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Ratings and reviews

5
Restaurantji Rating
(937 review)
5
4
3
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Muguboka Restaurant Photos

Hours

Monday 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Thursday 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Muguboka Restaurant Reviews

Scott L.
Scott L.
Restaurantji Rating

First time diner and we were quite impressed. The restaurant is on the corner and is bright with natural light. Seats around 40? Only challenge is parking can be a little tough in the quasi business and residential neighborhood. Pleasantly surprised to see adjacent tables of older Koreans ordering the same dishes as us. We had: Kalbitang (lots of meat, not oily, noodles, and enough to share for two), Kalbijim (also lots of meat, very good taste, reminded me of Chinese Beef Stew but a little sweeter), Mandu (crispy, small ones), Japchae (meatless and a little oily). Scissors definitely needed if you're sharing so that you can cut the meat off the bone and into bite-sized pieces. Service is excellent, we had three people and were given bowls for soup and three bowls of rice. Banchan was the common items except for a sweetened pickled root type thingy. The Kimchee was spicier than what we're used to. All in all, we liked and we'll be back!

Nicole L.
Nicole L.
Restaurantji Rating

6 years later, and this is still our favorite neighborhood Korean restaurant. We have dinner here at least once a week. Everything is always perfect - the kalbi, soon dubu, naeng meng, bibimbap. Panchan is plentiful and fresh. Owners are so kind, making sure our kid has the seaweed for his bap and kid utensils / bowl.

Jane K.
Jane K.
Restaurantji Rating

Had lunch with family. We ordered a variety of dishes: dumpling soup, short rib soup, fried chicken with sauce, steamed codfish with special sauce, and pollock stew with vegetables in spicy sauce. Omg, all of them were delicious! We were very stuffed after eating. The side dishes were also very tasty. Staffs were very friendly and The restaurant isn't very big, so if you want to go with a large group, it's better to make a reservation in advance. We'll definitely go back to try other dishes with the family soon.

Chris G.
Chris G.
Restaurantji Rating

I stopped in on a windy Sunday afternoon. There was a bit of a chill in the air and I wanted something to warm me up. I hadn't heard of the location-/ I just rolled the dice today. The place was empty! I had it all to myself. And I was greeted kindly and promptly. I was pleasantly surprised at a fresh, hot cup of tea offered as I sat down. The restaurant is simple and was very clean. There are hand sanitizer bottles lining the windows so you for sure would not be in need for sanitized hands haha. I decided to go with the sautéed calamari and got some friend chicken to go for later. I didn't realize there would be such a beautiful spread. The owners also brought me out a soup, on the house, which was so kind. Maybe because I was the first person of the day? Who knows?! I got a chance to witness some of the interaction among the staff and some locals that came in. I enjoyed how homey the atmosphere was; the hospitality in the spirit of the owners is evident. I even loved the choice of ice cube the one where the liquid moves through it-- ooweee. Sautéed calamari, wings to go, and a Diet Coke; $52.14. I thoroughly enjoyed this meal. It's sometime to take your time with. Sit. Enjoy. Taste it. 5/5; 10/10; worth the price everytime. Tip em well. Will be back.

Tiffany T.
Tiffany T.
Restaurantji Rating

Food: Side dishes were pretty good. There was more variety that I typically see at korean restaurants (ie broccoli) which was cool. I got the bibimbap ($21) and it was a pretty decent serving size. It was exactly what you would expect from your typical bibimbap; a runny egg yolk pillowed by crunchy spinach, bean sprouts, carrots, etc. I kind of like that the rice was served in a separate bowl because it made mixing everything a lot easier. We also got a complimentary dish of jin mandu (aka fried dumplings) which were delicious as well. Service: We came during a dinner rush so perhaps thats why servers were not super attentive. Had to wave them down a couple of times to get refills/requests. Nonetheless, staff are polite and fast! Overall: Parking can be difficult and it was a very busy Saturday night so be prepared to wait. The food is pretty solid korean comfort food, wide selection of banchan. Would definitely swing by again!

