If you’ve ever wondered what real Korean grandma-style tteok-bokki tastes like — chewy rice cakes swimming in a rich, spicy, slightly sweet broth — you don’t have to fly to Seoul to find out. Just head over to Halgatteok in Northridge, where they’re bringing the ultimate Korean street food experience straight from the heart of Korea to the San Fernando Valley.
With over 200 locations in Korea and now expanding across California, Halgatteok has perfected the art of comforting, crave-worthy tteok-bokki. Located at the southeast corner of Reseda and Nordhoff, this casual eatery is quickly becoming a local favorite for those in the know.
On this episode of Eat Live Love San Fernando Valley, we dive into what makes this spot so special — from the cozy vibe and customizable spice levels to the endless options for add-ons and sides.
What is Tteok-bokki?
At its core, tteok-bokki features dense, chewy rice cakes made from rice or wheat flour. Halgatteok offers three varieties, including the thicker, traditional garae-tteok and a wheat-based mil-tteok option. Each serving is cooked to order, simmered in a spicy, savory broth and packed with your choice of extras — like fish cake, boiled egg, sausage, cabbage, and ramen noodles.
Want to level up the flavor? Add cheese, which melts beautifully into the broth and balances the spice with creamy richness. And speaking of heat, the spice levels range from 1 to 3 — with level 1 already bringing serious kick. (Level 3 is not for the faint of heart!)
Grandma-Approved Flavors
One must-try dish is the Grandma Tteok-bokki, which combines two types of fish cake, eggs, onions, green onions, and a deeply flavorful house-made “grandma sauce.” Add ramen and cheese for a rich, soul-warming experience that’s perfect for sharing — or devouring solo.
Another standout? The mara tteok-bokki, infused with a Chinese-style numbing spice that brings the heat in a completely different way. It’s spicy, aromatic, and absolutely addicting.
Don’t Skip the Sides
Small portions of side dishes mean you can sample a few without going overboard. The squid tempura, sweet potato tempura, and fried dumplings are all must-trys. Pair them with the house-made dipping sauces — especially the pineapple wasabi for something unexpected — or dunk them right in the tteok-bokki broth for maximum flavor.
And if you’re looking for something a little lighter, grab the Mayak Kimbap — mini seaweed rice rolls filled with veggies and fish cake. Dip them in the broth for a next-level bite.
Why You Should Go
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Korean food or just curious to try something new, Halgatteok is a fresh and exciting addition to Northridge. It’s casual, flavorful, and perfect for groups — or solo food adventures.
So next time you’re craving something warm, spicy, and totally satisfying, skip the BBQ and check out Halgatteok instead.
9020 Reseda Blvd Ste 102, Northridge, CA 91324
Follow them on their social media accounts:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/halgatteok_northridge/
Yelp: https://www.instagram.com/halgatteok_northridge/
