Kitok Restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant · Waco

Kitok Restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant · Waco

1

1815 N 18th St, Waco, TX 76707

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Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null
Kitok Restaurant by null

Highlights

This cozy, vintage Korean-American gem serves up delicious bulgogi, crispy fries, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a trip back in time.  

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1815 N 18th St, Waco, TX 76707 Get directions

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$10–20 · Menu

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1815 N 18th St, Waco, TX 76707 Get directions

+1 254 754 1801
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Kitokwaco

$10–20 · Menu

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Jul 11, 2025

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@eater

"This small Korean eatery absolutely isn’t putting on airs, and is one of only a few places in Waco to find solid bulgogi, kalbi, funky kimchi, and a great double cheeseburger in the same place. The fries are absolutely all over Instagram." - Courtney E. Smith, Amy McCarthy

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Bravo Six

Google
Two of us ate here on Feb. 19th after I'd had a medical procedure done. It was really windy and cold that day. Parking is in the back. We were greeted as soon as we entered and told to pick our own table. It's a small place and there was a gas heater going which made it even more cozy. The food was great and the two ladies were so sweet and attentive. We've told multiple people about Kitok and will 100% be going back when we're in the area. We found it sort of by accident, but that was a great accident. Everything we had was great, try it all!

Earl Keim

Google
This restaurant has literally been here for decades! The house vegetable fries are absolutely delicious and if you just want a quick snack these are the way to go! I ordered a single patty cheeseburger and it was delicious! The tomatoes lettuce and onions were all freshly cut and still cold. My bun was toasted and the whole burger could not have tasted better. If you're just having a casual lunch and want to go dressed in shorts and t-shirts, this place is for you. All three of us were stuffed when we left here and the price did not break the bank. Three burgers and two of the veggie fries or $27. For three people, that is extremely affordable

Whe W.

Google
We always dine-in and get the burgers and the oriental fries. Both of those options are always consistently fresh when we order them and taste great when dining in. The staff is very kind and the prices are great as well. Also most likely the only place in Waco where you can slightly scratch your itch for Korean tangsuyuk.

Evan Burrows

Google
Opened in 1975 this local favorite is definitely a must stop. It’s small and cozy but I love how it feels inside. It feels very cozy and welcoming. Reminds me a lot of the 80’s and 90’s restaurants because of the decorations and ambiance. I really appreciated it. We were sat down immediately at 5pm which is nice. 5pm on a Saturday could be a risk going out to eat and having or wait for a table. Our server was friendly. The food is really the best part which explains why it has such high esteem in the community. You absolutely must try the beef bulgogi. It’s incredibly tender and flavorful. I was also very impressed with my burger. It was simple but full of flavor. The oriental fries were also very good and the onion rings were crispy. We will be back to try the bulgogi burger next time!

Patrick Smiley

Google
The food was delicious and the portions were large enough for 2 people to share. The service was a little lacking. My wife’s food did not arrive until I was done with my food, might have been the cooks fault, or they might have dropped it in the kitchen. The oriental fries were delicious potato strings with broccoli and onions fried up. I would try this place again.

Vicky

Google
I realize I'm probably the only one with this review but I'm not going to sugar coat anything. This was my first time eating here and I went with my bf. The employees were very welcoming, the atmosphere was quiet and it's very clean inside. The food however could use some help. We heard such good things about this place and we were very disappointed. The fried shrimp was mushy, the soup they have, which was chicken and potato was bland and disgusting. Bolgolgi wasn't very good. My bf actually threw up in the parking lot after we paid and left. The food there just didn't seem fresh, like it was all store bought and just overcooked and very tasteless. I'm very disappointed especially after hearing great things about this place and we decided to finally give this place a shot. We will not be going back.

Wendy M

Google
It sure as hell ain't real Korean, my spouse is Korean and yelled at me for ordering this garbage. Since when are mozzarella sticks 'Mandy's? As an example. Horrible food, & cold when we got it. I doubt it would have tasted better hot, though. The Galbi tasted like a combination of Worcester & spoilage. IDEK how to describe what they call Bulgogi other than disgusting. Never again!!!!!!! Oh wait, the 3 year old liked the French fries, so there's that. Unfortunately, the rest went to waste as inedible Better off in Killeen for decent Korean food or hell, Wacko Roll is way better & it's barely Korean.

