Best Cheap Carnivore Restaurants in Koreatown | Cheap & Carnivore

30 restaurants in Best Cheap Carnivore Restaurants in Koreatown | Cheap & Carnivore

• Osamil — Korean · rated 5/5: Osamil pulses with a sleek, urban energy, where the rhythmic clatter of the bar and the glow of the open kitchen set the stage for a sophisticated take on communal dining. The air carries the intoxicating scent of charred galbi chicken and spicy gochujang-glazed pork belly, complemented by the crunch of golden squid fries and the earthy depth of roasted shiitakes. It is a place where bold, smoky flavors meet refined technique, inviting guests to linger over plates of succulent short rib and tender seared scallops in an atmosphere that feels both electric and intimate.
• Tipsy Shanghai — Chinese · rated 5/5: Tipsy Shanghai captures the spirited essence of old-world China, where the sweet, nutty aroma of Shaoxing wine and fragrant osmanthus perfumes the air. Diners delight in the theater of hand-pleated xiaolongbao bursting with savory broth, complemented by a tapestry of traditional cold plates ranging from smoky, crisp carp to tender salted duck. This elegant retreat brings together time-honored Shanghainese techniques and bold, marinated flavors for a dining experience that is both nostalgic and deeply soul-warming.
• Albert's Bar — American · rated 5/5: Albert's Bar pulses with a sophisticated energy, offering a stylish retreat where the art of the cocktail meets a playful, globally-inspired menu of elevated bites. Guests can graze through a landscape of bold textures and vibrant flavors, from the smoky allure of Castelvetrano olives and the fiery heat of Nashville chicken drummies to the crisp, golden indulgence of forbidden rice arancini. It is a lively haven designed for lingering over shared plates and spirited conversation, where every dish feels like a modern, artisanal celebration of the classic bar experience.
• Dough Doughnuts — American · rated 5/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary of sweetness where the air is thick with the scent of warm yeast and toasted sugar, and oversized, pillowy brioche doughnuts are elevated to an edible art form. Lustrous glazes in hues of hibiscus pink and deep blueberry coat each handcrafted ring, while textures range from the delicate crunch of cocoa nibs and toasted almonds to the zesty brightness of lemon poppy seed. Whether indulging in a classic cinnamon sugar dusting or a sophisticated café au lait creation, every bite offers a decadent escape into a world of bold, imaginative flavors.
• Take Care — American · rated 4.9/5: Take Care envelops guests in a sanctuary of intentional hospitality, where the warm hum of conversation meets a menu that celebrates the soulful depth of American heritage cooking. From the golden sear of locally sourced meats to the vibrant crunch of farm-fresh produce, every dish feels like a thoughtful gesture, served in a space that balances modern refinement with the comforting embrace of home.
• Çka ka Qellue — Mediterranean · rated 4.8/5: Stepping through the doors feels like a journey to a rustic Albanian village, where rough-hewn stone walls and antique artifacts create a space steeped in old-world charm. The kitchen breathes life into centuries-old traditions, filling the air with the aroma of slow-simmered stews and golden, layered pastries that arrive at the table with a sense of heartfelt hospitality. It is a place where every bite of tender, wood-fired meat and house-made bread tells a story of heritage, inviting diners to linger in the warm, candlelit glow of a truly transportive dining experience.
• Omakase Osukaa — Japanese · rated 4.8/5: At Omakase Osukaa, the hushed intimacy of a minimalist counter sets the stage for a choreographed dance of precision, where the chef’s steady hands transform the day’s freshest catch into edible art. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of temperature and texture, from the melt-in-your-mouth richness of fatty tuna to the bright, clean snap of seasonal garnishes. It is an immersive experience that celebrates the quiet elegance of Japanese tradition, inviting guests to lose themselves in the delicate, unfolding narrative of a masterfully curated meal.
• Tara Rose — American · rated 4.7/5: Cascading florals and plush velvet nooks transform this neighborhood gem into a whimsical sanctuary where the air hums with the clink of artisanal glassware and lively conversation. The kitchen breathes new life into American comfort, layering nostalgic flavors with modern flair to create soul-warming plates that pair effortlessly with botanical-infused cocktails. From sun-drenched afternoon brunches to intimate, candlelit evenings, every corner invites guests to linger in an atmosphere that feels both vibrantly social and charmingly tucked away.
• Keens Steakhouse — Steakhouse · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into Keens feels like a journey back to old Manhattan, where thousands of long-stemmed clay pipes blanket the ceiling and the air is thick with the savory perfume of wood smoke and history. Deep leather banquettes and dark wood paneling create a clubby, timeless sanctuary where the legendary mutton chop reigns supreme alongside perfectly charred, dry-aged steaks and the amber glow of a world-class scotch collection.
