It doesn’t get much more homey than budae jjigae, also called army stew. It’s a “throw-everything-in-the-pot” kind of meal, featuring anything from hot dogs to noodles to baked beans. The version at Hwa Gae Jang Tuh is classic, filled with ham, tripe, noodles and veggies.

For a really memorable dining experience, Tofu Lighthouse stuns with its signature tofu soups. From veggie, to kimchi, to oyster, you can fully customize the flavor of your tofu soup. Each bowl comes served with rice, banchan, and a raw egg.

Da Rae Won has a full menu of Korean staples made in the traditional way. In the background of any meal, you’ll hear a thump-thump-thump: that’s noodles being made, slapping against the counter. A favorite here is the kkampoongi, a spicy garlic fried chicken with stir fried veggies.

Kimbap, a Korean-style roll that has amassed a cult following, shines at House of Milae. Meat, fresh vegetables, and pickles are wrapped in rice and seaweed. Order the seafood scallion pancake here, too.

This place in Takoma Park has something for everyone. It has the feel of a classic American diner, but the menu tells a different story by including a variety of bibimbaps, Korean noodle dishes, and marinated meats. Try the ssam experience for a the neighborhood spot’s take on meat and tofu lettuce wraps.

This Korean BBQ joint makes some of the best Mak Naeng Myun in the area. The cold buckwheat noodle soup is served with chilled beef broth and spicy sauce. It’s a favorite during the summer months.

Go here for jajangmyeon, a quintessential Korean comfort food that can be found at just about any Korean restaurant. The noodle dish is topped with a sauce of black bean paste, meat and vegetables. Slurping these noodles is worth every bit of splatter.