Origin Korean BBQ: Experience 1960s Korean Dining in the Heart of LA
Dive into our interview with the team behind Origin Korean BBQ as they share the inspiration behind their 1960s-themed restaurant, the dish that put them on the map, and what makes their authentic Korean dining experience truly special.
Origin Korean BBQ, located in the heart of Los Angeles, stands out in the bustling Korean food scene for its dedication to preserving authentic Korean barbecue while embracing the rich history of the 1960s. We sat down with Grace, a member of the restaurant's team, to explore the inspiration behind Origin, their standout dishes, and the unique dining experience they offer.
Inspired by History and Tradition
The concept behind Origin Korean BBQ is deeply rooted in the era of the 1960s, a time of political and social transformation in Korea. "The restaurant's concept is inspired by that time of turmoil and growth in the country," Grace explained. "It was a period of infrastructure development and cultural change, and we wanted to bring that sense of progress and nostalgia into our space. Both the interior and exterior design reflect this, as does the menu."
With Korea gaining independence and opening up to foreign goods, the 1960s saw significant shifts in dining culture. However, one thing remained constant: the communal aspect of Korean barbecue. At Origin, the focus is on recreating that authentic communal dining experience with a modern twist. "We wanted to stay true to the roots of Korean barbecue, while offering a unique and premium experience for our guests," Grace added.
Signature Dish: The Flower Pork Belly
One of the standout dishes at Origin is their thinly sliced pork belly, arranged beautifully to resemble a blossom flower. "We call it 'flower pork belly' because of the way it blooms on the grill," Grace shared. "It’s thinly sliced just right, so it crisps at the edges but stays juicy in the center. There’s a lot of nuance to this dish, and it’s one of our most popular items."
The attention to detail doesn’t stop at the meat. Origin offers a wide array of traditional Korean side dishes, or banchan, carefully curated to enhance the flavors of the barbecue. “Each sauce and side dish we serve is thoughtfully selected to complement the meal. We don’t just throw random items on the table—it’s all part of delivering a truly authentic Korean barbecue experience.”
A Fresh Take on Korean BBQ Dining
Origin Korean BBQ isn’t just about the food—it’s also about creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. From the generous plates of leafy vegetables served with every meal, to their newly introduced lunch service, the restaurant offers something for everyone. “We’ve recently started a lunch service where people can enjoy smaller portions of Korean barbecue without feeling like they need to bring a group. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch,” Grace noted.
In addition to the traditional Korean beverages like soju and beer, Origin also offers a selection of natural wines. “We carry sparkling wines and some citrusy orange wines that pair beautifully with our dishes. It’s something different, and we find that our customers really enjoy the variety.”
The Dream Customer
When asked about her dream customer, Grace offered a thoughtful response: "I would love to have an older couple from somewhere like Southern Virginia, who has never tried Korean barbecue before. If they could come to Origin and enjoy our food, that would truly complete my mission." It's this desire to introduce Korean barbecue to new audiences that fuels the passion behind Origin’s team.
What’s Next for Origin?
As a new restaurant, having only opened in February, Origin is focused on building a loyal customer base and continuing to refine its menu and offerings. “We’re excited to collaborate with other brands and explore fun events and partnerships,” Grace said. “Our goal is to create a lasting impression on our customers, whether they’re first-timers or seasoned Korean barbecue enthusiasts.”
For those looking for an authentic Korean barbecue experience in Los Angeles, Origin is a must-visit destination. With its commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation, this restaurant is quickly becoming a standout in the city’s dynamic dining scene.