Park’s BBQ
If you are in search of the best kbbq in LA, search no further than Park’s. Coming from a koreanfoodaphile that has tried nearly 50 of the 200 different kbbq joints, this place is the end all to be all. This trip Sara and I were graced with the presence of Jill Donnenfeld and Taylor Thompson of The Dish’s Dish (www.thedishsdish.com) New York City’s premier “real home cooking service prepared for you by New York’s premier Culinistas™.”
Located on Vermont just north of Olympic on the west side of the street, Park’s has the best bon chan known to man. Pickled raw chili crab (when in season) as bon chan?…OMG! If you are white bread, like me, you have to ask nicely for it. Four different kinds of Kim Chee, two types of potato salad - regular and sweet varieties. Jop Chae, cabbage salad in a slightly sweet and acidic dressing, the best pickled radish ever! Marinated sho-chu leaves with a pleasing aroma and slightly bitter taste. I can go on and on, the point is its always amazing and always different. This trip we received miniature whole dried fish, slightly reconstituted in right amount of acid that maintained the half dried/half fresh texture.
The menu is straightforward and with higher quality meat than most steak houses. The must orders are Kobe style, thin sliced beef - succulent and supple when pulled off the grill at medium rare and dipped in the chili-hinted, soy based dipping sauce. Marinated (do not be swayed by non-marinated) Galbi (sorry! we ate it before a pic could be taken :-D) with the perfect seasoning and just the right balance of chew and melt in your mouth goodness - this one is best when dipped in the sesame oil with sea salt and black pepper. Finally, the Kim chee pancake. Crispy outside, velvety inside and just a mild hint of Kim chee.
Not to be overlooked is the amazing service provided by the attentive staff. They tend your grill, pour your beverages, advise when to eat each piece of meat and with the proper accoutrement. They are stellar! Thank you for another great night at Park’s!
I implore you, go to Park’s, go now and do not delay - Tim B
