By Administrator Craving the bold flavors of kimchi, the comforting warmth of bibimbap, and the sizzling excitement of Korean barbecue? You don’t have to book a flight to Seoul. Duluth, Georgia, a vibrant suburb of Atlanta, boasts a thriving Korean food scene that’s a must-try for any food enthusiast. Known for its sizable Korean community and businesses, Duluth offers an authentic and diverse range of Korean dining experiences. This guide will explore some of the very best Korean restaurants in Duluth, highlighting popular dishes, unique specialties, and what makes each establishment a culinary gem. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey through the savory and spicy world of Korean cuisine right here in Duluth.
Korean Barbecue: The Classic Choice
When most people think of Korean food, Korean barbecue is the first dish that comes to mind. Korean barbecue is more than just a meal; it’s an interactive and social dining experience. Tables are equipped with built-in grills, allowing diners to cook marinated meats to their liking. This hands-on approach, coupled with a variety of flavorful side dishes, makes Korean barbecue a truly unique and memorable dining experience. In Duluth, several restaurants stand out for their exceptional Korean barbecue offerings.
Breakers Korean BBQ
Located on Pleasant Hill Road, Breakers Korean BBQ offers a modern and upscale take on the classic Korean barbecue experience. The ambiance is sleek and contemporary, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a memorable night out with friends. Breakers is known for its high-quality meats, including premium cuts of wagyu beef and marinated short ribs. Beyond the exceptional meat selection, Breakers also features an impressive array of banchan, the small side dishes that accompany Korean meals. From spicy kimchi to savory pickled vegetables, the banchan at Breakers are a highlight in themselves. Expect to spend a bit more at Breakers, but the quality and experience are well worth the price. When you visit, be sure to order the Galbi (marinated short ribs) and the Bulgogi (thinly sliced marinated beef). The seafood pancake is also a popular choice.
9292 Korean BBQ
Another fantastic option for Korean barbecue in Duluth is 9292 Korean BBQ, located on Satellite Boulevard. 9292 offers a more traditional and family-friendly atmosphere. This restaurant is known for its generous portions, reasonable prices, and consistently delicious food. A standout feature of 9292 is its use of charcoal grills, which impart a unique smoky flavor to the meat. They offer a wide variety of meats, from classic pork belly and ribeye to marinated chicken and seafood. 9292 also boasts a wide selection of banchan, including kimchi, bean sprouts, spinach, and more. This is a perfect spot for a casual and satisfying Korean barbecue experience. Don’t miss the Samgyeopsal (pork belly) and the Dak Galbi (spicy marinated chicken). The kimchi fried rice is also a must-try.
Tips for Enjoying Korean Barbecue
To make the most of your Korean barbecue experience, here are a few helpful tips: Don’t be afraid to ask your server for assistance with cooking the meat. They are experts and can guide you to achieve the perfect level of doneness. Experiment with the different sauces and seasonings. Each sauce offers a unique flavor profile, so find your favorites and use them to complement the meat. Try wrapping the meat in lettuce leaves with rice, kimchi, and other banchan. This creates a delicious and balanced bite. Also, remember Korean barbecue is meant to be shared!
Beyond Barbecue: Exploring Other Korean Dishes
While Korean barbecue is undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser, Duluth’s Korean restaurants offer a wealth of other delectable options that showcase the breadth and depth of Korean cuisine. From comforting soups and stews to flavorful noodle dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Bibimbap: A Colorful and Flavorful Rice Bowl
Bibimbap, meaning “mixed rice,” is a quintessential Korean dish consisting of warm white rice topped with seasoned vegetables, gochujang (chili pepper paste), and often a fried egg and sliced meat (usually beef). The dish is served in a hot stone bowl, which creates a crispy layer of rice on the bottom. The beauty of bibimbap lies in its combination of textures and flavors, from the crunchy vegetables to the savory meat and the spicy kick of gochujang. A standout place to enjoy bibimbap in Duluth is at Woo Nam Jeong Korean Restaurant on Old Norcross Road. Their bibimbap is consistently delicious, with fresh ingredients and a perfectly balanced flavor profile. They also offer a variety of other classic Korean dishes, making it a great spot to explore different aspects of Korean cuisine.
