When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Kitchen Sooda
Why Kitchen Sooda is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kitchen Sooda, located at 618 S Serrano Ave in Los Angeles' vibrant Koreatown district, is a notable Asian restaurant famous for its late-night dining experience. Open from 5:00 PM until as late as 1:30 AM on weekends, it caters to night owls looking for flavorful dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant's ambience and menu make it an excellent destination for groups of friends seeking a casual yet exciting place to gather after a long day or during weekend outings. The location in Koreatown places it in a culturally rich area full of similar eateries and nightlife options, making it a central hub for social meetups. Kitchen Sooda offers a diverse menu focused on Asian cuisine, appealing to those craving authentic flavors. Its operation hours into the late night ensure that it remains accessible for late dinners or social dinners extending into the night. With an inviting environment and accessible location, it serves as a preferred gathering spot for both locals and visitors seeking quality Asian food in a lively setting.
Here's what people think of Kitchen Sooda
As of recent, Kitchen Sooda holds a 4.3-star rating based on 187 reviews.
Kitchen Sooda holds a solid rating of 4.3 out of 5, based on approximately 187 customer reviews, indicating generally positive user experiences. Many positive reviews highlight the restaurant's flavorful and authentic Asian dishes, complemented by friendly and attentive staff, creating a welcoming dining atmosphere. Customers appreciate the late operating hours, which allow flexibility for dinner plans and social gatherings well into the night. The spacious and inviting environment has also been noted as a plus for groups meeting up. On the less favorable side, some users have mentioned occasional inconsistencies in food preparation speed during busy hours and minor service delays. A few reviews also suggest room for improvement in menu variety or the pricing structure to better match portion sizes. Overall, the majority of feedback emphasizes Kitchen Sooda's strong points in authentic flavors, ambiance, and accessibility, making it a popular choice despite some challenges that are typical in busy urban dining settings. The reviews affirm it as a dependable spot for late-night Asian cuisine in Koreatown with a largely satisfied clientele.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kenni Lee
Us: got the cheese chicken (regular is regular spicy that you can enjoy even you aren't fan of spicy food) and the pasta. Pasta is very good! Others: the price is a bit out there but worth giving them a solid shot. Owner: has two ppl wait our table and they were very professional
Phillip John Stone
I went to dine at Kitchen Sooda last night in Los Angeles only to find that the service and the food were sub-optimal. I ordered garlic shrimp pasta, and the meal was just a half portion, with three frozen shrimp, rather than fresh. The temperature of the meal was warm, not hot. As I was a bite or two from finishing the meal, the Manager, not the server, asked if everything was okay. At that point, I nodded. The server did not check on me, but to deliver the check. The price of a half portion of pasta with three defrosted shrimp came to about $22 50. Did I feel ripped off? I would say so.
Eno Archibong
Food was fantastic, presentation for the food was fantastic. I put in my reservation notes that we were celebrating a birthday and they decorated the table and the wall with happy birthday decorations! They went above and beyond. We will be back.
Katherine P
Great food in a casual cozy atmosphere. First off, you can't beat $1 oysters, served during happy hour. The oysters are chef's choice and on the day we went, we had Blue Points. They were fresh and delicious - so delicious that we ordered another 3 dozen for the 4 of us! The garlic noodles with shrimp were great. We also had the happy hour pitcher plus chicken wings for 19.99 - loved the chicken wings! The uni pasta was a bit whatever for me - I've had better versions. My fave of the night was the spicy fire chicken (bool dak) served on top of tater tots and oozy melty cheese! We got a combo of regular spicy and hot, and omg it was so hot, but the flavors were so good, I couldn't stop eating it! Can't wait to go back and try the rest of the menu offerings
JS
The most delicious place among Cajun Seafood. Other menu items such as pasta, chicken wings, etc. are also delicious, so I would like to recommend this place..
How to reach Kitchen Sooda
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Why Kitchen Sooda may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Kitchen Sooda with your friends? Gathering with friends or family at Kitchen Sooda in Los Angeles offers a truly delightful experience that blends exquisite food, attentive service, and a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. This Korean-inspired restaurant chefs up a variety of flavorful dishes, including standout items like Korean fried chicken wings, mentaiko pasta, and their whole fried chicken, making it an ideal place to share mouthwatering meals with loved ones. The ambiance is casual but stylish—neither too loud nor too quiet—perfect for lively conversations or simply enjoying each other’s company without distractions. Service here has been praised for being both swift and attentive, ensuring your group’s needs are met promptly from the moment you arrive. Moreover, Kitchen Sooda stays open late, ideal for those who want to continue socializing over food and drinks well into the night. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a celebration, Kitchen Sooda offers an inviting and comfortable setting that brings people together around great Korean flavors and a welcoming vibe.
