High-energy Korean-fusion destination with standout dishes and a party vibe, but loud room, inconsistent service, and pricing will not suit everyone.
Best Friend delivers an energetic, Instagram-worthy experience anchored by exceptional setting appeal—the speakeasy bodega entrance and DJ-driven dining room create genuine destination buzz. Bold food quality shines with standout dishes like kimchi fried rice and slippery shrimp, though inconsistent execution and variable pacing prevent higher marks. Best suited for celebratory group dining where the theatrical vibe compensates for occasional service friction.
You enter through a neon bodega facade and slip into a back room that feels warm and bustling with a DJ spinning and low, clubby lighting. Reviewers describe the scene as high-energy fun, though some say the room is too loud for conversation. One diner noted, "The hidden-door entrance set the tone and the kitchen line buzzed like a show." The cooking leans boldly creative—Korean roots with playful detours—so expect inventive fusion like kimchi carbonara, Kogi short rib tacos, and gochujang-butter steak. When plates land hot and balanced, the food thrills; other nights feel uneven or mild for the price. Share plates, trust the hits like slippery shrimp and kalbi, and think celebratory, not quiet fine dining. Families will find some friendly options—fries, wings, rice, and mild bowls—but spice, volume, and darkness can challenge younger kids. There is no kids menu mentioned, so plan on simple sharables and ask for guidance on milder picks.
Area vibe: Inside Park MGM on the Strip; tourist-heavy, nightlife-driven, stylish crowd seeking destination dining.
Safety: High foot traffic and bright lighting typical of major resorts; generally safe with standard tourist-area precautions.
What's nearby: Connected to casinos, theaters, and other celebrity-chef restaurants; easy access to shows and bars.