I came to eat Sunday night 7/9/23 as a party of 3, arriving at the restaurant by 8:45pm. We had confirmed last call at 9pm and closing at 9:30pm before heading over. When we arrived, we stood and waited to get seated, and first thing we heard were two of the older Korean staff ladies talking to each other a little annoyed, "should we take them or not", in Korean, which we understood, and then "just take them." We sat down, and it was a good thing we already knew what to order, because one of the ladies urged us to order right away. Along with our entree orders, I asked for another set of banchan, but she said no, that they don't give out extra set of banchans. If this was their usual policy, I would've understood, but I've been to this restaurant in both Buena Park and Irvine locations several times, and whenever we asked for refills or another set, it was never an issue. I did notice that the manager/ owner was not in the store tonight (we thought perhaps she's at the other location), and it just felt like everyone was rushing to close. The short tone of how she spoke to us really upset my boyfriend and my sister, but I convinced us to stay and eat because from previous experience, the food was always on point. However, one of our orders tonight, jjajangmyeon, was so disappointing. As soon as it came to our table, we could tell the noodles were not drained enough because the jjajang sauce (which was given in very little portion compared to the amount of noodles) was so watery and not sticking to the noodles at all. We thought maybe adding more of the sauce would help thicken the order, so we asked for it with the same lady. She went over to the kitchen, and we heard her ask for the sauce, and we also heard her say "for that couple with no manners" in Korean, and in Korean it sounds and feels demeaning and frankly, just rude. I don't know if she meant me and boyfriend, or one of the other couples in the restaurant, but regardless, it wasn't professional at all to say that so audibly about customers in the first place. Anyways, we got our extra sauce, and it helped in that the order wasn't so overwhelming with just noodles, but it was still a little wet even after mixing thoroughly. We ate what we could in that sitting, paid and left a decent tip for what it's worth, packed up our leftovers, and left the restaurant at 9:18pm. As customers, I thought we abided well within their usual rules of operation, and wasn't pushy or rude when asking for certain things. However, the entire time we were there we did not feel welcomed and we did not receive the usual great service, and think two stars is generous. Things definitely felt different compared to when the manager/owner is there. read more

Yoo's Place is the kind of spot you want to keep a secret but can't help telling everyone about. What We Ordered: * Dolpan Ojingeo - sizzling stone pot squid over rice with spicy sauce * Bagirak Kalguksu - homemade clam noodle soup * Banchan spread The Dishes: Banchan -- Let's start here because it tells you everything you need to know about this kitchen. Six sides: cucumber kimchi, regular kimchi, radish kimchi, pickled radish, pumpkin with a creamy white sauce, bean sprouts, and fish cake. Every single one was thoughtful and delicious not an afterthought, but a statement. Dolpan Ojingeo -- That sizzling stone pot arrives and you already know. The spicy sauce had just the right kick, the squid was perfectly tender, and everything was so well balanced. But the char from the stone pot? That's what takes it to another level. Absolute perfection. Bagirak Kalguksu -- Pure comfort in a bowl. On a chilly day this is exactly what your soul needs. The dashi broth was full bodied and loaded with umami, the clams were fresh, and the homemade noodles made it feel like someone's grandmother made it just for you. Service: Quick, friendly, and attentive. The kind of service that stays out of your way but is there when you need them. Final Thoughts: Every bite at Yoo's Place reminded us why authentic Korean food hits differently. The care in every dish from the banchan to the mains is the real thing. We're already planning our next visit to work through more of the menu. Yoo's Place is the definition of a neighborhood gem that deserves way more buzz. read more

Yoos Place is a must-try for those looking for super authentic Korean food. The restaurant is often busy with long lines, so plan accordingly and try to go early. The staff consists of old ladies so you know it has authentic home-cooked food. The sides are different from BCD tofu house or other Korean restaurants, and while some are lacking, there are some really good ones included like the chives and kimchi. My favorite banchan was the soup thermos. The broth was delicious and had some veggies and what tasted like pork bones. The stone bowl bibimbap was good, although not much meat was included. However, the portion was larger than most places, and they used an extra-wide bowl which meant there was more space to brown the meat. I also tried the fish cold noodles, but it was only alright. The sauce was good, but I didn't notice any sliced beef, perhaps they forgot it. The fish was good, but very bony and not much meat. Perhaps this is the authentic style, but it wasn't what I was thinking of. For those who want to spend their money smartly, the kalbi combo with the cold noodles is the best option. It's shareable with 2 people and you can add a bowl of rice or 2 (not included) and have a satisfying meal. The decor was nice and simple, and the plaza is new, clean, and small. The friendly and helpful staff mostly spoke Korean, which was a pleasant surprise. Overall, I would highly recommend Yoos Place for those seeking an authentic Korean food experience in Irvine. read more

