Sung Sa

Step into Dan Sung Sa on a busy weekend evening and you’ll find yourself transported into the beating heart of Koreatown nightlife. This dimly lit Korean tavern on 6th Street is where groups of friends gather around graffiti-covered wooden booths, soju bottles stacking up as the hours melt away. Smoke drifts through the air from the central grill, the sounds of sizzling meat and lively conversation creating an atmosphere that makes time stand still.

The extensive menu arrives on oversized wooden blocks, featuring nearly a hundred different anju—traditional Korean bar snacks meant to accompany drinks. The skewers are the real stars here, with over two dozen varieties to choose from. Sweet scallops, crunchy shrimp, and spicy chicken all come off the grill with perfectly charred exteriors and an irresistible smokiness. Order at least a handful because they go fast. Beyond the skewers, the tteokbokki loaded with plump rice cakes soaking up that sweet-spicy gochujang sauce is absolutely essential, especially with ramen noodles mixed in.

While Dan Sung Sa is undeniably a drinking establishment—the soju flows freely and the Hite bottles pile up—the food holds its own regardless of how much you’ve had. The bulgogi with glass noodles makes for excellent sharing, the kimchi pancake has a satisfying crackle, and the cheese corn is basically mandatory for any proper Ktown night out.

This is the kind of place where you check your phone and suddenly realize three hours have vanished. If you’re looking for LA’s most authentic late-night experience—complete with incredible food, endless drinks, and an energy you won’t find anywhere else—Dan Sung Sa delivers every time.