There’s More to Korean Food Than “Meats” the Eye

BY MICHELLE LEE

Bring up the topic of Korean food among friends and fellow foodies and more times than not, what immediately comes to mind are the smells and sounds of sizzling, barbecued beef and pork atop a yakiniku grill. Although many would, and rightly so, associate Korean cuisine with meat, it would be a tragic fallacy to assume there are no good Korean vegetarian dishes.

Quite the contrary, Korean cuisine places extreme importance on fresh produce and Korean restaurant 678 Hawaii offers a plethora of tasty, meatless options, eagerly inviting vegetarians to take part in its culinary experience every day for lunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Every single meal begins with eight to 10 wonderfully prepared vegetable dishes,” says Steve Song, manager of 678 Hawaii. “These side dishes are unlimited and add much depth and flavor to the meal.” Such meal complements include fresh kimchi, spinach, sweet potato, tofu and an Asian mix salad.

One of the most popular dishes at 678 Hawaii is Stone Pot Bibimbap ($9.99), a succulent mix of rice and mixed vegetables in a hot stone pot, which adds heat and texture to the rice mixture. The combination of fresh seaweed, bean sprouts, carrots, mushrooms and spinach with the signature hot pepper sauce make for the perfect vegetarian meal.

Noodle lovers will enjoy the restaurant’s Radish Kimchi Cold Noodle ($7.99) as well as Black Cold Noodle ($8.99), a combination of long and thin noodles served with julienned vegetables in a refreshing ice broth. For those craving some spice, Spicy Paste Cold Noodle ($7.99) infuses chili paste into the broth.

So, by giving the menu a chance, vegetarians will find themselves embracing 678 Hawaii’s dedication to quality produce and delectable flavor combinations.

678 Hawaii

1726 Kapiolani Blvd. Suite 101, Honolulu
941-6678
Monday–Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Friday– Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Sunday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.