Top 7 Korean Restaurants in Ellicott City, Maryland

What’s better than a relaxing day at the spa? A relaxing day at the spa followed by a yummy Korean meal. While a spa doesn’t seem like the most obvious place for a great Korean meal, the restaurant next to the Seoul Spa in Ellicott City is definitely work checking out. At the spa in the abandoned-looking Security Square mall, you can relax in hot tubs and saunas of all different types, get a massage, and then enjoy Korean soups, stews, and bulgogi in a quiet spot.

Shin Chon is one of the best and most famous Korean BBQ spots in Ellicott City. Featured on Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmerman, the restaurants offers a great spread of ban chan (free side dish appetizers) and pork and beef options. Come with a group of friends and sit around a grill as you roast your own meats, and while a little more expensive that most places in the area, the food is worth it.

Honey Pig BBQ Restaurant is another well-known Korean restaurant in the area, and can get pretty crowded on the weekends. With four other locations across the Washington, D.C. metro area, they are developing an empire based on great food with fresh ingredients. The menu is pretty limited to the classics. In addition to the BBQ grilled meats, they have savory pancakes, soups, stews, and noodle dishes.

If you are inspired to cook your own Korean cuisine but want to go get some food at the same time, you must go to H-Mart. Along with the incredible selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood, plus imported Korean goods, the grocery store has a restaurant where you can order authentic dishes like rice and noodle bowls, and even sushi if that’s what you’re craving. All the food is very affordable and a great option for a quick bite.

The name Seoul Pub Sushi Chicken Beer makes it sound like you can get any number of delicious things from a variety of cuisines, but what you really want to check out here is the chicken. Get Korean-style chicken wings and you’ll be in for a sweet-garlicky-tangy surprise, or a large stew with tofu and noodles.

At Cafe Galaxy, you’ll find all your favorites of Korean cuisine such as Korean barbecue and Kimchi fried rice, but they also offer some fun and interesting dishes like bulgogi tacos and spam and kimchi rolls. The decor inside is sleek and quaint, with lanterns and stars hanging from the ceiling and semi-private booths.

For a cozy, authentic feeling Korean restaurant, check out Rainpia in Ellicott City. Cheese corn is a favorite, as are seafood pancakes, chicken stew, and fried chicken. You’ll also get an authentic Korean bar experience here, with lots of liquors and beer to choose from. They take reservations for large groups and have good seating, so it’s also a great place to come for a party.