• Planta — American · rated 4.6/5: Bathed in natural light and adorned with cascading greenery, this chic sanctuary reimagines American comfort through a vibrant, plant-forward lens that feels both indulgent and refreshing. From the first bite of artfully composed plates to the lingering notes of botanical cocktails, the experience is a high-energy celebration of seasonal ingredients served in a space that pulses with modern sophistication.
• Boqueria Spanish Tapas — Spanish · rated 4.6/5: Boqueria transports diners to the heart of a bustling Spanish market, where the air hums with the energy of shared laughter and the irresistible aroma of garlic-infused shrimp and smoky chorizo. Sunlight filters through a space defined by rustic textures and communal warmth, inviting guests to linger over vibrant tapas and chilled carafes of sangria that capture the sun-drenched spirit of the Mediterranean.
• Hangawi — Korean · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into this serene sanctuary feels like entering a hidden temple, where the gentle scent of incense and the ritual of removing one's shoes immediately transport diners away from the city's frantic pace. Guests settle into low wooden tables to discover a meditative celebration of Korean vegetarian cuisine, where vibrant mountain roots and earthy mushrooms are transformed into artful, soul-warming stone bowls that honor the harmony of nature.
• BaoDega — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into BaoDega feels like entering a vibrant urban sanctuary where the rhythmic clatter of woks and the sweet, yeasty aroma of steaming dough create an immediate sense of warmth. Hand-pleated bao arrive in delicate clouds of vapor, revealing succulent fillings that burst with ginger and soy, while bowls of silken noodles swim in deeply savory, long-simmered broths. This lively corner brings together the soulful comfort of traditional Chinese street food with a sleek, contemporary energy, making every meal feel like a spirited celebration of flavor.
• Emporium Brasil Restaurant — Brazilian · rated 4.6/5: Emporium Brasil captures the soulful pulse of South America, inviting diners into a lively space where the savory scent of garlic-rubbed picanha and slow-simmered black bean stews fills the air. The experience is a vibrant celebration of flavor, from the satisfying crunch of golden pão de queijo to the refreshing chill of a lime-infused caipirinha, all served amidst an atmosphere of spirited warmth and rhythmic charm.
• Il Punto Ristorante — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into Il Punto Ristorante feels like entering a refined Italian villa where the soft clink of wine glasses and the warm glow of amber lighting set the stage for an intimate evening. The kitchen transforms seasonal ingredients into poetic plates of silken handmade pasta and tender braised meats, each bite a harmonious balance of rustic tradition and modern elegance. It is a place where time slows down over lingering pours of Chianti and the comforting embrace of authentic flavors, capturing the true spirit of Mediterranean hospitality.
• Just Salad — American · rated 4.6/5: Step into a sun-drenched, modern space where the rhythmic chop of chef-knives and the vibrant scent of garden-fresh herbs signal a refreshing departure from the ordinary. Here, oversized bowls become a canvas for a kaleidoscope of seasonal harvests, blending crisp textures and bold, house-made dressings into a nourishing ritual that fuels the body and delights the senses.
• Olde City — American · rated 4.6/5: Olde City captures the spirit of a bustling neighborhood tavern where the aroma of seared beef and toasted rolls drifts through an inviting space of exposed brick and warm wood. It is a place where the clink of chilled pint glasses punctuates lively conversation, offering a soulful tribute to American classics through perfectly charred burgers and authentic, melt-in-your-mouth cheesesteaks.
• The Landing — American · rated 4.6/5: The Landing invites guests into a breezy, nautical-inspired sanctuary where the rhythmic sound of lapping waves complements a menu of elevated American classics. From the smoky char of a prime ribeye to the bright, zesty crunch of farm-to-table greens, every dish celebrates bold, nostalgic flavors served against a backdrop of shimmering waterfront views. It is a place where the simple joy of a shared meal is elevated by the warm glow of a harbor sunset and the effortless charm of a coastal retreat.
• The Dawson 39 — American · rated 4.6/5: The Dawson 39 unfolds as a sophisticated urban retreat where the warmth of reclaimed wood and the amber glow of a bustling bar set the stage for a soulful exploration of American cuisine. The kitchen transforms seasonal ingredients into vibrant, hearth-fired masterpieces, balancing the smoky depth of grilled meats with the crisp brightness of local harvests. Every visit offers a seamless blend of neighborhood comfort and culinary artistry, making it an essential destination for those who crave a dining experience that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern.
• Ichiran — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Step into a focused sanctuary of flavor where individual wooden booths invite a meditative devotion to the art of the perfect bowl. The air hums with the quiet intensity of diners savoring velvety tonkotsu broth, its creamy depth punctuated by a signature kick of spicy red sauce and the satisfying snap of artisanal thin noodles.
