Such a solid lunch spot. Their Korean bowls feel fresh and healthy, and you can build a really balanced meal with veggies, protein, and carbs. They also have a fun snack selection. Overall, I'd totally recommend checking it out! There's seating both inside and outside, and every time I've gone there's been plenty of seats available. read more

Matko - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

We were drawn in by the delicious bulgogi samples and a sign for a banana milk latte. The inside is very cute with stool seating. The staff were super nice and we thought the banana milk came through the latte nicely, nothing was too overpowering. read more

Matko - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

Got delivery, so I can't speak to the ambiance or service. I ordered the soft tofu bibimbap bowl. The highlights for me were the sweet potato noodles and the aioli. The combination of kimchi and soft tofu didn't quite work for me, and the tofu was marinated in a sauce that wasn't to my taste. I was also expecting the tofu to be silkier and softer, but that wasn't my experience. I really enjoyed the noodles, but overall the combination of ingredients in this bowl just didn't come together for me personally. read more

Matko - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

I usually do not go to this location. The one on 10th & Market is closed on Sunday so I took the trek over here. Parking is hard to find in this area as well. I did kick up. Was greeted instantly by the lady behind the counter and asked if I wanted to order with her or use the kiosk. I choose the kiosk option. I browsed and place my order for the Savory chicken bowl and a flavored Pellegrino.. it's pretty much my usual order. I did add Kimchi which is an extra 75cents. The food came out quick and hot. Which was great since I was only on my lunch break. I did notice this location had a lot more options for snacks, drinks and adult beverages which the other location doesn't have. I will definitely come back when I have more time to sit and enjoy my meal read more

See all

I'm so glad we stumbled into Matko because this place is an absolute gem in the Mission. Everything we tried felt like elevated comfort food. simple, bold, and clearly made with care. We ordered the bulgogi bowls, the beef hangover soup, and a couple of their made-to-order Korean drinks, and each one hit differently in the best way. The bulgogi was tender and perfectly marinated, with that sweet-savory balance that keeps you going back for "one more bite." The beef hangover soup blew me away. Rich, soothing, and packed with depth. It's the kind of soup that instantly warms you up and makes you feel taken care of. The drinks were also such a fun surprise. Fresh, balanced, and not overly sweet..you can tell they make them to order because the flavors were so clean and intentional. The staff was friendly, the space is modern and welcoming, and the food came out fast without feeling rushed. It's the perfect spot for a cozy meal, a casual date, or just whenever you need some Korean comfort done right. Matko has officially made it onto my "go-to in the Mission" list. Can't wait to come back and try more. read more

See all

I ordered their fresh frozen meals .... So delicious . The ox bone soup and the hangover soup ... wow ! The japchee and beef bulgogi were equally delicious . I did add tofu to the soups so we had more to eat! Strongly recommend for those meals you have no time to cook from scratch ! I also ordered the kimchi pork ribs .. not spicy enough for me but my husband loved it ! read more

