Ahhhh, Tustin. That unassuming Orange County enclave, often overlooked for its flashier neighbors. Yet here, tucked between strip malls and suburban sprawl, lies a Korean culinary scene that quietly outshines the obvious choices. Forget what you think you know about OC dining—this is where the real magic happens. Let that sink in, food snobs.
I Can Barbecue Korean Grill-Tustin
$$ | (714) 389-9394 | WEBSITE
When it comes to Korean BBQ joints in Tustin, good luck finding a more up to snuff spot than I Can Barbecue. While the place has a well-earned reputation of being crowded, it remains largely unpretentious and full of hungry people who are serious about their meat intake. The interior falls somewhere between modern industrial and clean spaciousness and that’s appealing after a few rounds of the best-grilled cuts this side of Irvine.
The premium beef brisket and short rib are melt-in-your-mouth good, while the pork belly has the perfect balance of fat and crispiness when grilled. The banchan side dishes complement everything beautifully, and the kimchi is spot on. For around $35-45 per person, you get excellent meat quality, friendly staff, solid ventilation so you don’t leave smelling like smoke, and even unique desserts like Macaron Ice Cream.
It’s one of those places that satisfies both seasoned and first-time KBBQ lovers without breaking the bank.
Zip Korean BBQ
$$ | (657) 720-1777 | WEBSITE
All-you-can-eat establishments go a long ways in meat-loving neighborhoods and Zip Korean BBQ has that game on lock-down. Located in the culinary hub of Tustin, Zip is a Korean barbecue darling because of its high-quality meats and generous portions. You can find anything you want at Zip, but your order should be the melt-in-your-mouth short rib.
Burning X Korean BBQ
$$ | (714) 573-9292 | WEBSITE
From the team that brought us the best Korean BBQ in Tustin comes this affordable, meat-focused restaurant in a prime location. Much like its ever-popular concept though, Burning X Korean BBQ is a tad more rushed than you want it to be but you put up with it because it’s delicious. And you can’t stop thinking about that wagyu beef belly.
Flame Broiler
$ | (657) 900-2200 | WEBSITE
Tired of heavy meals yet? Let’s hope not. Because this beloved spot is one of our favorite healthy food joints in Tustin. All their bowls are solid (the fresh ingredients are a must) and their service is excellent. We could eat that consistently perfect meal every day if we could. But most importantly, Flame Broiler’s spotless interior and uplifting music gives it the positive atmosphere you don’t easily get at fast casual spots.
Ye Dang Korean Restaurant
$$ | (714) 734-7789 | WEBSITE
The appeal of Ye Dang Korean Restaurant cannot be overstated. Their authentic Korean dishes will put a reasonable dent into your wallet, but they’re some of the best versions in the city (if not the region). For a place that’s become a favorite spot for many over the years, it’s remained completely untouched by the corporate crush. Ye Dang isn’t your weekly Korean joint, but it’s a place you come to experience higher level eating.
bb.q Chicken Tustin
$ | (714) 852-3430 | WEBSITE
Korean fried chicken spots are basically everywhere in Tustin, but bb.q Chicken remains the best. Why? Good food, friendly service, and excellent take-out options. Every single person in Orange County goes here for family dinners, so be prepared to wait for your order during peak hours. But take a breath, grab some Soy Garlic wings, and remember the alternative is sitting in traffic on the 5 freeway.
Katsu Bar
$ | (714) 852-3266 | WEBSITE
Chances are you’re somewhat familiar with tonkatsu or chicken katsu. But cauliflower curry katsu? Not exactly. But Katsu Bar has it and it’s amazing. The chicken katsu plates are a must, but don’t sleep on the strawberry sando either. There’s a great selection of daily specials and the nice, casual atmosphere with good music is always exactly what the doctor prescribed. Mark your calendars: the $13 curry katsu plate is massive enough for leftovers tomorrow.
Two Hands Corn Dogs at Tustin
$ | (657) 660-5182 | WEBSITE
Korean corn dog spots tend to know their way around a worthwhile snack but at Two Hands you might be staring at the best one in the city. At $6.95 this crispy, chewy, panko-coated creation is a Tustin legend and the perfect way to seek midweek revenge on your boring lunch routine that you hate anyways.
VOKO Karaoke Lounge
$$ | (714) 508-8656 | WEBSITE
In one of those typical karaoke-lounge-opens-in-a-shopping-center-and-becomes-the-go-to-spot-for-celebrations situations, the end result is Tustin getting a fantastic new entertainment venue. The entire place is essentially a lively lounge with friendly staff who are clear about pricing and make the experience smooth. They’re going to want you to try their tasty food options and you should take them up on it—the soups are particularly yummy.
No, this isn’t your everyday hangout place, but it’s a massive step forward for Tustin’s karaoke scene, with a great sound system and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to all ages.
OB Square
$$ | (714) 486-1338 | WEBSITE
This cozy Korean pub is a Tustin favorite and has been dishing out some of the best Korean comfort food in Orange County for a while now. But you’re here for one reason: the ob wings. The garlicky, perfectly fried chicken wings are the undisputed star here and you’re gonna want a generous portion of them.
OB Square isn’t really a fancy sit-down type spot so order a feast of pork belly, spicy pork, and that famously spicy fried rice, and enjoy a late-night feast with friends, especially if karaoke is on the agenda.