Misoolkwan
Experience 1970's/1980's-style South Korean nighttime drinking and dining in Buena Park
Misoolkwan is one of the most unusual restaurants in The Source, Buena Park’s predominantly Korean dining and shopping mall. Physically connected to M Korean BBQ, it features a 1970’s- and 1980’s-influenced South Korean architectural design that’s equally elaborate and distinctive, resembling a shophouse from outside – such a visual draw that we’ve wanted to visit a dozen times, but it’s only open for dinner, with no reservations.
Inside, Misoolkwan looks like an old Korean drinking hall, with a large bar area and spacious table seating. While booze is part of the appeal – and free, delicious raisin-infused water is served while you wait – we were blown away by the food.
Similar but not identical to bibim naengmyun, Misoolkwan’s spicy cold soup with raw beef arrives in a gigantic bowl with one portion of thin noodles, ready for another portion or two if your group’s appetite permits. And boneless Korean deep-fried chicken, offered in three flavors, is nearly as good as nearby Pelicana Chicken’s, which is really saying something given their high standards. You can also get stir-fried beef and pork, tteokbokki, and spicy soups here.
A $31 plate of soy sauce marinated salmon underscores Misoolkwan’s only issue, apart from its limited hours: While the quality and flavors are fantastic, literally everything’s pricey, so we’d recommend saving this place for a splurge night so you can enjoy everything with abandon. We’re very glad we did.
Stats
Price: $$-$$$
Service: Table
Open Since: 2020
Addresses
6982 Beach Blvd. Suite C-320
Buena Park, CA 90620
657.436.3966
Instagram: @misoolkwanoc