Los Angeles attracts tourists looking for different and thrilling experiences.
From the glitz and glam of Hollywood, where you can walk the star-studded streets, to the Santa Monica Pier, the Commerce Casino with online poker tournaments, and the Griffith Observatory with an incredible view, there's always something going on.
Koreatown is one of L.A.’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Known for its cultural diversity, fantastic food scene, and 24-hour entertainment, Koreatown combines history and modern fun, making it a can’t-miss destination for locals and tourists.
1. Koreatown Plaza
Koreatown Plaza is an old shopping mall on the corner of 9th Street and Western Avenue known for its retail and dining scene, which attracts Kpop fans from all over the world.
KTP is home to dozens of restaurants, beauty businesses, and clothing boutiques, making it an all-in-one site for fashion, food, and beauty enthusiasts.
Koreatown Plaza has everything you need for contemporary clothing, beauty goods, or a delicious meal.
An essential stop for gastronomes, its international food court has a wide array of eateries offering not just traditional Korean dishes, but also favorites from other cuisines.
With its iconic status, Koreatown Plaza is a top destination for those looking for an authentic Koreatown experience.
2. Park’s BBQ
One of Koreatown's best-known restaurants for authentic Korean barbecue, this renowned restaurant is touted for its high-quality meats, including USDA Prime beef and Kobe-style selections.
A premium cut of beef called GGot Sal, or "flower meat," famed for its rich marbling and softness, is highly recommended for barbecue aficionados.
The restaurant is popular among locals and visitors and frequently hosts famous customers, adding to its attractiveness.
Dining here is more than simply a meal; it's an experience with premium flavors and tabletop grilling, which Korean BBQ is known for.
Given its popularity, reservations are strongly advised, particularly on weekends, when it is often filled with eager diners.
3. Wi Spa
Wi Spa is a 24-hour sanctuary just east of Koreatown proper. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of touring.
Recognized for its accommodation of transgenders, the spa has many exquisite amenities, including saunas, steam rooms, soaking tubs, and even ice rooms for a refreshing cool down.
The spa also offers several services, including facials, massages, and Korean-style body scrubs to thoroughly revitalize customers.
Whether you want a brief vacation or a full day of pampering, Wi Spa offers the ideal combination of relaxation and well-being.
4. Crystal Spa
A hidden gem inside the City Center mall, Crystal Spa aims to give tourists a refreshing, invigorating experience.
Its distinguishing features include a Himalayan salt room and a crimson mud room, both offering therapeutic benefits. These chambers assist in purifying the body and induce relaxation.
Along with these amenities, Crystal Spa provides signature services such as massages, acupressure, and body cleanses, guaranteeing that customers feel refreshed and energized. The spa is open until 10 p.m., allowing for late-evening leisure.
Lower pricing is available on weekdays before 8:30 a.m. for early risers, making it accessible to anybody wishing to relax.
5. BCD Tofu House
If you're looking for Korean comfort cuisine, BCD Tofu House is a popular spot in Koreatown, LA.
This informal but lively restaurant is known for its signature dish, soondubu, a thick and savory soft tofu stew served in a hot stone pot.
Whether you're a tofu fan or just looking for a delicious dinner, their broad menu includes classic Korean dishes such as bibimbap (mixed rice with veggies) and bulgogi (grilled marinated beef).
BCD Tofu House has two locations in Ktown. The one on Wilshire stays open until 4 a.m. on weekends, making it a popular late-night dining destination with a warm and welcoming ambiance for locals and guests.
The blend of traditional flavors and convenience puts it on top of the list for those exploring Koreatown's culinary scene.
6. Break Room 86
Break Room 86, right by Wilshire & Normandie, is an 80s-themed speakeasy that adds a throwback atmosphere to Koreatown's nightlife.
Stepping inside transports you to a nostalgic world of neon lights, cassette cassettes, and retro arcade games.
The bar's distinctive décor and energetic ambiance make it ideal for a fun night with friends.
Break Room 86 has an inventive cocktail menu, which includes drinks inspired by the era and adds to the atmosphere of lighthearted nostalgia.
This bar provides a memorable experience, with 80s hits playing in the background and private karaoke rooms available.
Whether you're reliving memories or discovering the 1980s for the first time, Break Room 86 is one of Koreatown's go-to venues for a night of throwback fun.
7. Arena Koreatown (Closed)
Arena Koreatown was one of the most popular nightclubs in Los Angeles. It was known for its dynamic atmosphere and high-quality hip-hop music.
Located in the center of Koreatown, it drew a dynamic audience looking for a night of dancing and entertainment.
Arena Koreatown, with VIP tables, bottle service, and a large dance floor, was ideal for birthday parties, celebrations, or a fun night out with friends.
The club was known for playing a combination of top 40 hits and hip-hop recordings, which made it a popular choice among music fans.
Its modern, elegant design contributed to the atmosphere, guaranteeing guests an unforgettable experience.
Arena Koreatown was the best nightlife destination in the neighborhood, whether you want to dance the night away or sip on luxury cocktails.
8. The Line Hotel
The Line Hotel, located in the center of Koreatown, is a colorful boutique hotel that embodies the neighborhood's dynamic energy.
This contemporary restaurant hotel is celebrated for its sleek, modern decor and outdoor terrace dining experience.
Guests can enjoy the rooftop pool, ideal for relaxing while taking in the metropolitan skyline.
The Line Hotel has a trendy vibe, thanks to its art-filled rooms and proximity to Koreatown's vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
Whether you're looking for a classy stay or a base to explore Koreatown's diverse options, The Line offers luxury, convenience, and a genuine feeling of LA's varied spirit. It's a great destination, combining contemporary design with local culture.
9. Wiltern Theatre
The Wiltern Theatre is a cultural icon in Koreatown, Los Angeles. It was built in 1931 and showcaess Art Deco architecture with stunning detail, making it a must-see for history and design enthusiasts.
Its name refers to its location at the crossroads of Wilshire Boulevard and Western Avenues.
Over the years, this theater has hosted an outstanding roster of legendary singers, including Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. Today, the Wiltern is one of Los Angeles' best live entertainment venues, hosting concerts, comedy performances, and special events.
Its rich history and distinct architectural appeal make it an essential element of Los Angeles' cultural scene and a popular destination for locals and visitors.
10. Koreatown Pavilion Garden
Da Wool Jung is a small cultural landmark right by Koreatown’s busiest thoroughfare, Olympic Boulevard.
A singular gazebo and traditional elements comprise this monument to Korean heritage.
The garden's design symbolizes the harmony of nature and human craftsmanship.
Benches offer a short respite from the hustle and bustle of the town. And it's an excellent location for photo ops, with the gazebo and shrubbery in the background.
The Koreatown Pavilion Garden is a refreshing blend of nature and culture amid the urban chaos, providing a rare tranquil space in one of the city’s most hectic districts.
