Cho Sun Ok Restaurant
Mona · 271 Google reviewsCho Sun Ok Restaurant — a korean spot in North Center. Classic neighborhood feel, nothing here chasing trends. Technique and tradition show up on every plate. Moves fast, BYOB. "The Bulgogi was also seasoned perfectly, so whether you want the meat to be more tender or more crispy" — D “Juanito” H [$$]
What 2,082 diners keep saying
What 2,082 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Best k-bbq I’ve had in the U.S. The chadol (thinly sliced brisket) is for two people, though the servers are not the friendliest, they are there to do their job. They briskly deliver seven side dishes, all house made and hard-to-find ones outside of Korea, and start frying the meat for you. All of their side dishes were phenomenal and the meal ends with k-dessert — a fried rice with kimchi and sesame oil on the meat-grilled pan. Cho Sun Ok is an institution to behold and I was happy to finally visit this place after having had it for so long on my to-go list.”
“I am a big fan of Cho Sun Ok. I've been pleased with the food, the service, and the experience every time I have dined. My favorite is the beef for sharing. The banchan provided is excellent and although the ladies do not speak English they are very attentive, helpful, and friendly enough. I really appreciate the unassuming nature of the restaurant. I usually bring some beers to enjoy with the meal. Prices are reasonable. It's a great experience and the food matches. Many people say they have to wait however I have never waited very long. My preferred kbbq.”
“Some of the best KBBQ I’ve had in the U.S. This place is known for having long lines, but we must have arrived at the perfect time because we were seated immediately at the last available table. Not long after, a line started forming outside. We were seated at a round table for four in the center of the restaurant. Service was incredibly fast from start to finish, we were in and out in about 40 minutes. The staff spoke both Korean and English, and they were attentive throughout the meal. They even helped cook the meat, which made the experience even better. The quality of the food was excellent, and the meat cooked quickly. One of the highlights was the kimchi fried rice at the end of the meal, it was absolutely delicious and the perfect way to finish dinner. A couple things to keep in mind: it gets very hot inside, so be prepared for that. Also, if you arrive too close to closing time, some banchan and menu items may be unavailable due to limited quantities. Overall, this was a fantastic dining experience with great food, efficient service, and an energetic atmosphere. Definitely worth the hype!”
“Traditional Korean food- it was amazing- get there early as it packs up fast and people Will Wait outside in 14 degree weather to get in”
“The best Korean BBQ in Chicago. I went back after 9 years, and it still tasted just as good. We had the chadolbaegi, and the quality was amazing. The employees even came over to grill it for us. The fried rice was delicious too. I’ll definitely return the next time I visit Chicago.”
“Restaurant is very small but still has an authentic feel to it. Service is okay at best, but the food is worth going back for. Definitely one of the most authentic tasting Korean places I’ve tried.”
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This is a famous traditional Korean restaurant with authentic flavors and excellent service. I really love the original taste and the nostalgic feeling of their dishes. Everything was perfect — I’m so happy to come back again!”
“What an amazing experience I had. The food was amazing. I order the intestine dish, and it blew me away. Although the restaurant is small, it is very cozy. I definitely felt like I got to experience an authentic Korean meal. The staff were very attentive. Even though they had a full house, they kept checking on us and helping us throughout the meal. I would love to come here again.”
“시카고속 한국을 제대로 느낄수있음ㅋ 이모님들 너무 바빠서 시크하시나 나름 한국인 커스텀 반찬구성과 서비스 등 정 넘치심ㅎㅎ 이모님들 건강하세요”
“52불 주고 쭈꾸미 시켰는데 쭈꾸미 다리 3개? 있었나? 나머니 다 양파. 주문하기 전에 쭈꾸미가 비싸서 몇 개 안 들었다고 이야기해줬으면 다른 메뉴를 시켰을텐데, 음식을 가지고 나온 후어야 쭈꾸미아 비싸서 몇 개 없는데 왜 고기를 안 시켰냐고 하면 손님은 뭐가 됩니까... 오랜만에 큰 맘 먹고 한식당에 갔는데, 실망했습니다...ㅠ”
Sounds like your kind of place?
Star it — your hit list is where dinner decisions get made.
One email a month — new openings, hidden gems, and where locals are actually eating.
More Korean in Lakeview & North Center
See the ranking →
In the same lane · Korean, mid-range
If it's packed, walk to…
More good rooms in North Center, minutes away.