Shiku

Tucked inside the bustling halls of Grand Central Market, Shiku brings a fresh perspective to Korean comfort food. This counter-service stall comes from the creative minds behind the beloved Baroo, and it shows in every thoughtfully composed dish. The setup is casual and fast-paced, perfect for grabbing lunch on the go or settling onto a market stool to people-watch while you eat.

The menu shines brightest with its rice boxes, which arrive packed with protein, fluffy white rice, and a rotating selection of banchan. The LA Galbi dosirak features melt-in-your-mouth braised short ribs with gorgeous marbling that makes each bite impossibly tender. For something lighter, the Maekjuk Chicken delivers glazed chicken breast coated in a nutty soybean powder that adds layers of smoky, umami-rich flavor. Vegetarians shouldn’t miss the Temple Tangsu—crispy mushroom bites that rival any fried chicken in satisfaction.

What sets Shiku apart is its playful approach to banchan. Rather than the usual suspects, you’ll find creative preparations like spicy kimchi corn, seaweed japchae, and a crunchy dried shrimp and anchovy mix that’s dangerously snackable. The selection rotates with the seasons, giving regulars a reason to keep coming back.

This is the kind of spot that makes Downtown LA’s food scene so exciting—unpretentious, affordable, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re fueling up for a day of exploring the market or just craving something that feels both familiar and surprising, Shiku delivers exactly what you need.