Discovering Allston’s Hidden Kimchi Gems
As a self-proclaimed foodie and frequent visitor to Boston, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring the city’s vibrant culinary scene. But when it comes to the best Korean restaurants, my heart (and stomach) always leads me to the bustling neighborhood of Allston. This young and dynamic area is a veritable haven for authentic Korean cuisine, with Harvard and Brighton Avenues serving as the epicenter of a mouthwatering culinary adventure.
Allston may not have an official “Koreatown” like Los Angeles or New York, but it certainly feels like the next best thing. Strolling down these streets, you’ll be greeted by a dizzying array of casual and lively Korean dining options, each promising to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Seoul. From the sizzling aroma of grilled bulgogi to the tantalizing spice of kimchi fried rice, this neighborhood is a true treasure trove for any Korean food enthusiast.
Korean Garden Boston is the perfect starting point for your Allston culinary exploration. This vibrant hub offers an extensive menu of beloved Korean classics, ensuring that even the most seasoned Korean food aficionado will find something to satisfy their cravings. The kimchi fried rice is a personal favorite – the perfect combination of savory, spicy, and oh-so-comforting.
Venture Beyond Allston for Unique Flavors
While Allston may be the undisputed epicenter of Korean cuisine in Boston, the city’s other neighborhoods are also home to some hidden gems worth seeking out. Take, for example, Haju Kitchen in Fenway, which offers a delightful array of Korean comfort food classics. Their soft and chewy tteokbokki, dressed in a mildly sweet and spicy sauce, is the ultimate soul-warming indulgence on a chilly day.
Over in Cambridge, you’ll find Buk Kyung, a stalwart of the local Korean scene that has weathered the ever-changing restaurant landscape. Their tofu kimchi jaeyook, a spicy pork dish, is a reliable standby, while the naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles) is a refreshing option for when the New England heat starts to sizzle.
And for the diehard Korean barbecue fans, Naksan is a must-visit destination. This relatively new player on the scene has brought the alluring art of charcoal grilling to Boston’s Korean barbecue scene, adding an extra layer of smokiness to the already juicy and flavorful meats. On a bitterly cold winter day, be sure to warm your soul with a comforting glass of makgeolli, the unfiltered Korean rice wine.
Exploring the Offal Frontier
If you’re starting to feel a little bored with the traditional brisket and pork belly offerings, why not venture into the more adventurous realm of Korean cuisine? Boston has been steadily embracing the delights of offal, and Gopchang Story, a South Korean-based chain, is leading the charge.
At this unique establishment, you’ll find charred beef intestines that are both chewy and crispy, offering a delightful textural experience that will have you questioning why you haven’t explored this culinary frontier sooner. It’s a bold and unapologetic dive into the wonders of Korean cuisine, and one that I highly recommend for the more daring eaters among us.
A Taste of Korea, Anytime
One of the best things about Boston’s Korean food scene is its accessibility. Whether you’re craving a late-night snack or a hearty meal to cure that post-concert hunger, there’s always a Korean eatery ready to satisfy your cravings. Take, for instance, the lively late-night spot that offers delicious ramen, the “hangover cure” haejang-guk, and soju-fueled evenings complete with K-pop videos playing on the screens.
And let’s not forget the iconic Bonchon, a national Korean fried chicken chain that has become a go-to for many Bostonians seeking their fix of twice-fried, sauce-drenched poultry perfection. The wings and drumsticks are a revelation, with a thick, crispy batter that gives way to juicy, flavorful meat.
So, whether you’re in the mood for a traditional bulgogi feast, a steaming bowl of soondubu, or a delightfully unconventional Korean cheese nacho adventure, Boston’s Korean culinary landscape has something to offer everyone. So grab a fork (or perhaps some metal chopsticks) and get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the heart of Korea, right here in the city of Boston.
