There’s something about a perfect Korean restaurant that makes you want to trade your commute for a seat at the counter. The sizzle of bulgogi hitting a hot plate, the endless refills of banchan, and the unmistakable comfort of a bubbling stone pot. Whether you’re after the full K-drama fantasy or prefer your Korean restaurant sleek, with soju cocktails and sleek tables for gathering, these excellent spots should be on your list.
Noodles and Friends
$ | (804) 728-3625 | WEBSITE
Noodles and Friends is a standout spot inside the Grand Supermarket on West Broad Street that serves up flavorful, generous Korean classics. It’s a Midlothian mainstay that would be bustling, even if it was a Tuesday afternoon, with families and takeout regulars loading up on bulgogi and vegetable dumplings. It’s a restaurant you can trust to deliver quick, tasty meals without costing more than $50 for two.
Yewon
$$ | (804) 745-0030 | WEBSITE
Yewon in Midlothian has got whatever ‘it’ is. It’s authentic, it’s comforting, it’s generous, and the spicy beef soup needs to be studied for its flavor balance. The energy in this cozy, unassuming space is warm and welcoming, so bring your family or your hungry friends. Just know that the formula to a perfect meal here is this: hot stone bibimbap or bulgogi stew, crispy fried dumplings, and the large family-sized portions that leave you satisfied.
Zzaam! Kokee Midlothian
$ | (804) 562-3923 | WEBSITE
This Midlothian Korean spot—and part of the Zzaam! chain—is mostly walk-in-only and upon entering you’re met with a wall of aroma. Scents of sizzling chicken from groups who’ve nabbed one of the counter seats and are watching dumplings steam in bamboo baskets, and couples leaning in to share bowls of kimchi fried rice. A humble-sounding ramen broth is richer than our overpriced bone broth subscription, and the katsu is the edible equivalent of a warm hug.
Hot Pot 757
$$ | (804) 709-1901 | WEBSITE
Within minutes of stepping into this Midlothian spot, you’ll catch the sizzle of marinated meats and the earthy aroma of bubbling broths in the spacious dining room that feels like a lively Asian food hall. The menu at Hot Pot 757 is built on classics—tender beef slices for grilling, fresh vegetables for dipping, and rich spicy beef butter soup that deserves a bottle of soju for company. One part interactive fun, two parts satisfying flavors, and the rest pure communal dining.
Hot Pot 757 – Midlothian
$$ | (804) 447-1001 | WEBSITE
Hot Pot 757 – Midlothian is a sprawling Korean hot pot spot where you cook a wide selection of vegetables and meats right at your table. As far as interactive dining experiences that are entertaining enough to feel like an event go, this is up there. It’s also delicious. The bulgogi and shrimp are standout choices and the hot pot broth selections are wonderfully developed.
A robot kitty leads guests to their seats in the spacious, beautifully decorated dining room featuring bronze sculptures set in a garden scene and two dragon head-dresses, creating a fun atmosphere that draws families and groups for celebrations. The staff provides great service, efficiently bringing out servings and checking in, though the meat quality can be inconsistent.
While the price is on the higher side, the overall experience makes it highly recommended whether you’re filling up on the hot pot alone or mixing and matching with seaweed salad—just be mindful of portions to avoid waste charges.
bb.q Chicken Lotte Market Richmond
$ | (804) 716-6592 | WEBSITE
bb.q Chicken Lotte Market Richmond in Midlothian is a reassuringly straightforward spot where you should order one thing: the Hot and Spicy Chicken. This is code for The Best. Golden original chicken that stays extra crispy, honey garlic that customers rave about, generous portions, and more. As far as fried chicken goes, this is some of the best-value in Virginia. But it’s the feelgood mood—clean atmosphere, chill vibes—that makes bb.q Chicken priceless.
Gogi Bibimbap
$ | (804) 747-1603 | WEBSITE
A meal at Gogi Bibimbap isn’t just about sizzling beef bulgogi and spicy pork bowls. It’s about a collective embrace of Korean comfort, where the upbeat atmosphere makes you forget you’re in Midlothian. This welcoming spot has friendly, accommodating staff, an attentive owner who makes you feel at home, and dishes with exquisite flavor—cc the dol sot bibimbap with your choice of fried egg.
Come here when you’re craving a delightful Korean culinary adventure, with fresh vegetables and must-try kimbap that’ll have you eager to return.
Noodles & Friends
$ | (804) 675-0103 | WEBSITE
This tucked-away Korean gem operates as a culinary oasis for Richmond diners who want to experience authentic flavors without leaving the New Grand Mart. At Noodles & Friends, generously portioned curried tofu and rice dishes are passed across tables, the hum of satisfied customers fills the air, and the vibrant aromas from the soft tofu dish create an inviting atmosphere. The food is reliably delicious with the hearty, abundant presentation favored by traditional Korean kitchens everywhere.
Korean Garden
$$ | (804) 675-0511 | WEBSITE
Trying to pull yourself away from Korean Garden is like resisting that last piece of bulgogi sizzling on the grill: nearly impossible. Most people wander into this Midlothian spot as walk-ins—going full moth at the sight of glowing tabletop grills and generous banchan. In tucked-away, family-friendly booths, groups order refreshing Korean beer that threatens afternoon plans.
And towards the front, where it’s still charmingly cozy, weekend catch-ups are sponsored by life-affirming seafood pancakes.
Bonchon Midlothian
$ | (804) 608-2051 | WEBSITE
Bonchon Midlothian, a Korean fried chicken spot in Midlothian, is a triple threat—convenient parking, friendly staff, delicious food. Excellent servers welcome you with a recommendation of their popular chicken, sides like the seasoned fries—a cross between the crispiest, most addictive potato sticks we’ve ever eaten and a life-altering, perfectly seasoned snack—demand that everyone gets stuck in, and the spacious wheelchair-accessible room feels like the home of a practical, no-fuss eatery.
Though some changes have affected the chicken strips, which now resemble stringy fingers rather than the nice blocky pieces remembered before COVID, and the fried chicken can be overpriced and lacking in flavor unless you request soy or fish sauce instead of the oily hot sauce, many enjoy their visit and look forward to returning.