Ryan Brown

Google
I found this place on eater as a MUST TRY in Waco. The food was ok. Service was genuine and the atmosphere was "vintage" I'd like to try it again because the Pork Bulgagi was not it.

Julia S.

Yelp
We eat here everytime one of our grandsons come for a visit... he loves their "lip-locker" (double meat cheeseburger) and their oriental fries. So good!

Evan B.

Yelp
Opened in 1975 this local favorite is definitely a must stop. It's small and cozy but I love how it feels inside. It feels very cozy and welcoming. Reminds me a lot of the 80's and 90's restaurants because of the decorations and ambiance. I really appreciated it. We were sat down immediately at 5pm which is nice. 5pm on a Saturday could be a risk going out to eat and having or wait for a table. Our server was friendly. The food is really the best part which explains why it has such high esteem in the community. You absolutely must try the beef bulgogi. It's incredibly tender and flavorful. I was also very impressed with my burger. It was simple but full of flavor. The oriental fries were also very good and the onion rings were crispy. We will be back to try the bulgogi burger next time!

Charles L.

Yelp
Uber Eats delivery for lunch from this long-time in business Waco restaurant. Long ago I used to go with my wife and other family member almost weekly for dinner to this restaurant. Alas, probably haven't eaten here or taken out food but a few times in the last few years. Glad I ordered lunch delivery today. The potato and shredded chicken soup was tasty, nice small (but fresh) salad, 6 mandu, that were crispy on the outside, but soft on the inside with a nice teriyaki-liike sauce. And, the beef bulgogi, with Kitok's of version of fried rice was a nice size portion and great! The veggie fries were a bit soggy, which I was somewhat concerned about when I ordered them. Would recommend not ordering the veggie fries to go, as best served hot and crispy! They still tasted good, however, just a bit soggy. Good (large) lunch. Glad I thought of this place ...

charles r.

Yelp
Hamburgers were great, fries were amazing, An order is plenty to split with two people, Service is great, Hometown hole in the wall kind of ambience.

Andrea B.

Yelp
An interesting little place with very kind staff. It was a fun visit but I do wish the food had been better. The soup that came with the galbi was not pleasing to me but reminded me of a chicken dumpling soup. The galbi was chewy and I'm not a huge fan of the fries but I get why people like them. It was a great time speaking with the staff and sharing food we've eaten across many cultures. It was a pleasure and may be back to try to the burgers.

Adam W.

Yelp
We have heard that Kitok is a Waco Texas Staple. Beware. I had the double meat burger and the meat had a strange flavor. The "Asian" fries were dry and had no flavor. The other person in my part had the Chicken fried Steak and regular fries. The steak had a powdery coating, and it was DRY, the regular fries had no seasoning and old tasting. I really wanted to be able to leave a good review but unfortunately I cannot.

Richard B.

Yelp
Outstanding food and service, small cafe, meal was served with soup and salad, good bargain, nice and attentive hostess

Leah C.

Yelp
This hidden gem of Waco is a must try if ur looking for something new!! I love their fries and the workers r so beyond sweet. The ambiance is comforting and reminiscent of a sweet Korean grandma and her elaborate tea set with matching paintings. I look forward to returning with my mom and twins mom

Curtis G.

Yelp
Pretty good dive restaurant / friendly staff. Ordered chicken bulgogi, spicy. The dish tasted pretty good, but I wouldn't have called it spicy. One thing that really surprised me was the lack of side dishes / pickles. Worth another try when I'm back in Waco.

CC Z.

Yelp
Great food but slow service. We didn't get our Orientql fries until after everyone else in the room did and, by then, we were checking out.

Nataly C.

Yelp
I love me a hole in the wall restaurant, I have learned that places like these have some of the best food...or so I thought. If this is the best burger joint in Waco, we're in trouble!. Ordered a beef bulgogi and fried rice. Came with a side salad and some gross chicken soup. The salad was good, and dressing is what brought it together. The chicken soup was gross and chewy, very bizarre. The rice was crunchy and had no flavor. The beef bulgogi was really nice, I picked that off immediately and ate that. Y'all have some strange taste buds out here! Lol!

Bethany J.

Yelp
The Korean food is good but all the locals know that their hamburger and fries is where the magic is at.

Sharon S.

