The Best Korean Restaurants in Metro Manila (Part 2)

The Korean food scene in our country does not end with bibimbap and cute Korean-themed café’s. Signature Korean dishes are beginning to take the Filipino taste buds by storm! Welcome to ShoppersGuide’s second installment of the Best Korean Restaurants in Metro Manila.

KOREAN BBQ

Bulgogi literally translates to “fire meat,” comparable to our local beef steak dish, but cooked through grilling. Bulgogi Brothers is one of the first to introduce Korean cuisine, through bulgogi, to our country back in 2011. And to date, it remains one of the best restaurants to offer Korean food favorites.

Awarded as the “Most Famous Bulgogi” in South Korea, Sariwon Korean Barbecue is known for being one of the best Bulgogi restaurants, not only in Korea, but also in the world. Bun-Im Koo developed Sariwon’s secret bulgogi marinade in 1938. The distinct balance of spices in her recipe amused food critics and, eventually, was proclaimed as the best that they have ever tasted.

Because of the warm welcome the Koreans have received from the Filipinos, and the unexpected Pinoy craving for Korean food, they picked Metro Manila to house their first international branch.

BUFFET

Strategically located in the middle of Maginhawa Street in Quezon City, Don Day Korean Restaurant appeals not only to students, but also to families enjoying their Sunday lunch together. For PhP399, you can get unlimited plates of samgyupsal (pork belly). But for variety, you can upgrade your buffet to chadolbaegi (beef brisket) for PhP447. Non-stick tabletop grills are for the ultimate grilling thrill to top up the full Korean buffet experience. These are in addition to ready-to-eat dishes on the buffet table and displayed in a tempting manner.

What sets Hanayo Grill apart from other Korean buffets is that they offer more meat choices. They serve a wider array of meat dishes, including beef brisket, pulled pork belly, specially-marinated strips of chicken, beef slices, and pork chops. Hanayo Grill also occasionally includes seafood dishes like fish fillets and grilled squid. Aside from these, they have a designated station for sashimi, vegetable tempura, and, of course, bibimbap. Another thing that charms customers to the restaurant is the eat-all-you-can Korean ice cream! All of these could be enjoyed for only PhP530 (lunch) and PhP580 (dinner).

OVERALL KOREAN EXPERIENCE

If you want to take it to the next level, you should visit Little Korea. Aside from the authentic Korean food they serve, they also sell Korean-branded clothes in their mini tiangge. You can also shop for your favorite Korean goods like ice cream, ramen, kimchi, and soju from their grocery.

With the many Korean restaurants in Metro Manila offering authentic Korean cuisine, there is surely one to appeal to your taste. A colorful and festive country that is Korea always has something to offer to the adventurous, critical, or curious tongue and palate. Take your pick now and enjoy eating! *Annyeong!*