Tags: Koreatown, buenapark, Foodie, foodietrail, Culinary, Food, travel, Itinerary, koreanfood, Culture
DAY 1
Most Important Meal of the Day!
Kick off your foodie adventure with a hearty breakfast. Head to Donut Express, a local favorite known for their delicious breakfast bagel and croissant sandwiches. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying start to your day. If you're in the mood for something extra special, make your way to Flippoly, an egg sandwich shop named one of the best by AAA Magazine. Here, you can savor a variety of egg sandwiches—from classic favorites like the original egg sandwich to creative options like bulgogi BBQ. Pair your sandwich with a refreshing milk tea, a creamy latte, or a traditional Dalgona coffee for a true Korean-inspired morning boost.
Lunch: BBQ Time!
For lunch, it's time to dive into the savory goodness of Korean BBQ at Arisu BBQ. Start with sizzling galbi (beef short ribs) and tender bulgogi, complemented by a spread of banchan that will leave you craving more. Arisu offers a cozy and traditional atmosphere, perfect for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing meal. If you're in the mood to go a bit heavier on the meats, KingChang is the place to be. Known for its smoky, rich cuts of pork belly and brisket, KingChang brings a sensory experience with aromatic dipping sauces to elevate the flavors.
Afternoon Treat
After a filling lunch, it's time for a little afternoon treat. Stop by Old Ferry Donuts, a Korea-based premium donut shop known for its unique blend of flavors, freshly made dough, and carefully curated ingredients. Most of their donuts are filled with rich, indulgent fillings—favorites include coconut, peanut butter, butter pistachio, and crème brûlée. Or, if you're in the mood to unwind, stop by In-Sit Coffee. This cozy spot offers a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for sipping on a refreshing Kyoto cold brew or indulging in a matcha croffle. Whether you prefer savory street food or a cozy coffee break, either option will keep you fueled for the rest of your foodie day.
Dinner: Cristpy Fried Chicken Feast
As the sun begins to set, it's time to enjoy a crispy fried chicken dinner at BB.Q Chicken. This beloved spot serves up hand-brushed fried chicken that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you prefer a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze or something with a little kick like the hot mala sauce, BB.Q has something for every fried chicken lover. Alternatively, if you're looking to try a different take on fried chicken, Chicken Troopers is a must-visit. Known for thier unique Korean-style fried chicken, Chicken Troopers serves up crispy chicken with a perfectly seasoned, crunchy coating. Try
DAY 2
Breakfast
Start your morning at Monday to Sunday, a bright and modern café that’s perfect for easing into your second day. Known for its warm pancakes filled with sweet bean paste and thoughtfully crafted oat milk lattes, this stylish spot also offers a full menu of espresso drinks, premium teas, toast creations, and delicate cakes. If you’re craving something more playful and photogenic, stop by Don Melt, a cozy café famous for its picture-perfect croffles—that’s a croissant-waffle hybrid that’s as good as it looks. Flavors range from strawberry to apple cinnamon and matcha, each served with a crisp exterior and soft, buttery inside. Pair yours with a mojito, tropical hibiscus, or lemonade topped with lychee jelly for an extra burst of flavor and fun.
Lunch
For a lunch that hits all the right cozy notes, head to K Soul Food, where Korean comfort classics come with a creative spin. Their carbonara tteokbokki is a must-try—chewy rice cakes smothered in a rich, creamy sauce with just the right amount of heat. Pair it with a spam roll for a salty-savory bite that balances the creaminess perfectly. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and totally unforgettable. Or, if you’re in the mood for something heartier and a little more traditional, check out Jjang Restaurant. This local gem is beloved for its comforting Korean staples like fluffy steamed dumplings and freshly rolled kimbap. Pair your meal with a refreshing Korean soda, iced citron tea, or a creamy banana milk for the perfect midday combo. Their standout dish? A crispy, golden pork katsu served alongside tangy kimchi for a mix of crunch and bold flavor. It's a great pick for those craving bold textures and a satisfying, savory meal.
Treat Ya Self
As the afternoon rolls in, treat yourself to a stylish break at Smoking Tiger Coffee & Bread, a cozy, modern café that delivers on both flavor and vibe. Try their signature banana milk latte or the subtly sweet honey oat latte, both perfect for a midday pick-me-up. Don’t skip the cream cheese garlic bread—crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside—it’s a fan favorite for a reason. If you’re craving something colder and sweeter, head to Honeymee for a refreshing dessert stop. Their kosher milk ice cream is smooth and creamy, topped with your choice of fresh fruit, chocolate syrup, or all-natural honey for a simple yet indulgent treat.
