Big Rice Korean Cuisine Review

Bulgogi Lunch Box

Spring was in the air as I walked around the Descanso Gardens. The gardens were filled with happy children waiting to ride the mini train. Touring the colorful tulip beds, rose and lilac bushes, I came upon a Cherry Blossom tree in full bloom. I was reminded of my time spent in Korea during the cherry blossom season. Whenever I began to miss Korea I usually visit a Korean restaurant and this time was no different.

Big Rice Korean Cuisine, Temple City, California

Big Rice Korean Cuisine is located about twenty minutes from the Descanso Gardens in Temple City, California. I found Big Rice after searching Korean restaurant reviews and I liked the pictures of their food and restaurant decor.

I was in the mood for bulgogi and rice and I was excited to see the food is served lunch box style. The banchan dishes that accompanied the lunch box was spicy cucumbers, bean sprouts, seaweed (miyeok muchim), and kimchi.

The bulgogi and rice lunch set include a tofu and seaweed soup for a total of $10.98 not including the soda or gratuity.

The bulgogi and rice tasted a little too sweet for my liking, but with some added sriracha sauce it was perfect. Overall, I liked the large portion size and the combination of meat, rice, and vegetables. Other popular menu items include the topokki, kimchi fried rice and glass noodles. *Tip: I went to the restaurant when it just opened and the Kimchi stew was not available. Call ahead if you’re set on ordering a specific menu item.

Inside the Big Rice restaurant, it has square communal wooden tables with dark colored wooden seats. Along the back wall, there’s a cushioned bench that allows for an optional seating area. On the wall near the kitchen area, the latest K-pop music videos play.

Nearby stores include a Daiso Japan, various Asian restaurants and a Chipotle Mexican Grill. There’s plenty of free parking located within the plaza. However, it’s a very busy parking lot and my suggestion is to park further away and walk the short distance.

Big Rice is located at 5703 Rosemead Blvd, Temple City, CA 91780. For more information on their menu and hours of operation visit Big Rice Facebook page or call (626) 940-5543.

For more information on the Descanso Gardens and its blooming scheduling check out their website.

Do you have any Korean restaurants in Los Angeles that you recommend? I would love to read your comments down below.

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