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6 Hidden Gem Hangouts in Koreatown, Los Angeles

Los Angeles’ Koreatown is a bustling hub of culture and nightlife, with many hidden corners to explore. For those willing to travel off the beaten path, look a little closer, and explore, the storied Koreatown neighborhood has many marvelous secrets to uncover.

If you’re new to LA and looking for an apartment for rent Koreatown, you’ve chosen a district that is both wonderful and charming in its idiosyncrasies. From secret disco bars to boat-shaped restaurants inspired by Titanic, here are a few of the most unique, hidden, or unusual restaurants and bars in Koreatown, Los Angeles, CA:

The Venue

3470 Wilshire Blvd B1, Los Angeles, CA 90010

This underground karaoke bar is not exactly easy to find, but once you make your way down the private staircase, you’ll find an elegant dining area with surprisingly high ceilings, a craft cocktail bar, and 13 karaoke rooms (which can be booked hourly). With a range of American bistro and seasonal cuisine, The Venue is known for its great food and lively atmosphere. Make a reservation in advance at https://www.thevenuela.com/reservations/ or call (213) 221-1251.

Apt 503

3680 Wilshire Blvd 5th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010

The humble office building facade of Apt 503 betrays nothing of the party that awaits inside. With a selection of specialty drinks and cocktails, great music, and a bumping atmosphere, Apt 503 is one of the most underrated gems in Koreatown. It can be a bit of a challenge to find your way in, as you’ll have to find your way to security downstairs and then make your way up an elevator to the venue. Call (213) 674-7061 to book a reservation.

R Bar

3331 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90005

R Bar is a female-owned restaurant and bar serving up American fare in the heart of Koreatown. The place is known for its specialty cocktails, music, and special events, including karaoke, trivia, live DJs, and more. Beloved by the community, this unique speakeasy is a must-visit – if you can figure out the password! To place a reservation, call (213) 387-7227.

Dwit Gol Mok

3275 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90010

With a name that translates to “back alley,” Dwit Gol Mok is a fitting descriptor for this lively Korean bar and grill tucked away in a parking lot on Berendo. The only sign for the restaurant is located at the inaccessible back door – finding the inconspicuous front door is part of the fun. With a commitment to Korean authenticity in both ambience and cuisine, the spot is known for its spicy chicken wings, watermelon with soju, kimchi stew, corn cheese, and signature gochujang sauce. Call (213) 382-8432 for reservations.

THE LINE LA

3515 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010

The Houston Brothers’ Break Room 86 is discreetly situated near the back of the hotel behind a secret entrance. This 80’s themed spot is a blast from the past, with retro arcade games, private karaoke rooms, a vintage phone booth, and much more.

The Houston Brothers have designed two other unique hangouts in THE LINE LA:

  • Speek Suite, a 60s- and 70s-themed joint with an assortment of period decor and a turntable for playing classic vinyl records.
  • Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, a dreamy disco and Deco-style club located in the lobby. Next to the rooftop pool, you’ll find Openaire, a greenhouse-style restaurant by Josiah Citrin.

Cafe Jack

508 S Western Ave Los Angeles, CA 90020

This oddball Los Angeles favorite is truly one-of-a-kind. Despite being shaped like a large boat, it can be tough to spot from the street, but once you find your way into the lot near 5th Street, you’re in for a treat. Created by Jack Shin back in 2007, the karaoke restaurant and bar is not actually named after the owner, but instead, after Leonardo DiCaprio’s romantic lead in James Cameron’s 1997 film Titanic. So moved by the big-budget historical romance was Shin that he built his restaurant in honor of it. From the eclectic furniture and design to the wide range of menu options, Cafe Jack makes for an unforgettable dining experience, unrivaled in its originality and personality.

Located less than a half-hour from UCLA, these Koreatown hot spots are a short drive from off campus UCLA student housing. For students looking for an apartment for rent Koreatown, these attractions can sweeten the deal. For students already living in Koreatown off campus apartments, these are the perfect places to unwind, live a little, and get involved in the rich culture of the Koreatown community.

Tripalink creates co-living communities and student housing opportunities across the United States. We simplify the apartment search to reduce the cost of living, create beautiful homes, and help both students and young professionals find a community in their city. For more information about Tripalink and co-living, please see www.tripalink.com. 

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