Origin Korean BBQ

Origin is a fun choice for a group dinner in Koreatown, if you have a reservation. That’s not a requirement, per se, but more of a nudge if you don’t like waiting over an hour. This high-energy KBBQ restaurant by the Quarters people is loud and busy, which checks out because you’re in Chapman Plaza next to Toe Bang and Escala. And while the food at Origin is certainly good, it’s on the pricier side, especially compared to better KBBQ options in the neighborhood that won’t run you as large of a tab. 

photo credit: Emily Ferreti

The cool space and party atmosphere are the main hooks here. The dining room has a retro ‘60s theme with leather chairs and vintage-style soju posters, and they blast bubblegum dance remixes of the Barbie soundtrack all night. A handful of less commonly seen cuts at Origin are the standouts on the menu, like thinly sliced rounds of pork belly that remind us of juicier, porkier brisket and tteok galbi, which are wide short rib patties that soak up their sweet marinade like beefy sponges. Both are featured on Origin’s special sets, which we recommend over the spendier a la carte options. The five-course Large set for $175 supposedly feeds four, but it’s probably closer to three—though after filling on solid versions of sides like corn cheese and steamed egg, everyone at your table will leave satisfied.