Chung Ki Wa (Chung Gi Wa) in Los Angeles, CA

Chungkiwa is a kind of a restaurant where I take non-Korean friends, families, or relatives. It’s not a fancy restaurant as Chosun Galbi, but it is agreeable, it definitely has the taste and look of Korea, service is attentive, and food is very tasty.

Their menu selection is not huge unlike some of Korean restaurants in Korea town. They must know a few popular dishes of theirs keep the reputation. Some of the loved dishes are Korean BBQ, Galbi, naengmyun (cold noodle), dolsot bibimbap (stone pot mixed rice) and pajeon (spring onion Korean pancake). Of course, plenty of their tasty side-dishes are a big attraction. Side-dishes (banchan or panchan) are free and refillable.

The most popular deal here is probably BBQ / nang myun or Galbi / naengmyun combo. I remember it costs somewhere between $12.99 ~ $14.99 depending on what time you go.

Even though I like Korean BBQ, I don’t have it that often because I usually want something else such as dolsot bibimbap. However, when I go to Chunggiwa, I have BBQ or Galbi / naengmyun combo for sure. Their beef is almost always juicy, chewy and tasty. Their cold noodle (naengmyeon, nang myun, naengmyeon) is definately one of the best in Los Angeles Korea town. They know how to make yooksu (beef broth) and don’t forget to add refreshing Korean pear pieces.

Their front parking lot is tiny, accommodating only 6 or 7 cars. But they have another one, a much bigger one, right across the street. it’s not valet parking and their parking guard (ahjussi, ajeossi) is very kind! When I’m lucky, I just park on the street right next to the restaurant. But expect some crowds on weekends!

A couple of minor things that I’d like to point out is their tree trunk chair in the west section of the restaurant. They certainly look good and match with the interior, but if you want to sit there a little longer, it’s a good idea to get a table in the other side with regular tables. Also, it’s said that the English menu is not very descriptive.

Chungkiwa accepts caredit cards, takes reservations, casual attire is fine, it’s good for family, take-out is okay, there’s no outdoor sitting, and they serve Korean beer and wine.

It’s located on Olympic Blvd. just a few buildings west of Wilton.

3545 W Olympic Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90019t Directions
(323) 737-0809

BTW, I love how the name sounds. Chung kiwa means blue Korean tradictional roof tile. Kiwa (giwa) refers to a traditional Korean roof tile that we don’t really use any more. So, it gives me that nostalgia reminiscence . =)

This entry was posted on Friday, October 3rd, 2008 under Korean Restaurants in LA.