What activities can you enjoy at Kitchen Sooda that make it perfect for group meetups? Kitchen Sooda shines as a dynamic space geared towards social dining with friends or family. Beyond its inviting dining experience, the café features an extensive menu filled with shareable plates, such as the Korean fried chicken wings, truffle fries, and unique dishes like mentaiko pasta and tteokbokki. These dishes encourage a communal feeling where everyone can sample and discuss their favorites. The restaurant also offers an array of drinks including beer and a happy hour with special deals on oysters, adding to the festive feel and making it perfect for casual drinking sessions. Dining al fresco is an option thanks to their outdoor seating equipped with heat lamps that keep guests warm on cooler evenings. Kitchen Sooda’s lively but comfortable ambiance supports easy conversation and laughter, making it a great spot for bonding activities like sharing meals or toasting special occasions. The attentive service also plays a role in keeping your group relaxed, with staff regularly checking in and ensuring plates and drinks are topped up, facilitating uninterrupted social time.
How does the quality and variety of food at Kitchen Sooda enhance group gatherings? Food at Kitchen Sooda is a major draw, combining authentic Korean flavors with innovative recipes that appeal to diverse palates. Their standout dishes, such as the crispy Korean fried chicken wings and the creamy mentaiko pasta, are well-loved for their balance of flavor and texture, allowing groups to indulge in both traditional and fusion options. The portions, though sometimes described as on the smaller side, are crafted with attention to freshness and taste, encouraging sharing and multiple rounds of dishes among friends, which deepens the communal dining experience. Beyond chicken and pasta, Kitchen Sooda also offers items like tteokbokki, truffle fries, and oysters during happy hour that cater to a range of tastes and dietary preferences. This variety ensures that each member of your group finds something they enjoy, making it easier to satisfy everyone. The hot and fresh preparation of all dishes received praise in reviews, emphasizing the kitchen’s commitment to delivering quality that boosts the overall dining pleasure during your meetup.
What makes the service and ambiance at Kitchen Sooda especially suitable for meetups? Kitchen Sooda’s service is often highlighted for its professionalism, friendliness, and attentiveness, which are key to hosting successful group outings. Waitstaff frequently check on diners without hovering, refill drinks promptly, and are quick to offer eating tips or suggestions, elevating the hospitality experience. This kind of personalized care can make a group feel valued and well taken care of, removing the stress of coordinating orders or accommodations for everyone. On the ambiance side, the restaurant strikes a nice balance by offering a relaxed but upbeat space with music at a volume comfortable for conversation. The option to sit outdoors with heat lamps adds an extra layer of comfort, especially in cooler months, allowing groups to enjoy fresh air without sacrificing warmth. The overall setting avoids being overly formal or noisy, supporting an atmosphere where friends and family can connect easily while enjoying delicious food and drinks. For late-night socializers, Kitchen Sooda’s extended hours mean your gathering doesn’t have to end early, enabling more time for celebration and camaraderie.
How accessible and convenient is Kitchen Sooda for group visits? Kitchen Sooda is located in Los Angeles’s Koreatown, a central and bustling neighborhood that adds convenience for groups coming from various parts of the city. They offer valet parking for a modest fee, which can be a significant advantage in a busy urban area, reducing the hassle of finding street or public parking for everyone in your party. The restaurant’s hours extend late into the night, closing around 1:30 AM on weekends, which makes it a practical choice for groups planning evening or late-night meetups. Its location near well-known attractions and nightlife enhances its appeal as a meetup spot, allowing groups to combine meals with other activities in the area. Although parking and outdoor dining have received varied guest feedback, Kitchen Sooda’s overall convenience and accessibility remain strengths that contribute to its suitability for group gatherings. The combination of easy access, flexible dining times, and comfortable seating options makes it a hassle-free venue for hosting friends or family.
Why is Kitchen Sooda a recommended venue for both casual and special occasion meetups? Kitchen Sooda offers a versatile environment that caters to different types of social gatherings. For casual meetups, the friendly service, reasonable pricing, and informal ambiance create a space where catching up over flavorful Korean-inspired dishes feels effortless and fun. On the other hand, the quality of the food and the option for outdoor seating with heat lamps also make it suitable for special occasions such as birthdays, reunions, or celebratory dinners. The presence of drinks and happy hour specials adds to the celebratory mood, making it easy to toast milestones with friends or family. Kitchen Sooda’s combination of good food, attentive staff, and a comfortable yet lively setting means it can adapt to the tone of your event, from laid-back dinners to more festive affairs. This flexibility ensures that no matter your reason for gathering, Kitchen Sooda can provide a memorable and enjoyable experience.
