YUP DDUK IRVINE

My partner and I absolutely love Korean food and were really excited to find this bunsik style restaurant as we’ve been to places like this in the Buena Park area. We drove a bit to get here, immediately when I enter I’m told that I’m not allowed to have my iced coffee (which you guys don’t even offer on the menu) …I’m happy to even pay for that, let me Venmo you $6 if you’re being that stingy, but yeah big turn off before having to exit and come back for this pointless rule. The fried chicken was delicious, moist and flavorful, actually my favorite part of the meal. The staff was really nice and attentive, they did forget about our beer though, but we eventually got it when we asked about it again. The Dduk was incredibly spicy. I got the "mild". Mind you, I’m a white guy who can eat whole Jalapeños, haha, and I do love spicy food. So I’d recommend getting the extra mild if you wanna really appreciate the flavors. Overall, flavors were good, we might be back.

Yupdduk has always been my ultimate soul food since my days in Korea. I’m so happy they have locations in the LA area (I visited the Irvine one)! It tastes just as amazing here — spicy, rich, and so comforting. The U.S. version comes with lots of cabbage and extra-delicious sausage, which I actually love. I really hope they open a branch in the SF Bay Area someday — I’d be their regular for sure!

This is hands down my favorite tteokbokki spot—I come here all the time, and it’s always on point! The flavors are incredible. The food is comforting, portions are generous (perfect for sharing!), and it’s super affordable. The staff are always so friendly, which makes the experience even better. Plus, you can get 50% off when you order through their app. Highly recommend this place!

Stopped by Yup Dduk in Irvine and it was definitely a solid spot. We got the Yup Dduk Tteokbokki, Yup Dduk Chicken Stew, Tuna Mayo Rice, and a Potato Cheese Corndog. The tteokbokki and chicken stew were the real standouts — full of flavor, good heat, and just the right kick to keep things interesting. The tuna mayo rice and corndog were solid sides that paired well without stealing the show. The spot itself is casual and unassuming, and the food definitely delivers. If you’re into Korean street-style dishes with bold spice and flavors that actually hit, this place is worth carving out time for.

Our server Min was the best!!! Thank you min 🙂 the food was good as always, the mala rose was super yummy and the perfect amount of spice.

Looking to spice things up? This is your place, first time here and it was more than expected, we did our dishes going extra mild and it was just the right amount of heat, the Bulgogi came regular and it took the spice level up about three notches. Greet taste, seaweed rice balls were fantastic, soft, touch of saltiness with a great seaweed hint. @yupddukirvine

Tteokkboki was amazing. The texture is on point! The sizes are very big so consider sharing with 2-3 people. If you don't eat spicy food I recommend going with very mild. Otherwise, the regular spice option is very tasty but consider having something cold or some banana milk just in case 😂 The taste is good, would love to try the side dishes!