We recently tried Yoo's Place, and I have to say, it was an excellent experience! It's a relatively new restaurant, but it's very clean, and the staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming. We usually frequent BCD Tofu House, but we decided to give this place a shot, and we're so glad we did! We ordered tofu soup, cold noodles, and the tteokbokki with ramen, and everything was absolutely fantastic. The portions were huge, and the tofu soup was incredibly fresh and flavorful. The broth was rich, complex, and tasted homemade. It even came out boiling hot, which I love for soups--it made the experience so much better. The cold noodles were also delicious, with fresh veggies that were perfect on a warm winter day in Southern California. The tteokbokki with ramen was another highlight. The portion was massive, easily enough for four people! My sister and I shared it, and we were both impressed by the generous serving and flavor. One nice touch is the free bone broth on the side. It's perfect if you're feeling under the weather or just prefer something warm to drink instead of cold water. You can have as much as you'd like, which is such a thoughtful addition. The sides were also fantastic--the kimchi was fresh, and they even had sides I'd never tried before. Overall, I highly recommend Yoo's Place. The portions are generous, the food is delicious and fresh, and the prices are very reasonable. I'll definitely be coming back! read more

I recently checked out Yoo's Place, this new spot that just opened up. I had heard such great things about the food, I just had to try it out for myself. And let me tell you, I was not disappointed! - Naengmyun Kalbi Combo: The Naengmyun wasn't as vinegary and slightly more on the sweet side but still very refreshing. The Kalbi was incredibly tender and flavorful, with just the right amount of sweet and savory. At $30.95, the price may seem a bit steep, but it was worth every penny for the quality of the dish. - Jjamppong: The Jjamppong was delicious and had a lot of flavors, although it wasn't as spicy as I was expecting. The seafood was fresh and tasty, and the vegetables in the soup were stir-fried a little, which added a different but good flavor to it. At $16.95, the price was reasonable for the quality and quantity of the dish. - Side dishes: All the side dishes were good, but my favorite was the kimchi. It had just the right amount of spice and tanginess to complement the other dishes we ordered. Overall, Yoo's Place - Chic Naengmyun is a great spot for Korean food in Irvine. The Naengmyun Kalbi Combo is a must-try, and the Jjamppong is a solid option if you're in the mood for a hearty soup! read more

Yoo's Place was such a great experience from start to finish. The atmosphere is casual and comforting -- nothing too fancy, but clean, cozy, and perfect for a solid Korean meal. It felt welcoming the second we walked in. We ordered the naengmyun, soondubu, and galbi, and everything was amazing. The naengmyun was super refreshing with that icy, tangy broth and fresh cucumber on top -- the perfect balance of savory and cool. The soondubu came out bubbling hot and packed with flavor. The broth was rich and spicy, and the tofu was silky soft. It tasted homemade and comforting in the best way. The galbi came out sizzling and smelled incredible. The meat was tender, well-marinated, slightly sweet, and perfectly charred. So good with rice. What really stood out though was the service. The staff were so nice and friendly, and they even treated us to some dishes on the house, which we really appreciated. They made us feel genuinely welcomed, not just like customers. Between the quality of the food, cozy vibes, and warm hospitality, Yoo's Place is definitely a 5-star spot for me. I'll definitely be back. read more

I went to the Westminster location (yelp for some reason took down my five star review) and it was so good I had to check out the Irvine location because I heard the menu was more extensive. It did not disappoint. They had side dishes that I've never had at other Korean restaurants. My favorite was this creamy pumpkin side dish! Thank goodness they're so generous with their refills because I got like three refills of the pumpkin. For our mains we got the dollar bibimbap, mixed soon tofu, and the kalbi. It was all so flavorful and good. The dolpan bibimbap came out sizzling and made the best crunchy scorched rice. The soon tofu was flavorful and tasted so homemade. Other places usuallt have kalbi that's really thin but loved how substantial and meaty Yoo's was. It was thicker but the marinade seeped through in every bite. I will definitely be coming back here and when I need a quick bite after groceries I will always go to the Westminster location. read more

From the moment we walked in, we were impressed by how clean and welcoming the restaurant felt. The food was absolutely delicious. The tofu soup was outstanding -- the broth had the perfect level of spice and incredible depth of flavor. We also ordered the squid and bulgogi, and both were a big hit with my daughter (who can be a very picky eater!). The owners were incredibly kind and attentive, making sure we were well taken care of throughout our meal. They even brought my daughter a bowl of noodles with black bean sauce, which she loved. The complimentary bone broth served tableside was such a refreshing and thoughtful touch. When I asked if I could purchase some to take home, the owner generously gave me a full container -- truly above-and-beyond hospitality. Wonderful service, authentic flavors, and a genuinely warm atmosphere. We highly recommend this restaurant and will definitely be back! read more