Yelp
A trip Home for the Holidays must include a cheeseburger and Oriental Fries. We've been eating here since the 80's. Same order every time. They are consistent. Delicious food.

Crystal K.

Yelp
My daughter goes to Baylor so I have made it a point to try different places when I am in Waco. This place has good reviews so I thought I would give it a shot. First of all, yes it is a hole in the wall. I love hole in the wall places. The good- the staff is very friendly, and the beef bulgogi has good flavor. The bad- the chicken soup that comes with the meal has a weird texture, the half order of bulgogi is a child's serving, an average sized adult should probably get the full order. And to put it best from my 7 year old son, the fried rice, the oriental fries, and the mozzarella sticks "taste like nothing". They have ZERO flavor. If you like bland food this place is for you!

Matt P.

Yelp
One of best burgers in town since I was a kid. Orientalist fries are unlike no other.

Lucinda Y.

Yelp
I work for Baylor Oral history and we did a story on Kitoks. It's owned by a Korean woman who married an American post-war and started a burger joint before Korean fusion food was a thing. This is a hidden gem of Waco, it's typically busy, delicious tempera! This is the place to go if you want something original and authentic.

C C.

Yelp
You do not go to Kitok without trying the LipLocker and Oriental Fries at least once. The other items on the menu are good as well, but they are known for the burgers and Oriental fries. One of the best burgers I have ever tasted. Friendly staff. This place has been around for many years. I first went here in the 1980's when I moved to Waco for Baylor. Outstanding!!

Ben R.

Yelp
Waco's Best Whole in The Wall Restaurant. This Family owned restaurant has a menu, that is incredibly unique and tasty, but the best part about this eatery is how while you're there they treat you like part of the family too. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

JM R.

Yelp
This was one of my favorite places to go have a burger and oriental fries when we lived in Waco. Every time we go through town we stop. Highly recommend!!

Cheri Z.

Yelp
Excellent friendly service from a family-owned business...good burgers but fabulous Oriental fries! You must try them! This is a landmark restaurant in the Waco scene and has been for decades so check it out! You won't be disappointed!

Gregory G.

Yelp
First time visit. Oriental Fries were really good. I got the Lip Locker cheese burger and kimchi. Both good. I will be back.

david h.

Yelp
The burger may not be a five star burger but it is certainly good enough to come back for. The people are exceptionally friendly and attentive and I would go to great lengths to support a business like that. Oriental fries were off the hook good. Smiley face!

Joseph G.

Yelp
I had the steak and rice meal. Definitely a one time visit kind of spot. I don't really understand the restaurant's goal. Their special fries were extremely bland and lacked salt.

Morgan R.

Yelp
I love Kitok's! Their burgers are great and their oriental fries are one of a kind. Ask for the house soy sauce to dip the oriental fries in, you won't regret it. One of my favorite hole-in-the-wall places in Waco!

AL W.

Yelp
I don't get the great raves for this place. I tried it the first time and my burger was way over cooked. So I chalked that up to not knowing how they do things. I don't like a burger with no hint of pink. This first trip the service was excellent. So I went back and asked for them not to cook it so long/hard. Got another one way over cooked. This poor burger was coupled with really lousy service. The Asian fries are ok. More breading than veggie. There are better burgers to be had in Waco

Pat E.

Yelp
Haven't been here in twenty years. Drive by wishing for a lip locker and oriental fries. Finally brought the grandkids to try it. The lip lockers were a huge hit. Just as good as I remember. The oriental fries were disappointing. They had been made ahead so they didn't taste fresh.

Haru N.

Yelp
I'm from Asia and this was the worst food I have ever eaten at any restaurants in the world. I feel bad to say this since the elder lady works hard-you can see her cooking everything. But quality, presentation wasn't good enough to pay any money. I hope people don't believe that we eat like that at home in Asia...

Bobby H.

Yelp
Based on Yelp reviews, I feel like I should be raving. The food was middle of the road, and I don't get the allure of the Oriental Fries, whatsoever. Granted, I didn't get a burger - I had the shrimp tempura, but I'm severely underwhelmed. The staff was friendly and it was local and clean, so those are my hi lights.

April M.

Yelp
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! Legitimate hole-in-the-wall place to eat. Has authentic Korean takes on American food but also has some Korean staples (bulgogi, mandu, ribs, sauces, etc). Loved the bulgogi and fried rice (with Korean twist). The staff was so friendly and sweet. It's a must try in Waco!

