A spicy hot stone pot of Soon Tofu probably is one of the friendliest Korean dishes to fellow Angelenos, thanks to BCD (those who don’t know what Soon Tofu – aka Soft Tofu stew, Soon Dubu, or 순두부찌개 – is, please read our article about it: [Korean Cuisine – Vegetarian Edition] Soft Tofu Stew – ‘Sundubu Jjigae’). Whichever variation you choose from beef, seafood, dumpling, or Kimchi, Soon Tofu stew served in a bubbling hot stone pot is the best remedy for the cold as well as hunger. For the patients of either, here are the best Soon Tofu restaurants in Los Angeles.
1. BCD Tofu House
BCD is the place where first-timers to Soon Tofu can easily approach for its excellent localization as well as multiple locations across California and New York. A wide variety of entrees, which includes Galbi, Bulgogi, Chicken Teriyaki, and Spicy Pork Bulgogi, is also available for those who find Soon Tofu too spicy (or too vegetarian). When your rice arrives in a hot stone pot, remove it to a separate bowl and add water to the hot pot to enjoy rice soup that will relax your stomach after a hot pot of spicy Soon Tofu.
Location: 3575 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90010
2. Seoul House of Tofu
Located in Sawtelle Little Osaka, Seoul House is one of the main players in this outstanding food neighborhood. If your tongue is too tender for spiciness of Soon Tofu, Seoul House has non-spicy options -Miso Soon Tofu. You can also order alcoholic companion for your Soon Tofu, including beers from Korea and Japan, Soju, and Soju cocktail.
Location: 2101 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
3. Tofuya
Tofuya is another Soon Tofu restaurant located in Little Osaka. There are more entree options at Tofuya, including Chicken Katsu and Udon. Vegetarian dishes – mushroom Soon Tofu, Vegetable Soon Tofu, and Tofu salad – are also popular.
Location: 2021 Sawtelle Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90025
4. Beverly Soon Tofu Restaurant
It’s location on Olympic Blvd in Koreatown may make you wonder why the restaurant is named after Beverly. However, authenticity of the name will become meaningless once the food is served (I mean, what is there to question? After all, their food is excellent). Variety of their Soon Tofu, which ranges from Kimchi to Squid, is amazing, but main players here are entrees. Spicy Squid BBQ, Tofu Steak, and Rice Medley taste as good as they look.
2717 W. Olympic Blvd., #108 Los Angeles, CA 90006
By Heewon Kim
