Authentic Vibe and Excellent Sides, but Main Dishes Need Calibration
Located in a bustling area, this restaurant has a genuinely welcoming charm. The interior is thoughtful, featuring walls decorated with traditional Korean lattice window frames (Changhoji), which sets a warm and authentic mood perfect for a family meal.
The service was a highlight. The staff, though not all Korean, possess a deep understanding of the menu. A manager (or perhaps the owner) speaks Korean quite well, adding a nice touch of hospitality.
Culinary-wise, it was a mix of high highs and confusing lows. The seasoned vegetable side dishes (Namul) served initially were actually top-tier—fresh and perfectly seasoned—showing that the kitchen is capable of high-quality Korean flavors. However, the Kimchi, the soul of the table, lacked that same depth.
The main dishes were even more puzzling given the quality of the side dishes. The Yukgaejang (spicy beef soup) tasted surprisingly similar to Kimchi-jjigae, missing the distinct savory richness of a proper beef broth. Even more confusing was the Bibimbap; while the gochujang was fine, the vegetables mixed in carried a distinct curry flavor.
It felt like a kitchen error rather than a fusion attempt, as it clashed with the traditional profile.
It is a lovely restaurant with great atmosphere and potential. If the main dishes can match the quality of their side dishes and interior details, it would be exceptional.
Such a welcoming restaurant!
Amazing food quality for the price — we had a wonderful dinner and a great experience overall. The barbecue chicken was especially delicious! Definitely coming back for more :)
Really good food, we loved it! The fried chicken seeem to be adapted to Western style and preferences, but it was still really good. The stars of the shows were the meat dishes we ordered. Bulgogi was flavourful and lovely; we also ordered the spicky pork with squid and I think I liked this even more, not really spicy, a bit sweet, lot of flavour, you couldn't get enough! The deals with the rice and sides are also good, so it's good price for the amount of food you get. I understand why it was so packed when we came!