BCD Tofu House

- 5 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001

BCD Tofu House is an iconic Korean restaurant and a true New York City staple, located in the vibrant heart of Koreatown. This popular spot is renowned for its specialty: "soon tofu" or "soondubu," a traditional Korean stew made with freshly curdled extra soft tofu. The restaurant has built a loyal following for its comforting, flavorful, and piping-hot tofu soups that are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a late-night meal. BCD Tofu House offers a dining experience that feels both authentic and accessible, serving up classic Korean dishes that are beloved by locals and an exciting discovery for tourists. With its focus on fast service and a wide array of options, it has become a go-to for a delicious and reliable Korean meal in Manhattan.

The menu at BCD Tofu House is a deep dive into the world of Korean comfort food. The "soon tofu" soups are the stars, available in many variations including Kimchi, Seafood, Beef, and Vegetable. Customers are given a raw egg to crack into their bubbling pot, adding a rich, creamy texture to the spicy broth. As one reviewer enthusiastically stated, "Tofu soup is definitely a must and worth the price." Beyond the signature soups, the restaurant offers an extensive selection of Korean classics, including barbecue dishes like L.A. Galbi and Bulgogi, as well as a variety of appetizers and entrees such as Seafood Pajeon and Bibimbap. The diverse menu is designed to cater to a wide range of tastes, from those looking for a healthy, vegetarian option to those craving rich, savory barbecue. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere, along with fast service and generous side dishes, contributes to its reputation as a consistent and high-quality dining destination.

BCD Tofu House is situated at 5 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001, placing it at the epicenter of Koreatown. This prime location makes it a highly convenient spot for anyone in the Midtown area, easily accessible via the extensive public transportation network. The restaurant has made a concerted effort to be accessible to all patrons, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating. While parking in the area is typically limited to paid street parking, its central address and the option for outdoor seating make it a great choice for a spontaneous meal. Its bustling location is part of the experience, with the restaurant often having a wait, a testament to its popularity and a sign of the high-quality food that awaits inside.

Services Offered

• Dine-in: The restaurant offers a full dine-in experience with table service in a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere.
• Delivery: Enjoy the comfort of BCD Tofu House's menu from the convenience of your own home with no-contact delivery and regular delivery services.
• Takeout: Place an order for takeout to grab a quick and delicious meal on the go.
• Outdoor Seating: The option of outdoor seating provides a pleasant dining experience during warmer months.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which can be particularly helpful during peak hours to avoid the wait.

Features / Highlights

• Signature Soondubu (Soft Tofu Soup): The main attraction is the bubbling, flavorful soft tofu soup, which comes in a variety of protein and flavor combinations. It's a "must and worth the price."
• Abundant Side Dishes (Banchan): As is customary with Korean dining, BCD serves many complimentary side dishes, adding to the value and enjoyment of the meal.
• Wide-Ranging Menu: Beyond the tofu soups, the menu includes classic Korean BBQ, hearty entrees like Bibimbap, and a selection of appetizers, ensuring there's something for everyone.
• Late-Night Dining: A key feature for many New Yorkers, BCD Tofu House is known for serving late-night food, catering to the city that never sleeps.
• Fast and Efficient Service: Despite the frequent crowds, the service is known to be "fast" and efficient, getting patrons seated and served quickly.
• Flexible for All Crowds: The restaurant is "good for kids" and popular for "solo dining" as well as for "groups," making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
• Healthy and Vegetarian Options: The menu includes a variety of healthy and vegetarian options, such as Vegetable Tofu Soup, making it inclusive for a diverse range of dietary preferences.

Contact Information

Address: 5 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001

Phone: (212) 967-1900

What is Worth Choosing

BCD Tofu House stands out as a top choice in New York City for its specialization in authentic Korean soft tofu soup. While Koreatown offers a plethora of dining options, BCD’s unwavering focus on its signature dish and the quality of its offerings is what makes it a "staple spot." The ability to customize your "soon tofu" soup with various proteins like beef, seafood, or kimchi, along with the traditional addition of a fresh egg, provides a personalized and deeply satisfying culinary experience. The soups are praised for being "intense" and "full of flavor," capable of making you "full after this meal," which speaks to their heartiness and rich taste. This focus on a core, well-executed dish ensures a consistently high-quality meal that is both comforting and exciting.

The restaurant's value proposition is another key reason to choose it. Not only are the main dishes reasonably priced for the generous portions, but they also come with a wide array of complimentary side dishes. This "many side dishes" approach is a hallmark of Korean dining and adds significant value, allowing diners to sample a variety of flavors and textures alongside their main course. Furthermore, the fact that BCD Tofu House caters to a variety of dining needs—from "solo dining" to a large group—makes it a versatile and reliable choice. Its acceptance of reservations is a thoughtful feature that helps manage the "usually a wait" crowds during peak hours, demonstrating a commitment to customer convenience.

Finally, BCD Tofu House’s role as a late-night dining destination in a city that never sleeps is a major advantage. Its ability to serve hot, comforting, and delicious food at late hours makes it a perfect spot for night owls, industry workers, or anyone just getting out of a show or event. While one customer had a negative experience with service as a solo diner, the majority of reviews highlight the "fast services" and the generally positive experience, suggesting this was an isolated incident. The restaurant's popularity and the loyalty it inspires in its customers, who have "milestones celebrated at this spot," are powerful testaments to its quality and lasting impression. For anyone in New York City seeking authentic, flavorful, and comforting Korean food in a convenient and lively setting, BCD Tofu House is an exceptional choice.

BCD Tofu House

5 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001, USA