Exploring New Korean Cafes in LA
The culinary landscape of Southern California continues to evolve as Korean cafes in LA are launching innovative menus that creatively reinterpret traditional South Korean ingredients. According to recent reports from Eater LA, these new neighborhood spots are bringing modern twists to coffee culture and casual dining across Echo Park and Highland Park.
Onul Coffee Brings Perilla Tonics to Echo Park
Located at 2150 W. Sunset Blvd, ‘Onul Coffee’ has opened its doors in Echo Park, operating out of the wine bar ‘Bar Bandini’ during daytime hours. Alongside classic drip coffee, cappuccinos, and vanilla lattes, the cafe introduces unique beverages such as the ‘Pearilla,’ which combines perilla leaves with elderflower tonic water, and a jasmine muscat cloud tea. Onul Coffee is open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Mokja Blends Korean Market Culture with Craft Coffee
Meanwhile, Highland Park welcomes ‘Mokja,’ a Korean-style cafe and market created by chef Debbie Lee alongside 2024 U.S. Barista Champion Frank La and Michelle La. Situated behind Debbie Lee’s modern pocha ‘Yi Cha’ at 5715 N. Figueroa St, Mokja features an instant ramen bar where customers can cook their own custom meals, alongside sandwiches, prepared banchan, spam musubis, and oxtail hand pies. Visitors can also try inventive drinks crafted by Frank La, including a banana matcha latte and omija sparkler.
