It was midnight in Los Angeles, and the city that never sleeps was buzzing with late-night energy. Sarah and her friends had just finished a concert, and the hunger pangs led them on a quest for something comforting, warm, and satisfying. At this hour, they could think of only one place open and serving up steaming bowls of Korean comfort food: BCD Tofu House.
The aroma of sizzling kimchi, garlic, and rich, savory broths filled the air as they walked into the restaurant. The tables were packed with people of all ages; some huddled over bubbling pots of tofu stew while others savored crispy bites of Korean fried dishes. Sarah had heard about BCD Tofu House‘s famous soon dubu jjigae—soft tofu stew—from friends, but this was her first time experiencing it firsthand. When the waitress brought over a boiling pot of stew, complete with a side of rice and an array of banchan (small side dishes), she knew this would become a regular stop.
BCD Tofu House isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a culinary institution known for bringing authentic Korean flavors to America and becoming a beloved staple in cities nationwide. But what makes BCD Tofu House so special? And why do people keep coming back, even at the late hours of the night?
The History of BCD Tofu House
BCD Tofu House, short for Bukchang Dong Tofu House, was founded in 1996 by Hee Sook Lee, a Korean immigrant who wanted to share her love for Korean cuisine. According to Eater, Lee opened the first BCD location in Los Angeles’ Koreatown, which is known for its vibrant Korean food scene. Named after a neighborhood in Seoul, Bukchang Dong, where the founder grew up, BCD Tofu House quickly became popular for its homestyle, soon dubu jjigae. This soft tofu stew is rich, spicy, and deeply satisfying.
The restaurant’s mission was simple: to introduce Korean food to a broader audience and provide a warm, welcoming space for people to enjoy traditional Korean dishes. Over the years, BCD Tofu House has expanded to over a dozen locations across the United States, including New York, Seattle, and Las Vegas, becoming a household name for Korean food enthusiasts.
In an interview with the LA Times, Lee shared that her mother inspired BCD’s menu. Mother was to create a place where people could enjoy a wholesome meal any time of the day or night, making BCD Tofu House a go-to destination for Korean expats and locals looking to experience the flavors of Korea.
What Makes BCD Tofu House Special?
- Signature Soondubu Jjigae
The heart of BCD Tofu House’s menu is iHouse’satureiHouse’s miniature soon dubu jjigae, a spicy soft tofu stew bubbling and steaming in a stone pot. Soondubu jjigae comes in various flavors, including original, seafood, kimchi, and even a non-spicy option for those who prefer a milder taste. Each bowl of stew is made with silken tofu, which has a creamy, delicate texture that perfectly complements the bold, spicy broth.
According to Bon Appétit, soon dubu jjigae will be the ultimate Korean comfort food, and BCD Tofu House’s versHouse’sl will be a classic that stays true to traditional flavors. The dish is served with a raw egg on the side, which diners can crack into the stew to create a richer, silkier texture. This interactive element adds a unique touch to the dining experience, making it a hit among newcomers and seasoned Korean cuisine fans.
- 24/7 Service
One of the major draws of BCD Tofu House is its 24/7 service at select locations. Late-night diners, shift workers, and those craving a midnight snack know they can always count on BCD to be open. This around-the-clock availability has made it a staple for night owls and a beloved part of the late-night food culture in cities like Los Angeles.
- Variety of Banchan
Each meal at BCD Tofu House is accompanied by a generous selection of banchan, the small side dishes that are a hallmark of Korean dining. These can include kimchi, pickled radishes, seaweed salad, and other rotating options. According to Serious Eats, banchan adds variety and texture to the meal and gives diners a true taste of Korean culinary traditions.
BCD Tofu House is known for its complimentary banchan, frequently refilled upon request, allowing diners to enjoy as much as they like. This generosity with side dishes has become one of the restaurant’s arks, enhancing the communal and sharing aspect of Korean dining.
Exploring the BCD Tofu House Menu
While soon dubu jjigae will be the main attraction, BCD Tofu House will offer a wide variety of dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here’s A look at some of the menu highlights:
Galbi (Korean BBQ Short Ribs)
For those who prefer meat, the galbi is a must-try. These marinated beef short ribs are grilled to perfection, with a sweet and savory flavor that complements the spiciness of the tofu stew. According to The Infatuation, the galbi at BCD Tofu House is tender and juicy and an excellent choice for diners looking to sample a classic Korean BBQ dish.
Bibimbap
Bibimbap, a mixed rice dish topped with vegetables, an egg, and often beef, is another popular item on the menu. Served in a hot stone bowl, the dish remains sizzling throughout the meal, giving the rice a crispy texture on the bottom. BCD Tofu House offers several variations of bibimbap, including vegetarian and seafood options, making it a versatile choice for different dietary preferences.
Spicy Pork Bulgogi
The spicy pork bulgogi is a flavorful option for those who enjoy spicy food. This dish features thin slices of pork marinated in a spicy-sweet sauce and perfectly grilled. According to Thrillist, the pork bulgogi at BCD Tofu House is a customer favorite thanks to its bold flavors and tender texture.
BCD Tofu House’sHouse’srity and Customer Experience
BCD Tofu House has become a cultural staple in cities with large Korean communities, but its appeal extends far beyond Korean expats. The restaurant attracts a diverse crowd, including local foodies, tourists, and even celebrities. The chain’schain’srity can be seen in its ratings on platforms like Yelp, where many locations average above four stars. Customers frequently praise the authenticity of the food and the warm, friendly service.
According to a survey conducted by Zagat, Korean food’s food’srity has surged in recent years, with dishes like soon dubu jjigae and bibimbap becoming mainstream in the U.S. This trend has helped BCD Tofu House expand beyond its Koreatown roots, reaching a wider audience eager to explore Korean cuisine.
Statistics on the Korean Food Boom in the U.S.
The rise of BCD Tofu House reflects a broader trend in the popularity of Korean cuisine in the United States. According to the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation, Korean food exports to the U.S. have grown by over 15% annually, driven by a growing interest in health-conscious and flavor-rich foods.
Moreover, a Pew Research report indicated that the number of Korean restaurants in the U.S. has doubled over the past decade, with Korean BBQ and soondubu jjigae being popular. This increased demand has paved the way for restaurants like BCD Tofu House to thrive and expand.
Conclusion: Why BCD Tofu House Continues to Thrive
BCD Tofu House has carved out a unique niche in American dining by staying true to its roots while catering to a diverse clientele. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity, with its accessibility and late-night hours, has helped it become a beloved destination for those seeking the comfort and flavor of Korean food.
For Sarah and her friends, that late-night meal at BCD Tofu House became more than just a dinner; it was an experience that introduced them to the warmth and depth of Korean culinary traditions. As they left the restaurant, they felt satisfied and connected to a culture that, even in the heart of Los Angeles, felt welcoming and familiar.
Whether you’re a first-time fan of Korean cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore new flavors, BCD Tofu House offers a taste of comfort, community, and the richness of Korean heritage. It’s moIt’shan just a meal. It’s an invitation to experience a piece of Korea, one bowl of tofu stew at a time.
