Liu’s Cafe

Liu’s Cafe is a casual Taiwanese and Chinese spot from the Tokki team that’s part diner and part bakery. Between 11am and 3pm, you can order freshly made egg tarts and pineapple buns to-go, or sit down with a bowl of Hong Kong-style chicken rice and silky mapo tofu. The food is comforting and the portions are generous, but it’s the cheery service that makes this a great daytime option in Koreatown. Everyone on Liu’s staff looks like a contender for America’s Next Top Model and they will earnestly compliment your shoes as you approach the blonde wood counter. Plus, the airy dining room also has plenty of tables, which means you’ll never feel rushed to finish your cold sesame noodles. Parking near Liu’s can be tough, so we suggest carpooling with a friend and having a long leisurely lunch next to a wall of chic wooden sconces.