Roy Choi, an LA food truck O.G. (his iconic “Kogi” kicked started the movement, pun intended, in 2008 with $2 tacos) is popping up again with his 4th (Alibi Room, A-Frame, Sunny Spot being the other 4) and very hype-worthy new restaurant, POT, housed inside the eclectic Line Hotel in Koreatown. The Tastemade crew was lucky enough to score an exclusive sneak peek into this labor of love before it opens next Tuesday, March 25th and let’s just say it’s stirring up all we hoped for & more. Here’s the drop:
From throwback 90’s hip hop playing over the speakers, to hosts rockin’ plaid shirts and gold bling, every corner of this restaurant screams Choi.Â
POT is self-described as: "Koreatown and Korean Food through the eyes of an American with Korean blood. Hot pots, blood soups, frenetic energy BBQ. It’s late nights on the streets; it’s a joyous celebration of life. Most of all it’s good times and good food in the hood."Â
This soulful definition couldn’t be more on point. The food was authentic, flavorful, and true to the Choi culinary style we all love and crave (especially on those late nights). On the innovation tip, all POT tables are equipped with induction burners to warm those hot pots with cool names… monikers like the “Boot Knocker and “Inside Story”. After salivating and deliberating, we opted for the highly recommended “Old School” pot, filled with tender beef, slow cooked veggies, noodles, and a savory broth that will warm more than just your stomachs. We also got a taste of classic Korean Potato Pancakes and Kat Man Do. (A funky name for steamed pork-filled dumplings.)Â
On the way out, we copped a few red bean buns and mochi-butter bars from the Pot Café (a Korean bakery concept run by Momofuku Milk Bar alum, Marian Mar) and um, “YUM” is all we can say.
If you are looking for an authentic Korean experience with a hip twist in of Choi’s perfected style, POT should most definitely be the next spot on your list.