Britt W.

Yelp
We heard about Kitok from tons of Waco locals and went after a football game, only to be majorly disappointed. I got the chicken tenders and my husband and sister in law got a burger. The burgers were run of the mill quality, and the chicken tenders were anything but tender. It was like eating room temperature fried jerky. They were pounded incredibly thin (again, think jerky) and were fried within an inch of their life. The fries were cold and I tried a few bites and then had to stop. It was awful. A girl at the table next to ours had ordered the "tenders" and fries and we made eye contact while trying to understand how they were ok serving this. We both just started laughing and were relieved when we realized we weren't the only one not eating a meal we had to pay for. The waitress was shockingly rude, rolling her eyes and scoffing when I ordered a water and then asked for a sprite as well. We requested straws the next time she came to the table and she actually chastised us, saying she already asked us when she brought the waters (not one of us heard that) and then dropped 2 broken straws and one intact one on the table. It was pretty dramatic and unnecessary. We all just looked at each other in shock that she acted that way and avoided asking her for anything else the rest of the meal. Needless to say we will never be back. If the food wasn't bad enough, the service was absurdly bad and beyond disrespectful.

Teasha T.

Yelp
I have to honestly say being born and raise in Waco, I've always passed by this restaurant but I had never been in and now that I'm a vegetarian I think it was a bad choice to try it. All of the selections sounded wonderful to my meat eating family. The service was great and the fries were very tasty different spin with the fried veggies. I would've liked some non-fried veggie options but the coziness of this place always you to get to know the people next to you. I had a grilled cheese that seemed a little greasy nothing a dap of a paper towel didn't fix. I don't think it's a place for me but my aunt loved her food.

Helen H.

Yelp
Yeah... Don't really get the hype. Oriental fries is tempura battered I think of a hodge podge of things. Not really fries at all. Maybe a couple of them were actually potatoes. Def need seasoning. Cheeseburger with egg is fine. Salad is fine and soup is fine... But too hot to eat in the summer time. Fried rice is... Odd. I expected Asian style fried rice since I was getting bulgogoi, but it was def more like dirty rice at a creole restaurant except kind of odd tasting. Bulgogoi was fine. It didn't really taste like bulgogoi, it was pretty heavily seasoned and tender, but it wasn't the same sweetness that you expect for bulgogoi. It was also the wrong cut for bulgogoi. Price is fine. At least it isn't over priced. Service is good. Lady was really nice. Bathroom is like a sauna. Ugh, worst way to go to the bathroom is when it's like that.

Darleen H.

Yelp
Been on a burger journey here in Waco!!! My coworker is not from Waco so I've been showing her around town to all our burger joints. And today, we had a small slice of heaven!!!! We had to pick up our orders due to current pandemic protocols. But that is the only negative!!! LOVED THIS BURGER!!

James M.

Yelp
Oriental Fries are AWSOME. I know you don't think hamburger when you go to an Oriental restaurant but . . . this is a hand made patty (like my Mamaw used to make for me after school as a kid) and the seasoning really pops. Great flavor and the people are really friendly. This is a must try if you are in Waco. I came here while in college at McLennan back in the 80's and it is still great food today. It has stood the test of time. I, for one, am really happy I came back. James

Chris S.

Yelp
The best burger in Waco is grilled up at a dive Korean restaurant. My mind is telling me no, but my mouth is saying yes. The setting is shabby but charming with friendly staff and perfect dive ambiance. The burger is nothing fancy either, but it came out piping hot, juicy, and beautifully seasoned. We tried the unique oriental fries, fried shoestrings of potatoes, carrots, and some bits of broccoli. They looked cool, but the taste was a little bland. This is a great 'sleeper' restaurant. Great food hiding in a humble setting.

Chris M.