Soups and Stews: Warm and Comforting
Korean cuisine boasts a wide array of soups and stews, each with its own unique flavor profile and ingredients. Kimchi Jjigae, a spicy stew made with kimchi, tofu, and pork, is a popular choice for its bold and tangy flavor. Sundubu Jjigae, a soft tofu stew, is another favorite, offering a creamy and comforting texture with a spicy kick. For an excellent Sundubu Jjigae experience, head to Cho Dang Tofu Village on Pleasant Hill Road. They specialize in tofu dishes, and their Sundubu Jjigae is exceptionally flavorful and satisfying. The rich broth, tender tofu, and array of vegetables make it a perfect meal on a cool day.
Noodles: Slurpy and Satisfying
Korean noodle dishes are just as diverse and delicious as their soups and stews. Japchae, a stir-fried glass noodle dish with vegetables and meat, is a popular choice for its savory and slightly sweet flavor. Jajangmyeon, black bean noodles, is another favorite, offering a rich and savory flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. To sample great Japchae, try Han Il Kwan on Buford Highway. They are known for their authentic dishes, and the Japchae is no exception. The perfectly cooked noodles, flavorful vegetables, and tender beef create a harmonious and satisfying dish.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Duluth is also home to several hidden gems and local favorites that offer a more authentic and intimate Korean dining experience.
Dan Moo Ji Korean Bunsik
Located on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Dan Moo Ji Korean Bunsik is a small, unassuming restaurant that specializes in Korean street food. This is a great spot to sample dishes like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), kimbap (Korean sushi rolls), and ramyeon (Korean ramen). The prices are incredibly reasonable, and the food is consistently delicious. This is a true hidden gem that is popular among Duluth’s Korean community. Be sure to try the tteokbokki and the kimbap – they are both exceptional.
Arirang Restaurant
Tucked away on a side street off of Buford Highway, Arirang Restaurant is a long-standing local favorite known for its consistently good food and friendly service. The restaurant has a simple and unpretentious atmosphere, but the food is the real star. Arirang offers a wide variety of Korean dishes, from classic stews to grilled meats. It’s a great place to try some of the more traditional Korean dishes that you might not find at other restaurants. The locals love this place for its family-friendly environment and delicious, authentic food. Order the bibimbap or the bulgogi. You cannot go wrong!
Tips for Navigating Korean Cuisine
To enhance your Korean dining experience, here are some useful tips:
Understanding Banchan
Banchan, the small side dishes that accompany Korean meals, are an integral part of the dining experience. They are meant to be shared and enjoyed alongside your main dish. Don’t be afraid to try them all!
Gauging Spice Levels
Korean food can be quite spicy, so it’s a good idea to inquire about the spice level of a dish before ordering. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can often request that the dish be made milder.
Ordering Etiquette
Korean meals are often shared, so it’s common to order a variety of dishes and share them with your dining companions. To call for service, simply raise your hand and say “Yeogiyo!”
Exploring Korean Drinks
Complement your meal with a traditional Korean drink. Soju, a clear distilled beverage, is a popular choice. Makgeolli, a milky rice wine, is another refreshing option.
Conclusion
Duluth’s Korean food scene is a testament to the city’s vibrant Korean community and its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. From sizzling Korean barbecue to comforting soups and flavorful noodles, Duluth offers a true taste of Korea right here in Georgia. The diversity and quality of Korean food in Duluth are truly remarkable, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you’re in Duluth, Georgia, embark on a culinary adventure and discover the authentic and delicious world of Korean food. You won’t be disappointed! Experience the rich flavors, unique dishes, and warm hospitality that define Korean cuisine, all within the heart of Duluth.
