Hojokban

Step into Hojokban and you’ll immediately sense this isn’t your typical Korean restaurant. Tucked away in LA’s Arts District, this Seoul and NYC import brings a sleek, sophisticated vibe with forest foliage wallpaper, dark wood accents, and a striking long stone bar. Yet despite the polished Soho-esque surroundings, there’s an unmistakable energy here—tables cracking open bottles of makgeolli with the same enthusiasm you’d find on a rowdy Friday night in Koreatown.

The menu strikes a brilliant balance between refined and playful. You’ll find clever touches everywhere, from bacon fried rice dramatically presented in an overturned ramen cup to a large crispy pancake reimagined with army stew flavors. The soju cocktails hit hard in the best way, and the complimentary banchan that kicks off every meal sets the tone for what’s to come. For those looking to go all out, there’s even the option to add caviar and uni to any dish.

While the more elaborate preparations are impressive, the simpler dishes truly shine here. The beef tartare, dressed in a delicate sesame sauce, practically melts on your tongue. The octopus tteokbokki delivers satisfying chew from both the tender seafood and the springy rice cakes. And the galbi? Those short rib slices achieve a tenderness that’s genuinely remarkable—fork-tender doesn’t even begin to describe it.

What makes Hojokban perfect for a memorable night out is how effortlessly it combines quality with personality. Service runs smooth, the atmosphere encourages celebration, and when you think dinner is over, your server appears with a chilled bucket of Melona bars for dessert—on the house. It’s these thoughtful touches that transform a great meal into an experience worth repeating.