Papa Bop
Papa Bop — among the best korean in Evanston. It has that lived-in, been-here-forever warmth. The kind of cooking that doesn't need to explain itself. Family-run, quick and efficient. "Everything is sparkling clean, and the food is always fast, fresh and beautifully prepared" — Evan Girard [$$, BYOB]
What 252 diners keep saying
What 252 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Hands down the best Korean food in Chicago! I can’t wait to come again during my next Chicago trip. The service was phenomenal and the food was delicious!”

“Great family owned and run business. Food is fresh. Only tried 1 dish and it was delish! Support local!”

“I started going here right when they opened and if I could I would eat here everyday. The owner and his family have some an amazing food. The overall vibe in the restaurant is super peaceful. My favorite Korean spot in Evanston!”

“Best Koran restaurant that I’ve been so far! Authentic and real Korean taste of food, staff is so nice and welcoming, it’s cheap and delicious! Recommend 100%”

“This cozy mom and pop shop is the closest I've ever been to Korea in the Midwest. Great food, good price, absolutely worth taking a bus down from campus.”

“1st time at the Newish Papa Bop. Completely exceeded the already high expectations. Online ordering was easy. order was ready in 15 min. owners were all smiles and very friendly and welcoming. The food however was spectacular. This will be my first choice for eating out from now on. Bibimbop was so delicous tge papa bop sauce was awesome. The mandoo du.plings crispy and so good. Love the marinated vegetables on the side. Thank you for a perfect lunch.”

“We had the dumplings and bibimbop bowls (one bulgogi, one tofu)that came with miso soup, kimchi and a little dish of potatoes. All fantastic! Pleasant service and food came out very quickly. Small seating area so best to go during off-peak hours. The one odd thing was, there was no public bathroom.”

“Great Korean in a chill atmosphere. My favorite is Bibnbop with Bulgogi served in a hot stone bowl. You'll be full and happy for the rest of the day!”

“We went for a quick early dinner and quick it was. Food came very fast and very hot from the tiny kitchen. There's not a lot of choices, but everything we took was delicious. We took 1 starter and 2 main dishes. Portions were big, probably too much for 2 people. It is a bit pricey, but portions were big. I'd go there again with more people so we can share family style.”

“Hello! I really love the food but I would like to shard with you that last Friday, we ordered 3 meals from you and one of it was the Hae Mul Pajeon. I ate half from the office and brought half for home and shared with my husband. Unfortunately, while he was eating, a blue rubber band came out. Your chef should be more careful. The band was still intact. We finished the food still.”
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