Alisa K.
Alisa K.
Restaurantji Rating

One of my favorite mom and pop Korean restaurants in sf. They have one of the best banchan in the city and the 2 times I've gone here they've given us free mandu. Gal bee tang - soup overwhelmingly tasted like garlic but the meat was super tender and generous portion Yang gop Chang bokeum (beef intestine) - really great flavor and pretty big portion Gopchang jungul (tripe) - great flavor and portion I've also tried their seafood pancake and cold noodles which were great It is on the pricier side but the service is great and the banchans are my fav

Connie N.
Connie N.
Restaurantji Rating

Discovered this place while en route to buy borscht from Cinderella Bakery/Cafe. Staff is minimal, but super efficient. We were sat with barley tea in cups as we perused our menus. Food came out fast and they even gave us tofu soup on the house! Highly recommend trying yuk hwe (raw sliced beef seasoned with salt, sugar, sesame oil, pepper, garlic, and garnished with Korean pear, raw egg yolk). Definitely a local spot/would come back!

Vicki A.
Vicki A.
Restaurantji Rating

My son wanted to eat Korean for his birthday and I didn't feel like smelling like barbecue so we ventured to Muguboka, who's dining room feels like you're eating an authentic home-cooked meal at a Korean friend's home. The service was friendly and quick. The banchan are so fresh and tasty, and you can request for seconds. The japchae is flavorful and not greasy. We also enjoyed the bulgogi and spicy pork. Last but not the least, they gave us complimentary kimchi soup, which was warming and comforting. We will be back.

Anna C.
Anna C.
Restaurantji Rating

Delicious as always. I think the prices went up a bit similar to most restaurants these days. This day we ordered the pancake, galibi jjim and the kalbi and the tofu soup was on the house.

Adam T.
Adam T.
Restaurantji Rating

One of my favorite Korean spots in the city. Mom and pop run, cozy, and casual -- this is a great place to unwind with quality food. Tofu bibimbap was delicious. Mackerel was juicy. And sides on point. Friendly service. High marks!

Muguboka Restaurant

Tucked away at 401 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA 94118, Muguboka Restaurant is a cozy Korean eatery offering hearty dishes like soft tofu stew, seafood pancakes, and barbecue short ribs in a welcoming, family-run setting.

Homestyle Korean Comfort in San Francisco

Stepping into Muguboka Restaurant feels like entering a Korean home kitchen. Located in the Richmond District, this family-run spot has been serving authentic Korean dishes for over 17 years. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with friendly staff ensuring every guest feels at home. The menu boasts a variety of traditional Korean favorites, including tteokbokki, samgyetang, and galbijjim. Customers often rave about the generous portions and the variety of banchan (side dishes) that accompany each meal. The restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition is evident in dishes like the Mool Naengmyeon, a Northern Korean cold noodle soup that's both refreshing and satisfying. With ample parking and accommodating service, Muguboka Restaurant is a hidden gem worth exploring for a taste of homemade Korean cuisine.

A Menu Rich in Korean Delights

The menu at Muguboka Restaurant is a testament to the rich flavors of Korean cuisine. Appetizers like the Haemul Pa Jun (seafood and vegetable pancake) and Kimchi Jun (spicy kimchi pancake) are crispy and flavorful, setting the stage for the main courses. Barbecue options such as Gal Bee (marinated short ribs) and Bul Go Gi (tender beef) are grilled to perfection, offering a delightful smoky flavor. For those seeking comfort in a bowl, the Soft Tofu Soup and Kimchi Chigae (kimchi stew with pork and tofu) are both hearty and satisfying. Vegetarian options like the Tofu Dolsott Bibimbap ensure there's something for everyone.

Cozy Ambiance and Thoughtful Service

Beyond the food, Muguboka Restaurant offers a dining experience that's both comfortable and accommodating. The interior is modest yet cozy, with a layout that encourages relaxed dining. The staff, often referred to as "ajummas" by regulars, are attentive and eager to share recommendations. Amenities like free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating, and gender-neutral restrooms cater to a diverse clientele. The restaurant also offers takeout and delivery options, ensuring that their delicious offerings are accessible to all.

Community Praise and Loyal Patrons

The reputation of Muguboka Restaurant is bolstered by glowing reviews from both locals and visitors. Diners frequently highlight the authenticity of the dishes and the warmth of the service. One patron noted, "The food was incredible, warm, and rich in flavor. The tteokbokki is a must-order: pillowy, creamy, and simply to die for." Another shared, "We arrived before 6 PM, so getting seats and parking was easy. The ambiance was very homey, not too noisy." Such testimonials underscore the restaurant's commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience.

For those seeking authentic Korean cuisine in a welcoming environment, Muguboka Restaurant stands out as a top choice in San Francisco. Whether you're craving a comforting stew, sizzling barbecue, or a variety of flavorful side dishes, this establishment promises a meal that's both satisfying and memorable.

Location & Contact

401 Balboa St San Francisco, CA 94118 United States
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