Matko - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

With so many interesting strung all along Valencia, it's not exactly uncommon to pass by a restaurant that catches your eye or to smell something delicious that tickles your nose. However, in the case of Matko, I have to admit that what actually caught my attention was randomly hearing Kpop playing as I passed by. Granted, K-Pop is becoming increasingly mainstream, but it was still unexpected enough to draw my attention and to stop to check this place out! Compared to the many other businesses along Valencia, Matko is on the smaller side, but they actually use the space pretty well, managing to fit in a handful of tables and some counter seating. Similarly, the overall menu size is relatively narrow, but it still offers a number of ways to customize your bowl - four types of protein, three different bases, five additional sides that come with upcharges (it already comes with three), and four sauces to top it off, They also have a starter and some soups to offer, as well as an assortment of snacks, a beverage menu with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, and even some dessert lattes to choose from. -- BEEF BULGOGI BOWL with Half Japchae, Half Purple Rice, Pickled Radish, Sweet Corn, Cucumber, Kimchi (+$.50), Seasoned Seaweed (+$.50), Fishcake (+$.50), and Ssamjang (+$1) This actually wasn't too shabby! Even though the bulgogi was a touch dry, it was fairly plentiful and the marinade was flavorful. The japchae was also better than expected and I liked most of the sides, especially the Kimchi, Seasoned Seaweed, Fishcake, and Ssamjang. -- BONELESS FRIED CHICKEN with Gochujang Aioli...$11.95 A little uneven, but not bad overall. Each piece of chicken was crispy on the outside and surprisingly juicy on the inside. However, even though you get to choose a dipping sauce (the Gochujang Aioli wasn't too shabby), I still wish the chicken had some seasoning on it. -- SPICY PORK BELLY BOWL with Half Japchae, Half Purple Rice, Pickled Radish, Sweet Corn, Cucumber, Kimchi (+$.50), Seasoned Seaweed (+$.50), Fried Egg (+$1.95), and Gochujang Aioli (+$1) Not bad, but not as good as the bulgogi. While this also came with a fair amount of meat, I wish the pork had a bit of char on it to offset the sauce's sweetness. Otherwise, everything else about this was also just as solid, though, the SsamJang would've been better than the aioli. Although everything that I've tried has been pretty decent, what really brought the food down for me was how the meats in each of the bowls were barely warm. I figured that would happen with the bulgogi since I had ordered it to-go, but I was genuinely shocked when I dined in with my friend and had my first bite of pork belly. I understand cooking-to-order means it takes longer to get bowls made (they seem to do a lot of delivery and takeout), but it's undeniable that the food would taste so much better, Despite feeling somewhat disappointed by what I had, Matko is far from terrible if you're looking for something quick for Korean food and/or if you're already in the area, given the general lack of options in The Mission. However, compared to what you can find elsewhere, the food feels closer to okay than amazing. At some point, I'll probably end up back here, or at one of their other locations, to try their soft tofu soup or the hangover soup, as they both look great in photos, but until I do, THREE AND A HALF STARS rounded down for now feels right. read more

See all

Drink review only. Horribly fake tasting banana milk chocolate drink. OMG was this horrible. I took a sip and had enough. Think plastic fake tasting banana with milk and some cheap chocolate syrup for a whopping $7. So not worth it. Also, they were soooo slow in getting this drink. read more

See all

As for the atmosphere, the interior was cute and the seat cushions were especially comfortable. However, when it comes to the food, I got the bulgogi beef bowl and it was very flavorless. It was very costly but was particularly bland. The beef was lacking in flavor and the purple rice was pretty soggy as well. The japchae in the bowl tasted like nothing too. I've had a lot of Korean food in my life and it's never been this bland! Frankly, I was so surprised! I hope they can enhance the flavor in the food somehow by changing the marinade process or maybe add more sauce or something. read more

Matko - Bulgogi beef bowl and soft tofu soup - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

I ordered the hangover soup - $11 for pick up. It was perfect for a cold day. It's slightly spicy, tastes like a kimchi soup. It has a decent amount of small pieces of tender beef with cabbage. It's a nice comforting meal. They also sell the soup frozen which is nice. read more

Matko - Hangover soup - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

Matko is an adorable shop that sells Korean snacks, packaged & cafe drinks, as well as rice & noodle bowls. I've walked by many times, always just after having dinner in the area. I've never had a chance to sample their made-to-order hot foods, but I always have room for a lil' something sweet; tiny boxes of flavored milk is delicious in taro, strawberry, or banana, & ultra creamy Melona ice cream bars have that cool square shape (both made by the brand Binggrae.) They carry Turtle chips, which I love; the puffy layers are a textural wonderland. A must try. Not as many options as H Mart, but it does the job. Looking forward to trying more from Matko. read more

See all

Stopped by with friends and tried a few dishes. I had the Korean fried chicken with gochujang mayo and the spicy pork bowl. The fried chicken itself was great. I wasn't a fan of the gochujang mayo since it didn't have a very strong flavor, but it paired really nicely with the kimchi. The spicy pork bowl was okay. The flavor was decent, and the banchan in the bowl was fine, but the meat wasn't hot when it came out, just warm read more

One of my favorites for a while now. Tasty, hearty, nutritious. Always very consistent. I get the soft tofu bowl, with all the vegan options. read more