Dinner is Served
Before diving into dessert, enjoy a savory and satisfying dinner at Gangnam Station, where Korean favorites meet modern fusion. Dishes like spicy pork belly tacos and stir-fried chicken offer bold flavor with a twist—perfect for sharing among friends or family. With its stylish setting and creative menu, it’s a great spot to wind down while still savoring the best of K-Town vibes. Craving something more classically comforting? Head to Il Fiora, an award-winning Italian restaurant that blends family-friendly dining with elevated flavors. Dig into rich, satisfying plates like creamy carbonara or rose shrimp pasta, then top off your meal with a handcrafted cocktail and a slice of their house-made tiramisu—a sweet lead-in to your dessert finale.
Drinks Up
Cap off the night with drinks that match your mood. For a laid-back hangout, head to Orange Bar—a casual Korean-style sports pub where you can sip on Korean beers, snack on crispy fried bites, and mingle with friendly locals in a relaxed setting. Prefer something non-alcoholic? Stop by Ding Tea, an authentic Taiwanese tea house known for its high-quality bubble teas made with freshly brewed ingredients. Whether you're into classic milk tea or fruity blends, it’s a sweet and refreshing way to end your evening.
DAY 3
Brunch
Start your final day in Buena Park’s Koreatown with a comforting, traditional Korean breakfast at Dine Korean. This spot serves up seafood pancakes, tender bossam (steamed pork with lettuce wraps and dipping sauces), and a variety of savory stews that warm the soul—perfect for those craving rich, hearty flavors to begin the day.If you’re in the mood for something sweet and playful, head to Overflo, located inside The Source OC. Here, you’ll find waffles stacked with gelato, cream pancakes, and soft serve in imaginative flavors like black sea salt, Earl Grey, and classic strawberry. Not just for dessert lovers, Overflo also offers satisfying rice bowls topped with spicy pork, spam, chicken, tofu, or egg—giving you the best of both sweet and savory.
Explore
After breakfast, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of The Source OC, Buena Park’s premier Korean-inspired lifestyle and entertainment complex. This multi-level destination offers a perfect blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Visit Aritaum for Korean skincare and cosmetics, K-Place and K-POP Music Town for the latest in K-pop merchandise, and N.Cat for trendy jewelry and accessories. Craving a treat? Try a Korean-style corn dog at Myungrang Hot Dog, or indulge in refreshing Korean shaved ice desserts at Okbingsul. For some indoor fun, catch the latest Korean and international films at CGV Cinemas, featuring comfortable, state-of-the-art theaters. If you're in the mood for something more interactive, head to Olympic Golf Zone, a virtual golf and sports bar where you can challenge friends on simulated golf courses or enjoy sports like baseball, soccer, and basketball, all while relaxing in a cozy bar setting.
Recharge
Take a moment to pause and recharge at Seesaw Beans and Coffee. This cozy café is the perfect spot to unwind with a warm panini and a smooth flat white, or try something uniquely Korean like their iced misugaru—a creamy, nutty grain powder drink. Prefer bubble tea? Head to Gong Cha, a loved Taiwanese tea brand known for its premium ingredients and customizable drinks. Choose from milk teas, fruit teas, slushes, or creative toppings like aloe, pudding, and their signature milk foam—all crafted to deliver a safe, natural, and satisfying treat.
Dinner Time
Before the night ends at EKO Karaoke Lounge, dive into Buena Park’s electric Korean nightlife. Start at award-winning Misoolkwan OC, a retro-style pub drenched in ’80s vibes—perfect for sharing succulent pork belly, sizzling corn cheese, and colorful soju cocktails with friends. Or, opt for Sorimmara, where mala-spiced dishes and a neon-lit setting bring the bold flavors and energy of Seoul straight to your table. It’s the ultimate way to close out your foodie journey before belting out your favorite hits.
Final Thoughts: You Did It!
Three days. Dozens of bites. Countless memories. You came hungry, and now you’re leaving full—in every sense of the word. From sizzling Korean BBQ and creamy lattes to fusion street food and neon-lit karaoke nights, you’ve tasted, sipped, and explored the very best that Koreatown in Buena Park has to offer. But there’s still so much more to discover in Buena Park—this city is bursting with flavor, culture, and hidden gems around every corner. Ready for your next foodie adventure? Check out the 2025 Taste of Buena Park Food Award Winners and start planning your return trip now.
Where to Stay
Before diving into your foodie adventure, make sure you’ve got a cozy place to rest and recharge. Buena Park offers a range of great hotel options just minutes from the action. The Hilton Buena Park is directly connected to The Source OC—a modern, multi-level lifestyle complex filled with Korean restaurants, dessert cafés, entertainment venues, and shopping. On-site, the Hilton features The Rosemary Room, a stylish restaurant that’s worth adding to your foodie trail. And if you're looking for comfort and value, Hampton Inn provides a warm breakfast each morning to fuel your day of exploring. Click here for more hotel options and to reserve your stay.