• Vezzo — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in the warm glow of exposed brick and flickering candlelight, this neighborhood gem invites diners into a rustic sanctuary where the air is perfumed with the scent of bubbling mozzarella and toasted flour. Artisanal, paper-thin crusts shatter with a satisfying crunch, providing a delicate canvas for vibrant Mediterranean toppings and rich, velvety sauces that celebrate the soulful simplicity of Italian tradition. Every visit feels like a spirited escape to a bustling Roman side street, where time slows down over a shared bottle of robust red and a perfectly charred pie.
• Poké Bar — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: This vibrant, modern haunt brings the freshness of the Pacific to the table, inviting guests to assemble colorful bowls brimming with jewel-toned raw fish and crisp, seasonal garnishes. Each bite offers a refreshing harmony of textures, where the silky richness of premium seafood meets the bright tang of house-made marinades and the satisfying crunch of toasted toppings for a light yet deeply flavorful escape.
• Veggie Grill — American · rated 4.5/5: This bright, modern sanctuary reimagines the quintessential American diner experience, trading heavy traditions for a vibrant, plant-based menu that pulses with freshness and flavor. From the satisfying crunch of golden-fried favorites to the colorful zest of nutrient-packed bowls, every dish celebrates the bounty of the garden in a lively atmosphere that feels both wholesome and indulgent.
• Leonetta — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Leonetta invites diners into a glowy, candlelit sanctuary where the rhythmic toss of hand-rolled pasta and the bright pop of uncorked prosecco set the tempo for an evening of effortless elegance. Each plate serves as a love letter to regional Italian traditions, blending the soulful depth of slow-simmered sauces with vibrant, seasonal ingredients to create a dining experience that feels like a spirited, sun-soaked escape.
• Valerie — American · rated 4.4/5: Stepping into Valerie feels like entering a polished sanctuary of Art Deco elegance, where the warm glow of amber lighting dances across a sprawling marble bar and plush velvet seating. The air hums with the energy of a timeless cocktail lounge, bringing together the bold, soulful flavors of elevated American fare with a sophisticated spirit that invites guests to linger over masterfully shaken drinks and spirited conversation.
• Ruby's Cafe — Australian · rated 4.4/5: Ruby's Cafe captures the sun-drenched spirit of a Sydney morning, where bright, airy interiors and a laid-back coastal energy invite guests to linger over vibrant, produce-driven plates. The space hums with the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine crafting velvety flat whites, while the kitchen turns out artfully plated dishes that balance wholesome freshness with indulgent, soulful flavors.
• Maialino — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Sunlight dances across rustic wood tables in this soulful Roman trattoria, where the intoxicating aroma of slow-roasted suckling pig and toasted black pepper invites guests into a warm, convivial embrace. The kitchen brings together the rustic charm of Italy with plates of silky, hand-rolled pastas and crackling, golden-skinned meats that evoke the spirit of a bustling neighborhood square. It is a vibrant celebration of tradition, where every bite feels like a sun-drenched afternoon in the heart of Rome.
• Ai Ki Ya — Japanese · rated 4.4/5: Ai Ki Ya captures the essence of Japanese hospitality in a space where the rhythmic pulse of the open kitchen meets an atmosphere of refined, understated elegance. Diners are treated to a sensory journey of vibrant, jewel-toned seafood and the smoky allure of the grill, all served with a precision that honors the natural beauty of every ingredient. It is a place where time seems to pause, allowing the delicate harmony of salt, umami, and vinegar to take center stage in a truly immersive dining experience.
• Sarge's Delicatessan & Diner — American · rated 4.3/5: Step into a timeless slice of Manhattan history where the warm glow of Tiffany lamps illuminates cozy vinyl booths and the savory aroma of slow-cured meats fills the air. Towering sandwiches of succulent pastrami and corned beef arrive alongside steaming bowls of golden matzo ball soup, creating a sensory experience of soulful, old-school comfort. This legendary 24-hour landmark pulses with a nostalgic energy, inviting guests to find sanctuary in a world of rich flavors and the enduring charm of the classic New York diner.
• Hill Country Barbecue Market — American · rated 4.3/5: Hill Country Barbecue Market transports diners to the heart of Central Texas, where the air hangs heavy with the intoxicating aroma of post oak smoke and the rhythmic strumming of live honky-tonk music. Guests navigate a bustling, butcher-shop-style counter to claim succulent, salt-and-pepper rubbed brisket and snap-skinned sausages served on traditional brown paper, best enjoyed at long communal tables amidst a spirited, rustic atmosphere.