The Best Korean Food In Nashville

Discover The Authentic Korean Cuisine That Nashville Has To Offer

If you are a fan of spicy, flavorful, and deliciously satisfying food, then you will be happy to know that Nashville has a vibrant and growing Korean food scene. Whether you are a local or just passing through, this article will guide you through the best Korean restaurants in Nashville, and help you discover the unique and authentic flavors of Korean cuisine.

🍜 Experience The Best Korean Food Nashville Has To Offer 🍱

From traditional Korean barbecue to spicy soups and noodle dishes, Nashville has something for every Korean food lover. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch, a romantic dinner, or a big family feast, the list below will help you find the perfect restaurant to satisfy your cravings.

Introduction

Korean food has been gaining popularity worldwide over the past few years, and Nashville is no exception. The city has welcomed a diverse range of Korean restaurants in recent years, each offering their unique take on the cuisine. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide of the best Korean food in Nashville to help you discover the best dishes, the best restaurants, and the best dining experiences the city has to offer.

Why Korean Food Is So Popular

One of the main reasons Korean food has become so popular globally is its unique blend of flavors and textures. Korean cuisine is known for being savory, spicy, and packed full of umami flavors. It’s a cuisine that is deeply rooted in tradition, with many dishes reflecting the country’s agricultural history and the use of locally sourced ingredients. It’s also a cuisine that is highly adaptable, with many dishes being modified to suit different tastes and preferences.

The Korean Food Scene In Nashville

Nashville is home to a vibrant and growing Korean food scene, with many new restaurants popping up across the city in recent years. From traditional Korean barbecue joints to trendy modern fusion restaurants, there is something for every Korean food lover in Nashville.

What To Expect From This Guide

This guide will take you through the best Korean restaurants in Nashville, providing detailed information on each restaurant’s menu, atmosphere, and pricing. We will also highlight some of the most popular dishes and provide tips on what to eat and how to order. Finally, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Korean food, so you can be fully prepared for your culinary journey.

How We Chose The Best Korean Restaurants In Nashville

Our team of food writers and Korean food enthusiasts spent months researching and sampling Korean restaurants across Nashville. We evaluated each restaurant based on several criteria, including the authenticity of their dishes, the quality of their ingredients, the friendliness of their staff, and the overall dining experience. We also took into account online reviews and ratings, as well as recommendations from local food bloggers and influencers.

What Makes Korean Food Unique

Korean cuisine is unique in several ways. It’s known for its spicy and bold flavors, which come from the use of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and various spices and condiments. Korean food is also famous for its fermented foods, such as kimchi, which is a staple in every Korean meal. Fermentation is a traditional preservation method that adds depth and complexity to the flavors of many Korean dishes. Finally, Korean cuisine is also known for its communal dining style, where people share dishes and eat together from a central pot or grill.

What To Expect From A Korean Restaurant In Nashville

Most Korean restaurants in Nashville offer a similar dining experience. You will typically be greeted by friendly staff and seated at a table or booth. Some restaurants may have private dining rooms or traditional Korean floor seating. Korean restaurants usually offer an extensive menu that includes appetizers, entrees, soups, stews, and desserts. The most popular dishes are often served family-style, so be prepared to share with your dining companions.

How To Order Korean Food

Ordering Korean food can be intimidating for first-timers, but don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. Most Korean restaurants will have an English menu with pictures, so you can see what you’re ordering. If you’re not sure what to get, ask your server for recommendations. They will be happy to help you choose dishes that suit your taste and preferences. Most Korean meals come with rice and banchan, which are small side dishes. You can also order additional sides and drinks to complete your meal.

The Best Korean Restaurants In Nashville

Now that you know what to expect from the Korean food scene in Nashville, it’s time to explore the best Korean restaurants in the city. From traditional Korean barbecue to fusion dishes with a Southern twist, these restaurants offer a variety of flavors and dining experiences.

1. Korea House

Korea House is one of the oldest and most popular Korean restaurants in Nashville, serving traditional Korean dishes in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant offers a variety of Korean classics, such as bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi jjigae, as well as Korean-inspired sushi rolls. Korea House is also known for its extensive banchan selection, which includes up to 12 different side dishes. Prices are reasonable, with most entrees under $20. The restaurant is located in the Midtown area, close to Vanderbilt University.

2. K-Oku Sushi And Korean BBQ

K-Oku is a trendy fusion restaurant that combines Korean and Japanese cuisine in a modern and upscale setting. The restaurant offers a range of sushi rolls, Korean barbecue, and small plates, such as Korean fried chicken and octopus salad. The Korean barbecue is cooked in front of you on a tabletop grill, and you can choose from a variety of meats and marinades. Prices are on the high side, with most entrees over $20. The restaurant is located in the Gulch area, close to downtown Nashville.

3. Degi Chicken

Degi Chicken is a casual Korean restaurant that specializes in Korean fried chicken. The restaurant offers a variety of wing flavors, such as soy garlic, sweet and spicy, and hot. They also offer other Korean classics, such as bibimbap and kimchi fried rice. Prices are reasonable, with most dishes under $10. The restaurant is located in the Berry Hill area, close to the 100 Oaks shopping center.

4. Gangnam Korean BBQ

Gangnam Korean BBQ is a popular Korean restaurant that offers traditional Korean barbecue dishes in a modern and spacious setting. The restaurant offers a variety of meats, such as beef, pork, and chicken, as well as Korean classics, such as bulgogi, bibimbap, and kimchi jjigae. Prices are reasonable, with most entrees under $20. The restaurant is located in the Cool Springs area, south of Nashville.

5. Seoul Garden

Seoul Garden is a family-owned Korean restaurant that has been serving authentic Korean cuisine in Nashville for over 30 years. The restaurant offers a range of Korean classics, such as bulgogi, bibimbap, and japchae, as well as Korean-inspired sushi rolls. Prices are reasonable, with most entrees under $20. The restaurant is located in the Antioch area, southeast of Nashville.

6. Bibimbap House

Bibimbap House is a casual Korean restaurant that specializes in bibimbap, a Korean rice bowl dish topped with various vegetables, meats, and sauces. The restaurant offers a variety of bibimbap flavors, such as beef, chicken, and tofu, as well as Korean fried chicken and other small plates. Prices are reasonable, with most dishes under $10. The restaurant is located in the Hillsboro Village area, close to Vanderbilt University.

7. Smiling Elephant

Smiling Elephant is a modern Thai and Korean fusion restaurant that combines the flavors of Southeast Asia and Korea in a trendy and laid-back atmosphere. The restaurant offers a range of dishes, such as Korean-style tacos, bibimbap, and Thai curries. Prices are on the high side, with most entrees over $20. The restaurant is located in the Nations area, west of downtown Nashville.

8. Arirang Korean Restaurant

Arirang Korean Restaurant is a family-run Korean restaurant that has been serving traditional Korean dishes in Nashville for over 20 years. The restaurant offers a range of Korean classics, such as bulgogi, bibimbap, and kimchi jjigae, as well as Korean-inspired sushi rolls. Prices are reasonable, with most entrees under $20. The restaurant is located in the Donelson area, east of downtown Nashville.

9. Korea House Sushi And Korean Cuisine

Korea House Sushi And Korean Cuisine is a fusion restaurant that combines Korean and Japanese cuisine in a casual and cozy setting. The restaurant offers a range of dishes, such as Korean barbecue, sushi rolls, and Korean fried rice. Prices are reasonable, with most entrees under $20. The restaurant is located in the Belle Meade area, west of downtown Nashville.

10. Seoul Taco

Seoul Taco is a fast-casual