The Korean aunties at Yoo's Place are keeping us all well fed! If you're looking for homey, comforting, and authentic Korean food, this is the spot. The aunties here don't play! They've got stews, meat skillets, hot stone pots, Chinese-Korean food, and more, on their expansive menu. We went with the Dolpan Kimchi Jaeyuk, Jajang Myun, and Gogi Soon Tofu. Everything was a hit! My personal favorite was the Dolpan Kimchi Jaeyuk. It features assorted kimchi and spicy pork over rice in sizzling stone plate with spicy sauce. Soooo good! The Jajang Myun was also super yummy. The black bean sauce was perfect and the noodles were just the right amount of chewy! Lastly, the Gogi Soon Tofu was the best way to keep our bellies warm during this cold weather. All-in-all, an amazing meal! Note: You'll notice that they place a black thermos at each table. This is actually bone broth! Such a comforting touch! read more

If you are looking for authentic Korean comfort food served with genuine warmth, Yoo's Place on Dupont Drive is a hidden gem in Irvine! Right as you walk in, the Korean owner greets you like family--so friendly, welcoming, and attentive throughout the entire meal. But the real star is the food! Every single bite of meat is incredibly juicy, tender, and bursting with rich flavor (육즙 / yukjeup). Whether you're getting the tender Galbi (LA Short Ribs), savory Bulgogi, or a steaming pot of Galbi-tang, the meat melts in your mouth and locks in all that juicy goodness. Paired with fresh banchan (side dishes) and refreshing cold noodles (Naengmyun), it's an unforgettable meal. Highly recommend to anyone craving authentic Korean flavors and top-tier hospitality in Orange County!" read more

Yoo's Place in Irvine is a delightful spot offering authentic and flavorful Korean cuisine. Known for its diverse menu, the restaurant serves traditional dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi, and delectable Korean BBQ options. The ambiance is cozy, perfect for family gatherings or casual outings with friends. With a combination of delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere, Yoo's Place is a go-to place for experiencing the essence of Korean dining in Irvine. Sharing delectable dishes with cherished friends creates an everlasting tapestry of happiness and a flavor-filled journey that stays with us forever. Yoo's Place Yelp: https://yelp.to/vzDctyP6BF read more

Navigating the crowds at this Korean gem feels like winning a foodie lottery. Once you conquer the table quest, brace for a culinary rollercoaster! We shared plates like secret agents on a mission, and the cold noodles on a scorching day were a refreshing rescue mission. Side dishes? Flavor explosions! Portion sizes? It's like a foodie utopia. Customer service? Almost asked for autographs. Free tea? A sip of enlightenment! Parking? Stress-free, like the parking gods rolled out the red carpet. In short, this dining experience was more thrilling than a K-drama plot twist. Recommend? Absolutely! Already plotting my return for a sequel to this epic feast! read more

I already wrote a review the last time we ate at Yoo's, But I just had to come back and write another one! After our 2nd time dining here, I can confirm that this is my new favorite Korean restaurant or restaurant in OC or anywhere. It's food that's good as homemade, cooked by your Korean grandma/mom. You can the taste the difference; the main ingredient is love. We were lucky enough to meet Becky (whose parents are the owners), whose unparalleled hospitality & generosity made us feel welcomed like we might be cousins or already friends. Yoo's has a huge menu, so we can go back all the time & never run out of things to try. Xo, Taili, Dave & Holden read more

Used to go to the original location regularly in Buena Park when I lived in Fullerton. Was so excited to learn that the same owner opened a location here in Irvine! The place is significantly bigger than the OG spot! Same great quality and love the expanded menu option as well as still having the nostalgic items! The food is very authentic gives you that homemade vibe while service is great! They keep refilling my banchan without having to ask! That's a big plus in my books! read more

I recently visited this Korean restaurant and had a great experience. - The place has a homey feel that makes you feel right at ease. - Service was super quick, which I loved. - Finding a seat was easy, no long waits. - Parking can be a bit tricky, though. The food was absolutely delicious! I especially enjoyed the soon tofu combo. The sides were delicious and complemented the meal perfectly. I'll definitely be coming back! read more

Some dishes are good, most ok. But the fact the owner looking frustrated when taking order and filling chop stick box while we are eating, not a good experience. At least do that when the customers are gone not while they are eating standing next to us for like 5 mins changing and filling napkins. Also the price is very over priced. read more

I'm a huge fan of their location in Buena Park and was so excited to hear they opened one closer to my home. The quality of the food and service are just as great as the other location. My family and I really enjoyed the jjangppong, jjajangmyun, and bibim naengmyun. Highly recommend the deep fried squid and yurinki!! read more

I have been at yoo's place in buena park. Now I don't need to go that far. A lot bigger than fullerton but same good service and taste. I recommend korean style hamburger steak and naengmyun. so good. Expect ox born soup. They installed huge pot for soup but not ready yet. Strong recommend read more

I was so looking forward to try this new place but fell short by far. Ordered five dishes but none were anything special. They were below average at above average price. Menu is huge but not sure what they specialize in. There are certainly many other better options in Irvine. read more