I understand that the pandemic is tough, but the place was super crowded with hardly any available seats to sit! Yet the cafe has declined in quality and offerings.
For one, they removed several items off the menu - including the spicy rice cakes (ddukbokki), which I craved and would come to Island Spa specifically for! There are very few staple Korean options left...
Second, the food was just bland and not great for vegetarians. They don't even replace the side dishes to be meat-free if you are vegetarian. I got the bimbimbap and was really disappointed- the vegetables are not even pickled nor they have any oil/sauce.... I essentially got steamed vegetables and plain rice for $16.
Third, they've become a bit stingy. When I asked for sesame oil to add to my bland rice, I was told I had to pay $1 extra. They used to just keep the bottles out for us to use as condiments. They also pre-pour the Gochujang for the bimbimbap instead giving a bottle (as is typical at Korean restaurants) and would presumably charge if you asked for more. My boyfriend got the Tonkatsu and there was hardly any meat on it - he was basically eating a chip!
Sadly, this experience has definitely made me less likely to want to come to Island Spa & Sauna (or recommend it to friends), and now will definitely eat out before/after my visit instead of eating here. read more