Soondol Tofu House

These days, new restaurants rarely deliver the kind of bang-for-your-buck that Angelenos love, but Soondol Tofu House delivers a winning mix of quality and affordability with a build-your-own hot pot menu loosely inspired by soondubu. Diners can choose from three broth bases—including an extra-spicy red pepper option—plus a slate of add-on meats, toppings and noodles. Even with add-ons, each family-style cauldron easily feeds three to four for about $60 after tax and tip (that’s $20 per head or less, folks!), with free broth refills adding heft to a substantial, satisfying and ultimately standout Koreatown destination meal. Each meal also comes with complimentary banchan and sides of rice. I’ve yet to try the à la carte options, which include chive pancakes and stir-fried intestines, but the build-your-own stews are undeniably the star of the show. Just be mindful of the spice levels here—if you're going with the red pepper base, I recommend using half of the base and tasting as you go.