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A Garden of Yakiniku Bliss

Columns Lite Bites

August 11, 2013

Story By: Yu Shing Ting | Photos by: Lawrence Tabudlo

Known for its tasty, authentic Korean cuisine, Seoul Garden Yakiniku on Kapiolani Boulevard (near Ala Moana and Hawaii Convention Center) has built a loyal following of customers since opening 11 years ago.

Among its fans are some of Korea’s most famous celebrities, whose pictures can be seen on the walls of the restaurant.

In addition to taste, the restaurant also offers a large menu with more than 100 items to choose from, including yakiniku, pot stew, noodles, traditional Korean soup, mixed rice plates and lunch specials.

Each entree is served with about eight traditional Korean sides (selections vary day-to-day), such as Shoyu Potato, Daikon Kim Chee, Marinated Squid, Watercress, Eggplant, Cucumber Kim Chee, Fish Cake, Shoyu Anchovy, Cabbage Water Kim Chee, Bean Sprout, Won Bok Kim Chee, Shoyu Cucumber and Daikon Marinated Kim Chee.

Owner Yun Hee, who moved to Hawaii from Korea 40 years ago, says fresh ingredients and a great selection are what sets Seoul Garden Yakiniku apart from other local Korean restaurants. Also, most dishes are prepared within 15 minutes, so there’s no long wait. And while many enjoy the at-your-table yakiniku dining, she says the food can be cooked in the kitchen if patrons prefer.

The restaurant also has a new all-you-can-eat yakiniku menu: Garden Lunch ($16.95, $10.95 for children 4 to 8 years old) comes with Chicken, Bulgogi (marinated beef), Seasoned Rib, Pork Bulgogi, Marbled Beef and Brisket; Garden Dinner ($22.95, $16.95 for children 4 to 8 years old) has Seasoned Rib, Marbled Beef, Pork Belly, Seasoned Cubed Beef Frank, Bulgogi (marinated beef), Chicken and Pork Bulgogi; and the Garden Dinner Premium ($28.95, $16.95 for children 4 to 8 years old) includes Mountain Tripe, Pork Bulgogi, Beef Short Rib, Rib, Shrimp, Marbled Beef, Seasoned Rib, Pork Belly, Seasoned Cubed Beef Frank, Bulgogi and Chicken. The all-you-can-eat yakiniku menu also offers a choice of Soft Tofu Soup, Miso Soup or Kim Chee Soup; and is served with Steamed Egg, Mandoo and Buttered Corn with Cheese.

Lunch is available from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and dinner from 3 p.m. to midnight. The restaurant also has private rooms in the back, including a large area that can seat up to 80 people or be sectioned off for smaller groups. Valet parking is available, as well as take-out options.

Seoul Garden Yakiniku

1679 Kapiolani Blvd., Honolulu
944-4803
9:30 a.m. to midnight daily

Honolulu, HI 96814

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