KOREAN SOJU

BEST FOR Groups of foodie friends. FOOD This hole-in-the-wall spot serves up absolutely authentic Korean fare. The umami mushrooms have extraordinary depth of flavour, full of hints of anchovy, soya and dashi. There is great satisfaction in assembling the bulgogi, which is pork and beef basted with a sweet soy sauce with chilli and other condiments in a crisp lettuce envelope. The bibimpap is a feast of aroma and texture: beef strips cooked on a hot stone plate at the table and served with rice, vegetables from the owner’s garden and topped with an egg. DRINKS The wine list is basic, but there’s a good selection of local and imported beers. Try the soju, a distilled liquor made from barley, rice or wheat, with a kick like a mule. SERVICE Despite the language barrier, service flows pretty smoothly. AMBIENCE It’s basic and brightly lit, with a big screen TV, but fun and welcoming. (JM)