Loreyn T.
Yelp
Food (5/5): You come here for the soondubu, and they deliver every single time. My go-to is the Assorted Soondubu (beef, shrimp, clam) at medium spice. The broth is incredibly rich and flavorful, perfectly spiced, and that silky-smooth tofu just melts in your mouth. Cracking the egg into the bubbling pot is always a satisfying ritual. Their banchan (side dishes) are also a huge highlight - the crispy fried fish, the fresh kimchi, and the assorted veggies are always a delicious accompaniment and endlessly refillable. If you're really hungry, their combos like the Galbi Combo are fantastic; the BBQ short ribs are tender and perfectly marinated, a great complement to the comforting stew.
Service (4/5): The service at BCD is typically efficient and to the point. They handle the crowds well, even during peak hours, and get your food out quickly, which is exactly what you want when you're hungry. While not overly chatty, the staff are attentive to refills on banchan and will quickly bring anything you need. For a bustling, high-volume spot, they do a solid job.
Ambiance (4/5): The ambiance is lively and casual, perfect for a no-frills, comforting meal. It's often bustling, with the sounds of bubbling soondubu pots and friendly chatter filling the air. It's not a quiet, intimate spot, but that's part of its charm. There's a good energy that makes it a great place to gather with friends, especially for those late-night eats. You'll see a mix of families, students, and groups of friends enjoying their meals.
Late-Night Food & Friends (5/5): This is where BCD truly shines in Irvine. When most other places are winding down, BCD is still buzzing, making it the absolute perfect spot for late-night food with friends. There's something incredibly satisfying about digging into a piping hot bowl of soondubu and sharing stories after hours. It's our consistent choice for a hearty, flavorful meal that hits the spot no matter the time.
Overall, BCD Tofu House in Irvine remains a top contender for delicious, comforting Korean food. It's reliable, satisfying, and consistently delivers a great experience, especially when you're looking for that perfect late-night bite with your crew.