Matko - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

Good quiet place. Staff excellent and super nice. Food good meat a bit dry. Thank you! read more

See all

I came here on a Sunday afternoon for lunch. There was no line, though people did trickle in and it got busier over the next few hours. Seating inside is minimal (maybe 12 stools?) and there are a couple areas to sit outside as well. Service was great, the bathrooms were clean, and the food was good! Because of the small space, the kitchen is essentially right next to the seating area, and whenever they blended something, it was definitely loud enough to pause conversation for a minute. On the food: I got the tofu bowl with half japchae, half purple rice, and added kimchi/seaweed salad/ssamjang. It came out to about $19 with tax/tip, but you do get 1.5 servings (maybe 2 if you got full rice). The flavors blended well and the ssamjang was lovely. It's pretty difficult to find vegetarian dishes in Korean places, but everything here is customizable and very veggie-friendly. I would definitely return if I was craving Korean food in the Mission. read more

Matko - Tofu bowl and ssamjang - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

I was really looking forward to a spicy kimchi and soft tofu soup that I've gotten at other Korean spots and this fell flatter than flat. I don't mean to exaggerate but this was honestly one of the worst bowls of soup I've had in my life and it pissed me off because I was in a pinch before work and decided to stop in and I regret it. I ordered also the misugaru latte WITHOUT cereal and he said with cereal? and I said no without and then he said ok with! and I was like is he playing with me??! Then I said NO CEREAL PLEASE and he just said ok then a few mins later, I was given the latte WITH the cereal. Oy vey. I'm giving two stars cuz the lady refunded me a dollar for the add on he put without my consent so that was decent and honest. But the latte was just a thick mess and I regretted the whole thing then after. Never coming back here ever again. read more

Matko - Horrible nasty soup - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

Doubled the fishcake on the bulgogi and it was so good! The bulgogi overall is good. Few things though: it took sooo long - i had it delivered and it was transferred to 3 different riders because of the delay; another is the beef , which is quite dry; finally, the japchae is quite bland. Will definitely be back for fish cakes though! read more

Matko - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

Great drinks here! Place is not too far from my work and i'll try out the food here later! Service is quick and the place is very clean which I like. The misootgaru drink is what I had when I was young! Highly recommend to stop by and try some drinks here at least read more

Matko - 미숱가루 굿 - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

I came here with some friends in the middle of the day for lunch. It was a nice spot, very clean, good airflow, and chill environment. The employees seemed like they were in a good mood, and that's usually a good sign. Music was at a good volume so we could still chat amongst ourselves. I ordered the bulgogi & purple rice bowl, with kimchi and gojuchang for $18. I didn't realize until later that kimchi and gojuchang would be another $1.50! The food was good and large portions, so I was able to split it into two meals. It's roughly an 8/10 for me. I'd definitely come back, but I don't know if sauce is worth an extra $1... seems like it should be included drizzled on top. I wish it had another ingredient or two (included), like sesame seeds and another vegetable though. My friend ordered the side of boneless chicken and I tried some- it was really moist and well seasoned. read more

Excellent service. Good food, bit dry though chap chae good. Nice and quiet and spacious read more

See all

The tofu soup and a side of rice was phenomenal. This was the best tofu soup I've ever had. It was so flavorful and not too spicy. The rice was cooked to perfection. Even my 7 and 10 year kids like the soup and rice. The owner was super nice. There was also a nice selection of Korean drinks available too. Will definitely come back! read more

I've never even seen or heard of fast casual korean food like this, so when I spotted it on Valencia street I knew I had to give it a try. The bowls are delicious! All of the ingredients are made fresh and to a high standard. If you're confused what to order ask the wonderful Aina or anyone else which pairings to get and they'll show you the way. I like the Bimbimbop with the egg, with Japchae noodles/rice combo and the Gyunchang (butchering the name) sauce. I've NEVER been to a place where the staff remember your name, meal preferences or even ask what you're up to. Truly a hidden gem that should come to San Diego one day's! :D read more

