Myung Dong Kyoja - Los Angeles

This is one of my all-time favorite Korean restaurants! I absolutely love the spicy rice cake soup and the spicy chicken noodles – the flavors are incredible. The staff is also very fast and efficient. One of the highlights for me is the kimchi; it is incredibly garlicky and delicious. In fact, it’s my favorite kimchi in K-Town!

This restaurant is a must-visit whenever I come to LA. As long as the food tastes above average, I'm usually not too concerned about the specifics. However, during my recent visit, I was taken aback by the significant price increase. The dumplings, for example, were priced at $22 for just 10 pieces. From what I received, I don’t believe the quality matched that price. On a brighter note, I did enjoy the spicy flavors and generous portions of the meat noodles and bibim naengmyeon. We went in the morning and the servers appeared a bit weary as they were quite busy. There is an affordable parking lot nearby for Myeongdong Gyoza, but make sure to ask the server for a parking validation after your meal.

MDK Noodles, also known as Myung Dong Kyoja, is a hidden gem for noodle enthusiasts. This charming and authentic Korean restaurant provides a delightful dining experience. The highlight of the menu is their signature dish, kalguksu, which features hand-cut noodles served in a rich and flavorful broth. The noodles boast the perfect texture and come with a generous portion of tender meat and fresh vegetables. The meticulous attention to detail in the preparation is evident, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. With its friendly staff and inviting atmosphere, MDK Noodles is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking delicious and authentic Korean noodles.

The food tastes really good, but I don't want to pay that high price for that reduced portion. Pandemic and inflation ruined all good restaurants in LA.

It's definitely better than the original Myeongdong Kyoja in Korea. The best item on this menu is the spicy Kalguksu. The Bulgogi Bibimbabs are too expensive for what you get. Completely not worth the over $25 you pay. Fried Mandoo is good, but honestly, it looks like Totino's pizza rolls. Their regular Bibimbab has zero meat, which is chintzy and disappointing. For parking, I say the street parking is better if going after 6pm. But make sure to keep all of your stuff hidden in the car. Their shared parking lot isn't much safer. All in all, the spicy noodles is the only reason I would go again, but if the price goes over $20, cross that off the list too.