Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Koreatown | Upscale & Vegan

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Koreatown | Upscale & Vegan

• Cho Dang Gol — Korean · rated 5/5: This soulful sanctuary invites diners into a world of artisanal Korean comfort, where the air is thick with the savory steam of royal oxtail soup and the delicate, earthy aroma of house-made tofu. The table transforms into a vibrant tapestry of textures, balancing the silky heat of spicy seafood rice cakes and cod roe omelets with the irresistible crunch of golden fried cod and savory, handmade mandu. It is a communal celebration of culinary heritage where every sizzling platter of dubu duruchigi and colorful ssam wrap offers a taste of home-cooked warmth in an inviting, bustling setting.
• Carragher's — American · rated 5/5: Step into a warm, inviting sanctuary where the golden glow of the dining room sets the stage for a heartfelt holiday celebration centered around the spirit of togetherness. The kitchen honors tradition with a meticulously curated multi-course feast that elevates seasonal flavors, offering a sophisticated yet soulful experience for adults and a playful, dedicated menu designed specifically for the youngest guests.
• Pavé — French · rated 5/5: The air at Pavé is thick with the comforting scent of toasted grain and warm yeast, drawing guests into a space where the humble baguette is elevated to a crisp, golden art form. Hand-stretched loaves with crackling crusts serve as the foundation for elegant pairings, from simple slathers of rich butter and aged Comté to sophisticated sandwiches layered with silken smoked salmon or the delicate crunch of fresh apple and creamy brie.
• Black Iron Burger — American · rated 5/5: The air hums with the irresistible aroma of searing beef and the convivial clinking of glasses in this high-energy urban retreat. Thick, juicy patties are griddled to perfection and served alongside mountains of salt-dusted fries and shatteringly crisp onion rings, creating a bold feast that finds its perfect match in a frosty craft pint or a vibrant house cocktail.
• 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.
• Vanilla Gorilla Cafe — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant neighborhood hub hums with energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible scent of golden-toasted bread and bubbling mozzarella. The kitchen elevates the humble sandwich into a gourmet experience, layering premium ingredients into everything from the hearty Ultimate Breakfast to the crisp, savory Chicken Parm. Each bite, whether a signature flaky Pastrino or a zestful Poseidon Tuna, offers a masterclass in comfort, making it a sanctuary for those seeking bold, handheld flavors in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
• 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.
• Shokudo — Japanese · rated 4.9/5: Shokudo transports diners to the heart of a bustling Tokyo eatery, where the air is thick with the savory steam of slow-simmered dashi and the rhythmic clatter of a busy open kitchen. This vibrant sanctuary offers a heartfelt tribute to Japanese comfort food, where soul-warming bowls of ramen and golden, crispy katsu celebrate the simple, honest joy of a shared meal.
• 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.
• Pronto Pasta & More — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Steaming bowls of al dente pasta take center stage at this lively Italian haunt, where the air carries the savory perfume of sautéed garlic and bright, garden-fresh basil. From silky ribbons of fettuccine bathed in rich cream to rustic, slow-simmered red sauces, every dish captures the soulful warmth of a traditional kitchen while maintaining a vibrant, modern energy perfect for a spirited meal with friends.
• 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.
• Cho Dang Gol — Korean · rated 4.6/5: This rustic Koreatown gem envelops guests in the comforting, nutty aroma of house-made tofu, crafted daily to achieve a signature silken texture that anchors every soulful meal. Steam rises from bubbling stone pots of spicy stews and savory braises, creating a vibrant dining experience where traditional flavors and warm, communal energy bring the essence of a Korean countryside kitchen to the heart of the city.
• 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.
• Capizzi — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into this cozy retreat feels like a journey to a rustic Italian kitchen, where the amber glow of a wood-fired oven illuminates vintage decor and the air carries the irresistible perfume of bubbling mozzarella and fresh herbs. Hand-stretched pizzas arrive with a signature leopard-spotted char, offering a crisp yet chewy canvas for vibrant sauces and artisanal toppings that honor traditional craftsmanship. It is a soulful sanctuary where the warmth of a family gathering meets the sophisticated simplicity of authentic Mediterranean flavors.
• 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.
• CHILI 美麗 — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the electrifying tingle of Sichuan peppercorns and the smoky heat of toasted chilies dance across the palate in a celebration of bold, authentic flavors. The sleek, modern space hums with energy as diners gather over steaming platters of crimson-hued delicacies, each bite offering a sophisticated balance of fiery intensity and aromatic depth.
• 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.
• NaNa Thai Street — Thai · rated 4.6/5: NaNa Thai Street transports diners to the heart of Bangkok with its high-energy atmosphere, where the rhythmic clatter of woks and the intoxicating scent of charred chilies fill the air. Vibrant plates burst with the bold, unapologetic flavors of authentic street food, balancing zesty lime and fragrant lemongrass against the deep, smoky heat of traditional spices. It is a lively urban escape where every bite captures the soulful, bustling spirit of Thailand’s iconic night markets.
• Lan Larb Esan — Thai · rated 4.6/5: The air hums with the vibrant energy of a bustling night market, thick with the intoxicating aroma of toasted rice and charred chilies that signals the arrival of authentic Northeastern Thai soul food. Vibrant plates burst with the sharp tang of lime and the deep, savory funk of fermented fish sauce, while smoky, flame-kissed meats find their perfect companion in baskets of warm, hand-pressed sticky rice. Every bite is a sensory explosion of heat and herb-forward freshness, creating a communal dining experience that transports guests straight to the sun-drenched landscapes of the Esan region.
• 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.
• Bubo — Mediterranean · rated 4.6/5: Bubo transports diners to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, where the air is thick with the scent of charred citrus and garden-fresh herbs. Within its vibrant, light-filled walls, the kitchen transforms seasonal bounty into a tapestry of coastal flavors, from salt-kissed seafood to velvety olive oils that sing on the palate. The rhythmic clink of glasses and the warmth of shared plates create an atmosphere of effortless elegance, perfect for long, leisurely afternoons that stretch into starlit evenings.