How do customer reviews shape the reputation of Kitchen Sooda for group gatherings? Customer feedback plays a critical role in portraying Kitchen Sooda as a beloved local spot for group dining. Reviews consistently highlight the delicious Korean fried chicken wings, flavorful pasta dishes, and attentive service, which contribute to a dependable and enjoyable food experience. Patrons often mention the welcoming atmosphere and the attentiveness of staff, which are essential factors when hosting groups who require smooth service and a friendly environment. Although some guests noted that portion sizes can be small, the taste and quality generally outweigh this concern, especially for groups who enjoy sharing multiple dishes. The late operating hours and the availability of seating options like outdoor dining with heat lamps gain particular praise, appealing greatly to those looking for places to socialize late into the evening. Collectively, these customer insights reflect Kitchen Sooda as a place where groups can relax, enjoy excellent food, and spend quality time together, reinforcing its popularity for social meetups.
What specific menu items and drinks make Kitchen Sooda a favorite for group dining? Kitchen Sooda’s menu offers a fantastic array of dishes that encourage sharing and tasting a variety of flavors, which is ideal for groups with diverse tastes. Some of the most celebrated items include the fried 양념 (yangnyeom) chicken wings—known for their crispy texture and savory seasoning—and the creamy yet well-balanced mentaiko pasta, which appeals to lovers of fusion cuisine. The whole fried chicken is another crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing and making any gathering feel hearty and festive. For sides, truffle fries and tteokbokki provide great options to complement main dishes, each adding unique textures and tastes that appeal broadly. The bar menu includes beer and happy hour offerings like oysters, giving groups lively options to accompany their meals and create a splash of fun. This selection, balancing classic Korean flavors with contemporary twists and a well-rounded drink list, helps make Kitchen Sooda stand out as a spot where everyone can find something to enjoy.
How does the location and environment of Kitchen Sooda contribute to the overall meetup experience? Located in the vibrant Koreatown neighborhood of Los Angeles, Kitchen Sooda benefits from being in a culturally rich and accessible area known for its dining and nightlife. This urban setting makes it easy for groups to plan meetups that can extend beyond the meal itself, with nearby venues for karaoke, bars, or entertainment just steps away. The restaurant’s interior and exterior seating create a comfortable environment that accommodates different preferences, with outdoor tables equipped with heat lamps providing warmth and ambiance during cooler nights. The casual yet stylish décor reinforces a welcoming vibe that appeals equally to families, friends, and young social groups. Kitchen Sooda’s location also means it is surrounded by a lively energy that complements the spirited nature of group dining, making every gathering feel part of a larger community experience. These factors combine to ensure that groups not only enjoy great food, but also a well-rounded outing.
What do guests say about the pricing and value at Kitchen Sooda for group meetups? Guests appreciate Kitchen Sooda for offering quality food at reasonable prices, especially considering the quality and freshness of the dishes served. While some reviews mention smaller portion sizes, many find the pricing fair given the ingredients and flavors, making it a good value for group dining where multiple dishes and drinks are shared. The happy hour deals, including those on oysters, add further value by allowing groups to enjoy premium items at reduced costs during specific times. Service quality and the inviting atmosphere also contribute to the perception of good value, as these enhance the overall dining experience beyond just the food. For groups looking to have an enjoyable evening out without overspending, Kitchen Sooda strikes a commendable balance between quality and cost, making it a preferred destination for hosting informal meals or celebratory get-togethers.
How does Kitchen Sooda accommodate different group sizes and hospitality needs? Kitchen Sooda is designed to be flexible in accommodating various group sizes, from intimate gatherings to larger parties. The layout includes tables that can be adjusted or combined to fit groups comfortably, whether it’s a small reunion or a bigger celebration. The attentive and professional staff are experienced in managing group orders efficiently, offering recommendations and ensuring that food and drink service keeps pace with the group's rhythm. Outdoor seating options provide additional space during busy hours or warmer seasons, while heat lamps ensure comfort for guests dining outside in cooler weather. Kitchen Sooda’s team also shows great responsiveness to special requests and seating arrangements, which is crucial when hosting groups with specific needs or preferences. This flexibility, combined with attentive hospitality, guarantees that each group receives a personalized and enjoyable dining experience tailored to their occasion.