Takorean

TaKorean at 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002 sits inside Union Market in Northeast Washington, where it serves a fast-casual mash-up of Korean-inspired barbecue flavors and Latin-American taco format. This is the Union Market counter, not the separate TaKorean at The Yards in Southeast DC. Its main appeal is customization: diners can turn bulgogi steak, dak galbi chicken, bo ssam pork, tofu, or vegetables into tacos, rice bowls, or salads with slaw, sauces, and crunchy toppings.

The setting is decidedly casual. Ordering happens at a food-hall counter, and seating is part of the broader Union Market environment rather than a traditional full-service dining room. That makes TaKorean easy to combine with a market visit, a quick lunch, or a group meal where everyone wants something different. Pickup and delivery are available through the restaurant’s ordering system. Union Market currently lists the stand as open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, although TaKorean’s ordering platform has recently shown earlier 8 p.m. closing times on some days, so checking same-day hours is sensible.

Budget-wise, TaKorean lands in the affordable-to-moderate fast-casual range. Most core orders are in the low-to-mid teens before premium add-ons. For a first visit, the House Style Taco Trio is the easiest way to understand the concept because it combines chicken, steak, and pork with different slaws and toppings. The bulgogi steak is especially worth considering with pickled cabbage, lime crema, GochuPow sauce, cilantro, or crunchy shallots. Diners who want a more filling, less messy meal may prefer a build-your-own rice bowl. Tofu and vegetable choices also give plant-based diners useful customization options.

Customer feedback is strongest when it focuses on the bold sweet-savory proteins, slaws, and the contrast between Korean barbecue seasoning and taco toppings. Diners have repeatedly singled out the bulgogi, kimchi-style slaw, tofu, and sauces as flavorful combinations, and the quick build-your-own format is a major convenience. Criticism is more mixed: some guests looking for traditional Korean food find the flavors less authentic or the kimchi less fermented and spicy than expected. Other complaints mention occasional overcooked chicken, overly acidic slaw, soggy vegetables, or extra charges for certain toppings.

TaKorean is best for casual lunches, quick dinners, solo diners, friends exploring Union Market, and groups with mixed meat and plant-based preferences. It is less suitable for anyone seeking table service, a quiet date-night setting, or a traditional Korean barbecue experience. The practical pick is the taco trio for variety or a bulgogi-based bowl for a heartier meal; this Union Market location makes the most sense when the occasion calls for fast, customizable food in the middle of a lively market stop.