Take on a Taste of Korean Fusion

You may not be familiar with the culinary term “Korean fusion,” but that’s OK, neither was I before heading out to Red House on Keeaumoku Street this week. Here is all you need to know, Korean food is delicious. Korean food modernized with international flavors may be even better.

The funky, fun restaurant was opened six months ago by former pro golfer Justin Chun, and features uptempo Korean music videos and appetizers such as Korean Noodle and Garlic Bread ($5.99). Traditional garlic bread is topped with rice noodles, cheese and a soy-based sauce that results in a salty, sweet and chewy starter that is satisfying without being heavy. The small microgreen salad with a honey mustard vinaigrette just adds to the appeal.

Popcorn Shrimp ($5.99), is perhaps not a traditional Korean dish, which makes it a perfect addition to the menu. However, the sweet, moist shrimp that is coated with a crispy cover of mystery ingredients is a perfect match for the rest of the menu. The sweet chili dipping sauce just adds a tangy element to the already tasty dish.

The delicate Kimchee Pancake ($6.99) is wonderfully plated and has a texture that is slightly similar to mochi. The flavor is mild spicy and difficult to describe. It is, however, a pleasure to eat, and who would want anything else?

One final recommendation is the new Chef Special Boneless Moa with green onions ($14.99). The chicken is crispy, juicy, sweet and topped with a sauce that Chef Q is keeping a secret. Can’t blame him.

Every order is accompanied with a flavorful fish cake soup and freshly made kimchee. Delivery within the Makiki, Ala Moana, University and Ward Avenue areas cost $2.99 for orders of $35 or more.

*All prices listed are lunch prices.

Red House in Honolulu