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Ariel Mena
Ariel Mena

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The exterior of Mashita Galbi Jjim restaurant on Polk Street in San Francisco, featuring a white brick facade with a gold trim, large windows, and an 'OPEN' sign. Text overlays indicate 'Reviewing Mashita Galbi Jjim' and 'Polk St, San Francisco'.
A close-up of three sweet and spicy crunchy chicken wings, garnished with sesame seeds, served on a black and wooden platter. The image includes text identifying them as 'Sweet & Spicy Crunchy Chicken Wings' priced at $26.00, with a 10/10 rating.
A close-up of stir-fried garlic noodles with chicken and spinach, served in a white rectangular dish. The image includes text identifying the dish as 'Stir Fried Garlic Noodles w/chicken' priced at $25.00, with a 9/10 rating.
An overhead view of a dining table with sweet and spicy wings, garlic noodles, and various Korean side dishes (banchan) in small metal bowls. A person is seen using chopsticks to eat the noodles.
A glass of frothy, fresh-made Brazilian lemonade with a straw, priced at $6.00. A partial view of a dish labeled 'Cheese Tonkatsu' priced at $25.00 is also visible, along with review text for both items.
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Restaurant Review: Mashita Galbi Jjim

Food Recs in San Fransisco CA 🍽✈️

📍Location:

2123 Polk St

San Francisco, CA 94109

TLDR Overall rating: 5/5

Thoughts: The restaurant is quite small but always busy. You can't make a reservation, so you have to come at the right time or get on their waitlist. While we were sitting, at least 5 or 6 people came in and were told there's over an hour wait, yet they still put their names on the list! The wings and noodles are to die for—the wings were incredibly #crunchy , which was amazing, although they could've been #spicier. The flavors were perfect, and we enjoyed our meal immensely. The only thing we didn’t like was the #cheese tonkatsu, but I’m sure I would have loved the regular tonkatsu. The #lemonade was amazing, but it came out super late, so they comped it for me. Our waiter was very nice, and I’m happy I tried this place! The place was a bit #pricey , but if you have the funds it’s a great try!

Overall our total was $85

2025/1/1 Edited to

... Read moreOkay, so you've heard about Mashita Galbi Jjim in San Francisco, right? Let me tell you a bit more about what to expect before you go, especially since it's such a popular spot! First off, let's talk about the wait. Seriously, it's real! As the article mentions, this place is always busy, and they don't take reservations. My best advice? Try to go during off-peak hours if you can – maybe right when they open for lunch or dinner, or a bit later in the evening on a weekday. If you end up on the waitlist, which is highly likely, use that time wisely! There are some cool shops and bars around Polk Street where you can grab a drink or browse while you wait. Don't let the wait deter you; it’s part of the Mashita Galbi Jjim experience and usually means something delicious is coming! Now, onto the stars of the show – the menu items that really stood out. The 'Sweet & Spicy Crunchy Chicken Wings' for $26 are an absolute must-try. I mean, a 10/10 rating in my book! They live up to their name; that crunch is incredible, and the balance of sweet and spicy is just addictive. While the original review wished they were spicier, I found the flavor profile to be fantastic as is. These galbi wings are seriously next level. Then there are the 'Stir Fried Garlic Noodles w/chicken' at $25. These also scored a high 9/10 for me. The garlic flavor is perfectly infused, and the noodles have that satisfying chewiness. It’s a hearty dish and a great accompaniment to the wings. If you're looking for something comforting and packed with flavor, this is it. The article also touched on the 'Cheese Tonkatsu' for $25. This was a bit of a miss for me personally, but if you're a cheese lover, you might enjoy it! I'm definitely curious to try their regular tonkatsu next time, as I think that might be more up my alley. And for drinks, definitely try the Brazilian lemonade! Even though mine came out late, they comped it, and it was so refreshing and delicious – a perfect palate cleanser for all the rich flavors. Looking at the exterior of Mashita Galbi Jjim on Polk Street, you'll see a charming white brick facade with a gold trim and large windows. It definitely gives off a welcoming vibe, even when there's a crowd. Inside, it's cozy, which adds to the bustling atmosphere. Is it pricey? Yes, the total bill came to $85 for two, which can add up. But for the quality of the food, the vibrant atmosphere, and the overall exceptional dining experience, I honestly think it's worth it for a special treat or if you have the funds. It's truly a gem in San Francisco for Korean-inspired dishes that go beyond the usual. Go check it out and tell me what you think!