Plantarian — Review by Brennen Taylor
Unknown, United States — Korean
Brennen visits this brand new two-month-old family-owned Korean restaurant and is impressed by the authentic cuisine and attentive service. The standout dish is the spicy squid with its incredible sauce, while the seafood soup broth is described as drinkable. The reviewer appreciated the fresh ingredients and fast service despite some dishes needing accompanying sauces.
What was great: Seafood soup with excellent broth, spicy squid dish with phenomenal sauce and flavors, pork cutlet, Korean corn dogs, attentive service, fast food preparation despite quality, free rice and side dishes, fresh seafood aroma, authentic Korean cuisine
What could improve: Bulgogi fried rice bland without sauce, single bathroom stall creates awkwardness, no changing table in bathroom, limited decor
The Dishes
The seafood soup immediately impressed with its rich, authentic broth filled with prawns, tofu, zucchini, and a special type of squid. The broth was described as drinkable and the egg yolk cooked perfectly in the hot liquid. The spicy squid stir-fry emerged as the undeniable star of the meal, featuring perfectly chewy squid coated in an exceptional sauce with garnishes like cucumbers that elevated every bite. The reviewer couldn't get over how good this dish was, calling the sauce banging and the overall execution masterful. The Korean corn dogs came in two varieties: one topped with potatoes and filled with cheese, the other with half cheese and half fish cake sausage. The pork cutlet was praised for its flaky, light texture and generous portion size. The bulgogi fried rice was decent but needed accompanying sauce to really shine, similar to a hibachi experience. The spicy fish cake kimbap (Korean sushi-style rolls) were cold and refreshing, tasting good on their own but benefiting from a dumpling sauce on the side. Chicken wings were also ordered and enjoyed.
The Experience
The restaurant has a cute, minimalist aesthetic with neutral colors, small plant decorations, and flat-screen TVs in every corner. It's clearly a casual spot designed for quick meals rather than lingering, though the vibe felt welcoming and exciting given the newness. The staff was exceptionally attentive, with the chef and servers consistently checking in and adjusting plates. The owner, a seasoned restaurateur who has started three successful restaurants, was warm and genuinely kind, even insisting on providing complimentary food despite the reviewer's professional boundaries. The place was busy with other first-time customers, creating an energetic atmosphere.
Value & Pricing
The pricing appears moderate (estimated $$ range based on portion sizes and offerings). Traditional Korean restaurants include unlimited rice and side dishes, which adds significant value. The reviewer was impressed that so much quality food arrived quickly without seeming rushed or batch-prepared like typical Chinese takeout restaurants.
Notable Moments
I'm not one to just sit and drink matcha, but this one is delicious. Like, if it was an ice cream form, I'd crush it.
That is a type of squid...The aroma that's coming off of this right now is reminding me of when I went to Portugal in Santa Barbara, California.
I've never had squid that tastes that good...It's insane to me that there's like these flavors are so different. Why this place is doing Korean like I've never had it before.
The bathroom review segment highlighted that while clean and private, the single stall creates an awkward dynamic where patrons know exactly what just happened when someone exits. The lack of a baby changing table was noted as inconvenient for new parents.
The Verdict
This restaurant is a must-visit for Korean food lovers and adventurous eaters willing to try authentic cuisine. The spicy squid alone is worth the trip, and the fresh, hand-prepared quality of every dish demonstrates a chef who truly cares. Best for people who want to experience traditional Korean flavors prepared with attention to detail, and for those who appreciate family-owned establishments with genuine hospitality. The unlimited rice and side dishes make it great value, though note that some dishes benefit from accompanying sauces.