Korean culture has captivated the world—from soothing skincare rituals and trend-setting fashion to addictive K-dramas, K-pop, and mouthwatering cuisine. This global fascination, known as the “Korean Wave,” has only grown in recent years, fueled by social media platforms like TikTok, where Korean trends and products spread at lightning speed. For travelers seeking a taste of Korea without leaving the U.S., Buena Park, California offers a vibrant slice of Korean culture.
Officially recognized as Orange County’s second Koreatown in 2023, Buena Park is home to over 1,000 Korean-American-owned businesses, from bustling grocery stores and cozy coffee shops to theaters and restaurants. At the heart of it all is The Source OC, a three-story, outdoor shopping and dining destination that combines culture, entertainment, and food under one roof. With restaurants, food courts, skincare boutiques, K-pop shops, and more, it’s the perfect place to explore Korea’s most popular trends in one convenient location.
A Culinary Adventure at The Source OC
After checking into the Hilton Buena Park, I headed up to the rooftop pool bar for a glass of wine and some light bites before my evening food tour. Conveniently, stepping out the back door of the hotel drops you right into The Source OC—a sleek, modern mall with plenty of space to roam.
My first stop was Don Melt, where I sampled my first Craffle, a strawberry and cream croissant-waffle hybrid, a trendy Korean creation that went viral during the pandemic. It was light, sweet, and utterly delicious—a perfect introduction to the flavors ahead. The cradle was one my favorite bites of the entire trip to Orange County.
Next up, Myungrang Hotdogs served up Korean-style hot dogs stuffed with mozzarella cheese and all-beef sausage. For something a little different, I tried the sweet potato and sausage version—equally tasty and perfect for those avoiding dairy.
For dinner, I settled into Gangnam House Korean BBQ, a traditional family-style Korean restaurant where the meat is grilled right at your table. From tender slices of prime rib and aged rib-eye to pork belly and jowl, each bite was cooked to perfection and complemented by an array of homemade side dishes.
Dessert was equally indulgent: First at Sweet Box, where I couldn’t resist the adorable, perfectly crafted macarons, and then at Old Ferry Donuts, where an almond donut paired with strawberry milk rounded out my culinary tour.
Shopping and Skincare Fun
After all that eating, a stroll through The Source OC’s shops was just what I needed. The K-pop stores were irresistible, stocked with music, posters, and personalized memorabilia from all your favorite artists. Pop Mart collectibles, Labubus, and Lafufus toys added extra fun, while a stop at one of the Korean skincare boutiques let me try out highly coveted anti-aging and beauty products—leaving me feeling pampered and luxurious.
Whether you’re a foodie, K-pop fan, or just looking for a unique shopping experience, The Source OC is a must-visit destination. Perfectly located near Knott’s Berry Farm and Disneyland, it’s an easy stop for a day of food, fun, and culture in Buena Park.
Where to Stay:
Hilton Buena Park Anaheim
6979 Brenner Ave, Buena Park, CA 90621
For a convenient and comfortable stay while exploring The Source OC and all the nearby attractions, the Hilton Buena Park is an ideal choice. Located just steps from the mall, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool with stunning views, and a relaxing bar for pre- or post-adventure drinks. Guests can enjoy easy access to Knott’s Berry Farm and other Orange County hotspots, making it the perfect home base for both families and solo travelers looking to combine culture, food, and fun in one trip.