#FOOD

6 Korean-Inspired Cafes & Restaurants That Will Transport You To Seoul

These K-inspired eateries will have you saying "daebak"!

By Trishal Kaur        27 July 2021

Missing Seoul much and couldn’t get your hands on the recent BTS meal from McDonald’s? Since there is no telling when travel restrictions will finally be lifted, seek solace in our list of Korean-inspired cafes and restaurants that have made their mark on cafe-hopping enthusiasts here. 

Instagram Worthy Cafes

(L-R) Cafe Kreams, Kong Cafe

Cafe Kreams

Nestled within the hustle and bustle of the Central Business District lies a cafe that is straight out of a storybook. Cafe Kreams is perhaps one of the most picturesque Korean cafes on this list. The first thing you’ll notice when stepping into this cafe is the way it is encased by lush russet-coloured foliage – a sanctuary for every autumn lover out there. Apart from its arresting decor, the food and drinks from Kreams are equally Instagram worthy. Kreams has recently refined their menu and has since added a few new options, so do check the menu online to see the latest additions. 

Cafe Kreams is temporarily closed during Phase 2 (Heightened Alert). Please check www.kreams.sg for updates.

32 Maxwell Road, #01-07 Maxwell Chambers
www.kreams.sg

Kong Cafe

Kong Cafe is every minimalist’s dream. This quaint little cafe is a simple black and white affair, with wooden tables. Pops of colour come from the paintings – all of which are the owner’s personal works. The cafe is run and owned by Korean artist Hanna Mi Kim, so do expect a Korean-inspired menu. The savoury waffles are a best seller and it’s not hard to see why. These decadent morsels come with fried chicken and scrambled eggs, making for the perfect sweet and savoury balance. Old-school Korean street food such as cheesy corn dogs are also available should you fancy a snack.

Only takeaway and delivery are available during Phase 2 (Heightened Alert). Please check www.kong.cafe for updates.

896 Dunearn Rd, #01-11
www.kong.cafe


For The K-BBQ Fans

(L-R) 8 Korean BBQ, Hanjip Korean Grill House

8 Korean BBQ

Hailing from Korea Town in Los Angeles, California, 8 Korean BBQ serves tantalising premium cut meats at its two outlets in Singapore. The industrial-themed restaurant has a rugged, edgy style embodied with dark metal and concrete textures. Despite its raw and unfinished look, the space is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot to have dinner with friends or family. The restaurant name stems from their speciality, the 8 Colours Set, where thick slabs of pork belly are marinated in 8 different flavours. All you need to do is sit back and relax, as the team at the restaurant will serve, prepare, and cut your food for you.

SAFRA members and Servicemen enjoy 10% of the total bill. Check here for more information.

Only takeaway and delivery are available during Phase 2 (Heightened Alert). Please check www.8koreanbbq.com for updates.

6 Eu Tong Sen Street, #02-79/90 The Central
Shaw Centre #04-20/21, 1 Scotts Rd
www.8koreanbbq.com

Hanjip Korean Grill House

Hanjip Korean Grill House is the newest kid on the block to join the chain of authentic Korean Barbeque restaurants here in Singapore. Hanjip’s luxurious facade will definitely blow your mind, as it combines a mixture of both modern and traditional Korean elements. The contemporary black and gold theme of the restaurant is juxtaposed against traditional Korean elements such as paintings and murals that look straight out of the Joseon Dynasty. Apart from its lavish exterior, Hanjip prides itself on serving an extensive range of aged Australian Wagyu, USDA Prime Beef and Kurobuta Pork – all of which are premium selections. Hanjip offers private dining rooms as well for those who prefer a more intimate setting. 

Only takeaway and delivery are available during Phase 2 (Heightened Alert). Please check hanjip.sg for updates.

3C River Valley Road, Clarke Quay #01-11
hanjip.sg


Lovers of Korean Fare

(L-R) Huluruk Myeon House, Hanok by Masizzim

Huluruk Myeon House

If you are looking to try authentic Korean cuisine, consider heading down to Huluruk Myeon House. Huluruk Myeon’s mouthwatering recipes can be accredited to the one and only Halmuni (Grandmother) Song. With humble beginnings back in South Korea, their myeon (noodle) soup business started in 1945. The interior bears resemblance to that of a traditional Korean hut, giving off a homey feel. Be sure to try their signature dish – the Signature 3 Treasure Noodles, that comprises ​​dumplings, prawns, prawn balls and cabbage, with the option of a spicy or non-spicy broth. Other Korean fare such as bibimbap, dumplings and volcano fried rice are also available.

SAFRA members and 11B holders enjoy 10% of the total bill. Check here for more information.

Only takeaway and delivery are available during Phase 2 (Heightened Alert). Please check huluruk.com for updates.

238 Thomson Rd, #01-84/85, Velocity
9 Bishan Place, #01-40, Junction 8
huluruk.com

Hanok by Masizzim

Hanok by Masizzim is the halal-certified spin-off from popular Korean eatery chain, Masizzim. Hanok comes with an extensive menu that features stews, noodles, Korean pancakes, rice balls, and the list goes on and on. Similar to its counterpart at Somerset, Hanok is nestled in a cozy space with an industrial style interior. However, the main selling point isn’t the ambience, rather, it’s the Beef Rib Stew. You’ll be amazed at the generous serving of tender and flavourful beef that completely melts in your mouth. The broth is rich and hearty, and you can choose from four levels of spiciness for the broth. Other dishes are equally good, so do check out the menu for more details! 

Only takeaway and delivery are available during Phase 2 (Heightened Alert). Please check hanokbymasizzim.oddle.me for updates.

3 Gateway Drive, #01-07 Westgate
hanokbymasizzim.oddle.me


Bonus Picks – Takeaway Only

(L-R) Haengbok Cakeyo, BBBurgers

Haengbok Cakeyo

This newly opened bakery along Kampong Bahru Road serves pretty Korean-style desserts. Helmed by the same people behind bakery and cooking studio Nanatang, this dessert shop features supersized macarons known as Fatcarons or ddung-carons, Korean bento style cakes, chubby cookies, and shortcakes (strawberry, mango, mixed fruits). Although the desserts are Korean inspired, a glimpse of local flavours are present in their bakes, giving it a refreshing concept.  

41 Kampong Bahru Rd
hbcy.sg

BBBurgers

Tucked away in Punggol Plaza, this takeaway-only based burger place has a unique Korean-inspired take on its burgers. Some of its unique creations include the Gochujang Fried Chikin Burger, King Oyster Mushroom Beef Burger, BB-BUL-GO-GI and Kimchikin. These names alone should convince you to check this place out! Fortunately, BBBurgers also offers delivery, so do check out the delivery apps or website for more details.

168 Punggol Field, #B1-05 Punggol Plaza
www.bbburgers.sg

Share your favourite Korean eatery with us at magnsman@sph.com.sg!