Yelp
Welp. This place was - almost - 3 stars, but thinking more about it I guess I'll just settle for 2. Kitok just didn't do it for me, and I was so super looking forward to try this place out. Ambiance was....meh, a bit dilapidated. I arrived, only one couple there, and I could hear everything they were talking about. Yeah - she was kinda loud I guess, but not much louder than wining child - - which is what they had with them, and boy I'm glad my mama didn't raise me that way - - getting disciplined and yelled at in public. Not a date place by any means - - although that really depends on your date and where you found them. Okay, enough about the locals, how's the food? I got the Bulgogi and Chicken combo, comes with rice, soup. Also ordered their Oriental Fries - - gotta check these out. Soup comes out first - it's potato, it's bland, salt and pepper can't save it. Here comes the fries - - like long, thin, and curly potato strings fried in a light batter along w/ some parsley and onions. It - wasn't half bad, yet wasn't that good. I think it's a good concept, just spice it up a little bit and may lookn into adding some FLAVOR?!? You can dip it in soy sauce or ketchup. Yay. Okay - here comes my combo and it's not bulgogi, which is supposed to be shredded meat w/ carrots and other stuff in a korean sauce. Instead it looked like a flank steak, the chicken was flattened (like CFC) and both were cooked together in the pan w/ sesame oil. I'd say it was the best tasting thing there, close to 4 stars. But the fried rice - - didn't have much flavor, and didn't taste that great either. I could only eat a few bites and that was it. I love fried rice, how can one mess that up? Service was nice, straight forward, friendly, and it's probably the last time I'll ever see her, unfortunately. You had me at "bars on the windows".

Alicia G.

Yelp
This was our first time here and we will definitely come back on our next visit to Waco. The oriental fries are awesome! Most of us ordered the bulgogi and it was devoured. The kimchi was very good too. Everything was really good and the service was awesome! Can't wait to go back!

Lavern V.

Yelp
This cute little restaurant has the best burgers ever! You ask why and how is that-the bun is hot, grilled and has the perfect little crunch. I wish more places would do this extra step. It's also very unassuming and a bit out of the way. I am going back for the chicken soup which folks were eating in the heat wave. The wait staff is lovely as well.

Kasidy K.

Yelp
Take time away from the usual spots and visit this place. When I ate meat, I would down the hamburger with an egg and Korean fries. You can't go wrong here. It's so delicious!

Todd B.

Yelp
Good burger joint. Had the Lip Locker with Oriental Fries. Burger is good, typical flat top burger with American cheese running down the sides. But the Oriental Fries are top notch. These are potatoes, carrots, and onion with some parsley battered and fried. If you haven't tried these, get there now.

Michael W.

Yelp
Loved the beef bulgogi and oriental fries. They also add a sprig of fresh herb (don't know what type) to their house salad. It really adds a unique twist and a great flavor. I will definitely be returning to this restaurant.

M V.

Yelp
Great place for Korean food. Their fries are awesome due to some special coating. Very reasonable price for good quality food and service. We enjoyed it.

Bob G.

Yelp
Great old fashioned hamburger. Get the Korean fries (thin fried potatoes, onions, carrots and parsley) good and crispy. Great and friendly staff.

Kevin W.

Yelp
Unbelievable Burgers and Don't forget to try the oriental fries. Really Great Stuff! Fast Service,

Deb W.

Yelp
An unassuming place at first glance, one you might pass by. But that would be a mistake. I've been a customer for many years. The oriental fries are a must try. The shrimp tempura is the best. Highly recommend.

Miguel B.

Yelp
I dont.... understand. It wasn't so long ago that I was so hype to try this place and by the end of my visit - it felt like someone kicked me in the face with a lethal does of reality. I cant even remember what we had, I mean I guess theres a reason for that, it was forgettable.

Angelica P.

Yelp
This Korean restaurant is a must!! Their oriental fries are too die for!! The beef bulgogi is addicting!! You must stop by when visiting waco!! And the owner is so super sweet!! She is always there cooking!!

Teresa S.

Yelp
I love this place. Very friendly staff, and great food! I go very often, and every time, the staff, and the food are great. The oriental fries are awesome, they definitely keep me coming back.

Brian C.

Yelp
Jesus himself invented oriental fries. If you don't like them you might need to roll down the road and ask Him to forgive your sins. Fingers crossed and if he's in a good mood he will let it slide. Bits of veg battered and deep fried, i think I hear heavenly choirs sing as I eat them, or maybe my arteries clogging as I enter closer to heaven.

Andrew M.

Yelp
Sadly I'm going to give this place a mediocre rating. The food didn't taste like traditional bulgogi wasn't as flavorful as I've had. The kimchi was crunchy but not spicy and the oriental fries need a dipping sauce and some kind of spices on em. I'm going to give em another try but I was disappointed in my overall experience here.