Great food!!! Ordered the soft tofu kimchi bowl. Really appreciated the vegan friendly menu including their kimchi which is pretty rare. Portion size was solid, ingredients fresh and flavor on point. The owner was in and she was so friendly and took the time to tell us about the different food and the origin story. read more

I appreciate having a Korean option in this part of the city, however Matko caters to the Valencia-mission types who likely work from home, can't cook, and have abundant disposable income. Tasty but pricey small portions, poor man's purple rice (mixed with white), and nude japchae (brrrr!) read more

Matko - Sad japchae - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

I've only ever had their misugaru latte but I love it. Unfortunately you can't order it online ahead of time

Atrocious service They insist on yelling order numbers inside even though a large chunk of their seating is outside. Which is fine... just means we need to wait inside. They lost the order from someone in my group. The lady at the register (the owner?) needed to be reminded multiple times to look for it. After they finally made the order, it got handed to a random person. I had to ask again before they realized the error. Overall utterly incompetent service. read more

The food here was okay but the service was awful. And even if you eat in they only serve the "bowls" in plastic to go containers, which is not only wasteful but super toxic. read more

Great service! The drinks taste good especially the misutgaru latte. Highly recommend read more

Matko - Misutgaru latte - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

Love the freshness and quality of the food. I get the beef Bulgogi on japchae and spinach and it's delicious.

Soon tofu soup is not tasting authentic at all. Unfortunate, but I am not surprised. This is a pretty gentrified version of Korean food in a pretty gentrified part of the Mission. read more

Matko - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

Matko offers a delightful ambiance that complements its exceptional service and exquisite cuisine. Each visit is a treat with their attentive staff and i do really appreciate how they just bring you the food! Highly recommend whether you're on the go or looking for a quick stop by ! I got their spicy chicken meat with a mix of rice & noodles and a bunch of banchan ! The owner was there and she's so sweet! read more

Matko - spicy chicken with purple rice & japchae with kimchi, cucumber, corn & pickled radish - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

Everything was excellent -- food ambiance customer service. I had to take off a star because the food was served lukewarm.

Mall-kiosk-type Korean food for techies. Save your dough and go to a real Korean spot in the City.

We ordered delivery from here specifically because we were looking for a place with more sustainable (and not black plastic) delivery packaging. Unfortunately, this came in the same black plastic with clear plastic lid delivery containers that are so ubiquitous. The banchan each came in separate clear plastic containers. The food was good (it was still Korean food after all) , but we won't be ordering from here again because it wasn't outstanding and there are many other amazing Korean places if it's going to come with all this plastic. read more

Delicious food, tastes homemade and great portions! I wish the sauce wasn't extra though, as it's definitely necessary.

Great service. The food was excellent, especially the pork belly. I paired it with some aioli and the purple rice. It was perfect. If you're not sure of what to get, they have a step by step menu that helps you choose what pairs well with your protein. And once you're done eating, you can buy banchan sides and Korean snacks! read more

Really tasty Korean food! Grateful to get a taste of home here in the mission. Dined in the restaurant and got to hang with the lovely owner but I think most people do takeout. And getting to buy authentic side dishes and Korean to take home is an added bonus :) now I feel like I have my friendly neighborhood ajumma's cooking down the street haha read more

Really wanted to love this place, but unfortunately this was one of the worst meals I've had in a while. My girlfriend and I ordered the bulgogi beef bowls and what we got seemed to be steak-umms level meat that was an unappealing grey. The meat was tough and chewy and had no flavor to it. The corn included with the bowl seemed to be just canned corn and the kimchi lacked a lot of flavor. Ultimately it was a really underwhelming meal, the flavors were nonexistent and the meat quality was really bad. The gojuchang sauce was decent, but it is a $1 up charge. It's worth it as it was the only reason the bowl was tolerable. Bonus for the cool snacks and drinks selection, as well as the huge portion size. It's a massive bowl for the money, but the flavor isn't there. read more

The food was delicious! There were great portions, the servers were courteous, and I liked their cool selection of drinks!! The picture would've shown how good the spicy pork belly was but we ate it too fast lol read more

Matko - Tofu soup - Korean Near Me - San Francisco, California

Food was so tasty and the staff were friendly - I'm already scheduling my next visit!