It’s not in a pretty neighborhood, but that is what makes it an oasis.
Banchan a la Carte on Western Avenue
Banchan a la Carte is known for ready-to-go banchan (Korean side dishes) that’s mainly prepared with natural or organic ingredients. They also have pasta and other simple Western and Korean meals to go. Spotted recently: plastic-packed nurungji (scorched rice)!
Korean Name: 반찬 아라까르떼
141 North Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Phone: (323) 465-2400
반찬 아라까르떼 (Banchan A La Carte) is surrounded by dingy establishments on Western Avenue, but it’s a pretty upscale place that serves Korean and pan-Asian fusion dishes without MSG or other preservatives. It is owned by famous Korean chef Jayne Chang who founded the California Premier Culinary School in Los Angeles.
Banchan A La Carte opened in 2007 as a Korean sort of Whole Foods or Famima with a tiny patio garden. The banchan (sides for authentic Korean meals) are relatively expensive because of the organic, local ingredients used — if you don’t mind mass-produced ingredients, get your banchan across the street at HK Supermarket.
Different types of organic coffee are served at the cafe. Lunch boxes can be picked up Mondays to Fridays from 11: 30 am to 2:30 pm. Price: under $9 – 12. Soups and sandwiches. Meals served on site. Bibimbap from $8. Pasta dishes $9-$12. Catering for parties and weddings is a big part of the business at $35 per plate. Credit cards accepted.
Address: 141 North Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Between 1st Street and Beverly Boulevard.
Phone number: (323) 465-2400. Parking not a problem.
